Meet The Tour Guides
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RYBAK CHRISTMAS MARKET - EUROPE TOUR DEC 1 - 11, 2024
BRAND NEW TOUR!!!
RYBAK CHRISTMAS MARKET
EUROPE TOUR DECEMBER 2024
RYBAK CHRISTMAS MARKET
EUROPE TOUR DECEMBER 2024
Sunday, December 1
Depart from Houston airport and fly in direction of Europe, Germany, Munich.Monday, December 2
Arrival in Munich, Germany. The luxury bus with attendant team (including your tour guide) will be waiting for you at the airport and take you to the first destination which is the downtown area of Munich. Munich is the center of economic and cultural activity in southern Germany – it’s one of Germany’s most attractive cities where every year the largest beer festival Oktoberfest takes place. On our walking tour we will see the main square Marienplatz with a New Town Hall built in the Neo-Gothic style and possessing an animated carillon, St. Michael’s church, largest Renaissance church north of the Alps, Church of Our Lady, the vast Late Gothic hall-church which has become the symbol of the city. End up the tour at Munich’s famous Christmas Markets where you can shop for Christmas gifts and souvenirs, have a taste of Munich eating traditional Bratwurst or drinking Gluhwein which is mulled wine drunk especially around Christmas time. Beer lovers can continue with our tour guide to the famous beer house – Hofbräuhaus which dates from 1589. This is the favorite place where every day 17,500 mugs of beer in 1liter tankards are served. Following this, depart to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. This beautiful town lies at the foothill of the Alps under Germany’s highest peak, mountain Zugspitze and is one of the most favorite holiday resorts in the country!Tuesday, December 3
Wake up to extraordinary views of the mountains over the town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a number one ski resort in Bavaria, formed when 2 towns were united in 1935 by Hitler’s order to be able to host the winter Olympic games in 1936. Now it is a prominent destination for skiing and ice skating as well as hiking. We will start the day with a trip to Zugspitze Mountain which combines three different means of transport – cogwheel train, cable car and modern world record-breaking cable car. If the weather permits, we will get all the way to the glacier top to elevation of 9718 ft. After descending back to the town, you will have time for yourselves. As our hotel is situated in the heart of this beautiful city and just a few steps from the Christmas Market, it will be up to you how you spend the afternoon. Rest at our hotel and just admire the majestic mountains around, stroll the streets full of Bavarian architecture and nicely painted buildings, visit sport facilities in the town like the Winter Olympic ski jump, or just enjoy the Christmas Markets. A stroll through the market stalls reveals a world of artisanal treasures and culinary delights. From hand-knitted winter clothing like hats and ski sweaters to exquisite tea and coffee specialties – each stand offers something unique. Sweet-toothed visitors will delight in a selection of honey, jams, and other treats. Not to forget the handicrafts, ranging from traditional Christmas decorations to light houses and intricately detailed nativity scenes!Wednesday, December 4
Leave Garmisch-Partenkirchen and drive to Salzburg, one of the most beautiful cities of Europe. We will have a walking tour of this majestic city starting at Mirabell Gardens which was featured in the famous Sound of Music movie, then walk across the Salzach river to see the Mozart’s birthplace house on the prominent street called Getreidegasse. We will finish our walking tour at Residenz Square where the Cathedral of Salzburg, palaces, and medieval fortress Hohensalzburg overlooking the city are located. This is also where the Salzburg Christmas Market, mentioned as far back as the 15th century, is located. An extensive program of events such as choral singing in front of the cathedral, "Turmblasen" (wind instruments) on Residenz Square, and nativity exhibits in the Residenz courtyard takes place here as well. Move on to our destination town Gmunden, lying on the shores of beautiful lake Trauensee. It is much frequented as a health and summer resort, and has a variety of lake, brine, vegetable, and pine-cone baths. It is also an important center of the salt industry in Salzkammergut (“salt region”). Check-in our romantic hotel on the shores of the beautiful lake!Thursday, December 5
