10 Day Christmas Spirit Seine River Cruise with London
From
$3669
Land Only
$4379*
Air & Land
Hotels/Plans Available for Departure Dates
| Cabin E | ||
|---|---|---|
| Canopy by Hilton London City | London | |
| Monarch Countess | ||
| Cabin D | ||
|---|---|---|
| Canopy by Hilton London City | London | |
| Monarch Countess | ||
| Cabin C | ||
|---|---|---|
| Canopy by Hilton London City | London | |
| Monarch Countess | ||
| Cabin B | ||
|---|---|---|
| Canopy by Hilton London City | London | |
| Monarch Countess | ||
| Cabin A | ||
|---|---|---|
| Canopy by Hilton London City | London | |
| Monarch Countess | ||
| Suite | ||
|---|---|---|
| Canopy by Hilton London City | London | |
| Monarch Countess | ||
Select a Date to Book
Select a Date to Book
| 2026 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $2100 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $3669 | $4389* | |||
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $3669 | $4379* | |||
| 2026 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $2300 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $3969 | $4689* | |||
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $3969 | $4679* | |||
| 2026 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $2400 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $4069 | $4789* | |||
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $4069 | $4779* | |||
| 2026 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $2600 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $4269 | $4989* | |||
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $4269 | $4979* | |||
| 2026 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $2700 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $4369 | $5089* | |||
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $4369 | $5079* | |||
| 2026 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $3200 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $5169 | $5889* | |||
| Paris | Monarch Countess | $5169 | $5879* | |||
Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
London Gatwick Airport transfers available at an additional cost.
Passengers departing from Paris should select flights that depart no earlier than 6 AM.
Christmas markets opening times vary and are seasonal.
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.
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-London, Paris-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - 8 nights First Class accommodations
- 3 nights London
- 5 nights Monarch Countess
- River port charges of $190 per person
- Cruise & hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†♦
- Eurostar high-speed train London-Paris
- 17 meals: 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
- Local host in London
- Cruise director & activities host throughout cruise
- Services of local guides
- Shore excursions per itinerary
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Tips for porters, wait staff & local guides on included services
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring during excursions
Special Features
- Experience the charm of the Christmas markets in London, Paris and Rouen
- A panoramic city tour introduces you to the highlights of London
- Travel between London & Paris by train via the world-famous "Chunnel"
- Tour Paris, the historic City of Light and view the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides and the Latin Quarter
- Visit the historic city of Rouen with its beautiful medieval quarter
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates if pre/post accommodations are booked through Gate 1 Travel
♦London Gatwick Airport transfers available at an additional cost
River Cruise Features & Amenities
- Wine and beer with dinners
- 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 and daily morning exercises
- Non-smoking ship interior
- Shore excursions conducted exclusively in English
Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Is This Trip Right for You?
| The number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary.
|
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.
This superior first class hotel is located in East London, a short walk from Tower Bridge.
Hotel Details
This superior first class hotel is located in East London, a short walk from Tower Bridge.
Hotel Details
This superior first class hotel is located in East London, a short walk from Tower Bridge.
Hotel Details
This superior first class hotel is located in East London, a short walk from Tower Bridge.
Hotel Details
This superior first class hotel is located in East London, a short walk from Tower Bridge.
Hotel Details
This superior first class hotel is located in East London, a short walk from Tower Bridge.
Hotel Details
- 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
Today the focus is on two of the most impressive monuments within London's original "Square Mile". Take a guided visit of St. Paul's Cathedral, where Charles married Diana in 1981. Also, view the exterior architecture of Sir Christopher Wren's Dome, a masterpiece and landmark of London's skyline. Continue to the Tower of London, a former fortress and Royal Palace that has witnessed 1000 years of history most notoriously as a prison. Now the Crown Jewels are kept here and you will have a viewing of these, as well as seeing the iconic Tower Bridge.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
| Day #4 | 15 Oct 2026 - 31 Dec 2026 | $95.00 |
Today explore Montmartre, one of Paris' popular neighborhoods. Montmartre with its bohemian vibe, was once the home of famous artists like Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Renoir. View the Moulin Rouge and walk along the winding lanes to mingle with street artists selling their wares at Place du Tertre. Spectacular views of the city await you from the steps of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Afterward, enjoy a drink at a local bistro.
