13 Day Rhine River Cruise with Italian Lakes & Swiss Alps
From
$3499
Land Only
$4749*
Air & Land
Hotels/Plans Available for Departure Dates
| Cabin E | ||
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hotel Dino | Baveno | |
| Astoria Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Monarch Baroness | ||
| Monarch Empress | ||
| Cabin D | ||
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hotel Dino | Baveno | |
| Astoria Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Monarch Baroness | ||
| Monarch Empress | ||
| Cabin C | ||
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hotel Dino | Baveno | |
| Astoria Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Monarch Baroness | ||
| Monarch Empress | ||
| Cabin B | ||
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hotel Dino | Baveno | |
| Astoria Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Monarch Baroness | ||
| Monarch Empress | ||
| Cabin A | ||
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hotel Dino | Baveno | |
| Astoria Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Monarch Baroness | ||
| Monarch Empress | ||
| Suite | ||
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hotel Dino | Baveno | |
| Astoria Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Monarch Baroness | ||
| Monarch Empress | ||
| Cabin ES Single Only | ||
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hotel Dino | Baveno | |
| Astoria Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Monarch Baroness | ||
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $3500 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Basel | Monarch Empress | $4149 | $5579* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3999 | $5049* | ||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3899 | $5299* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3599 | $4999* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3499 | $4819* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3499 | $4749* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3599 | $5099* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3799 | $5299* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4199 | $5039* | ||
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $3600 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Basel | Monarch Empress | $4549 | $5509* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4399 | $5639* | ||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4299 | $5439* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3999 | $5519* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3899 | $5179* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3899 | $5399* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $3999 | $5099* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4199 | $5269* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4599 | $5899* | ||
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $3700 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Basel | Monarch Empress | $4749 | $5799* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4599 | $6139* | ||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4499 | $5639* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4199 | $5719* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4099 | $5379* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4349 | $5599* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4199 | $5199* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4399 | $5899* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4799 | $5639* | ||
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $4000 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Basel | Monarch Empress | $5149 | $6449* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4999 | $6539* | ||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4899 | $6039* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4599 | $6119* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4499 | $5779* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4749 | $5999* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4599 | $5599* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4799 | $5869* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5199 | $5929* | ||
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $4100 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Basel | Monarch Empress | $5349 | $6779* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5199 | $6249* | ||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5099 | $6239* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4799 | $6319* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4699 | $5979* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4949 | $6199* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4799 | $5799* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $4999 | $6069* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5399 | $6119* | ||
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $4600 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Basel | Monarch Empress | $6349 | $7779* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $6199 | $7599* | ||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $6099 | $7239* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5799 | $7319* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5699 | $7199* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5699 | $7269* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5799 | $6799* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5999 | $7069* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $6399 | $7699* | ||
| 2024 Dates & Prices | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $6249 | $7299* | ||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $6149 | $7549* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5849 | $7109* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5749 | $6949* | |||
| Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5749 | $7039* | |||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $5849 | $6909* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $6049 | $7549* | ||
|
|
Basel | Monarch Baroness | $6449 | $7749* | ||
Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
Milan Linate Airport transfers available at an additional cost.
Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. There are no elevators or chair lifts on board. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.
While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: Monarch Cruises Terms & Conditions.
Know Before You Book - High & Low Water
European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
River Cruise Package Includes
- Flights New York-Milan, Amsterdam-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 11 nights accommodations
- 2 nights Baveno
- 2 nights Lucerne
- 7 nights outside cabin aboard the Deluxe Monarch Empress and the Superior First Class Monarch Baroness
- River port charges of $190 per person
- Cruise & hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 25 meals: 11 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 8 dinners
- Cruise director & activities host throughout cruise
- Tour manager in Baveno & Lucerne
- Services of local guides in all major cities
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring during excursions
Special Features
- A scenic cruise on one of the Italian Lakes
- Explore Lucerne with its pristine lakeside setting and gorgeous mountainous panorama
- Walk the cobbled streets of tiny Breisach, a town that dates back over 4,000 years
- Visit the Alsace capital of Strasbourg, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Stroll the lanes filled with quaint wine taverns in the lively village of Rüdesheim
- View the mighty Lorelei Rock named for the siren "Lorelei" rising vertically from the waters
- Discover 2000-year-old Koblenz, with its superb Romanesque architecture
- Sail on the legendary Rhine to Cologne, capital of the Rhineland
- In Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals
River Cruise Features & Amenities
- Welcome dinner and farewell dinner
- Wine and beer with dinners
- Locally inspired recipes
- Early riser breakfast in addition to buffet breakfast
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access in public areas
- Self-serve coffee and tea station
- Lounge serving premium spirits
- Fitness center
- Non-smoking ship interior
- Shore excursions conducted exclusively in English
Know Before You Book - High & Low Water
European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
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Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Ascend the world's steepest cogwheel railway which winds up through lush meadows carpeted with Alpine flowers, past sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces to Mt. Pilatus. After admiring splendid views of the Bernese Oberland and the snowcapped Swiss peaks from the summit at nearly 7000 feet, descend by aerial cableway and return to Lucerne.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
*From November to May and in the event of adverse weather, the cogwheel will be replaced by the aerial cable car.
| Day #5 | 01 May 2024 - 31 Mar 2025 | $114.00 |
Heidelberg is one of Germany’s most scenic cities. For hundreds of years the city's medieval splendor has inspired some of the world's greatest artists and authors. This tour takes you through the city, with views of the historic Old Town, the expansive ruins of Heidelberg Castle, and the Neckar River. Fortunately, the city was spared from destruction during WWII, leaving buildings dating to the Middle Ages completely intact. Today, the city is a bustling, vibrant center for education and the arts, seamlessly blending the modern and the traditional.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #9 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $65.00 |
Join a guided tour of the dramatic Marksburg Castle, the only hill castle on the Rhine that has never been destroyed. The castle has been continuously occupied for over 700 years and houses a host of artifacts that bring the Middle Ages to life.
*This tour will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes.
Approximate tour duration is 3-4 hours.
| Day #10 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $52.00 |
Ascend the world's steepest cogwheel railway which winds up through lush meadows carpeted with Alpine flowers, past sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces to Mt. Pilatus. After admiring splendid views of the Bernese Oberland and the snowcapped Swiss peaks from the summit at nearly 7000 feet, descend by aerial cableway and return to Lucerne.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
*From November to May and in the event of adverse weather, the cogwheel will be replaced by the aerial cable car.
| Day #5 | 01 May 2024 - 31 Mar 2025 | $114.00 |
Heidelberg is one of Germany’s most scenic cities. For hundreds of years the city's medieval splendor has inspired some of the world's greatest artists and authors. This tour takes you through the city, with views of the historic Old Town, the expansive ruins of Heidelberg Castle, and the Neckar River. Fortunately, the city was spared from destruction during WWII, leaving buildings dating to the Middle Ages completely intact. Today, the city is a bustling, vibrant center for education and the arts, seamlessly blending the modern and the traditional.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #9 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $65.00 |
Join a guided tour of the dramatic Marksburg Castle, the only hill castle on the Rhine that has never been destroyed. The castle has been continuously occupied for over 700 years and houses a host of artifacts that bring the Middle Ages to life.
*This tour will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes.