After breakfast we will take a half day trip to one of the best holiday destinations in Austria – Wolfgangsee lake, surrounded by forests, meadows, and mountains. On its shores you’ll find fairytale villages such as St. Gilgen, St. Wolfgang, and Strobl. We will explore the biggest one, St. Wolfgang where old town houses alternate with colorful shops and welcoming inns. As soon as you arrive in the town you will realize that folk culture and traditions play a big role in everyday life of the locals. Advent on Lake Wolfgang is regarded as one of Austria’s most beautiful Christmas Markets! Enjoy ambling through the market where Austrian Christmas Traditions are alive and flourishing. Mulled wine and punch will get you in the Austrian Christmas spirit, while the hot chestnuts, gingerbread, and baked apples on offer at the small stalls entice you with their Christmassy aroma. Traditional crafts are also characteristic of this town so be ready to go shopping for some local souvenirs! In the afternoon drive back to our hotel.Friday, December 6
Leave Austria for the Czech Republic, more accurately the Wallachian region, which lies in a hilly country in the eastern part of Moravia. This region is known for its specific culture. But for many Texans it is a place where their ancestors came from as it is a region with the biggest emigration to Texas from the whole Moravia. We will arrive in the town of Roznov pod Radhostem in the afternoon, check-in our resort hotel with pool, sauna, and hot tub. Then we will have a PARTY IN THE EVENING with Czech music at the local Koliba (with special guest 'Accordion Cowboy' Chris Rybak) – at an authentic Wallachian restaurant!Saturday, December 7
Leave for Slovakia. On the way to the city of Košice (Edita’s hometown) in the eastern part, we will have a stop in the High Tatra Mountains, the highest Slovakian mountain range! If the weather permits, we will take a cable car which operates in the lower section from Tatranská Lomnica (2963 ft above sea level) to Skalnaté Pleso (5745 ft above sea level). Skalnaté Pleso is one of the most popular locations in the Tatras and a good starting point for several hiking trips. You can also view the beautiful mountain lake situated right under the cliff of Lomnický Štít, the second highest peak of Slovakia and enjoy breathtaking views of the valley below. Be ready for some cold and snow!Continue on the way through this magical and beautiful winter wonderland to Košice and check-in our hotel.
Sunday, December 8
Tour the magnificent city of Košice, which is the second largest and most beautiful city in the country – and Edita’s hometown! The historical core of Košice represents the biggest reservoir of historical monuments in Slovakia. In terms of art and history, the most valuable buildings are situated around the original Middle Age Square – present Main Square. View the most important sights including St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral built in the Gothic style. It is the largest church in Slovakia with a capacity of more than 5,000 people and was built from 1378 – 1508 … and it’s also the church where Edita and her family attend! Leisure time in the afternoon to spend the day at charming Christmas Markets on the square! Shop in numerous stores or just relax at our hotel situated in the city center. And then PARTY in the evening!Monday, December 9
Departure to Poland, stop enroute in Zakopane. Zakopane is a resort town in southern Poland, at the base of the Tatra Mountains. It’s a popular departure point for winter sports and summertime mountain climbing and hiking. The town is also known for its turn-of-the-20th-century wooden chalets, symbols of Zakopane-style architecture, one of the most famous streets in Poland - Krupowki street - the main pedestrian zone of Zakopane full of shops along with many amazing restaurants and banks. Filled with tourists, horse carriages and street performers, it’s always bustling with life and especially in the Christmas Time! Continue on the way to Krakow, one of the largest and most attractive cities in Poland! Check-in our hotel.Tuesday, December 10
We will start the day with a guided tour of the wonderful Wieliczka Salt Mine located just a short distance from Krakow and which includes some 205 miles of galleries on nine levels. The immense salt deposit was first mined around 1290. You can see a number of chapels and chambers decorated with sculptures carved in salt. Then we will take you back to the main square of the Old Town of Krakow which dates back to the 13th century, and at (9.4 acres) is the largest medieval town square in Europe! The main square is a square space surrounded by historic townhouses and churches. The center of the square is dominated by the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), rebuilt in 1555 in the Renaissance style, topped by a beautiful attic or Polish parapet decorated with carved masks. Rising above the square are the Gothic towers of St. Mary’s Basilica.Besides other historical monuments on the square you can admire beautiful Christmas Markets with medieval atmosphere for the rest of the afternoon or rest and get ready for the flight back home. Dinner at the hotel in the evening.