This tour will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #9 | 01 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2026 | $75.00 |
| 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 |
| Please consult with your healthcare provider for up-to-date requirements. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. Any required inoculations must be documented by clients' healthcare provider on a valid vaccination certificate, which must be carried as proof where necessary. Individuals with heart disease, chronic illness, physical handicap, advanced pregnancy, or mental illness should not participate in these rigorous travel programs. While traveling, illnesses can sometimes be unavoidable. If a traveler arrives feeling ill or becomes sick during the tour, they will be separated from the group and directed to either a local or virtual medical facility for diagnosis. This precaution is necessary to ensure the well-being of all travelers. The traveler may only rejoin the group after receiving written clearance from an accredited medical facility confirming they are fit to continue. All costs associated with medical treatment and related expenses such as additional hotel nights or transportation not included in the original itinerary will be the responsibility of the passenger. Travel protection plans will only consider coverage with service receipts provided by legally qualified health care facilities, and in accordance with policy terms. 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. |
| 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 |
| Britain - 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). United Kingdom Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| France - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat. France Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| 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. |
| SEINE RIVER CRUISES: Books Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers by Deborah Heiligman Claude & Camille A Novel of Monet by Stephanie Cowell The Longest Day by Cornelius Ryan The Baker's Secret: A Novel by Stephen P. Kiernan The Little Paris Bookshop: A Novel by Nina George SEINE RIVER CRUISES: Films Saving Private Ryan (1998) The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999) Paris, I Love You (2006) Midnight in Paris (2011) Loving Vincent (2017) |
| 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 your luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Intra-Flights |
| All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceptions are listed below and may differ from international flight luggage limits. More detailed baggage restrictions for your airline can be found at www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. |
| High-speed trains in France - Due to the limited storage space on high-speed trains in France, only one small piece of luggage per passenger is permitted onboard for personal belongings. All bags should be the equivalent size of an airline carry on (22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches). One large size bag can be transported separately to your hotel, with transit taking up to 12 hours. |
| Paris & London - When travelling by train between Paris and London, your luggage will be transported separately and be subject to inspection. It is important luggage not contain any restricted items or the bag may be confiscated or destroyed. Restricted items include: weapons or explosives of any kind including souvenirs, de-activated war relics; lighters; knives; alcohol in access of current limits; perishables. Your tour manager can provide more information locally. |
| 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 - Paris - 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 Paris 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. |
| Monarch Countess - 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. Docking Locations Javel Bas Aval and Javel Bas Amont: Passengers who arranged their own transfers must contact the ship's reception for port access if arriving after 5:30 PM. * Ship reception/Hotel Manager: +49 152 01506216 * Local office emergency number: +421 907 707 947 |
Monarch Countess 2026 Docking Locations in Paris
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| Paris River Cruise Docking The exact dock is not known prior to arrival as this is strictly controlled by the river authorities. The name of the ship should be clearly visible on the side of the vessel with a large Gate 1 flag on the mast of the vessel and on shore. Javel Bas Amont Port de Javel Bas 75015 Paris, France Javel Bas Aval Quai André Citroën 75015 Paris, France Courbevoie Quai du Président Paul Doumer Courbevoie Quai du Président Paul Doumer 92400 Courbevoie, France Issy les Moulineaux Quai du Président Roosevelt 92130 Issy-les-Moulineaux Boulogne Billancourt 19 Quai Alphonse le Gallo 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, Paris, France |
| 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. While air conditioning is available in most hotels, we recommend checking the room amenities listed under the "Featured Hotels" tab of your package to confirm. Please note that many international hotels were built before central air conditioning was introduced. In those that do offer air conditioning, usage may be restricted, often due to government regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation. It's typical for air conditioning to be used only during the summer months, to follow a set schedule (sometimes turned off at night), and to operate at lower settings than what many Americans are accustomed to. 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 Countess 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. |
| Staggered Arrival & Departure |
| Many tours are offered with multiple duration options, allowing travelers to choose one or more destinations in a single trip. As a result, the number of participants on your tour may vary, as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary. |
| 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. |
| Britain - The Pound sterling is the currency of the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. |