Approximate tour duration is 3-4 hours.
| Day #10 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $52.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| River Cruises - Internet access is provided onboard Monarch ships, but quality may vary depending on the location and while sailing. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Switzerland - Switzerland tours visit areas of high elevation ranging from 5,905 feet to 10,135 feet. High elevation may cause some passengers to experience the temporary effects of altitude sickness. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider. Individuals that are affected by high altitude, should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, abstain from alcohol, and eat lightly. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| Germany - Spring and Autumn: 40–60°F, Summer: 65–80°F, Winter: 25–40°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Germany Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#austria-germany-europe-weather |
| Holland - Holland's climate is moderate year round. However, rain is frequent. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Holland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#belgium-weather |
| Switzerland - Spring and Autumn: 35-55°F; Summer: 55-80°F; Winter: 25-35°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Switzerland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx |
| River Cruises - Temperatures vary according to regional climate and season. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISES: Books Danube by Claudio Magris Between the Woods and the Water by Patrick Leigh Fermor Ballad of the Whiskey Robber by Julian Rubinstein Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer The Case Worker by Gyorgy Konrád Fatelessness by Imre Kertesz Blue River Black Sea by Andrew Eames EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISES: Films The Sound of Music (1965) Amadeus (1984) |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| SWITZERLAND: Books William Tell by Friedrich Schiller The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss Swiss Watching: Inside the Land of Milk & Honey by Diccon Bewes A Tramp Abroad by Mark Twain The Lions of Lucerne by Brad Thor Target Switzerland: Swiss Armed Neutrality in World War II by Stephen P. Halbrook Swiss History in a Nutshell by Gregoire Nappey Scrambles Amongst the Alps by Edward Whymper Why Switzerland? by Jonathan Steinberg SWITZERLAND: Films The Miracle of Bern (2003) The Swissmakers (1978) On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) Third Man on the Mountain (1959) Heidi (1937) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| River Cruise Docking Locations & Map - Amsterdam - Docking locations are strictly controlled by the river authorities and could be confirmed up to approximately 25 days prior to departure. If you are traveling independently to your ship, we recommend that you print the map and bring it with you to help you find your ship. Please note that the final docking location is determined by the Amsterdam Port Authorities and is subject to change, in which case, we will make every attempt to contact you with the new details. In the event you can not locate the ship please call the number of your ship below. |
| River Cruise Docking Locations & Map - Basel - If you are arriving to the port independently, go to the docking point listed below. Please find a location description below and for a map view, visit www.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/maps/basel-ports.png. The final docking location is determined by the Basel Port Authorities and is subject to change, in which case, we will make every attempt to contact you with the new details. |
| Monarch Baroness - If you do not have a Gate 1 Transfer to the ship, we recommend you telephone the ship reception on your embarkation day to receive the most recent & precise docking information. * Ship reception/Hotel Manager: +49 152 015 062 13 * Cruise Director: +421 917 707 909 * Local office emergency number: +421 907 707 947 |
Monarch Baroness 2024 Docking Locations in Amsterdam
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Monarch Baroness 2024 Docking Locations in Basel
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| Amsterdam River Cruise Docking Amsterdam Port Map: https://www.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/maps/amsterdam-ports22.pdf De Ruijterkade West Steiger (West Dock), IJ, Amsterdam, Netherlands, 1013 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade for 1/3 mile to De Ruijterkade West Steiger. Printable Map: https://www.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-DeRuijterkadeWest.pdf Google Map: De Ruijterkade West Steiger De Ruijterkade Oost (East Dock), De Ruijterkade, 1011 AC Amsterdam From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, turn right along De Ruyterkade. The docks are approximately 100 yards along the street. Printable Map: https://static.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-DeRuijterkadeOost.pdf Google Map: De Ruijterkade Oost Veemkade (Passenger Terminal), Veemkade, 1019 GW Amsterdam From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, turn right along De Ruyterkade and travel less than half mile to the Passenger Terminal. Veemkade docks are located behind the Terminal building. Printable Map: https://static.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-Veemkade.pdf Google Map: Veemkade Javakade, Javakade, 1019 RT Amsterdam From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, turn right along De Ruyterkade and travel a half mile passing the Passenger Terminal on your left. Turn left onto Javabrug (Java Bridge) and cross the bridge. At the end of the bridge, turn left onto Javakade. Printable Map: https://static.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-Javakade.pdf Google Map: Javakade Coenhaven, Westerhoofd 5, 1013 BS Amsterdam The dock is located approximately 4 miles from the Central Rail Station. If you have not purchased a transfer from Gate 1 Travel, it is advisable to take a taxi to the port. From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade (S100). After 1.5 miles, make a slight left onto Tasmanstratt (S101) and follow the road making a slight right onto Nieuwe Hemweg (S101, continued). After 1.6 miles, turn right at Vlothavenweg and continue 1/2 mile. Turn right at Coenhavenweg. Printable Map: https://static.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-Coenhaven.pdf Google Map: Coenhaven Westerdoksdijk, 597, 1013 BX Amsterdam From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade for 1/2 mile to Westerdoksedijk Steiger From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade for 1/4 mile to the Steiger piers. Printable Map: https://www.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-westerdoksedijk.pdf Google Map: Westerdoksdijk Haarleem, Spaarndamseweg 3-11, 2022 Haarlem The dock is located on the west side of the Spaarne River and a half mile north of the Waarderbrug bridge on Spaarndamseweg street. Google Map: Haarlem |
| Basel River Cruise Docking: Uferstrasse 80 located north of Three Roses Bridge (Dreirosenbrücke) on the East bank of the river. St. Johann located between Three Roses Bridge (Dreirosenbrücke) and Johanniter Bridge (Johanniterbrucke). Dreiländereck located north of Three Roses Bridge (Dreirosenbrücke) on the East bank of the river. Steiger Klybeck located north of Three Rose Bridge (Dreirosenbrücke) on the East bank of the river. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| River Cruises |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each cruise ship based on overall quality, itinerary, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All Monarch Baroness cabins are standard rooms with private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. All cabins have two twin beds that can be pushed together or separated. While at port, the vessel may be docked adjacent to another ship which may obstruct window views. We recommend you close the cabin curtains before turning in at night for privacy. We reserve the right to make ship substitutions with those of equal standard. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: European River Cruises |
River Cruise Crew (Shared by all crew members): US $16 per person per day Cruise Director: US $4 per person per day Activity Host: US $4 per person per day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Local Driver (Provides chauffeur services at specific locations): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Crew gratuities will be shared by all crew members and may be paid via the on board ship account or dropped in the designated box at reception. Gratuities for the Gate 1 Cruise Director, Activity Host, and local service providers should be paid in cash and given to the person directly. Pre- or Post-Cruise Land Tour Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day City Host (Gate 1 hotel assistant): US $4 per person per day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| Germany - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Holland - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Switzerland - Rounding up the bill is appreciated. Taxi drivers do not expect a gratuity and rounding up the fare is usually sufficient. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Water Level |
| A rise or fall in the river water level, or other factors which may impact safe navigation, can prevent the ship from passing under bridges and/or moving further along the river. This may cause part or all of the cruise itinerary to be operated by motor coach. If this becomes necessary, Gate 1 Travel will endeavor to provide equal or similar services, however no cruise will be canceled and no monetary compensation will be made for those changes. A fluctuation in water level can change in a matter of hours and may occur at any time of the year. In this case, the situation will be closely monitored by captain and crew to ensure services are delivered with as few substitutions as possible. If you have planned independent travel prior to the cruise it is advisable to leave local contact information with Gate 1 Travel before departing. Should an embarkation point be changed, Gate 1 Travel will attempt to contact passengers by phone or email. |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| Germany - The Euro is the currency of Germany. |