Wednesday, December 11
Depart from Krakow airport early in the morning heading back to Houston, HOME SWEET HOME!* Itinerary subject to change depending on availability. *
RYBAK IRELAND & UK CRUISE - EUROPE TOUR SEPT 3 - 19, 2024
SOLD OUT!!!
RYBAK IRELAND & UK CRUISE
EUROPE TOUR SEPTEMBER 2024
RYBAK IRELAND & UK CRUISE
EUROPE TOUR SEPTEMBER 2024
RYBAK IRELAND & UK
EUROPE TOUR CRUISE
EUROPE TOUR CRUISE
SEPTEMBER 3 – 19, 2024
AN UNBELIEVABLY AWESOME TRIP OF A LIFETIME!
4 Amazing European Countries within 17 days
Bus part: Czech Republic, Germany
4 Amazing European Countries within 17 days
Bus part: Czech Republic, Germany
Cruise part: Ireland, UK (Northern Ireland, Scotland)
FUN & ADVENTUROUS TOUR, WITH PARTIES, CRUISES, SLIVOVICE & ACCORDION MUSIC!!!
Tuesday, September 3
Depart from Houston airport and fly in direction of Europe, Czech Republic, Prague.
Wednesday, September 4
Arrival in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. The luxury bus with attendant team (including your Czech tour guide) will be waiting for you at the airport and then welcome you aboard the bus with a shot of CZECH SLIVO and take you straight to our hotel which is situated in the center of historical Prague! Check-in and free time to rest after the flight. In the evening, you will be treated to a dinner and folklore show at U Marcanu, where you can enjoy a great program with examples of typical traditional Czech dances, songs, and playing different instruments, all while you enjoy the wonderful atmosphere cold pivo, wonderful Czech Cuisine, and the amazing unforgettable wine experience!
Thursday, September 5
This day we will tour the city of Prague! Guided walking tour of Prague begins with Prague Castle and then on to St. Vitus Cathedral, Hradcany quarter, and the Church of Our Lady Victorious which houses the famous wax statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague. We will walk across the famous 14th century Charles Bridge and continue on to Old Town Square to see the Astronomical clock. After lunch in the restaurant serving traditional Czech cuisine, we will continue and end up the tour at Wenceslas Square, which has historically been the sight of many events including the 1989 Velvet Revolution demonstrations. Then you will have some free time for individual sightseeing and great shopping at the numerous stores lining the Wenceslas square.
The SECOND OPTION is to just enjoy Prague by yourself as our hotel is located in the heart of this majestic city, in the Old Town district. You can stroll the old streets and squares, enjoy a beer in one of the beer pubs and beer gardens, shop in countless souvenir or regular stores or just rest and relax at our hotel. If you are more in to history and culture, you can visit one of the museums and join the group later for the lunch by the Old Town Square.
In the evening, a historical tram will take us through old Prague just by the Vltava River where we will take a
2-hour buffet dinner boat cruise. You will be able to view the beautiful sights of Prague illuminated at night!
Friday, September 6
In the morning leave for Germany, Berlin. Stop on the way in Dresden, capital of the eastern German state of Saxony, which is distinguished by the celebrated art museums and classic architecture of its reconstructed old town. The historical buildings of Dresden’s baroque center are world famous, not least because many of the landmarks destroyed in 1945 – for example the Frauenkirche, Dresden Cathedral, Dresden Castle and the buildings that line Bruehl`s Terrace – have been restored to their former glory and create an unmistakable skyline that is beautifully reflected in the water of the Elbe River. Another worth seeing monument during our sightseeing tour will be Zwinger Palace, an elegant example of baroque architecture which houses a range of world-class art collections, Saxon State Opera known better as Semper Opera House and many more. After spending some time exploring Dresden, we will continue on our way to the capital and largest city of Germany, Berlin. Arrive at our hotel in the evening, check-in and dinner at our hotel.
Saturday, September 7
We will have a tour of Berlin with the local guide who will show us around and tell us all important details about the largest city of Germany and its capital – sights of former west and east Berlin – Brandenburg Gate (grand classical archway and city divide), Reichstag building (historic, glass-domed home of parliament), Berlin Wall (remnants of former division), Checkpoint Charlie (Cold war and east-west border landmark), Alexanderplatz (pedestrianized squire with iconic tower), Museum Island, Under the Linden tree avenue, Kurfürstendamm avenue which is a bustling and famous shopping street of Berlin. Leisure time for yourselves for the rest of the day. Dinner will be at the famous German brewery restaurant Hofbrahaus serving beer in 1-liter tankards and which originates in Munich.
