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Viator Bookings

I will book any Viator bookings that you choose, or you may book Viator activities through my bookable links. Please make sure that the webpage you are booking from displays the logo on the right. (Bookable Link)

I prefer that you text or email a request to me to make a “Direct Booking” into Viator’s Agent application. This allows me to manage the trip on your behalf, saving you time and effort, especially while traveling.

Trip Folder

For most trips, I will create a “Trip Folder” that I will share as Microsoft link with you. Please access it from a computer and print out the documents a few days prior to departure. Also, make sure you can open it on the device that you will have on your trip.

If you prefer, I can create your folder as a Google Drive Folder, or Dropbox Folder. Just let me know what works best for you. If you don’t have access to a printer, let me know and I will print and send you your documents.

Adding a Booking to Your Viator App

To add a Viator booking made through an agent to the Viator app, log in to your Viator app account, navigate to “My Bookings,” and then enter the booking reference number provided by your agent; you may also receive a confirmation email with a link to add the booking directly to your app. 

Key steps:

  • Access your Viator app: Open the Viator app and log in to your account. 
  • Go to “My Bookings”: Find the “My Bookings” section within the app. 
  • Enter booking details: Paste the booking reference number given by your agent. 
  • Confirm booking: The app should automatically pull up the booking details, allowing you to verify and access your itinerary. 

Important points to remember:

  • Agent confirmation: Always ensure you print out the booking confirmation I send with the necessary details like the booking reference number. 
  • Contact support if needed: If you encounter issues adding the booking, contact Viator customer support for assistance. 

Viator Payments and Tickets

When booking with Viator at least two weeks prior to an activity, you may be offered an option to Reserve Now – Pay Later. The following applies:

  • You will receive a confirmation email, but no tickets.
  • There will be a $1.00 credit card authorization charge.
  • Your card on file with be charged two days prior to the start of the experience.
    • Three days prior to the automatic charge, you will receive a reminder email.
      • You can update the card on file if you want to use a different card.
      • You can “Pay Now” and have access to your tickets.
  • Two days prior to the start of the experience, your payment will be made.

Some Viator products may not be available as Reserve Now – Pay Later.

Check the booking details when booking and before making payments as occasionally there may be added conditions.

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Jotform Secure Forms

  • Data encryption is the process of encoding data. Once data is encrypted, it can only be read after it’s been decrypted. This process is used to protect information both when it’s transferred between a browser and a server and when it’s being stored. Data encryption is particularly useful for sensitive information that needs an additional layer of security.
  • An encrypted form involves a password or key that the form owner uses to encrypt and decrypt data — adding an extra layer of security and ensuring that form submissions can only be viewed and accessed by the form owner themselves. Even the company processing the form data (in this case, Jotform) can’t access the encrypted data.
  • Jotform Encrypted Forms 2.0 uses end-to-end data encryption and Web Crypto API to keep form data protected. Encrypted Forms 2.0 uses a unique encryption password for each and every form. Switching to this method gives every form owner a unique way to access encrypted submissions, helping to boost the security level.
  • End-to-end encryption (E2EE) is a method of data protection that encrypts data from the moment it’s created and keeps it encrypted as it’s transferred from one place to another. Data protected by E2EE can be decrypted only by the person with the encryption password. In the case of online forms that have end-to-end encryption enabled, each form submission’s data is encrypted as soon as it’s submitted and can be decrypted only by the form owner. Making the data unreadable to anyone other than the password holder adds an additional layer of security and prevents data from being viewed or accessed by the internet service provider, the platform hosting the data, hackers, or any other third-party individual or organization. Encrypted Forms 2.0 keeps your data safe. 

Source: Encrypted Forms | Jotform

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Mexico Custom Fees on Personal Devices

Effective immediately, please be aware of the following guidelines concerning the import of electronic devices for travelers to Mexico.

Each traveler is permitted to bring ONE portable computing device (e.g., laptop, notebook, or iPad) without incurring an import fee.