| Holland - The Euro is the currency of Holland. |
| Switzerland - The Swiss Franc is the currency of Switzerland. |
| European River Cruises - The Euro is the currency used for purchases on board the ship, except for optional excursions which may be paid for in USD. Please note that while calling at port, other currencies may be used depending on the country being visited. Money-changing services (to Euro) will be available on board. Ship Account and Payment: There is a cashless system on board. All on board expenditures (in the bar, restaurant, shop, and spa) are added to the ship's account. Closing invoices will be presented to the passengers for settlement. Payment can be made by cash in Euro or by credit card (VISA, MasterCard, American Express). Payment made by credit card may be subject to an international credit card transaction fee. Please note we cannot accept USD as a form of cash payment. Passenger's are not eligible for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund for purchases made on board the ship. |
| European River Cruises - On board expenditures are processed through a banking center in Cyprus. Passengers wishing to settle their on board account by credit card should advise their credit card provider of potential charges from Cyprus in addition to the countries that will be visited on your itinerary. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Germany - In addition to large department stores featuring a wide range of goods, Germany has many specialized shops that feature high quality items such as optical instruments, knives, glassware, china, handcrafted toys, and antique books and maps, among many others. |
| Holland - Special purchases include beautiful Delft blue pottery and pottery from Makkum and Workum, costume dolls, silverware from Schoonhoven, glass and crystal from Leerdam and diamonds from Amsterdam. |
| Switzerland - Shopping in Switzerland offers a great chance to find the highest quality watches and knives, extravagant jewelry, and gourmet Swiss chocolates. Especially famous for cuckoo clocks, ranging from the simplest models to the most extraordinarily intricate, Swiss craftsmanship is unsurpassed. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| European River Cruises - You are on a ship with a high safety standard and reliable crew. In case of emergency, we ask you to follow the instructions of your crew. Please take further information concerning safety from the notice on your cabin door. Life jackets will be stored in your stateroom or in containers on the sun deck, marked clearly. When leaving the ship, kindly pick up your boarding pass from the reception desk and promptly return it upon arrival back to the ship. This procedure helps ensure your security by allowing the crew to immediately determine if all passengers are on board before continuing the cruise. While in port, please keep your cabin door locked. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Caution: Tours of the Forum & Colosseum, Rome - Please note that there have been reports of street vendors wearing Gate 1 Travel identification tags who offer tours of the Colosseum in Rome. These vendors are not employed by Gate 1 and are in no way affiliated with the company. Gate 1 tours are offered only for purchase in advance of your trip to Italy, or locally by your Tour Manager. Passengers traveling independently are recommended to purchase their tours through official vendors and to avoid street sales. |
| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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Germany
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Holland
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Switzerland
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Germany - German is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Holland - Dutch is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Germany - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Holland - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Switzerland - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Monarch Baroness - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Germany - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants. |
| Holland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Common courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Switzerland - Cleanliness is of utmost importance in Switzerland and even accidental littering can result in a public scolding. Shaking hands is a standard greeting. When being introduced, it is important to shake hands with everyone, including children. Standard courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 20: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Holidays - Germany |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: May Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday May 30: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Assumption Day Oct 3: Day of German Unity Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 20: Repentence Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 1: May Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Jun 19: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Assumption Day Oct 3: Day of German Unity Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 19: Repentence Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Holland |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 27: King's Birthday May 5: Liberation Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Dec 5: Saint Nicholas' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday Apr 26: King's Birthday May 5: Liberation Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Dec 6: Saint Nicholas' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Switzerland |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) May 20: Pentecost (Whit Monday) May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) Jun 9: Pentecost (Whit Monday) Jun 19: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day |
| Disabled Facilities - European River Cruises |
| Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. The Monarch Baroness is equipped with elevator access between the Empress and Countess decks, however passengers will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes while touring. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information. |
| Embarkation |
| Embarkation will begin at 2 pm unless otherwise noted in your itinerary. Check your itinerary carefully for the port of embarkation and disembarkation. In the event that you arrive independently to the port of embarkation, note the location carefully. Please ensure that you are always on board before the ship's scheduled time of departure. For same day directions, please contact the Cruise Director at the number provided on your cruise voucher. Early arrivals may drop their luggage. Upon embarkation all passengers will be required to hand over their passport to the Reception Desk for the duration of the cruise. The staff are required to provide these to the appropriate authorities as the ship sails through each country. These will be stored in a secure area and returned at the end of the cruise. |
| Disembarkation |
| You will receive all relevant information concerning disembarkation in detail by your cruise director on the afternoon of your last day onboard. Passengers who have purchased a transfer will be required to place their luggage outside of their cabin a few hours prior to their scheduled time of departure. Details will be advised locally. All passengers and luggage must be off board the ship at the final disembarkation time noted in your itinerary. |
| On Your Cruise - European River Cruises |
| Attire: River cruise dress code is always casual. Modest attire (no bathing suits) is requested in the dining room at all meals. Remember to pack comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. Language: The official language on board is English, although other languages may be spoken. All announcements and tours will be performed in English. Meals and Dietary Restrictions: There is open seating in the dining room for lunch and dinner. Please see your Maître d'hotel who is at your disposal for special needs. Passengers requiring special diet must advise Gate 1 Cruises at the least 20 days prior to departure. However we are pleased to assist within the limits of those products available on board. Smoking: Smoking is only allowed in designated areas on the sundeck. Please do not throw cigarettes overboard. Amenities: A hairdryer is supplied to all cabins. Laundry service is available on board for an additional charge, however the ship is not equipped to care for dry cleaning. Charges are displayed on board. Valuables can be deposited in the cabin safe. Fitness Center: The fitness center is equipped with one treadmill, one stationary bicycle and yoga mats. Medical Services: Ship's crew may be able to provide basic first-aid, however ships do not carry a doctor or nurse onboard. Should professional medical attention be required, local services will be contacted upon the passenger's request. Excursions: During your journey you will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of shore excursions. If you have not pre-booked the excursions, there will be an opportunity to do so on board with your Cruise Director. These excursions can paid for in cash (USD), or charged to your credit card. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional Walking: River Cruise tours dock at inland towns and excursions may include a fair amount of walking on uneven or cobblestone streets. The Monarch Baroness is equipped with elevator access between the Empress and Countess decks, however passengers will be required to climb stairs to access the different decks of the ship. Many ports have limited ramps. You may also experience "double-docking." In some ports, where there are limited docks available for the number of visiting ships, you may find your ship docked adjacent to another and may have to walk across one or more other river cruise ships before reaching the dock area. Children: The vessels do not maintain facilities or services for children aboard the cruise. We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 16 years of age. Telephone: All cabins are equipped with direct dialing for an additional fee. If you need to be contacted while on board the ship, please provide the emergency numbers outlined in your documents to family and/or friends. It is possible that the emergency numbers are out of the telephone network at the time of dialing. If this is the case, a message will be provided by the telephone company in German. It is advisable to hang-up and dial a short time later. Internet Onboard: The Monarch ships offer complimentary internet access onboard which is accessible in both public areas and cabins. This is basic internet and is based on regional satellite for river cruise ships. Connection quality varies and, at times, may be slow. Normally, you should be able to browse the internet, check your email, access international publications, and view social media accounts on your personal device(s) during your sailing. However, you will be unable to download movies or video, send videos or access streaming services. At the beginning of your sailing, you will be provided with an access code which you may use on any of your devices. Please note the possibility of potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather. In addition, populated ports where many ships are utilizing the same satellite signal may cause slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home. Prior to departure, we recommend you purchase an international plan with your phone provider which will typically provide similar coverage to your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances. Mail: Any mail with postage can be handed in at the reception. It will be posted at the next port of call. |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| River Cruises - Internet access is provided onboard Monarch ships, but quality may vary depending on the location and while sailing. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Switzerland - Switzerland tours visit areas of high elevation ranging from 5,905 feet to 10,135 feet. High elevation may cause some passengers to experience the temporary effects of altitude sickness. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider. Individuals that are affected by high altitude, should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, abstain from alcohol, and eat lightly. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather |
| Germany - Spring and Autumn: 40–60°F, Summer: 65–80°F, Winter: 25–40°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Germany Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#austria-germany-europe-weather |
| Holland - Holland's climate is moderate year round. However, rain is frequent. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Holland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#belgium-weather |
| Switzerland - Spring and Autumn: 35-55°F; Summer: 55-80°F; Winter: 25-35°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Switzerland Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx |
| River Cruises - Temperatures vary according to regional climate and season. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISES: Books Danube by Claudio Magris Between the Woods and the Water by Patrick Leigh Fermor Ballad of the Whiskey Robber by Julian Rubinstein Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer The Case Worker by Gyorgy Konrád Fatelessness by Imre Kertesz Blue River Black Sea by Andrew Eames EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISES: Films The Sound of Music (1965) Amadeus (1984) |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| SWITZERLAND: Books William Tell by Friedrich Schiller The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss Swiss Watching: Inside the Land of Milk & Honey by Diccon Bewes A Tramp Abroad by Mark Twain The Lions of Lucerne by Brad Thor Target Switzerland: Swiss Armed Neutrality in World War II by Stephen P. Halbrook Swiss History in a Nutshell by Gregoire Nappey Scrambles Amongst the Alps by Edward Whymper Why Switzerland? by Jonathan Steinberg SWITZERLAND: Films The Miracle of Bern (2003) The Swissmakers (1978) On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) Third Man on the Mountain (1959) Heidi (1937) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| River Cruise Docking Locations & Map - Amsterdam - Docking locations are strictly controlled by the river authorities and could be confirmed up to approximately 25 days prior to departure. If you are traveling independently to your ship, we recommend that you print the map and bring it with you to help you find your ship. Please note that the final docking location is determined by the Amsterdam Port Authorities and is subject to change, in which case, we will make every attempt to contact you with the new details. In the event you can not locate the ship please call the number of your ship below. |
| River Cruise Docking Locations & Map - Basel - If you are arriving to the port independently, go to the docking point listed below. Please find a location description below and for a map view, visit www.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/maps/basel-ports.png. The final docking location is determined by the Basel Port Authorities and is subject to change, in which case, we will make every attempt to contact you with the new details. |
| Monarch Empress - If you do not have a Gate 1 Transfer to the ship, we recommend you telephone the ship reception on your embarkation day to receive the most recent & precise docking information. * Ship reception/Hotel Manager: +49 172 2597210 * Cruise Director: +421 907 707 255 * Local office emergency number: +421 907 707 947 |
Monarch Empress 2024 Docking Locations in Amsterdam
Please find detailed descriptions of the river cruise ship docking locations in Amsterdam below including the dock address, directions from the Central Rail Station, a printable map and a google map link. If you are traveling independently to your ship, we recommend that you print the map and bring it with you to help you find your ship. Occasionally, the Amsterdam Port Authorities make last minute changes to the docking location in which case we will make every effort to contact you with the new docking location. |
Monarch Empress 2024 Docking Locations in Basel
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| Amsterdam River Cruise Docking Amsterdam Port Map: https://www.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/maps/amsterdam-ports22.pdf De Ruijterkade West Steiger (West Dock), IJ, Amsterdam, Netherlands, 1013 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade for 1/3 mile to De Ruijterkade West Steiger. Printable Map: https://www.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-DeRuijterkadeWest.pdf Google Map: De Ruijterkade West Steiger De Ruijterkade Oost (East Dock), De Ruijterkade, 1011 AC Amsterdam From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, turn right along De Ruyterkade. The docks are approximately 100 yards along the street. Printable Map: https://static.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-DeRuijterkadeOost.pdf Google Map: De Ruijterkade Oost Veemkade (Passenger Terminal), Veemkade, 1019 GW Amsterdam From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, turn right along De Ruyterkade and travel less than half mile to the Passenger Terminal. Veemkade docks are located behind the Terminal building. Printable Map: https://static.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-Veemkade.pdf Google Map: Veemkade Javakade, Javakade, 1019 RT Amsterdam From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, turn right along De Ruyterkade and travel a half mile passing the Passenger Terminal on your left. Turn left onto Javabrug (Java Bridge) and cross the bridge. At the end of the bridge, turn left onto Javakade. Printable Map: https://static.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-Javakade.pdf Google Map: Javakade Coenhaven, Westerhoofd 5, 1013 BS Amsterdam The dock is located approximately 4 miles from the Central Rail Station. If you have not purchased a transfer from Gate 1 Travel, it is advisable to take a taxi to the port. From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade (S100). After 1.5 miles, make a slight left onto Tasmanstratt (S101) and follow the road making a slight right onto Nieuwe Hemweg (S101, continued). After 1.6 miles, turn right at Vlothavenweg and continue 1/2 mile. Turn right at Coenhavenweg. Printable Map: https://static.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-Coenhaven.pdf Google Map: Coenhaven Westerdoksdijk, 597, 1013 BX Amsterdam From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade for 1/2 mile to Westerdoksedijk Steiger From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade for 1/4 mile to the Steiger piers. Printable Map: https://www.gate1travel.com/shared/river-cruises/documents/amsterdam-westerdoksedijk.pdf Google Map: Westerdoksdijk Haarleem, Spaarndamseweg 3-11, 2022 Haarlem The dock is located on the west side of the Spaarne River and a half mile north of the Waarderbrug bridge on Spaarndamseweg street. Google Map: Haarlem |
| Basel River Cruise Docking: Uferstrasse 80 located north of Three Roses Bridge (Dreirosenbrücke) on the East bank of the river. St. Johann located between Three Roses Bridge (Dreirosenbrücke) and Johanniter Bridge (Johanniterbrucke). Dreiländereck located north of Three Roses Bridge (Dreirosenbrücke) on the East bank of the river. Steiger Klybeck located north of Three Rose Bridge (Dreirosenbrücke) on the East bank of the river. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| River Cruises |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each cruise ship based on overall quality, itinerary, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All Monarch Empress cabins are standard rooms with private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. All cabins have two twin beds that can be pushed together or separated. While at port, the vessel may be docked adjacent to another ship which may obstruct window views. We recommend you close the cabin curtains before turning in at night for privacy. While double docked, ships often continue to run their engines for air-conditioning and other services. Depending upon the wind direction, residual engine fumes may enter some cabins. This is a temporary situation, alleviated once the ship moves. We reserve the right to make ship substitutions with those of equal standard. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: European River Cruises |