Sunday, September 8
In the morning leave for Hamburg to embark our beautiful ship MSC Preziosa. MSC Preziosa is a Fantasia-class cruise ship. She is an enhanced version of her first two class member ships, MSC Splendida and MSC Fantasia, and is identical to the MSC Divina. MSC Preziosa ensures a luxurious experience with its classic design, Swarowski crystal staircases, an infinity pool, and real stone piazza! So, enjoy the spectacular features of this beautifully crafted ship! Upon checking-in our balcony cabins and participation on the security training, you will have time to explore the ship and relax. Or have a drink or more with the beverage package included in your tour!
Monday, September 9
DAY AT SEA – great time to relax, explore the ship, and have a little party!
Tuesday, September 9
Cork, Ireland 2PM - 9PM
Cork, the second-largest city in the Republic of Ireland, is located in the rugged south-west of the country. This destination boasts a fascinating historical center and a deep-rooted cultural identity. Discover ancient bow-fronted houses, a wonderful waterfront, elegant bridges, and avenues resplendent with Georgian architecture. Away from Cork, stop by medieval Blarney Castle and the iconic Jameson Distillery. There are amazing local beaches and a number of traditional Irish pubs tucked away in this very appealing, upscale resort town!
Wednesday, September 11
Dun Laoghaire/Dublin, Ireland 9AM – 6PM
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a city with a proud past. Brimming with character, this coastal gem is known for its cozy pubs, lofty literary credentials, high-brow galleries, and glorious Georgian architecture. Boasting a curious Viking heritage, one can wander the streets at leisure, taking in the wealth of attractions — from the leafy Grand Canal and the historic Dublin Castle to the stately Trinity College. Further afield, discover Dún Laoghaire, a popular seaside suburb that’s coveted for its characterful harbor, pier strolls, maritime museum, and delicious fish and chips. Dublin is abundant with things to do and see, from its spectacular green spaces to its collection of striking architecture. One can easily maneuver between iconic landmarks in the space of a day including the National Gallery, St Patrick’s Cathedral, and Phoenix Park. On a shore excursion you book with MSC, you can select an unforgettable tour to Malahide or County Wicklow: The Garden of Ireland! If you’re a beer buff, a visit to Dublin City and Guinness Storehouse will be high on your priority list. Set in an old fermentation plant in St. James's Gate Brewery, this multi-story museum traces the brand’s rise through it’s long-lived and amazing history!
Thursday, September 12
Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom 8AM – 8PM
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a city rich with culture, beautiful Victorian buildings, and a past marked by the Industrial Revolution and the city where the Titanic was famously built. Further afield, an abundance of natural wonders is waiting to be discovered. For example, an MSC Cruises excursion to Northern Ireland’s dramatic coast offers an unforgettable experience. Here, you’ll discover the extraordinary Giant’s Causeway rock formation which dates back millions of years! After a short coach ride, arrive at County Antrim, where you’ll see this geological phenomenon close up. Admire approximately 40,000 interlocking hexagonal basalt columns, once created by volcanic eruptions. The spectacular geometry of these rocks has made the Giant’s Causeway Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you’re there, take in outstanding views of the Atlantic Ocean before returning to Belfast.
Friday, September 13
DAY AT SEA – great time to relax, explore the ship, and have a little party!
Saturday, September 14
Stornoway, Isle Of Lewis, Scotland, United Kingdom 7AM – 7PM
Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, was founded by Vikings in the 9th century. But the Hebridean culture goes back much further, as testified by the circles of standing stones that are found on the island, and shards of pottery dated from at least 5,000 years in the past. There are remnants of various historic periods to be seen here, including traditional blackhouses, an ancient design, some of which were incredibly still in use into the 1970s. Lews Castle, which overlooks the town, is a more modern copy of a Tudor manse, which was built by a former owner of the island. Latta’s Mill, a 19th century overshot water mill, has been reconstructed and operates as an attraction. The main occupations on Lewis are fishing, farming, and production of Harris Tweed, a traditional cloth named for another nearby Hebrides Isle.