If passengers bring multiple devices, such as a laptop and an iPad, each will be treated as a separate item, which may result in additional fees.

Allowed Items:

  • 1 laptop or similar portable computing device (e.g., iPad)

Limited Items:  

  • Up to 3 cell phones
  • 1 GPS
  • 2 cameras
  • 1 pair of binoculars
  • 4 fishing poles

⚠️ Exceeding these limits may result in customs duties starting at 19% of the item’s estimated value, with some cases reporting fees as high as 200%.

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Munich HBF Train Station

How to Board the Train at Munich HBF

Munich Hauptbahnhof (HBF) is a major rail hub in Germany, serving as a gateway to many European destinations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate and board your train with ease.

STATION GUIDE

1. Arrive at the Station

Munich HBF is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport, taxi, or on foot. Make sure to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your train’s departure time to account for any last-minute changes or delays.

2. Check the Departure Board

Once inside, look for the large electronic departure boards. These will display your train’s platform number and departure time. You can also use the DB Navigator app for real-time updates.

3. Find Your Platform

Follow the signs to your designated platform. Platforms are clearly numbered and easy to locate. If your train departs from platforms 1 or 2, note that these are underground (referred to as “tief” in German).

4. Boarding the Train

Wait for the train to arrive and allow passengers to disembark before boarding. Ensure you have your ticket ready for inspection. If you need assistance, look for station staff wearing burgundy-colored caps labeled “Service.”

5. Onboard Amenities

Once on the train, find your seat and store your luggage. Most trains offer amenities like WiFi, power outlets, and dining services. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your journey!

Additional Tips

  • Luggage Lockers: Available if you need to store your bags temporarily.
  • Accessibility: The station is equipped with elevators and ramps for easy access.
  • Food and Shopping: Plenty of options available within the station for a quick bite or last-minute shopping.

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Amsterdam Pre-Cruise Stay

Viking Pre-Cruise Two Night Options

From $749 Per Person

  • 2 hotel nights in Amsterdam
    • Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre or similar
  • 2 meals: 2 breakfasts
  • 1 guided tour: Amsterdam Walking Tour
  • Services of a Viking Host
  • All transfers

UPGRADE TO VIKING PREMIUM HOTEL:

From $1,249 Per Person

The Pulitzer Amsterdam hotel, located in the heart of Amsterdam’s canal district, is comprised of 25 historic houses and boasts premium amenities. This Premium experience includes a guided small-group walking tour so you can explore the city intimately.

Non- Viking Independent Hotel Options

These do not include transfers or Viking concierge services.

The Viking Trip Protection plan does not cover anything (including medical) until the Viking portion of the trip starts.

Experience Luxury at the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam

Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam offers an urban oasis with a unique blend of modern comfort and botanical-inspired design. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, this hotel provides the perfect retreat with its luxurious amenities and exceptional service.

Club Lounge Access: A Touch of Exclusivity

One of the standout features of the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam is its exclusive Club Lounge, located on the third floor. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Relaxing Atmosphere: The Club Lounge offers a serene environment with comfortable seating and stunning views along Roetersstraat.
  • Gourmet Delights: Start your day with a light breakfast, featuring a selection of fresh fruits, pastries, and more. In the evening, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and a variety of snacks, complemented by complimentary wine, beer, and liquor.
  • Convenient Hours: The lounge is open from 8 am to 10 pm, providing ample time to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the city

Taking a taxi from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam.

  • Duration: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
  • Cost: Around €50-65

Taking a taxi from the Hyatt Regency Amsterdam to the cruise port.

  • Duration: Approximately 15 minutes.
  • Cost: Around €35-50

Stay in Style at the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel

Located in the heart of Amsterdam, the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel offers a perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Situated across from the vibrant Leidseplein, this 5-star hotel is just moments away from iconic attractions like the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum.

Why Choose Amsterdam Marriott Hotel?

  • Prime Location: Enjoy easy access to Amsterdam’s top sights, upscale shopping, and fine dining.
  • Luxurious Accommodations: The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms with cozy seating areas, work desks, and flat-screen TVs.

