Gail Collins

My first voyage on one of Viking’s ocean ships took me on an unforgettable journey aboard the Viking Star. Each day was thoughtfully crafted for my ultimate relaxation and adventure. Every stop at the enchanting Greek islands and the ancient wonders of Ephesus not only sparked my sense of adventure but also delighted my senses.

With its charming canals, world class museums and rich history, Amsterdam offers a blend of culture and relaxation. Whether exploring the works of Van Gogh and Rembrandt, or cruising on the enchanting canals, the city is special at every turn.

If you're visiting Venice or Verona, consider taking a scenic train ride to Bolzano, the gateway to the breathtaking Dolomites. This charming city blends Italian and Austrian influences, offering a unique cultural experience in the heart of South Tyrol. With its walkable historic center, you can easily explore picturesque piazzas, medieval castles and traditional markets.

5 Star Le Monumental Palace, a Maison Albar Hotel, is located at Avenida dos Aliados 151 and central to many of the sites you will want to visit while in Porto.

In March 2023, we set sail for a captivating AwaWaterways river cruise on the Douro River in Portugal. There were opportunities to explore wineries with wine tastings, historical towns and time to simply sit back and admire the breathtaking scenery the banks of the Douro River had to offer on the all inclusive cruise aboard the ship, AmaDouro.

Scotland, with its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, offers a unique travel experience for every visitor. Choosing Tauck for this journey was an easy decision. As a family-owned company, they bring a personal touch and decades of experience to their tours. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail allowed me to fully appreciate the beauty and heritage of Scotland, making it an unforgettable experience. Note: Although this is a report on Tauck’s Scotland tour, one can easily use it to provide sightseeing “to-dos”.

There is nothing quite like visiting the nation’s capital and enjoying all the sights and sounds. My favorite time of year to visit is when the cherry blossoms are in bloom around the tidal basin. On top of the many attractions for family or friends, none can compare to a visit to one or more of the Smithsonian museums. One of the more interesting is the American Museum of History with the iconic kitchen replication of Julia Child. Here's a guide to the best places to stay in Washington, DC, for your visit to the nation's capital!

Sydney offers a blend of iconic landmarks, delicious culinary experiences and travel to amazing locations offering views beyond words. Whether you wish to be at the beach or in the mountains, Sydney can provide it.

Traveling with Tauck to Sicily, one of everyone’s favorite islands, provides you with experiences to make your trip memorable beyond words. Whether you are enjoying a private lunch in a local palazzo or a wine tasting in Palermo, you will come to love Sicily.

After visiting Florence several times, I welcomed the opportunity to visit once again but this time with my girlfriends. Italian cuisine is one of the best reasons to travel to Italy, and this trip was going to be no exception for exploring new restaurants. Florence is an easily walkable city that allows you to step off-the-beaten-tourist-path and wander down a side street to find some of the best restaurants the locals frequent.

Bologna, Italy, is a charming city with historic architecture and memorable culinary experiences. One can find medieval streets or explore the landmark Two Towers. In addition, you will find a lively student atmosphere as one of the oldest universities is located here.

It is easy to find yourself in Porto, Portugal, especially if your river cruise is embarking from Gaia, located a short jaunt across the bridge. We booked our stay at the Intercontinental Porto-Palacio Das Cardosas, an IHG property. Our hotel concierge suggested a day trip from Porto to Guimarães, a well-preserved historical town.