| France - The Euro is the currency of France. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Britain - Stores are open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Many larger stores are open Sunday from noon until 6 p.m. London offers wonderful department stores and designer boutiques. The shops of Regent Street and Covent Garden are especially worth visiting. The British countryside is known for its quaint shops, handmade glassware, crafts and antiques. |
| France - In Paris, stores are open from 10 am to 7 pm, Monday through Saturday. Larger stores are open Sunday from noon until 6 pm Many large department stores and designer boutiques are located in Paris. The French countryside is known for its quaint shops, farm markets and vineyards. Good buys include lace, crystal, glass, and fine wines and liqueurs. |
| 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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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Britain
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France
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| Languages |
| Britain - English is the local language. In Wales, Welsh is also spoken. |
| France - French 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. |
| European River Cruises - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Britain - The voltage used is 240 volts. |
| France - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Britain - The monarchy, though now only symbolic, is a powerful unifying force. Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited in some public buildings, buses, and the London Underground. |
| France - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Closer acquaintances and friends may kiss both cheeks. The form of personal address is simply Monsieur or Madame without a surname and people may not immediately offer to be familiar on a first name basis. Casual wear is appropriate, but more stylish dress would not be out of place. Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in cinemas and theaters. |
| 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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| France - In France, most hotels serve continental breakfast with limited hot item options. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Britain |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday (Scotland) Mar 17: St Patrick's Day (Northern Ireland) Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 4: Early May Bank Holiday May 25: Spring / Late May Bank Holiday Aug 3: Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland) Aug 31: Summer Bank Holiday (England, Northern Ireland & Wales) Nov 30: St Andrew's Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 3: May Bank Holiday May 31: Spring Bank Holiday Aug 2: Summer Bank Holiday Aug 30: Summer Bank Holiday Nov 30: St Andrew's Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - France |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 8: WWII Victory Day May 14: Ascension Day May 24: Whit Sunday May 25: Whit Monday Jul 14: Bastille Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 6: Ascension Day May 8: WWII Victory Day May 16: Whit Sunday May 17: Whit Monday Jul 14: Bastille Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 11: Armistice Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| 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 ship is equipped with elevator access between 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: The dining room offers open seating for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you have any special dietary needs, please see your Maître d'hôtel, who will be at your disposal for special needs. Passengers with specific dietary requirements must notify Gate 1 Travel at least 20 days prior to departure. Please note that while we strive to accommodate dietary requirements, fulfilling requests for specific cuisines or regional dishes may not be possible. However, we are pleased to assist within the limits of the products available on board. Our menu reflects the region visited during the tour, with inspiration drawn from both U.S. and international cuisine. A vegetarian option is always available on the menu. 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. 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 be 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 ship is equipped with elevator access between decks. 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. |
| Suggested Tipping |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always at your personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or in the U.S. dollar equivalent where accepted, and we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Please note that in many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of local compensation. While you may occasionally be approached for additional tips, you should never feel pressured to do so. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a situation, please speak with your Tour Manager or contact our office using the phone numbers provided in your travel documents. |
| Suggested Tipping: European River Cruises |
River Cruise Crew: US $16 per person per day Cruise Director: US $4 per person per day Activity Host: US $4 per person per day Driver: 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 and Activity Host should be paid in cash and given to the person directly. Pre- or Post-Cruise Land Tour Tour Manager: US $10 per person per day Driver: US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local City Host (Acts as Tour Manager): US $4 per person per day Note: Tips for local guides, hotel porters, wait staff, and any other services listed in your itinerary are included, unless otherwise specified above. Drivers provide chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage, and on some itineraries, you may encounter multiple drivers. |
| United Kingdom - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
| France - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
I wanted to drop a quick comment about Alina, our restaurant manager on our river boat cruise. She worked so hard to make sure I got an allergy free meal at every meal! She also made sure that there was a variety of meals. I was so impressed with what an excellent job she did. I wanted to let you know ow so other passengers with severe food allergies and celiac don't have to worry about it. The rest of the cruise staff was wonderful! I can't wait to go on another Gate1 River cruise.
Laura C.