Taking a taxi from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel.

  • Duration: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
  • Cost: Around €40-50

Getting from the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel to the cruise port.

Taking a taxi from the Amsterdam Marriott Hotel to the cruise port.

  • Duration: Approximately 12-15 minutes.
  • Cost: Around €30-40

* I can also arrange private transportation.

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Wine Windows in Florence

Exploring Florence’s Historic Wine Windows

Florence, Italy, is a city steeped in history and culture, and among its many architectural wonders are the quaint and curious wine windows. These small openings, known as “buchette del vino” in Italian, date back to the 16th century and were used by Florentine aristocrats to sell wine directly from their palaces1.

A Glimpse into the Past The tradition of wine windows began when noble families were permitted to sell their countryside-produced wine without intermediaries or taxes. This practice was not only economically savvy but also provided a safe means of commerce during the plague in the 17th century, allowing for social distancing before it was a modern term.

Discovering Wine Windows Today Today, approximately 180 wine windows can be found throughout Florence’s historic center2. While many have been sealed, some remain operational, offering both locals and tourists a unique and charming experience. The Buchette del Vino Cultural Association has been instrumental in documenting and preserving these historical gems3.

A Tour of Florence’s Wine Windows In this blog post, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of some of the most beautiful wine windows in Florence. From the Gelateria Vivoli’s rediscovered window to the well-preserved portal at Via del Giglio, 2, each window has a story to tell.

Join us as we explore these remnants of Renaissance ingenuity and learn how they’ve adapted to modern times, continuing to serve the city’s residents and its visitors.

Where Can I Have a Glass of Wine from the Window?

Babae Firenze is the working wine window from the Stanley Tucci episode on Florence. The restaurant is a nice place to sit and have a snack and a drink as well.

Yes, you can get a beer while the wife stands in line at the Babae wine window.

Reference: theintrepidguide.com

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Verona Food, Wine & Legends Tour: A Gastronomic Adventure – Day Trip from Venice

Booked by Cerchio Travel with Viator

🚅 Venice Santa Lucia Train Station
Depart 1:57 pm on Italo 8984, Coach: 2
Arrive Verona Puorto Nuova 3:10 pm

Your food tour starts at 4:30 pm. You should have a ten minute cab drive to the first church, giving you about an hour to walk and have a brief visit at the church(s).

Pre-Tour Visit to Churches

This link maps out four churches in the area of the starting point for your Verona Food Tour. Have the taxi driver drop you off and make your way to the starting point, visiting the churches you choose along the way, time permitting. It is a route of approximately one mile.

What to Expect

The Verona Food, Wine & Legends Tour promises an unforgettable experience that combines gastronomy, history, and culture. Allow your expert guide to lead you on a leisurely exploration of Verona, where hidden culinary treasures await your discovery. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Piazza Bra: We’ll start at Piazza Bra, the largest piazza in Verona1. This bustling square is lined with cafés and restaurants, and it’s home to iconic landmarks like the Verona Arena, town hall, and Palazzo Barbieri. As we stroll through the historic city center, you’ll learn about Verona’s rich history and traditions.
  2. Casa di Giulietta (Pass By): We’ll stop by Juliet’s house, famous for its balcony, where you can take a picture and immerse yourself in the romantic legend of Romeo and Juliet.
  3. Piazza dei Signori (Pass By): During winter, you’ll have the chance to taste holiday specialties as we pass through this charming square.
  4. Gourmet Stops: Our tour includes plenty of gourmet stops where you’ll sample the finest local delicacies. From traditional Italian fare to unique Veronese specialties, each stop promises a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure.
  5. Lunch at a Trattoria-Restaurant: Our lunch will be served in a proper trattoria, featuring fresh pasta dishes like tortelli, risotto with Amarone, gnocchi, tagliatelle with truffle, and polenta with melted cheese DOP. It’s like two Verona tours in one: a walking tour with a local host combined with a food and wine itinerary.
  6. Proper Wine Tasting Session: At Ponte Pietra, we’ll delve into Verona’s wine traditions. You’ll enjoy a funny wine lesson and taste at least three different DOC wines, including the renowned Amarone. Amarone is considered the king of Italian wines, and we’ll pair it with local delicious snacks from the Dolomites mountains and Lake Garda. Soft drinks are available for children.
  7. Sunset Food and Wine Walking Tour: As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the city, our expert guide will lead you on a leisurely stroll through Verona’s enchanting streets. Discover hidden culinary gems and savor the flavors of Verona while learning about the region’s gastronomic traditions.
  8. Cable Car Experience: During the afternoon tour, we’ll provide skip-the-line tickets for the panoramic cable car ride. Enjoy breathtaking views of Verona from above1. Please note that during winter afternoon tours, the cable car may not operate due to closing time, but we’ll ensure you have the skip-the-line tickets for another day.