River Cruise Crew (Shared by all crew members): US $16 per person per day Cruise Director: US $4 per person per day Activity Host: US $4 per person per day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Local Driver (Provides chauffeur services at specific locations): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Crew gratuities will be shared by all crew members and may be paid via the on board ship account or dropped in the designated box at reception. Gratuities for the Gate 1 Cruise Director, Activity Host, and local service providers should be paid in cash and given to the person directly. Pre- or Post-Cruise Land Tour Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day City Host (Gate 1 hotel assistant): US $4 per person per day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| Germany - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Holland - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Switzerland - Rounding up the bill is appreciated. Taxi drivers do not expect a gratuity and rounding up the fare is usually sufficient. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Water Level |
| A rise or fall in the river water level, or other factors which may impact safe navigation, can prevent the ship from passing under bridges and/or moving further along the river. This may cause part or all of the cruise itinerary to be operated by motor coach. If this becomes necessary, Gate 1 Travel will endeavor to provide equal or similar services, however no cruise will be canceled and no monetary compensation will be made for those changes. A fluctuation in water level can change in a matter of hours and may occur at any time of the year. In this case, the situation will be closely monitored by captain and crew to ensure services are delivered with as few substitutions as possible. If you have planned independent travel prior to the cruise it is advisable to leave local contact information with Gate 1 Travel before departing. Should an embarkation point be changed, Gate 1 Travel will attempt to contact passengers by phone or email. |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| Germany - The Euro is the currency of Germany. |
| Holland - The Euro is the currency of Holland. |
| Switzerland - The Swiss Franc is the currency of Switzerland. |
| European River Cruises - The Euro is the currency used for purchases on board the ship, except for optional excursions which may be paid for in USD. Please note that while calling at port, other currencies may be used depending on the country being visited. Money-changing services (to Euro) will be available on board. Ship Account and Payment: There is a cashless system on board. All on board expenditures (in the bar, restaurant, shop, and spa) are added to the ship's account. Closing invoices will be presented to the passengers for settlement. Payment can be made by cash in Euro or by credit card (VISA, MasterCard, American Express). Payment made by credit card may be subject to an international credit card transaction fee. Please note we cannot accept USD as a form of cash payment. Passenger's are not eligible for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund for purchases made on board the ship. |
| European River Cruises - On board expenditures are processed through a banking center in Cyprus. Passengers wishing to settle their on board account by credit card should advise their credit card provider of potential charges from Cyprus in addition to the countries that will be visited on your itinerary. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Germany - In addition to large department stores featuring a wide range of goods, Germany has many specialized shops that feature high quality items such as optical instruments, knives, glassware, china, handcrafted toys, and antique books and maps, among many others. |
| Holland - Special purchases include beautiful Delft blue pottery and pottery from Makkum and Workum, costume dolls, silverware from Schoonhoven, glass and crystal from Leerdam and diamonds from Amsterdam. |
| Switzerland - Shopping in Switzerland offers a great chance to find the highest quality watches and knives, extravagant jewelry, and gourmet Swiss chocolates. Especially famous for cuckoo clocks, ranging from the simplest models to the most extraordinarily intricate, Swiss craftsmanship is unsurpassed. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| European River Cruises - You are on a ship with a high safety standard and reliable crew. In case of emergency, we ask you to follow the instructions of your crew. Please take further information concerning safety from the notice on your cabin door. Life jackets will be stored in your stateroom or in containers on the sun deck, marked clearly. When leaving the ship, kindly pick up your boarding pass from the reception desk and promptly return it upon arrival back to the ship. This procedure helps ensure your security by allowing the crew to immediately determine if all passengers are on board before continuing the cruise. While in port, please keep your cabin door locked. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Caution: Tours of the Forum & Colosseum, Rome - Please note that there have been reports of street vendors wearing Gate 1 Travel identification tags who offer tours of the Colosseum in Rome. These vendors are not employed by Gate 1 and are in no way affiliated with the company. Gate 1 tours are offered only for purchase in advance of your trip to Italy, or locally by your Tour Manager. Passengers traveling independently are recommended to purchase their tours through official vendors and to avoid street sales. |
| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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Germany
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Holland
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Switzerland
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Germany - German is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Holland - Dutch is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Germany - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Holland - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Switzerland - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Monarch Empress - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Germany - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants. |
| Holland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Common courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Switzerland - Cleanliness is of utmost importance in Switzerland and even accidental littering can result in a public scolding. Shaking hands is a standard greeting. When being introduced, it is important to shake hands with everyone, including children. Standard courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 31: Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 9: Easter Sunday Apr 20: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Holidays - Germany |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: May Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday May 30: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Assumption Day Oct 3: Day of German Unity Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 20: Repentence Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 1: May Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Jun 19: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Assumption Day Oct 3: Day of German Unity Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 19: Repentence Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Holland |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 27: King's Birthday May 5: Liberation Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Whit Sunday May 20: Whit Monday Dec 5: Saint Nicholas' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday Apr 26: King's Birthday May 5: Liberation Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Whit Sunday Jun 9: Whit Monday Dec 6: Saint Nicholas' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Switzerland |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 1: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 9: Ascension Day May 19: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) May 20: Pentecost (Whit Monday) May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 21: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 29: Ascension Day Jun 8: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) Jun 9: Pentecost (Whit Monday) Jun 19: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day |
| Disabled Facilities - European River Cruises |
| Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. The Monarch Empress is equipped with elevator access between the Empress and Countess decks, however passengers will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes while touring. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information. |
| Embarkation |
| Embarkation will begin at 2 pm unless otherwise noted in your itinerary. Check your itinerary carefully for the port of embarkation and disembarkation. In the event that you arrive independently to the port of embarkation, note the location carefully. Please ensure that you are always on board before the ship's scheduled time of departure. For same day directions, please contact the Cruise Director at the number provided on your cruise voucher. Early arrivals may drop their luggage. Upon embarkation all passengers will be required to hand over their passport to the Reception Desk for the duration of the cruise. The staff are required to provide these to the appropriate authorities as the ship sails through each country. These will be stored in a secure area and returned at the end of the cruise. |
| Disembarkation |
| You will receive all relevant information concerning disembarkation in detail by your cruise director on the afternoon of your last day onboard. Passengers who have purchased a transfer will be required to place their luggage outside of their cabin a few hours prior to their scheduled time of departure. Details will be advised locally. All passengers and luggage must be off board the ship at the final disembarkation time noted in your itinerary. |
| On Your Cruise - European River Cruises |