Thank you very much. We enjoyed the vacation tremendously. The Cruise Director Melissa was very professional, caring, gracious and fun, I loved the daily treats she provided to the whole group. Laura, in charge for guests activities, was also so humorous and pleasant! All the staff on board were super accurate and polite. We found the quality of the meals on board above our expectations, also there was a lot of variety and everything was nicely presented, with a prompt, attentive service. The cabin suite we booked was spacious, very clean, very comfortable. I loved looking at the banks of the Seine passing before my eyes, while I was comfortably laying on my bed. The activities were perfectly organized, the pace was smooth, relaxed, and yet rich and diverse: just what I needed. It's been a wonderful trip, I already suggested it to friends and colleagues.
Mercede M.
I want to praise Elaine, each tour guide, and our bus driver. As my sister remarked, Elaine possesses all the qualities one would look for in a tour guide. She is personable, knowledgeable, witty, extremely helpful, and aware at all times. She ran a tight ship, but did so in a way that was not at all obtrusive. As I commented to her, this was my fourth Gate 1 trip and it is the one where I felt I connected with my fellow travelers the most. The local tour guides were also excellent. Their knowledge and their anecdotes added much to the experience. And, I cannot say enough good about our driver. He is incredibly skilled. I felt completely safe at all times. I have already recommended Gate 1 to several people and plan on continuing to do so.
Elizabeth W.
I just returned from a Seine River cruise with Paris and London extensions . Kate was the tour director and she was amazing! She's a true professional, but does it all with a fantastic sense of humor. She really maximized my enjoyment of this fantastic trip. Well done !
Susan F.
This was our sixteenth trip with Gate 1, and I would like you to know that we rank our guide, Michael, in the top two guides on all our trips. We had an incredible experience with Mike. He brought a blend of efficiency and warmth as he kept the group moving on schedule and fostered an atmosphere of harmony. Mike had outstanding knowledge of the areas we visited, and his presentation was professional and easily understood.
Joel F.
We truly enjoyed our trip, and it was a pleasure being taken care of by our Tour Manager, George. He had the perfect touch, every day. We came away feeling as if we really knew Scotland. We are repeat customers, and intend to continue our future journeys with Gate 1, as well as recommend your excellent company to our friends and family!
Karen M.
The trip was excellent and worry free thanks to our awesome tour director, Craig. He and the other tour guides were great. Craig was very attentive, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. Also very patient. Keep him around!!! We have already booked our next trip with Gate1 and trust that it will be just as great!
Larry E.
What an unforgettable experience. This trip through Southern England was nothing short of magical - from the breathtaking countryside to the charming towns steeped in history, including but not limited to the magnificent castles, palaces, Roman Baths, Cathedral with the Magna Carta, Shakespeare's birthplace, and the iconic Stonehenge. But what truly made this journey exceptional was the tour guide, Phil, who was nothing less than phenomenal. His passion, deep knowledge, warmth, and unwavering enthusiasm elevated every stop and moment along the way. He didn't just guide us - he brought history to life, made us laugh, answered every question with a kind smile, and made us feel like we were part of something special. I have traveled a lot, but this tour will forever stand out in my memory. Thank you, Gate One and Phil, for an experience that was as enriching as it was unforgettable. I'm already awaiting my next adventure!!
Viline C.
Concerning our 16 day Scotland and Ireland trip, it was a truly a great experience. Our tour director (Gil) and our coach driver (Dan) were exceptional. Gil was very kind, professional, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. We have traveled on 5 Gate 1 tours, along with several other travel companies, and Gil was the best tour manager we have ever had. Dan was an exceptional driver. He is also very kind, respectful, attentive, and professional. Both Gil and Dan are "people person" and very personable and interacted well with everyone. We had a super great trip. We will only travel with Gate 1 in the future.
Daniel C.
Our tour director Debbie was absolutely fantastic! She is extremely knowledgeable and just an all-around great person. We feel fortunate that we got to spend 16 days with her. Our bus driver Robbie was also a gem. Obviously, he is a talented driver, but he is also a fun and courteous man to be with. This was our second Gate 1 tour and there will be more of them in our future.
Kenneth N.
This tip exceeded our expectations. The guides were all great. Loved the sheep farm and turf cutting tour. David was the most excellent guide. No one could've topped him. He's so knowledgeable and took excellent care of us. Loved our bus driver, Joe, too. Hotels were top notch. I will recommend Gate 1 to everyone who asks.