Create Lasting Memories

Don’t miss the chance to savor Verona’s culinary wonders and immerse yourself in authentic Italy. Whether you’re exploring during summer or the holiday season, our tour promises a sensory and cultural delight. Buon appetito! 🇮🇹🍽️🌆

Timetables and tickets for St.Zeno, Cathedral, St.Anastasia, St.Fermo (chieseverona.it)

TAXI

Radio Taxi service is active 24 hours a day and their stands can be found in Piazza Bra and outside Porta Nuova Railway Station. Other taxi stands can be found in Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza San Zeno, and outside Borgo Trento Hospital and Borgo Roma Hospital.

Radio Taxi Verona: +39 045 532666

Sms Taxi: +39 340 3210021

There are So Many Churches in Verona, Here are the Four Most (visitverona.it)

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Colosseum Visit – Pricing or Group of Four

Rome: Small Group Tour Colosseum Experience
$392.92 Sunday 3 pm

Operated by: Rome Adventures 73 Reviews 4.5 Stars

Overview Journey back to the days of imperial Rome during this guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Choose from convenient, flexible departure times all day long. Listen to riveting tales of ancient gladiators and warring emperors as you stroll through iconic, well-preserved ruins. Admission tickets are included. A time-saver guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill Cover three of Rome’s most iconic ancient attractions in just a couple of hours Listen to in-depth commentary from your guide on the days of imperial rule Enjoy panoramic views overlooking the city’s historic center

24H ONLY ARENA – Direct from Colosseum Site
€72 (Approx. $78.50) Tickets Only

Choose the time of your visit

12:00 PM

12:40 PM

1:20 PM

2:00 PM

3:20 PM

4:00 PM

4:40 PM

5:20 PM

6:00 PM

  • The ticket is valid on the day of booking.
  • The ticket includes entrance and exit from the side of the Sperone Stern, with a visit only to the floor of the Arena.
  • You can book the entrance time to the Colosseum and decide whether to visit the Roman Forum, the Palatine and the Imperial Forums before or after.
  • A single entrance with booked time at the Colosseum + a single entrance to the area of the Roman-Palatine Forum and the Imperial Forums, without a fixed time, provided that the ticket is valid from the first ticket stamp.
  • We recommend that you arrive at the entrance of the Colosseum 15 minutes before the scheduled time of entry. The entrance to the Colosseum is not far from the Arch of Constantine, at the so-called “Sperone Stern”.

What’s included:

  • One admission to the Arena floor only at the booked time
  • One admission to the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area and Imperial Fora
  • Entry to SUPER sites
  • Entry to any exhibitions that may be in progress in the Roman Forum-Palatine archaeological area
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Verona Day Trip from Venice

Verona Food, Wine & legends with Lunch/sunset aperitif

Verona Food, Wine & legends with Lunch/sunset aperitif

Meeting point
P.za Brà, 28, 37121 Verona VR, ItalyOpen in Google Mapsnext to the INTERNATIONAL PHARMACY and the big clock.

