Germany Named World’s Favorite Country

November 19 Germany has been declared the most favorite country in the world, more than 70 years after World War II when the fortunes of the country hung on the whims of a madman. Now Deutschland is admired for its economy, healthcare system and high standard of living. People oftentimes ask, ‘are we safe in […]

Prices for Private Tours in Europe

November 14 A common search term here on our site, and a question that we cannot answer without your completed Tour Interest Form. Once we know what you want to see and do, and when, and with how many companions, we can then respond with an estimate. All of the trips we do are custom-designed, […]

What a Year! 2014 Our Biggest Season Ever

November 9 Click on any image to see it larger After 25 years of living and working in Europe, James Derheim and his wife Jenean have nearly concluded the biggest, most adventurous season ever, with 17 tours booked by our clients (five more than our previous record). Here’s what happened, where we went and with […]

When is the best time to visit…?

November 8 Based on our experiences and the feedback from more than 250 tours conducted in our career. Austria: Anytime is a great time to visit this alpine country but the big cities should be avoided in July and August due to heat and crowding. Like to see fresh snow? Late October is pretty much […]

Postcards from Tuscany

November 1 We just spent six nights in Tuscany with repeat clients Eric and Patricia from Sarasota, FL. Here are some reminders of the lovely time we had. Click on any image to get a larger view.

San Gimignano is the Medieval Manhattan of Italy

October 31 We spent three nights here recently with clients from Sarasota, Florida. San Gimignano is one of the most famous of the Tuscan hill towns. It once had 70 towers but today only 13 survive. These towers were built to show the status of various families who were usually in conflict with one another. […]

Venice Earns its Reputation as World’s Most Amazing Place

October 28 Yes there are hoards of tourists. Yes the main thoroughfares between San Marco and the Accademia and the Rialto Bridges are ridiculously crowded. Yes, Venice is slowly sinking into the mud. But my, what a wonderful, colorful, interesting place. Get away from the day-trippers who come in on huge cruise ships or by […]