Marsha M.
The trip was terrific. It truly exceeded our expectations. Everything ran smoothly.... transfers, the ship, guides, tour manager, excursions...could not have been better. The cabin was comfortable; the meals were excellent.... staff friendly.... really a "well run ship." Buses looked brand new.... comfortable and clean. We were very happy with the itinerary.... wonderful sites. We were particularly impressed with the level of organization required to handle so many people going to different locations after the trip....and it was so interesting to hear how many Gate1 trips our fellow travelers had been on. One couple had been on 25!
Karin P.
My wife and I just returned from our 12th Gate 1 trip to England and Scotland. All of our excursions thus far have been wonderful and our plans are to continue traveling with Gate 1 for as long as possible. Our tour guide Helen was nothing short of wonderful. Her enthusiasm, knowledge, preparation, and joyfulness was infectious. All our previous tour guides have been excellent, but on this trip Helen created a new standard. In addition, our bus driver John was also superb not only friendly and engaging but also very knowledgeable and it was a pleasure to see him in the mornings, picking us up and dropping us off. In addition, we always seem to make new friends and acquaintances with individuals on our trips. Thank you, Gate 1 for opening the world to us.
Arthur K.
I'd like to compliment Craig for his skills in being an experienced tour manager for our Essential Paris & London tour. Our group was large (40), and he had done his homework and preparation to handle our entire tour. It was especially nice to have the printed information he gave to us about our touring sites and recommendations on what to see in our free time. My daughter and I were impressed with his abilities, travel savvy and always helpful and pleasant manner.
Lisa M.
I felt it important to add a note to say how wonderful our guide and driver were on this whole trip. It was my first guided tour, of any kind, and the care and concern they took, especially around the issues of Storm Amy were amazing. Not only did I feel like I would be as safe as possible, something would be done to ensure we had some sort of good time. The speed with which Mike came up with alternative activities was amazing. I particularly appreciated the trip to Portree and going to the Gaelic book shop, then returning there for dinner. The whole experience was lovely.
Margaret P.
We had a wonderful time. I've been on 7 different Gate One tours and this one did not disappoint. Adam, our tour guide was spot on! He was witty and hilarious and kept a good vibe going even at our most tired stages of running from one town to the next. Thank you for letting me travel the world on a beer budget with champagne taste!
Kalisa B.
Our Driver Graham was an excellent driver, and was so helpful and personable, throughout. He was great fun to eat dinner with and never complained if we had to check our baggage underneath for something. A great guy! I cannot say enough good things about our tour manager, David. He is a good and kind man, very thoughtful , very generous, very well prepared, and he made sure we saw videos on the bus to help us learn about upcoming stops (such as Leicester), recommended good places to eat, many times invited any in the group to accompany him when he was going to eat on free time (and insured we found tables to eat at), helped people with connections, and was really everything you would want in an ideal tour manager. This tour exceeded our expectations, and made us want to travel on Gate1/Discovery tours in the future.
Stephen S.
This trip was absolutely wonderful!!! Our Tour Manager, Elaine, was one of the best and just brought it all to life. She was intelligent, kind, patient, organized and so thoughtful. The small gestures and little displays of thoughtfulness added so much and her vast experience makes her an absolute gem! We all loved her! And our bus driver ( Kris from Poland) was just a delight and also terrific. The location of the hotel was perfect- close to the center of Oxford, comfortable with nice rooms and a good breakfast each morning, kind staff and it was clean. The itinerary was fantastic! We saw so much and truly enjoyed each and every visit! Bletchley Park was phenomenal and the stops in the Cotswolds were gorgeous. As well information provided by both our local Oxford Guide as well as Elaine on additional options for Oxford - things like arrival and departure times, restaurants, additional attractions to take advantage of in Oxford and free options like Evensong were invaluable to those of us who are planners and want to stuff as much as we can into our schedule. The variety of travel choices between included and optional excursions was just excellent and although we tend to prefer the Discovery tours due to small group size, it was a treat to stay in one hotel for the week.
Barbara S.
The trip was wonderful! We covered over 1,000 miles and saw so much! The historic significance of the places we visited were jaw droppingly awe inspiring. These are the places we have studied about. Gate 1 always does a great job with the itinerary.