| Attire: River cruise dress code is always casual. Modest attire (no bathing suits) is requested in the dining room at all meals. Remember to pack comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. Language: The official language on board is English, although other languages may be spoken. All announcements and tours will be performed in English. Meals and Dietary Restrictions: There is open seating in the dining room for lunch and dinner. Please see your Maître d'hotel who is at your disposal for special needs. Passengers requiring special diet must advise Gate 1 Cruises at the least 20 days prior to departure. However we are pleased to assist within the limits of those products available on board. Smoking: Smoking is only allowed in designated areas on the sundeck. Please do not throw cigarettes overboard. Amenities: A hairdryer is supplied to all cabins. Laundry service is available on board for an additional charge, however the ship is not equipped to care for dry cleaning. Charges are displayed on board. Valuables can be deposited in the cabin safe. Fitness Center: The fitness center is equipped with one treadmill, one stationary bicycle, dumbbells and yoga mats. Medical Services: Ship's crew may be able to provide basic first-aid, however ships do not carry a doctor or nurse onboard. Should professional medical attention be required, local services will be contacted upon the passenger's request. Excursions: During your journey you will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of shore excursions. If you have not pre-booked the excursions, there will be an opportunity to do so on board with your Cruise Director. These excursions can paid for in cash (USD), or charged to your credit card. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional Walking: River Cruise tours dock at inland towns and excursions may include a fair amount of walking on uneven or cobblestone streets. The Monarch Empress is equipped with elevator access between the Empress and Countess decks, however passengers will be required to climb stairs to access the different decks of the ship. Many ports have limited ramps. You may also experience "double-docking." In some ports, where there are limited docks available for the number of visiting ships, you may find your ship docked adjacent to another and may have to walk across one or more other river cruise ships before reaching the dock area. Children: The vessels do not maintain facilities or services for children aboard the cruise. We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 16 years of age. Telephone: All cabins are equipped with direct dialing for an additional fee. If you need to be contacted while on board the ship, please provide the emergency numbers outlined in your documents to family and/or friends. It is possible that the emergency numbers are out of the telephone network at the time of dialing. If this is the case, a message will be provided by the telephone company in German. It is advisable to hang-up and dial a short time later. Internet Onboard: The Monarch ships offer complimentary internet access onboard which is accessible in both public areas and cabins. This is basic internet and is based on regional satellite for river cruise ships. Connection quality varies and, at times, may be slow. Normally, you should be able to browse the internet, check your email, access international publications, and view social media accounts on your personal device(s) during your sailing. However, you will be unable to download movies or video, send videos or access streaming services. At the beginning of your sailing, you will be provided with an access code which you may use on any of your devices. Please note the possibility of potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather. In addition, populated ports where many ships are utilizing the same satellite signal may cause slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home. Prior to departure, we recommend you purchase an international plan with your phone provider which will typically provide similar coverage to your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances. Mail: Any mail with postage can be handed in at the reception. It will be posted at the next port of call. |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
Our trip was amazing. Montecatini was the perfect location to stay. The location had easy access to many great places in Italy. The hotel was wonderful, and our car was a Jeep Renegade perfect for driving in Italy. Thank you!
Melissa K.
Bonjour, the trip was wonderful. For the three cities we visited, my husband and I love Venice. The explanation of how the local operates in water. The wine tasting was surprisingly good not only a sip of wine but 6 bottles. Francesco the guide is very knowledgeable about food, location, and everything in between. He made sure we knew where the taxi stand was after the tour ended. Some of us even call or text him about something on his time off, he responds immediately. Overall good trip, good group and definitely wonderful guide. This is not the first time we have been with Gate 1. We have already booked two trips with you.
Jessica L.
Amazing!!! We will definitely be using your services again!! Great trip for the price, everything top notch!!!
Donna S.
This was my 7th Gate 1 tour and I wanted to note tour leader Lorena organization and preparedness was second to none. She consistently provided individual maps with key information and locations highlighted, and all of them had Lorna's phone number printed in case we needed help. Her personality was consistently cheerful and warm with everyone. Further she was constantly offering help with everything and anything. Above all, she really provided a local flavor by offering information about our destinations - that you can't just learn about from a book.
Maureen C.
Our trip to Italy was fantastic, as we expected with Gate 1. Christopher was an excellent tour guide. Knowledgeable, patient, great sense of humor, organized, approachable, and was a reason the trip was memorable. Nice hotels, good food, excellent tour guides in each city, safe bus drivers, and a sensible order to visiting the cities included on this tour. Great weather, too!
Priscilla L.
I really enjoyed my very first escorted tour. This trip has totally changed my life. I have already booked another trip for next year. Our tour guide Christopher was excellent, approachable, warm hearted, very respectful, responsible, all of us agreed in the tour that he really cared how much we are enjoying. I am so thankful to be part of his tour group. Everyone agrees it is tour manager who sets the tone of the group cohesiveness. We were blessed with Christopher.
Elizabeth G.
Our trip was incredible. It was our first Gate 1 Travel Trip and both my wife and I were thoroughly impressed with our tour guide Chris. We felt so fortunate to have the best on our first trip. Chris is extremely knowledgeable, thoughtful, kept the group together and shared so much valuable information that he made each tour and meal exceptional. He also paid close attention to those who may be under the weather while on the tour, ensuring the tour was not moving too fast.
Donald G.
This was the first time my husband and I have booked travel through Gate 1. It was at the recommendation of our dear friends, who traveled with you previously and said you were the best. They were right! We just completed a Rhine River cruise, and it was spectacular and life-changing! We had never been on a river cruise before, and we thought it would be an extra special way to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. We could not be more pleased and honestly, cannot wait to take another river cruise or land tour with Gate 1! We felt so pampered and well-taken care of the entire time. It was a luxurious, first-class experience but one without pretentiousness. It felt very comfortable and was a family-type of atmosphere but with class. It was lovely getting to know the outstanding crew. They were all fantastic, efficient, kind, and professional. We miss them all very much! Those hardworking people made the experience even better.
Victoria P.
We just took the 9-day Affordable Sicily Tour. It was a great tour, and we all had a great time. We specifically want to thank our excellent tour manager, Maria, a very caring, warm, knowledgeable, funny, and thoughtful person who went above and beyond her duties to ensure that everyone had a great time and enjoyed the trip. We also want to thank our driver, Franco, who was very friendly and helpful. A million thanks for these wonderful memories! We highly recommended this tour to our friends, and they just booked for March 2025. Looking forward to our next Gate 1 trip to the Baltics with Krakow in October 2024!
Adele M.
From your assistance to my return home everything was great! I did a solo independent tour and never felt alone. The tour guide on my excursions was excellent and the hotel (Number 11 St Julian) was perfect for me. Thank you!
Patricia D.
The tour trip to Sicily was probably the best we have experienced with Gate 1. Mauro and the driver were informative, skilled and approachable. The guides plus Mauro contributed so much information about what desert seeing but also history and personal information. The hotels were perfectly located and operated. We seriously thought we hit the lottery on this trip. We have highly recommended on our posts.
Leslie H.
The trip was super! The guide Maurizio was the best we've had. He put together a great packet of info and a colored map of Sicily...super start. He very focused on the group and supporting us. The itinerary was good, we enjoyed the options.
David C.
We just completed our third Gate 1 tour. While the tour managers on all of our trips have been excellent, I would like to call out Maurizio as being superb. I truly believe it is the quality of the tour manager that makes or breaks the tour. It is people like Maurizio who make us come back to Gate 1. Not only was he knowledgeable of everything about Sicily, he is very organized, considerate of all in his group but above all very warm and personable. By the end of the trip, I felt we had made a friend. We would gladly take another Gate 1 tour just to be with Maurizio.
Brian B.
It was great! I didn't have any expectations for an Independent Tour. It was really very nice. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you.