Sunday, September 15
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom 8AM – 6PM
The Orkney Archipelago is a group of barren, treeless islands lying off northern Scotland. Strong winds sweep over its rugged wave-beaten coastline. They are typified by tall sandstone cliffs, moss-covered, metamorphic rocks, low-growing bushes and a carpet of plants, which cover the ground in a tapestry of emerald green. The largest town and the capital of Orkney is Kirkwall. It is an ancient Norse town, founded by Earl Rognvald Brusason who built his kingdom here. Early farmers first arrived on these shores over 5,000 years ago, and ancient remains from the Neolithic period pepper the landscape. The cultural significance of a number of these led to an extensive area being designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999. It was named ‘The Heart of Neolithic Orkney.’ One of the town’s prominent landmarks is St. Magnus Cathedral founded in 1137. Constructed of beautiful red and yellow sandstone, it towers over the rest of the town’s buildings.
Monday, September 16
Invergordon (Inverness), Scotland, United Kingdom 8AM – 6PM
A turbulent past of epic battles, clan rivalries and legendary monsters, combined with the many natural wonders of the Scottish Highlands, make this part of Scotland truly fascinating with the most extensive and unspoiled wilderness areas in Europe! Invergordon is an ideal jumping-off point for exploring the northern highlands. A trip to the region wouldn't be complete without a visit to legendary Loch Ness, reputed to be the home of ‘Nessie,’ the Loch Ness Monster dating back to the 7th century. The loch contains the largest amount of freshwater in the British Isles, actually more than all of the lakes in England and Wales combined. Discover the quaint Victorian seaside resort of Nairn, and the secrets of the whisky-making process in the area’s many distilleries. The area surrounding Invergordon is remarkable for its historical significance. From the very early days of the Bronze Age, migrating Neolithic hunter-gatherers settled here, leaving their legacies at places like the Clava Cairns. Likewise, the battlefield of Culloden is nearby, where in 1745 the final, fateful clash of the Jacobite uprisings occurred.
Tuesday, September 17
DAY AT SEA – great time to relax, explore the ship, and have a little party!
Wednesday, September 18
Arrival in Hamburg. Located between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, Hamburg will fascinate you from the moment you first set eyes on its elegant and austere buildings looking onto the port, one of the largest in Europe. We will disembark the ship and have a sightseeing tour of Hamburg. During a two-hour tour you will see the biggest highlights of this city such as the Old Town Hall, St. Nicholas` church and explore the Mönckebergstraße shopping street. You will also learn what role the city played in the Second World War and how it changed its look from narrow streets and passageways with half-timbered houses to a modern commercial city. After the tour, you will have free time in the city and at our hotel to get ready for a flight back home filled with many new amazing memories!
Thursday, September 19
Departure home from the airport in Hamburg on a flight to Houston. HOME SWEET HOME!
Itinerary subject to change depending on availability.
RYBAK MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE - EUROPE TOUR MAY 12 - 25, 2024
SOLD OUT!!!
RYBAK MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE
EUROPE TOUR MAY 2024
RYBAK MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE
EUROPE TOUR MAY 2024
RYBAK MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE
EUROPE TOUR
May 12 - 25, 2024
AN UNBELIEVABLY AWESOME TRIP OF A LIFETIME!
5 European Countries within 14 days
Bus part: Czech Republic
Cruise part: Italy, Vatican, Greece, Turkey
FUN & ADVENTUROUS TOUR, WITH PARTIES, CRUISES, SLIVOVICE & ACCORDION MUSIC!!!
Sunday, May 12
Depart from Houston airport and fly in direction of Europe, Czech Republic, Prague.
Monday, May 13
Arrival in Prague. The luxury bus with attendant team (including your Czech tour guide) will be waiting for you at the airport then welcome you aboard the bus with a shot of CZECH SLIVO and take you straight to the world-famous spa town of Karlovy Vary, also known by its English name of Carlsbad. This town lies in a green valley of the river Tepla (meaning "warm") and its setting alone gives it an atmosphere of beauty and peace. The town has been recapturing its former glory with its Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings being restored and people rediscovering all the town has to offer. You will be treated to lunch in a themed restaurant in the cellar of Becherovka museum. Becherovka is a unique Czech Herbal liquor which production started already in 1867 and you will tour this famous place right after lunch. Following this we will check-in our hotel located at the beautiful spa colonnade, and you will have time to rest or explore the city with your tour guide. Dinner will be at our hotel.