Jennifer B.
Thank you. My trip was wonderful. Though we had been to Paris before but not London, this was our for experience to both countries with Gate 1. Our tour guide, Craig, made us feel welcomed by being friendly and helpful when we arrived in Paris, our for stop on the two-country tour. He was very approachable and we appreciated that. I personally appreciated how he kept us on time with every planned tour. I thought he made things light and fun. I really loved the hotels we stayed in, the food at each restaurant was wonderful and the front desk staff were so helpful. Our bus guides were fabulous, knowledgeable and even funny which made the tours fun as well. My favorite part of the entire trip was London. There's so much history, the guide was incredible and shared so many details. Even getting out and exploring on our own, felt easy to maneuver and found the people to be quite polite and lovely. I have heard great things about Gate 1 Travel and I can honestly say, you all hold up to the compliments. It was a great experience. We would use Gate1 Travel again, for sure.
Tonya A.
Andrea was the most special tour manager one could hope for. Not only was she quite the professional with her extensive knowledge but you could really tell she was committed to the best in customer satisfaction and really lead with her whole heart and soul. Truly she is ONE OF A KIND. We all felt the same way.
Paul D.
I would just like to inform you of the wonderful job our tour guide Debra did. She made the whole trip worry free and made us all feel personally comfortable and special. I have been on other tours and can say that this was hands down, the absolute best. Debra brought every stop alive and special. It was all unexpected. We just didn't see stuff. We experienced the culture and history of Scotland and Ireland. If I come back to do an England tour I most definitely will try to get Debra again. She was excellent. I also want to mention how great our bus driver was. Cathol was amazing and I am sorry if I misspelled his name.
Jane M.
Our tour guide in Scotland was Yvonne and she was excellent. Yvonne was quite knowledgeable with regard to her country, its' history and and other cultural details to enhance our experience. She was also extremely kind, patient and made our trip great fun. She is a superb member of the Gate 1 staff.
Sandra G.
I had an incredible experience on the Classic Scotland tour, and the main reason was because of our extraordinary tour manager, Tracy. She was absolutely wonderful. So professional, friendly and caring. She made sure that each and every traveler felt safe and had an enjoyable tour. She shared a lot of detailed information with us, so that we could understand and appreciate all of the wonderful places we saw. We also had a wonderful driver, Ian. He was so very helpful and friendly. Gate 1 is very fortunate to have such wonderful people working with them.
Joanne P.
This was my first River cruise and I loved everything about it. I loved the idea that all of my meals were provided. The dinners were special.....fine dining with fabulous presentation. I loved the social activities in the big lounge where people gathered and chatted with each other. I loved the ship and all the nooks and crannies and the location of room 303. I loved the caring staff on board and Had's energy and Bart's personality. I enjoyed the tours I went on. I did not love the crowds of tourist but that is the world today. I picked this tour on purpose because it was not going to big cities. I loved seeing the countryside and I was fascinated with the cows in the fields.....I come from Wisconsin. Thank you for a wonderful experience.
Becky H.
Let me start by saying I had a wonderful time. Many thanks to Bartel our cruise director/ tour manager. He works so hard to assure everyone had an exceptional experience. He is caring, responsive, thoughtful, funny, has superb planning skills and very knowledgeable about the ports and what we will see and do. I enjoyed his port talks every night where we got clarity on our day ahead. Entertainment director Nad was wonderful and very entertaining. I have never been part of an opening show and Nad was right it was so much fun. Every night there was fun entertainment planned for us and I am glad I was part of it. Also a shout out to George, Monica and Gia who took excellent care of us everyday in the dining room. They are so friendly and we had a great time with them. To Pasquale, our captain, and all the other members of the crew thanks so much for a memorable and fun vacation!
Dawn R.
I recently returned from a River Cruise to France on the Monarch Countess. It was a trip to remember. We had a wonderful tour guide, Bartel, entertainment host Nad, plus a crew and staff who were always willing to assist. Although we have taken many trips with Gate1, this was our first River Cruise. We enjoyed the leisure time and the ability to socialize with passengers and staff. Evenings were always packed with things to do - many laughs were had by all. It was a different and most memorable experience. Thank you to Bartel, Nad and the entire staff/crew of the Monarch Countess.