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Wine tasting with a sommelier, at a cozy “vineria” , all paired with local charcuteries DOP
  • Local Veronese foody guide. This tour is run by ROMEO AND JULIET GUIDE.
  • SKIP THE LINE tickets for the panoramic Cable car- funicular. tickets are valid for 1 month
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Dinner
  • Explore hidden gems and hidden corners of Verona & learn about legends.

Discover Verona’s gastronomy and the city highlights during this half-day tour. Stroll down the quaint streets of the historic city center and learn about the history and traditions of Verona. Tours are modified for each season, and you visit historic eateries, wine bars, and restaurants. You also take a ride on the funicular to the highest part of the city for a stunning view of Verona. Take a tasting tour of Verona’s historic city center Visit historic eateries, wine bars, and restaurants Admire the views of the city at the top of the funicular railway Enjoy a personalized experience on this small-group tour

Piazza Bra

PLENTY GOURMET STOPS PLUS TICKETS FOR THE CABLE CAR OF VERONA! Allow our expert guide to lead you on a leisurely exploration of Verona, where hidden culinary treasures await your discovery. Taste the finest local delicacies and immerse yourself in the rich gastronomic traditions of the region. From traditional Italian fare to unique Veronese specialties, each stop on our tour promises a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure. Delve into Verona’s history, culture, and traditions with our knowledgeable local guide, transforming this tour into a sensory and cultural delight. Don’t miss the chance to savor Verona’s culinary wonders and create lasting memories on our “Food and Wine Walking Tour in Verona.” We also ride the funicular railway to Verona’s most romantic view. During our morning and afternoon tours- we will always make several food and wine stops, included a traditional hot main course at a typical trattoria! We’ll also visit the MOST HISTORICAL “FORNAIO” of the city!

Casa di Giulietta (Pass By)

We will stop by the famous Juliet’s house, to take a picture of the famous balcony!

Piazza dei Signori (Pass By)

In the winter, taste holiday specialities. WHAT ELSE DO YOU DO FOR YOUR SUMMER / HOLIDAY TOUR? Our Lunch will be served in a proper TRATTORIA- RESATURANT: based on fresh pasta: TORTELLI / RISOTTO with amarone/ or GNOCCHI / tagliatelle with truffle/ polenta with melted cheese DOP and more gourmet delights. Places we will visit may change, depending on the season and the days. During our walk we will make several food and wine stops, included a traditional hot main course at a typical trattoria! It’s like two Verona tours in one: a Verona walking tour with a local host combined with a food and wine itinerary. Immerse yourself in authentic Verona, Italy as well as different culinary discoveries in this Verona food and wine tour.

Ponte Pietra

We will do a PROPER WINE TASTING SESSION with a funny wine lesson to better understand our food and wine traditions that belong to the Roman times. we will taste at least 3 different DOC wines, and AMARONE as well. This wine is considered today the king of Italian wines. all wines will be paired with local delicious snacks from The Dolomites mountains and lake Garda. for children we offer soft drinks. 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Piazzale Castel San Pietro (Pass By)

Are you ready to indulge in a memorable food and wine experience while exploring the charming city of Verona? Join us on our “Sunset Food and Wine Walking Tour in Verona” for an unforgettable afternoon. As the sun sets and casts a golden glow over the city, our expert guide will lead you on a leisurely stroll through the enchanting streets of Verona. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to discover hidden culinary gems and sample the finest local delicacies. Our tour focuses on the perfect pairing of food and wine, allowing you to savor the flavors of Verona while learning about the region’s rich gastronomic traditions. From traditional Italian dishes to unique Veronese specialties, each stop on the tour offers a unique culinary experience. But it’s not just about the food – we’ll also introduce you to the exceptional wines of the region.

Ponte Pietra (Pass By)

Are you ready to embark on a delightful culinary journey through the picturesque streets of Verona, filled with exquisite food and wine experiences? Join us for an unforgettable Food and Wine Walking Tour in Verona with lunch or at sunset time! as the sun sets, painting the city in a golden hue.