Tag Archives: Amawaterways

AmaWaterways Bordeaux Wine Cruise Hosted by Messina Hof Winery

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NEW DATE FOR 2021 BORDEAUX RIVER CRUISE
AND A $750 PER PERSON DISCOUNT

Due to the Covid-19 virus, we have moved our March 2021 wine cruise to August.

Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo from the Messina Hof Winery are hosting a Bordeaux wine cruise aboard AmaDolce.  Messina Hof is the most awarded and renowned Texas wine in national and international competitions. In a community steeped in tradition, Messina Hof Winery & Resort holds its own

Grapes on theVine

Lush, Ripe Wine Grapes on the Vine Ready for Harvest.

with a 200- year history of award winning wines. Although the winery itself was officially established when with the first vintage release in 1983, the rich wine heritage of Winemaker Paul Bonarrigo dates back six generations to Messina, Sicily. Merrill Bonarrigo’s family originates from Hof, Germany. Together they have pioneered the Texas wine industry in creating premium wines of distinction and a landmark wine country destination.

“In addition to the $750* per person discount off the cruise, Europeanbarging is offering each cabin a $25 on board credit.” Jan Baumgartner, Europeanbarging

Ama cabin with French Balcony

Ama cabin with French Balcony

 

The AmaDolce was built in 2009 and spans 360 feet long and 38 feet wide. There are 73 Staterooms aboard the ship and could accommodate a total of 199 people – 144 passengers and 45 crew members. The ship guarantees a comfortable cruise with plenty of room to socialize and enjoy the time aboard.

AmaWaterways 7 night Bordeaux Wine Cruise starts at $3,349 per person. (This includes the $750* per person discount). This fare is good for 7 nights’ stay in an river view stateroom. Those who will opt to join the cruise will enjoy the following: Fine dining at The Chef’s Table and Main Restaurant, and Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour. Experience and socialize at a Captain’s Gala Dinner and Cocktail Reception Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Complimentary Wi-Fi access on board A variety of tours, guided shore excursions, wine tastings, and discussions. Free use of helmets and bicycles are also provided during shore tours and excursions while the ship is in port.

The AmaWaterways Cruise departs on August 5th and will disembark on August 12th, 2021. The 7- day cruise promises a great time aboard the ship and on land during each scheduled porting. There’s no more fitting starting point for this sailing along the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers than Bordeaux, an undisputed wine capital. Enjoy exquisite tastings just as unforgettable as the wines you’ll sip. Visit the renowned vineyards of Saint-Émilion, Pauillac and Libourne, discovering timeless wine-making traditions, and visit the Bordeaux Wine Museum, a spectacular sensory experience with the power to turn even the most hesitant wine drinkers into connoisseurs. Various cities and sights are part of the AmaWaterways Wine Cruise destinations that includes: Bordeaux, Libourne, Saint-Emilion, Blaye, Bourg, Pauillac and Cadillac. Each day promises a new experience that should not be missed.

The following Multi-Choice excursions are available: in Saint-Emilion, choose from a tour of Saint-Emilion and Grand Cru Classe wine tasting OR Saint Émilion bike tour and wine tasting OR Château de Vayres; in Libourne choose from a Walking Tour OR Bastide town and market visit OR Château Boutinet hike with wine & tapas tasting OR Bike tour; in Blaye, a visit to the Citadel OR Blaye bike tour towards Les Etauliers Blaye to Bourg bike tour. Bourg offers a walking tour, Carriage Museum and WWII Petrol Cistern, as well as an Exclusive wine festival. In Pauillac Medoc Grand Cru Classé wine tasting and scenic vineyard tour; Cadillac features the Roquetaillade Castle with Sauternes wine tasting and in Bordeaux a Illuminations cruise in the evening and Bordeaux UNESCO city tour and Wine Museum OR Bordeaux bike tour.

The wine cruise promotes a wide range of activities throughout the whole trip to appreciate wine heritage more through a series of tastings, discussions, and tours around each port. Also included in the cruise are special tours and tastings at local wineries and private cellars where passengers can get to appreciate and learn more about wine making in renowned vineyards. There are also on board wine pairings with award-winning cuisine, and a wine expert who will be leading the tastings and discussions.

Uncork local traditions, savor intense flavors and enjoy palate-pleasing adventures during AmaWaterways Wine Cruises. The cruise promotes a great way to meet new people and fellow wine aficionados as they enjoy a 7-day cruise from Bordeaux along the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Book Now – as these wine cruises sell out.

*The $750 per person discount applies to bookings made by December 30, 2020.

For more information on the cruise and its activities, contact Jan Baumgartner of Europeanbarging.com at 888-869-7907, or send an email to jan@europeanbarging.com.