Roseanna M.
I just returned from a Scotland tour with gate1. I would like to recognize and give thanks to my tour guide Jackie, along with our driver Marecin. Jackie was very professional and knowledgeable with our group. Pointing out a wealth of interesting sites and information. Marecin did an excellent job handling the narrow roads and traffic we in counted. So, thank you for a wonderful experience.
Terry B.
This was our first trip with Gate1, and it was wonderful! We will definitely use Gate1 again for our future international trips. It started with the great service we received from Charlotte in booking our trip for us and ensuring we were grouped together with my sister and husband. We had an exceptional tour manager, Peter. Gate1 is very fortunate to have him as a part of their company. He is always "one step ahead" taking care of business to ensure his group has a wonderful experience. His personality brings the group together with his infectious laugh, historical expertise, special surprises, wonderful sayings, and funny jokes. He definitely knows how to cater to different personalities, made everyone feel welcome, and always checked on how everyone was doing. He made the difference in making this trip successful! We also are thankful for an exceptional driver, Dariusz, who kept us safe with his great driving skills, always had plenty of water, was very kind, and kept the bus clean. We enjoyed all the sightseeing, and all the accommodations were wonderful. We have no complaints.
Gail K.
Our trip was flawless! Thank you so much for your help. Our flights were perfect, well timed for connections to be made, with time to spare. Our luggage got to destinations properly and without incident. Our Tour Manager, Peter, was beyond wonderful. He is so very knowledgeable of the history of both Scotland and Ireland, but he was also engaging, personable, and made sure each member of the group was comfortable with our trip as we traveled. Our coach driver, Dariuscz, was also so skilled. His having to navigate the bus through narrow roadways took great talent. The sites we saw were all fascinating, and we had time at each stop to appreciate their value. Thank you so much for helping us set up this trip. This was our first Gate 1 trip and will certainly not be our last. We have saved your information and will ask for your help again when we set out to travel (probably in a year from now).
Marilyn L.
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you and a big kiss to our incredible tour manager, Emmeline. She was truly the complete package keeping us entertained, informed, on time, and most importantly, safe throughout the entire trip. There was never a dull moment, even during the long bus rides. Emmeline filled the time with engaging activities like storytelling, sing-alongs, fun contests, limerick writing, music, and fascinating historical insights. Her energy and creativity made every moment enjoyable. She also helped foster a wonderful sense of camaraderie among all the guests, making it feel like we were traveling with a group of old friends. Many on our tour were first-time Gate 1 travelers, and I jokingly warned them that they've been spoiled-finding another tour manager like Emmeline on future trips will be a tough challenge! Thank you again for such a memorable experience. Emmeline is a gem!
Lucila R.
A trip of a lifetime! It could not have been any better. Olga, in booking our trip was excellent and helped us with all of our questions. We had a small flight delay that concerned us, however a call to the emergency line was answered and immediately calmed our concern. Our tour guide and coach driver were fantastic! Our driver, Kevin, was so happy and pleasant that our day started with a smile. He was always on time and got us to destinations on time. Excellent job Kevin! Lennie, I cannot say enough good things about this man, friend and guide. Lennie was so knowledgeable about all of the sites, the history behind Scotland and Ireland. He presented all the information in a clear and unbiased format. Lennie went above and beyond, providing some mini city tours that were very informative. If I could I would rate Lennie and Kevin above 5 stars!!!
Wayne V.
Loved Lenny, our tour coordinator, he goes the extra mile, kept us on task & schedule, and kept us entertained, a GREAT wealth of information, offered us good advice for food options and free time activities, was always easy to talk to and accessible. Loved Kevin, our driver, sweet, funny, welcoming, helpful, and a Fabulous & Safe driver!! We were so thankful for his expertise!
Chris P.
The trip was wonderful. Alec, our Tour Manager and driver Marcelo were the best. Alec's knowledge of the history of both Scotland and Ireland made it more than a bus trip through countries. They were warm and caring and guided us through busy streets and locations. I would recommend Gate 1 and will schedule my next tour.
Sharon T.
It was my first trip with Gate 1 and it will not be my last. I see many more trips in my future. I just wish our tour manager Tarik and bus driver Darius and all the people on this trip could be on my next trip. Tarik and Darius made a amazing team. Thank you Gate 1 for a trip that will forever be a great memory of new friends and places.