Carol B.
Was our first Gate 1 experience. First trip to Italy and Europe. Our tour guide Francesca made our experience the best trip ever. She went over and above all of our needs and expectations. Cannot say enough positive things about her. Best tour guide ever! Great experience! Great way to see Italy for the first time.
Brenda H.
Our trip was wonderful. Once again, I always wonder if our Guide will be as good as our previous one as usual, they are. The food on this trip was outstanding. And Andrea went above and beyond to make sure everyone was always happy, and he constantly looked out for our safety. GREAT Trip. Looking forward to our next one.
Joseph H.
This was our first time abroad and with Gate 1. Our trip was wonderful. Our tour guide, Carmine, was EXCEPTIONAL! He made the trip exciting.. Thank you.
Louis F.
This was our first time traveling with Gate 1 and this trip exceeded our expectations. Our tour manager, Carmine, kept everything running smoothly and went above and beyond for our group. My husband and I decided to add an optional tour on and without hesitation Carmine accommodated our request and purchased any necessary tickets for our entry. We would love to go back to Italy and have Carmine as our tour manager! All of the other guides we had on our trip were fantastic! They answered our questions and made our tours fun and informative. Gate 1 made traveling to Europe for the first time feel accessible and approachable. We are excited to book another trip!
Julie L.
We had a wonderful time. The others in our group were extremely nice and I believe we've made new life long friends. Anna our guide was wonderful and very knowledgeable. The itinerary excellent.
Dennis H.
This was an adventure of a lifetime, our 23rd tour with gate 1. Our tour director, MAURIZIO, was an invaluable factor in making it so. He was the epitome of professionalism, equipped with technical competence, managerial savvy, and people skills. Moreover, he was always a gentleman, ever-ready to lend a helping hand. He was very caring and sincere. His passion for his work and his love of Sicily, we could witness each day. He tried and actually did his best, exceeding our expectations as he found serendipitous ways to enrich our experiences. He ennobled us, as well. I must say he is a tour director par excellence. Please share these comments with him and his colleagues. My husband and my brother who traveled with me share the same gratitude to and appreciation for Maurizio ; the same feelings and feedback we are granting to gate 1 for giving us such a professional, both competent and caring, as Maurizio.
Maria C.
This was our first European trip and Italy has always been a bucket list trip for me as I am almost full blooded Italian. Mercedes and Isabella & Luigi were ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!! Mercedes specifically made our trip so easy and memorable! She thought of everything and even taught us some Italian! She even purchased little gifts at each city which are so memorable and we will never ever forget!! I would love to travel with her again! She had great suggestions, was always concerned about our safety and made every day fun!
Lynn A.
The trip was excellent! I was worried about how it would go because I never booked a trip with a company before. As soon as we arrived to our first hotel all my worries turned into relaxation. I look forward to booking with your company in the future. Thank you for a great service. We flew emirates airline, and that was hands-down the best flight we have been on. All in all 10/10
Michael P.
It was absolutely Amazing! Francesca was by far the best tour guide we had ever had. She was fun, went above and beyond for us, gave amazing recommendations for each spot we visited in terms of shopping, eating, things to do, etc. You can tell she really loves what she does and loves her clients. I want to book another trip in hopes to get her again!!!
Bradly T.
Everything about this tour was beyond my expectations. Our guide, Giuseppe, went to great lengths to provide us with experiences much beyond expectations. The local guides were enthusiastic and engaged us with many historical stories. Our bus driver, Luigi, impressed us with his ability to navigate tight spots and arrange a fast tire repair when we got a flat on the way to Pisa. The accommodations were wonderful and the food/wine events truly memorable. We cannot thank everyone enough for such a great experience.
Dayna C.
I just wanted to take this time to let you know that our group absolutely loved Marisa, our tour guide. By the end of the trip, she was like family to us. We were even sad that the trip was over and that we were leaving. We told her we would come back to Italy and do another tour with her. Marisa was very kind, attentive, funny, and patient. She quickly got to know know each of our names and even started to know our personalities and would even make funny jokes about each of us. We just felt like she wanted to get to know us. She was generous to give us small treats like candy so that we could try it. She even gave us little souvenirs like the Pinocchio toy and the red horn from Naples. Marisa was very knowledgeable and educated. Her tour was thorough and yet there was free time to go shopping. She was always helping us by giving us tips and suggestions. We were a group of 12 and for many of us, this was our first time in Europe. It was a busy itinerary, but yet Marisa made each day enjoyable. I just wish she was our permanent Gate 1 tour guide for all the tours you offer!!! Please let Marisa know that we miss her so much. She is now a part of our family and we will remember her forever. We hope to come back and do the Sicily tour with her in 2026.
Lynda J.
The trip to Malta was amazing!!! Our guide for all of the options, Josette, was fantastic and shared the history of Malta in such an exceptional way. The pace of the trip was relaxed with plenty of leisure time and although it was an independent trip there was a lot of bonding within the trip with the fellow travels. Seeing Malta during winter was wonderful as the crowds were none existent and there were still so many beautiful Nativity Cribs and Christmas decorations still present to see. This was an amazing trip at an exceptional value and I am so glad I we were able to visit this amazing country. It was not a place on our travel bucket list, but the value of the trip made it hard to refuse and I'm so glad we got to visit and learn about the history and culture of Malta. Thank you Gate1 for another wonderful travel experience!!! You have never disappointed us and we tell everyone we can about your wonderful company!
Margaret H.
We just came back from an independent by rail Italy trip which was excellent! We had travelled on the escorted trip before and thoroughly enjoyed this independent version. The instructions provided to find the railway stations, hotels, tour meet up sites were impeccable and easy to find. Thank you Gate1 for a memorable vacation!
Diane A.
Once again Gate 1 outdid themselves with a fantastic tour and a great price. We really appreciated the efforts made to keep our tour on schedule despite the rising water levels on the rivers and canal. Soma outdid himself helping to ensure our lost luggage arrived. We really feel it would not have happened without his assistance and many efforts. He was always upbeat, even when things were not going to plan, and he is an excellent representative of Gate 1. We really hope to see him again on a future cruise. Daniele was fantastic. He was fun and funny, enthusiastic, and did a wonderful job ensuring we were all entertained. He made us want to attend the evening entertainment in the lounge. We ended up eating every meal in the same area of the dining room because we so enjoyed Indra and Phyo. They learned our usual drink orders and had them ready for us the moment we sat down. Excellent customer service! Lilly, our room steward, took excellent care of our room and always greeted us, asking if there was anything we needed when passing in the hallways. Again, excellent customer service. All-in-all, this was a great experience. We had never done a full river cruise before, but will certainly be back!
Hillary H.
I loved this trip! The pace was so relaxing. The markets and towns visited were festive and fun. The ship was comfortable and the crew couldn't do enough to keep things running smoothly, the ship clean and the food and wine flowing. The quality of the food and drinks on board was amazing. I will definitely be taking more Gate 1 river cruises.
Mary K.
We had a great time. Enjoyed the Christmas markets, loved Regensburg! Had missed seeing the Rezidence in Wurzburg last time we were there, so really wanted to see the inside and was not disappointed. Could not believe Frankfurt's Christmas Market went on forever and we thought it was larger than Nuremburg's (which we had been to several times before). Overall, it definitely was a great vacation and service aboard the Monarch Governess was excellent. Other than losing a gold earring trying on hats, it was a wonderful vacation.