Getting Your Fill of San Sebastián, Spain

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It’s a smorgasbord of sights, sounds, and tastes that you can feast on in San Sebastián, Spain. An interesting mix of activities can be enjoyed by tourists in this Spanish town known for its beaches, cultural events, local cuisine, and architectural landmarks. It’s a treat to stay here for a short vacation or for a few days right before a cruise.

San Sebastián, also known as the Basque city of Donostia, stretches 20 kilometers from the border of France through the coastal area of Bay of Biscay. The donostiarra population goes up to about half a million, with thousands more adding as tourists arrive. With everything that it offers for people of all ages, it is no wonder that this town is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Spain.

To satisfy you palate, local cuisine can be enjoyed in the many eateries in town. San Sebastián, Spain is also known for its Michelin-star restaurants, so don’t forget to make room in your budget and schedule for a meal or two in these dining places. At night, have a unique gastronomical experience at a Basque cider house and enjoy tapas and drinks in local pintxos bars.

Known as the ‘City by the Bay of Biscay,’ a trip to San Sebastián will not be complete without spending time lazing on the sand and basking under the warm sun. Try the La Concha Beach. It is touted as one of Europe’s most beautiful urban beaches. It lies on the edges of a shell-shaped bay, with its sands stretching one thousand three hundred fifty meters. Here, you can enjoy a host of activities like sea kayaking and swimming. Or, you can choose to simply relax, lounge around, and sunbathe.

For a bit of local flavor, a visit to the Mercado de la Brexta is a must. This is a fresh market with an assortment of bright colors as well as the sounds and smells that stimulate the senses. This market, conveniently located at a shopping center’s basement, is were many of Spain’s best chefs buy their ingredients. If you are looking for local treats that you can bring back to your home country, check out their oil and wine, olives, and Iberian ham.

Good-Shepherd-Cathedral-of-San-Sebastian

You also have to see the San Sebastián Cathedral right off Old Town’s southern area. Built in neo-Gothic architecture, this monumental cathedral boasts of richly colored stained glass windows that let ample light in and create an ambiance of reverence and solemnity.

When you’ve had your fill of San Sebastián, there’s more in store for you just an hour away in Bilbao, Spain. Travel through historic Guernica, be amazed at the works of art at the Guggenheim Museum, sample Bilbao’s brand of pintxos, and have a romantic stroll through the historic streets of Old Town.

With a little more time in your hands, it would be ideal to visit San Sebastián, Spain along with other destinations as Bilbao in cruise that takes you from one town to another. You can have a fixed itinerary for your cruise, yet have the freedom to explore each town at your own pace and doing the things that interest you most.

AmaWaterways offers a 7 night Taste of Bordeaux, which features a pre cruise land program with 2 nights in San Sebastian as well as 2 nights in Bilbao. The land program highlights will feature a tour of the town of Blboa and visit to the Guggenheim Museum. After your morning Guggenheim Museum visit, you will continue to Guernica, known throughout the world due to the painting by Pablo Picasso that bears the same name. Two of the most important political symbols of the Basque Country can be found in Guernica – the Biscayan Assembly House and the Guernica Tree. Afterwards arrive in San Sebastian where your stay will feature a visit of the great architecture of the town, including stops at spectacular Good Shepherd of San Sebastián Cathedral and breathtaking Mount Igueldo, as well as the Basilica of St. Mary of the Chorus and the Gothic St. Vincent’s Church, the oldest church in the city.

AmaWaterways offers several wine themed departures during the year and regular cruises on some other dates. Rates start at $3199 per person for a lower deck cabin with window and $4098 for a cabin featuring a French Balcony. Rates include: all sightseeing, meals, wine with dinner, daily happy hour before dinner, free internet and use of bicycles on board. Contact Europeanbarging for information on either the wine themed Bordeaux cruise or the Taste of Bordeaux cruise itinerary at 888-869-7907 jan@europeanbarging.com

Basque’-ing in Bilbao, Spain

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A mix of excitement and laid back is what you can find in Bilbao, Spain. There’s a vibrant vibe of shopping in the trendy marketplaces and the nightlife in lively bars. On the other hand, there’s a historic and relaxed feel in the contemporary art and architecture of the museums and old buildings. Exploring this city in the northern part of Spain’s Basque region gives you a versatile selection of activities to engage in for the best European vacation.