Tuesday, May 14
Leave for Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic! You will have an option to do a walking tour of the tourist highlights of Prague - beginning with Prague Castle and then on to St. Vitus Cathedral, Hradcany quarter, walk across the famous 14th century Charles Bridge with a gorgeous view of the Prague Castle, then continue to Old Town Square to see the Astronomical clock. We will end the tour at Wenceslas Square, which has historically been the site of many events including the 1989 Velvet Revolution demonstrations. Or you can be just dropped off in the center of Old Prague where you will have countless possibilities how to spend your time - wander and shop at the numerous stores or drink a local Czech beer in one of the many beer gardens or pubs which this city offers. Check-in our hotel in the afternoon. In the evening, take a historical tram ride thru the old town of Prague all the way to the Vltava River, where you will certainly enjoy a 2-hour boat cruise including buffet dinner – all while viewing the illuminated beauties of Prague along the river by night!
Wednesday, May 15
Leave Prague in the direction of South Moravia. On the way stop in Kutna Hora, the silver treasury and a true gem of the country which was present at the very start of the boom in the Czech Kingdom. We will visit one of the most famous Gothic churches and UNESCO World Heritage site - Cathedral of St. Barbara. It symbolizes the power and importance of the mining city, which is linked to deposits of silver ore. The cathedral is consecrated to none other than the patron saint of all miners, St. Barbara. Construction of this architectural gem took five hundred long years. Just outside of Kutna Hora lies the world-renowned ossuary at Sedlec, a medieval Gothic chapel that for centuries has stood on the remains of 40,000 people, offering a quiet reminder of the transience of human life and the existence of death. Today, visitors from around the world are astonished by its bizarre decorations made from human bones in the form of chandeliers, a pyramid, crosses and coats of arms. Then we will get back on our bus which will take us to one of the most beautiful regions in the Czech Republic, South Moravia, known for beautiful countryside and world-known wines. Our hotel lies in the heart of this wine region so we will be welcomed in our hotel’s private wine cellar with great Moravian music and wine, as we party the evening away!
Thursday, May 16
Our first goal of today will be a drive to nearby Lednice. This town is known because of its Lednice chateau and is one of the most visited destinations in Moravia. It was being constructed by the Liechtenstein dynasty as a representative summer and hunting mansion for centuries. The last reconstruction in the mid-1800s shaped its appearance into a romantic Neogothic palace surrounded by a spacious park that is the largest one in Europe! Interiors are garnished with stunning carving decorations, and the halls and the so-called Princely apartments illustrate a typical majestic interior of the second half of the 19th century! After lunch in the area, we will depart to one of the top wineries in the region where you will learn about the production of wine. Of course, sampling of the wine cannot be skipped!
Friday, May 17
Early in the morning we will depart our hotel to the airport in Vienna, Austria on our 1 hour 30-minute flight to Rome, Italy. Right after our arrival we will drive to the Vatican, the smallest state in the world and the seat of the Pope. Here we will tour St. Peter's Square, surrounded by Bernini's colonnade with 140 statues of the Saints atop of it. Then view St. Peter's Basilica, the largest cathedral in the world which can hold 60,000 people and which is dominated by Michelangelo's dome! In the afternoon transfer to the port city Civitavecchia to embark our ship MSC Divina for a 7-day cruise in the Mediterranean Sea. Check-in our balcony cabins, security training, tour of the ship, and time to relax. Or have a drink or more with the All-Inclusive beverage package included in your tour!
Saturday, May 18
DAY AT SEA!!! Spend the day relaxing, resting, and enjoying amenities of the ship. Then PARTY ON THE SHIP!