Penny B.
I just wanted to compliment the tour manager and the coach driver. This was our 12th trip with Gate 1. All previous tour managers were excellent, yet Emmeline, the tour manager, was exceptional. Her in-depth knowledge of history and language on top of her acting background made our trip very enjoyable. Her presentations were superb! Everybody loved her!! The coach driver, Robbie, was also the best driver on our 12 trips. We felt very comfortable being on his coach while he was driving narrow winding roads. He kept the coach in perfect condition. My compliments to the Gate 1 management, too, recruiting and keeping good members in your team!!
Keebom K.
Our trip to Scotland & Ireland was awesome. This was our first tour with Gate 1 Travel. We enjoyed every day of the tour. We came back home happily. Gate 1 took care of us very good. Excellent service, nice motel, food. The tour manager David was excellent, he has lots of knowledge of both countries History, culture & food. We will use Gate 1 travel again & recommend it to my friends & families.
Hemendra P.
Our trip was great! It was everything I wanted and more. Ireland was on my bucket list and seeing Ireland and Scotland was amazing. I felt like we saw it all. David our guide and Darius are wonderful. I've been telling all my friends about Gate 1 this was our first very well done.
Lillian D.
Just wanted to add to our survey feedback. Malcolm was the difference in the tour from other trips - a brilliant guide makes for a brilliant experience, and this truly was for the whole group. Camaraderie isn't easy to build in just 12 days, but Malcolm's warmth and knowledge led the way. The excellent local experiences were so wonderful. The brief optional pub stop where we were entertained by a former champion singer was surpassed only by the sweet bagpipe performance by the publican's granddaughter. Really, the trip was all so joyful and educational that it will be difficult to top. Please know that Malcolm is clearly one of your best guides, and that driver John was a charming addition who handled roads that many in the group noted they would not have wanted to tackle on their own. Great, great travel experience!
Barry S.
Thank you for a great trip to Scotland (12 Day Kalediscope). I want to say a big thank to AnnMarie our guide throughout the trip and to the to the driver, Marchin. They were both fantastic. Ann Marie worked hard to make us feel comfortable and enjoy our trip. She was knowledgeable, funny and a real pleasure to be around. I will miss her. Marchin was the BEST driver I have ever had. He handled the tour bus like he a real pro. I always felt safe. He also was a pleasure a to be around, knowledgeable, welcoming and very well groomed. If I could have Marchin be my driver on every tour I would. You have two special employees. Gate1 is very lucky.
Kathleen C.
I had a wonderful Scotland trip. Paul, our tour manager, the group on the tour, the places visited and the way I felt taken care of... was outstanding. I wanted to also mention our driver David was super friendly, a very careful and mindful driver and I hope I get the chance to go with David again. Cheers to all!
Robert S.
My wife and I just returned from our 16 Day trip to Scotland/Ireland. We had a wonderful trip! We would both like to give credit to our phenomenal tour guide John, and driver Dan. John and Dan were extremely punctual. John always provided valuable insight, while exhibiting patience and an excellent sense of humor. Dan was an excellent driver and also provided insight relative to the various areas we traveled in, especially in Ireland. We felt that the trip was extremely well organized and provided an excellent value. This was our second trip with Gate1 and we cannot wait for our next trip this coming February.
Howard C.
Just returned from 12 Day Kaleidoscope of Scotland and it was AMAZING. Mark, our driver for the tour was extremely helpful and very nice, not to mention an outstanding driver and always aware of things...plus he always had a uniform and professional demeanor. George was EXCEPTIONAL. This was our 9th Gate 1 Tour, and I would put him at the top of the list. He had recommendation sheets for us for our free time in cities and places to eat. He moved our group of 27 travelers around with ease and professionalism, plus he was just fun to be around. His knowledge of the country was second to none and we would love to travel with him again if the situation presented itself. He also had various treats for us many days that represented the local snacks of that area. Our group had a common love for travel, and some had difficulty with the number of steps, etc. but George made all feel welcomed and assisted as needed. Congrats to Mark and George and keep that team together for the betterment of Gate1 and future participants.
Joseph O.