 

Here are some of the places you can visit in Bilbao, Spain:

Museums — the museums in Bilbao are globally acclaimed. The Guggenheim is one of the world’s most popular both for its shape and structure and for the contemporary art work that’s exhibited within its walls. The Museo Bellas Artes chronicles a hundred years of history and ten centuries of art. It showcases works of such artists as Picasso and Goya as well as of more contemporary local artists. Other museums that deserve a slot in your must-visit list are: the Archeological Museum, the Maritime Museum, and the Bullfighting Museum

Local Scene — Bilbao is a great place to wine and dine. One Michelin restaurant, Restaurante de Mina, can be found right across from Mercado de la Ribera. It would be necessary to call in for a reservation since the restaurant can only seat less than thirty guests. The gustatory experience is truly extraordinary with meticulously prepared courses using the freshest local ingredients. Those specifically looking to feast on authentic Spanish paella, however, can go to either one of La Barraca’s two Bilbao locations. They offer a dozen paella variants for you to choose from based on your preferred ‘star’ ingredients.

For shopping, there’s Mercado de la Ribera for fresh products and a good dose of local flavor – both food and culture. This is an interesting visit for food lovers and people watchers alike. Fashionistas, on the other hand, can delight their hearts at Choses de Femme and Veritas. To wind up your day after shopping, don’t forget to sample Bilbao’s pintxos too.

Architecture — one of famed architect Frank Gehry’s masterpiece is the Guggenheim in Bilbao. It’s unique shape and titanium construction is a display of the post modern disjointed style that Gehry is known for.

Another architectural work of art is the Azkuna Zentro commercial center. It traces a rich history from its roots as Alhondiga Bilbao, a corn exchange, to a thriving and dynamic multi-purpose venue today.

The old churches are always on the list when it comes to places of architectural curiosity is concerned. The Bilbao Santiago Cathedral is one of the must-visit places when it comes to 15th century architecture.

Nature — Bilbao has its own share of beautiful landscapes and sceneries to enjoy with its mountains and beaches. Just a short 15-minute drive from the city center will give you a picturesque countryside trip and take you to Azurmendi, a three-star Michelin restaurant set right on the mountainside. Those who have visited this restaurant describe the experience of walking through its interiors and being handed extraordinary unique treats – like edible cotton topped with asparagus and gold leaf covered hazelnuts – as being like Alice in Wonderland.

A quick outdoor escape can be enjoyed with a hike in Artxanda Hill and surfing at Sopelana Beach. You can also head on north to marvel at Bilbao’s unique geography and landscapes.

The Best of Basque

Bilbao, Spain is truly a destination for everyone. You have a choice to explore cities that match your own personality or go out of your comfort zone to try something different. Whatever road you take, you will never run out of options to delight your senses and give you the best vacation that you deserve.

AmaWaterways offers a 7 night Taste of Bordeaux, which features a pre cruise land program with 2 nights in Bilbao. A March 25, 2021 departure will be a wine themed Bordeaux itinerary hosted by Award Winning Texas Messina Hof Winery owners – Paul  and Merrill Bonarrigo.  These wine cruises sell out quick, so contact Europeanbarging for information on either the wine themed Bordeaux cruise or the Taste of Bordeaux cruise itinerary at 888-869-7907  jan@europeanbarging.com

Visit Istanbul in 2020 on a Gem’s of the Southeast Danube Cruise

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Europeanbarging is pleased to announce, that with the 2020 departures of AmaWaterways Gem’s of the Southeast Europe, clients have the chance to experience Istanbul with a 3 night pre or post cruise land program.

Gems of the Southeast river cruise itinerary covers the lower Danube cruising between Budapest Hungary and Giurgiu Romania and includes 5 countries.  In addition to Hungary and Romania, guests will visit Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria on the cruise and Turkey and Austria for pre or post cruise programs

Blue Mosque in Instanbul

Istanbul, once known as Constantinople is a city rich in cultures and history with much to offer.  It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited spots of the world, it’s exotic architecture including mosques, colorful basilicas, cathedrals and centuries old  ancient bazaars. Istanbul is located on the Bosphorus peninsula and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Istanbul lies at the crossroads between the East and the West, Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city and a city with vibrant mix of cultures

Some of the sites to experience in Istanbul during your land program include:

 Visit the great sites including the iconic Blue Mosque and beautiful Hagia Sophia (cathedral-turned-museum) it was the center of the  Roman and Byzantine city and is a great place to begin exploring Istanbul. At the Hippodrome, see the Egyptian Obelisk of Theodosius  (the oldest monument of Constantinople) and the Serpent Column from the Delphi oracle remain, having been in this same location since the 4th century.  The four bronze horses that used to be on top of the emperor’s box  were looted during the crusades at this ancient chariot-racing arena.  They are now on the façade of Saint Mark’s Basilica in Venice.

The Old City reminds one of the ancient times of the Roman Empire. The centuries-old city walls stand out. Extending for nearly 14 miles (22 kilometers) and stretching from the Sea of Marmara to the Golden Horn, these walls have stood for centuries.  They were demolished twice in their history: first, by the Latin Crusaders who intended to head toward the Holy Land in 1204 and again in 1453 by the Ottoman Turks in their attempts to conquer the city.

