Stewart Lieberman
Having lived and traveled in Europe for more than forty years, I know the ins and outs of each country. Whatever your interests and travel style, I can orchestrate a European vacation that hits all the right notes.
If you are a Francophile, you might enjoy a barge cruise through central France. French Country Waterways hotel barge cruises take to visit historic chateaux, small medieval villages where you can eat at local bistros and restaurants, renowned vineyards where you can meet the owners and learn what makes their wines unique.
First-time visitors to France can start with a stay in Paris, “City of Lights,” where you can take in the highlights on walking tours, Seine cruises or even Segways! I can also arrange for English-speaking guides specializing in art, food or even a particular artist to share “their” Paris.
From Paris, it’s an easy drive or train trip to the Loire Valley. There you can stay at a chateau and take an early morning hot air balloon ride over the valley. From here you could fly to the Cote d’Azur, the French Riviera, or head for Provence to admire the small villages and lavender fields.
The Danube River was once a major trading “highway,” and many of Europe’s most beautiful cities grew up on its banks. AmaWaterways’ Danube River cruise takes you from Vienna to Budapest, with many interesting stops along the way. A nice thing about AmaWaterways is that in addition to traditional sightseeing tours, they have active options such as hiking, biking and walking tours, at various fitness levels.
If Spain is on your bucket list, consider exploring it by train. One of my favorite itineraries starts in Barcelona, where you can marvel at the creativity of Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia Cathedral and other architectural wonders. Then, in Madrid, the Prado Museum is a must. Heading south, Seville is a beautiful base for exploring the Moorish treasures of Andalusia. Lastly, after all that sightseeing, it’s nice to wind down with some time in Marbella on the Costa Del Sol.
Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey offers an interesting blend of cultures. Most visits start in Istanbul. A great way to explore is with a private, English-speaking guide who can help you bargain for rugs, Ottoman jewelry, and other unusual items and add a lively historical context to its famous sights. From here, it’s a short flight to Cappadocia, where you can take a hot air balloon ride over the otherworldly landscape. More wonders beckon on the Mediterranean Coast. In Bodrum, I can arrange for you to sail on a crewed gullet, a traditional Turkish sailing ship, to go beach hopping. With more time, you can also visit the impressive ruins of ancient Ephesus.
Whatever your interests and preferences, I can craft the European journey that is right for you, from the best English-speaking guides to hotels, restaurants, and activities that suit your style and tastes. If you’re headed for Europe, call me and see what an expert travel advisor can do for your next trip.