Trafalgar Tours European Escapade Tour

A great day today as we travel from Amsterdam to Offenbach (Frankfurt) via Arnhem with it's poignant story of bravery and tragedy towards the end of the Second World War. Lunch in the and ancient city of Cologne with one of Europe's largest cathedrals built over 600 years which houses the remains of the Three Wise Men. The afternoon's highlight is a beautiful drive along a scenic and historic section of the Rhine River to picturesque Boppard. Where we board one of the Rhine River cruise boats for a welcome drink and guided cruise up river to St Goar and the Lorely Rock.

After two nights in Amsterdam we head to Germany today. It's a beautiful drive through Holland via Utrecht followed by Arnhem. It was here one of the more tragic events of the latter part of the Second World War occurred when the allies failed to secure an important bridge. The events led to a movie and is remembered by many still today for it's tragic circumstances and acts of bravery by many. One of the commanders described the bridge as "A Bridge Too Far".

Shortly after we arrive in the huge financial and historic city of Cologne (Koln in German). On the way there, there is an opportunity to talk about many aspects of Germany and the industrial heartland of the country we are driving through. Cologne is famous for many things, 4711 Eau d'Cologne, the huge cathedral, and the bombing of the Second World War. Although it's not famous for them I always point out Berliners, a well known donut, which many take my advice to try.

As many of our travelers are from younger countries it is hard for many to conceptualize the fact that a building might have taken more than 600 years to build. We have the best chance for a photo of the church as we cross the Rhine River 5 minutes prior to arrival at it's side. It is also amazing to think that after 90 % of the city was destroyed by the bombing during the war the Cathedral was left virtually unscathed.

After lunch we head for Boppard. Again it's a very interesting and beautiful drive. It's always interesting to watch people's reactions when we arrive on one of the famous German Autobahns that have no speed limit. Cars can reach speeds well in excess of 150 mph. Soon we arrive to Bonn and here it gives me a chance to talk about the division of Germany after the Second World War, the blockade of Berlin and the eventual re-unification of Germany.

Soon the Rhine River arrives at Koblenz and here we follow the river viewing some of its beautiful castles which I talk about along with the famous Rhine wine vineyards. Boppard is our destination where we board our Rhine River cruise for a cruise up river to St Goar and the Lorely Rock. Passing castles along the way it is amazing how quickly the time goes by and how relaxing that time is.

Disembarking in St Goar after seeing the Lorely Rock we stay with the great river following it's course on our way to Rhudesheim on our way to Offenbach and our hotel. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.

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