The Valens Aqueduct (located within the old walls), was once part of the Roman aqueduct. It was the single longest ancient aqueduct system ever to be built – nearly 270,000 square feet (250,000 meters). Completed by Roman Emperor Valens in the late 4th century AD, it was used by the Byzantines and later the Ottomans, and was operational until the end of the 19th century.

Topkapi Palace, dating back to the 15th century, is rich in the history of the Ottoman Empire. Overlooking the ocean, from it’s hillside location, its 27 towers and three miles of stone wall were at one time an official royal residence of the Ottoman sultans and the seat of the Turkish government. It is a museum now and considered the largest and oldest palace in the world. Inside, take a look at the harem’s quarters, and the seat of government.  Some of the artifacts inside the museum include:  collection of old weapons used by the sultans, palace kitchens with their huge porcelain collections, and the treasury with its collection of jewels and clocks, including the Topkapi Dagger and the stunning 86 carat Spoonmaker’s diamond.

With the 3 night land program in Istanbul, guests will embark on a walking tour that will visit the Hagia Sophia, formerly a church, then a mosque before becoming a museum;  the Blue Mosque and for those interested a guide will take you to the Grand Bazaar.  The second day spend at the spectacular Ottoman Sultans’ Grand Palace of Topkapi, home to every Sultan from the 15 – 19th centuries.

Cruise departures start in March and conclude in November.  March 22, November 1 and 8 are also Wine Themed itineraries.  Cruise rates start at $2899 per person and include the 7 night cruise, all meals, wine with meals, daily happy hour, multi choice excursions and Wi-Fi.

Experience Istanbul in all its splendor as part of your pre- or post-cruise hotel/land extension on 2020  Gems of the Southeast cruises!

For more information contact Europeanbarging.com at 888-869-7907 or jan@europeanbarging.com

 

ENJOY AN OLD-WORLD EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS WITH EUROPEANBARGING CRUISES

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European Christmas market cruises are a great way to enjoy festive Christmas in Europe by being able to quickly visit many of Europe’s famed Christmas markets.

SPRING, TX, USA, June 17, 2019 — These Christmas markets are one of the best reasons to spend the holidays in Europe. The street markets are held during the four weeks of Advent, starting in late November and usually closing just before the end of December. They are a venerable holiday tradition that draws tourists from all over the world.

Christmas markets were first held in Germany, but these days, you can find them not only in Europe but also in many countries all over the world.

Frankfurt Christmas Market Stahl

It should not be surprising that the best Christmas markets are held in Germany. There are markets in cities all over the country, but the most popular ones are in Cologne. The largest market is situated in front of the historic Cologne Cathedral, which is the country’s most visited tourist attraction.

The market boasts not only of delicious food and drinks such as mulled wine and cinnamon biscuits, but also entertainment. There are stages situated throughout the market, with performances ranging from gospel to swing music. And of course, you can shop for crafts that you can take home as gifts or souvenirs.

Austria is another great destination for people wanting to visit Christmas markets. One of the best known is the Christkindlmarkt, which is found in Rathausplatz, Vienna. The market attracts tourists from all over the world and boasts of more than 150 stalls, where you can shop for gifts and enjoy holiday food and drinks. There are even rides and a skating rink.

While the Christmas markets of France are not as well known or popular as those in Austria or Germany, they are still worth visiting. The oldest one is in Strasbourg, where the first market dates back to 1577. It practically oozes with old world charm as visitors can walk the cobbled streets and look at half-timbered houses done up in their best Christmas finery.

The market not only boasts of stalls serving traditional holiday fare such as its spicy hot orange juice and bredle Christmas cookies, but also Strasbourg’s famed Great Christmas Tree, which rises a hundred feet into the air. There are also themed events, as well as a giant ice rink for guests to enjoy.

Taking one of our Christmas cruises down the Rhine River lets you visit the markets of Cologne, as well as those of Koblenz, Rudesheim and Frankfurt. You can then proceed to French Christmas markets located in Strasbourg, Colmar and Mulhouse. If you avail of our Danube River cruise, you can visit markets in Passau, Vienna and Salzburg.

Our European Christmas market cruises offer a variety of itineraries, ranging from seven-day cruises down the Danube and Rhine to a shorter one down the Danube with options for land extensions. You can also avail of Christmas Time Land Tours, which are escorted tours of German Christmas markets. Visit europeanbarging.com to learn more about the Christmas market river cruises that are available.

Europeanbarging is offering $250 – $500 per person discount on 2019 AmaWaterways Christmas Market Cruises and if you like to plan ahead, there are discounts from $500 to $750 off per person on 2020 departures. Ask about their payment plan.  Offer ends July 30th 2019, when regular rates are in offered.

For more information contact them at 888-869-7907 or jan@europeanbarging.com