Kevin C.
This was a magical trip. It was so wonderful. Everything was perfect. I just wished it was a bit longer. The Monarch Queen is a beautiful vessel. The stateroom was perfect, lots of storage space. The Lady that took care of our room, Irena was the sweetest lady. We truly enjoyed everything about the trip. The food was very good, the presentation was amazing. I look forward to take another river cruise on the Monarch Queen. It was a perfect vacation. Bart was very professional, accommodating and willing to help everyone. Good job Gate1.
Maria R.
It was a memorable trip. We are a group of six people traveling together. The cruise allowed us to spend more time than we would have on a land tour. We hung out in the lounge, enjoyed tea, hot chocolate and cookies. The crew never failed to restock the goodies. The crew of the Monarch Governess is a bunch of fun and friendly people. Our regular servers, Necat, Joko and Ega always had smiles on their faces during meals. Desy, our room steward, was the nicest and most helpful with our questions and needs. Andreas was always ready to replenish our drinks and cookies. Everyone from the top, Lucian the GM to George (aka George Clooney), the maître d, down to every staff member we ran across seemed to love and enjoy their jobs. It was a fun atmosphere on the ship. We found out that the executive chef, Ketut, was Indonesian the first night we were on board. Lucian took the time to grab him from the kitchen to introduce him to our table. Ketut prepared us some ethnic dishes for us one night. Daniele, the activity director, was the funniest person. Lorin was also most helpful. My mom has difficulty walking. The day we were to embark on the ship, we started the day with a hilly tour which she opted not to join. He arranged a taxi to take her to the ship so she could check in ahead of the group. Later on, he showed me a picture of my mom with Daniele on the ship to let me know she arrived safely.
Stephani T.
Our recent trip to Italy was everything we hoped for. Every aspect of the vacation was perfectly planned. Our meals and side trips were all spot on. Each of our guides in the visited cities were extremely knowledgeable, interesting and a pleasure to spend time with. Having said this let me say a few words about our Tour Manager Lorena . Lorena absolutely made our trip as great as it was. Lorena at every aspect went well above and beyond to make sure that all the planned activities were perfect. She made us feel so welcome like we were part of her family. I would certainly recommend to any friends and family to use Gate 1 for their future travel plans.
John P.
My wife and I went to Dubai with Gate 1 at the end of April this year and I thought that nothing could top that. I was wrong! Our recent trip to Italy by way of Gate 1 was absolutely wonderful! Neither of us had been to Italy before and I cannot imagine how this trip could have been better. The accommodations at each location were beautiful, like 5-star hotels (which I suppose they were). I must say that the most impressive thing about the entire trip was the tour guides. They were very knowledgeable about the areas that they were showing us through. They were all very passionate about their country and the sights we were seeing while we were there. Despite my hearing problem, they were able to get their messages across to me with complete understanding. We will never forget Italy, especially Rome, after this visit. We have been telling everyone we know to check out Gate 1 for any travel needs. I cannot imagine that anyone could do better (probably no one could do as well) than Gate 1.
William G.
Our recent Danube River Cruise was more than I anticipated in terms of how much we saw and accomplished. Loved the Monarch Empress from start to finish. Crew and staff were superb.
Michele R.
It was amazing! I went because of Palermo but I stayed for everything amazing about Sicily! I'm a Greek/Roman geek and every day was filled with discovery and new treasures --the last one -the Roman villa -- was the most incredible collection of mosaics I've ever seen! Our guide was incredible - funny, smart, self-effacing and able to "mother" us into being on time every time. I am so grateful that you helped me get there!
Kathryn C.
Thank you for asking. Our Italy experience was awesome! Francesca, our tour manager was knowledgeable, personable, courteous and prompt. From hotel accommodations to our tour itineraries we're top notch. All of the local guides were excellent in terms of their knowledge. This was our 5th tour with Gate 1. I am yet to find anything to complain about. Thank you for making the whole experience a pleasant one.
Asha P.
My first gate 1 trip with my fiancé who had traveled many times with gate 1. I was so impressed! First off, Nad is just a Rockstar. He is funny, kind, caring, talented and I could go on and on. I would take a cruise with him again no matter the destination. You're blessed to have him. Period. Soma is great as well. I always felt they truly cared about your enjoyment and safety. Our servers Jacinta and Amr were so sweet and professional. We sat in the same spot daily to be with them. The bartender Marius was so kind, fun and remembered everything. Nurtilek was sweet. Marius from the restaurant was hilarious and helpful. The chef threw down some awesome meals and exposed us to local flavors. What a joyous adventure.
Dymphna M.
My wife and I just finished the 7 Day Gate 1 Regensburg to Budapest Danube River Cruise and I have only accolades and praise to pass on to all Gate 1 employees involved on this trip. Everyone we came into contact from Gate 1 was not only professional but also knowledgeable about the ship (Monarch Governess) and all of our port of calls along the beautiful Danube. The sailing itself was well planned with amazing local guides at each stop to educate and inform on the local history and sights. You were always given enough free time at each stop to explore on your own or just relax back at your cabin/ship. The extra tours provided were well worth the money spent as we were always glad we had signed up for them. The ship and our cabin were very comfortable, kept spotlessly clean, and I would compare favorable to any of the other companies (Including Viking) providing river cruises along the Danube. The meals provided were amazing with lots of variety and always served with a smile! As I mentioned above, all of the crew and Gate 1 Employees on our ship were amazing but I wanted to single out the following staff as I believe they went above and beyond. Our Cruise Director Nora is exactly what Gate 1 should aspire to hire for anyone considered for that position. Knowledgeable, punctual, amazing communicator, boundless energy and above all kind and courteous. She always presented herself as a professional representative for Gate 1 and never hesitated to assist with any issue big or small. Her narration from the sun deck as we sailed down the Danube should be recorded as training's for other new cruise directors! The other crew members I believe earned recognition during our sailing were Deny, Dika and Dino who made every meal on the boat a treat! and Desy our housekeeper who kept our room spotless and greeted us every morning with a big smile and good morning! A few minor mentions of things that could improve. The WiFi was very slow and not consistent. The two water bottles left in the room each day were appreciated but consider another brand as the caps were almost impossible to twist off without spilling the water and leaving part of the cap attached which made it hard to drink. Small things but I have no doubt Gate 1 strives for perfection. Thanks again for a great river cruise and we look forward to our next Gate 1 adventure!
Lanny W.
Excellent. Kristijian was the best tour guide ever! Knowledgeable, courteous, personable, prompt, thoughtful, considerate. He was careful to follow up the rear of the tour group when we had a local guide in a city. This ensured that no one got lost or left the group. He posted the rotation schedule for the bus every day and that worked perfectly!. He posted the daily schedule and repeated instructions multiple times so that there was no confusion. This was especially helpful with our group because we had a fairly large number of travelers for whom English was not their first language. We honestly cannot praise him enough!
George A.
This is regarding the 12 days Danube river cruise Oct 29 to Nov 11 on the Monarch Queen instead of the Monarch Empress. Thank you so so much for such a great experience. We were so impressed with the level of service and how organized everyone was. We had such a great time and a lasting memory of the trip.
Khang N.