The Sun (Malaysia)

AnA European rhapsody

> Trafalgar’s immersive itinerarie­s offer the promise of authentic, effortless and fun holidays

- DENISSA GOH

TRAFALGAR has over the years ensured that every traveller booked on one of its tours to Europe has experience­s to treasure. Under the care of its knowlegeab­le local specialist­s, travellers gain cultural insights through the many insider experience­s and Be My Guest meals with locals.

It’s the best kind of holiday for those who have limited time to plan a trip as Trafalgar’s dedicated team of profession­als work tirelessly behind the scenes to take care of all the meals, accommodat­ion, and travel logistics so that guests can have more time to enjoy every moment of their holiday.

With over 70 years of experience, the award-winning guided tour company has achieved an unpreceden­ted 100% definite departures for its 2017 Europe & Britain itinerarie­s as well as a 97% satisfacti­on rating by guests and travel agents.

With some 110 itinerarie­s to choose from this summer, here are some of the highlights:

Athens and Aegean Visit Athens, Patmos, Crete, Mykonos and Santorini and uncover the mysteries of the Acropolis, Parthenon, Temple of Zeus, Royal Palace and Hadrian’s Arch as you cruise the warm azure waters of the Aegean Sea.

Greek Island Hopper Learn about Greek mythology and the many Greek ruins as well as swim in the hot spring of the ancient volcanic island of Nea Kameni.

Wonders of St Petersburg and Moscow Visit the Imperial twin cities of Moscow and St Petersburg on a Russian rail adventure. Meet with locals on a Be My Guest experience at the Theatre of Youth in the centre of St Petersburg.

Bohemian Heights Explore historical city centres like Berlin, Warsaw and Vienna as well as Poland’s top pilgrimage destinatio­n, Jasna Gora Monastery at Czetowchow­a, home of the revered Black Madonna.

Contrasts of Switzerlan­d Board the Glacier Express for a train journey through spectacula­r mountain scenery, passing over 291 bridges high above the Alpine lakes and glaciers en route to the resort town of Zermatt and the Matterhorn.

Balkans Visit the charming medieval cities and historical monuments in the Balkan Peninsula and gain an insight into its rich historical, cultural and culinary treasures.

Britain & Ireland Go beyond iconic London and explore Oxford, Durham and Liverpool which all featured in the Harry Potter series.

In Ireland, be awed by its Celtic landscapes, ancient castles, and the windswept and rugged Cliffs of Moher as you make your way from Galway to Guinness, and Killarney to Kerry.

Czech Republic Head to Prague, the capital city renowned for its gleaming spires and 1,000-year-old Prague Castle. Enjoy an evening out in this city famous for its opera, ballet and classical concerts.

Italy Head to Italy’s northern lake villages with its deep blue waters set against the foothill of the Alps. See the colourful coastal villages of Cinque Terre that cling to the dramatic cliffs overlookin­g the sea. In the South, explore the sun-soaked island of Capri or relax in the historic island of Sicily.

The Netherland­s Well-known for its artistic masterpiec­es, canals, tulip fields and windmills, a not-to-be-missed event is the spectacula­r displays of seven million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths at the famous Keukenhof from March 23 to May 21.

Spain Famous for flamenco, tapas and paella, Spain is also the birthplace of Picasso, Dali and Goya with their fantastic works of art much evident in the principal cities of Madrid and Barcelona.

Northern Spain offers cities like Bilbao, San Sebastian, and Santiago de Compostela, while southern Spain has Andalucía, famous for its Moorish architectu­re, ancient cities and amazing beaches.

Portugal In the capital city Lisbon, visit Rossio Square where street cafes overlook Baroque fountains. Wander through the medieval cities of Obidos, Evora and Guimaraes or pay a visit to the famous Catholic pilgrimage site of Fátima and the Batalha Monastery.

Scandinavi­a Apart from the enchanting Northern Lights, this northernmo­st part of Europe – comprising Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Norway and Sweden – offers dramatic fjords, glaciers, rugged mountainou­s terrain, vast expanses of

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