Sunday, May 19
Mykonos, Greece 1PM – 11PM
During the 18th-century, Mykonos’ maze of tangled lanes would confuse even the most well-travelled pirates. Nowadays pretending to get lost in these winding alleys makes for a day of entertainment! It is known for its romantic Greek Island glamour. See brilliant beaches, turquoise waters, and picturesque whitewashed villages. In the town of Mykonos, you can explore glamourous whitewashed houses on narrow streets, visit the world-famous Venetian windmills which date back to the 16th century. Used to grind wheat, these rustic structures were a fundamental part of the island’s former economy. Today, they provide a great photo opportunity, so remember to bring your camera!
Monday, May 20
Izmir (Ephesus), Turkey 9AM – 5PM
Overlooking sparkling azure waters and surrounded by undulating mountains, Izmir, Turkey is a city rich with history and culture. Principal structures include a colonnade of fourteen Corinthian columns on the west side and the remains of reputedly the second-largest basilica in the Roman world. MSC Mediterranean cruises also offer excursions to Ephesus, of Turkey’s superb array of ancient cities, it’s by far the best preserved. In fact, with the possible exception of Pompeii, one could argue that it’s the world’s finest surviving example of a Greco-Roman classical city. A big claim, but with so much to back it up – the ruins here are not merely rocks on the ground, but near-fully-fledged incarnations of what life must have been like in ancient times. It is here also in Ephesus where you can do a pilgrimage to the House of Virgin Mary, a Catholic Shrine where she is believed to have lived out the remainder of her life.
Tuesday, May 21
Santorini, Greece 8AM – 6PM
Santorini, a Cyclades Island, was formed from the remains of a volcanic caldera which is evident in its rugged geology. Santorini is famous for its sheer cliffs, red beach, and whitewashed houses that contrast strikingly against the blue Aegean Sea. The island is also home to ancient archaeological sites, hot spring swimming, and stunning wineries. The iconic village of Oia lies on an edge of the volcanic caldera overlooking the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. Here you can admire its picturesque houses which are carved into the cliffs, iconic blue-domed churches and take in the magnificent views while exploring little shops, cafes, wineries or little Greek Taverns.
Wednesday, May 22
DAY AT SEA!!! Spend the day relaxing, resting, and enjoying amenities of the ship. Then PARTY ON THE SHIP!
Thursday, May 23
Naples (Pompeii), Italy 11AM – 8PM
Naples’s charm will enchant you so much that, as Stendhal declared, it is "the most beautiful city in the universe". Here you experience a unique environment bathed in history, art, culture, religion, alleys, neighborhoods, football, pizza, music, but above all "genuine" people. At this destination you will have a hard time to choose your favorite excursion. You can take a tour of this city or travel to other world-known destinations nearby. In Pompeii, you can discover the houses and lifestyle of the Roman aristocrats preserved by Vesuvius' lava. But aside from the "excavations", Pompeii is also famous for the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Holy Rosary which welcomes pilgrims from all over the world on the event of the Supplication to Our Lady. On the Island of Capri, in the middle of a crystal-clear sea, you will discover the mythical stacks, the magical caves, the lighthouse, the Villa of Tiberius, the popular via Krupp and the famous "piazzetta" where, if you are fortunate enough, you might meet your favorite actor or singer.
Friday, May 24
Arrival to Civitavecchia, port of Rome. Disembark the ship and board our bus to tour the ancient city of Rome starting with the seeing exteriors of Coliseum. This unforgettable attraction originally held 50,000 spectators who came to watch duels back in the 1st century, with gladiators wrestling lions, chariot races and even naval battles. We will see the Roman Forum, once the religious, political and trade center of ancient Rome, which reflects the twelve centuries of history. From there, we will visit Venezia Square with the equestrian statue of the first king of Italy, Vittorio Emmanuel. We will also see the famous Fountain de Trevi, the largest Baroque fountain and the set of a number of renowned movies. In the afternoon, we will visit the Pantheon, the oldest church in Rome. Drive to our hotel, check-in, leisure time and then our last dinner in beautiful Rome, Italy!
Saturday, May 25
Departure home from the airport in Rome on a flight to Houston. HOME SWEET HOME!
Itinerary subject to change depending on availability.
FOR MORE INFO: Contact EDITA RYBAK at (512) 963-6660 or EMAIL: editarybak@hotmail.com
Rybak Europe Tour May 1 - 15, 2017 |
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For More Info: CONTACT EDITA RYBAK TODAY AT 512-963-6660 or editarybak@hotmail.com |
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