#European river cruises

[fandomsandfeminism]

Yall wanna hear a kinda funny, kinda sad story about my grandmother and hetero-normativity?

Ok, so... when my grandmother was in her 50s (I was an infant), she met a woman at the Unitarian Church. And, as can happen when you meet your soul mate, this event made it impossible for her to deny parts of herself that she had fiercely hidden her whole life.

All the drama- their affair being found out, the divorce with my grandfather, the court battle over who got the house, happened while I was a baby. Even in my earliest memories, it's just Mama Jo and Oma, and my grandfather lived elsewhere (first his own apartment, then a nursing home, then with us.)

But here's the thing- no one ever explained any of this to me. No one ever sat down and was like "hey, Rosie, so do you know what a lesbian is?" It was the 90s. It was Texas. I think my mom was still kinda processing all this, and just assumed that like... I was gonna figure it out. Don't mention it, let it just be normal. Like I think my mom thought that if she explained the situation, she would be making it weird? I dunno.

But like. In the 90s, in all the movies I had seen and books I had read, do you know how many same sex couples I had seen? Like. 0. Do you know how many "platonic best friend/roommates" I had seen? A lot. I had no context, is what I'm saying.

I literally thought this was a Golden Girls, roommates, besties situation until I was like...I dunno, 11? 12?

It was actually their parrot, an African Grey named Spike, imitating my grandmothers voice saying "Johanna, honey, it's getting late", that triggered the MIND BLOWN moment as I realized that *there's only one master bedroom and it only has 1 waterbed* when all the pieces finally clicked.

Anyway. I think it's a real important thing for kids to know queer people exist, for a lot of reasons, but also because kids can be clueless and it's embarrassing to have your grandmother be outted by a parrot because everyone just thought you'd figure it out on your own.

Anyway, here is my grandma and her wife, my Oma, after they moved to Albuquerque to be artsy gay cowboys and live their best life. They helped run a "Lesbian Dude Ranch" out there (basically just with funding and financial support. As Oma has explained "traditionally, most lesbians don't have a lot of money" so they wrote the checks and let the younger ladies actually run the ranch.)

[savvytravelers]

Alsace Kugelhopf Recipe

Try your hand at the traditional Alsace Kugelhopf recipe with Savvy Travelers. Create culinary masterpieces aboard our ships!

[goforlesstours]

Are you ready to embark on a journey through one of the world's most renowned wine regions? Avalon Waterways is thrilled to announce their latest addition to their river cruise itineraries for 2025: Bordeaux, France. Prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating beauty, rich history, and exquisite flavors of this iconic destination.

[mayflowercruisesandtours]

Mayflower Cruises and Tours

Address: 650 Warrenville Rd Ste. 500 Lisle, IL 60532

Phone: 800-323-7604

Website: https://www.mayflowercruisesandtours.com/

Mayflower Cruises & Tours, LLC, is a division of the Scenic Group, located in Lisle, IL. Celebrating 40 years of business in 2019, Mayflower’s mission is to create Life Enriching Experiences and give travelers the trip of a lifetime at each destination. Since 1979, the team at Mayflower has been providing individual and group guided cruise and tour arrangements within the United States and around the World.

[shutterandsentence]

“I’m writing a first draft and reminding myself that I’m simply shovelling sand into a box so that later I can build castles.”

― Shannon Hale 

Photo: Rhineland, Germany

[trendynewsnow]

Exploring Dresden: A Journey on the Good Night Train

Exploring Dresden via the Good Night Train DJs spin energetic sets inside cozy taco joints, while the fruity aroma of shisha wafts past Turkish barbers, and trendy crowds gather outside independent cinemas. Across the Elbe River, Dresden’s New Town presents a vibrant contrast to its historic center. Thanks to a newly launched night train service, this Bohemian enclave in eastern Germany has…

[runawaywidow]

The Best 15 Day Viking River Cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam

An honest review of The 15 Day Grand European Viking River Cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam

[emotionally-cuckolded]

Needless to say, the teasing and ridicule your are subjected to by your co-workers is relentless. Even after all this time -- after you and others have sat through the experience of hearing the sounds of their couplings almost two hundred times -- the shame you feel on those days is intense. Early on you tried begging with her to stop, or at least to meet him somewhere else, but she had just laughed at your discomfort and refused. At work, people now often refer to you simply as “cuckold”, and one day -- about four months after their routine had started -- someone left a desk placard on your desk that said “Office Cuckold”. And during the “secret santa” event this past year, you were given a t-shirt that said that and people were beside themselves laughing as they took pictures of you wearing it.

The one significant change in their routine is that about two months ago he had started dating her on weekends -- usually taking her to dinners as his date when meeting his friends for social evenings. She then spends the night at his place. He has also now asked her to spend his summer vacation with him on a European river cruise. You’ve begun to worry that their relationship is becoming much more than just sex -- that you’re starting to lose her to him.

[goingknowherewastaken]

By "certain cruises" I mean a gulf cruise vs Alaskan vs a European river cruise for example. Or a theme cruise (Disney, star trek, ...) vs a non themed cruise.

Please reblog to help with responses and feel free to specify in the tags about your preference 💜

[tollingreminiscentbells]

This is not my usual tumblr nonsense, but I was talking to someone on the ferry back to Aomori about places in Japan that I particularly love. So in case any of you are planning a trip, in no particular order, these are my current top 5 places in Japan.

Ise, Mie Prefecture (location of the Ise Grand Shrine, the most sacred Shinto site. Visit the outer and inner shrines, check out the Meoto Iwa/married rocks, eat udon and mochi, and buy some pearls.)

Iya Valley, Tokushima Prefecture (one of the most remote places in Japan. Take a river cruise through the Oboke Gorge, visit a historic village, walk across one of the vine bridges, and eat soba. Caveat: best experienced with a car.)

Yamagata, Yamagata Prefecture (walk up the 1,000 steps to Yama-Dera, relax at Ginzan Onsen or Zao Onsen, go to the Three Mountains of Dewa, eat beef and cherries, if they're in season. If it's winter and this is your thing: ski.)

Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture (visit Matsumoto Castle, which is original not a reconstruction, go to the art museum and the ukiyo-e museum, check out the historic shopping streets, cafe hop, eat oyaki and soba.)

Hakodate, Hokkaido Prefecture (see the view from Mt. Hakodate, check out Motomachi, the old European quarter, walk around Goryokaku Park, eat seafood at the morning market, and don't skip the milk flavor ice cream. Hokkaido is famous for dairy.)

You may have noticed that there are food recommendations attached to all of them. Everywhere in Japan has at least one local speciality that you are contractually obligated to eat. I don't make the rules.

[seabreeze2022]

Danube River Cruise 2024, Part 1. Day 1 Zurich

Flew out of MIA Wednesday Oct. 30, 2024 for Philadelphia. After a 9 hour wait we boarded the 7+ hour flight to Zurich Switzerland.

We lucked out and got the last 2 First Class seats. Arriving in Zurich at 0840 on the 31st. Just walk across the street at the airport and take a 5 minute train to the main train station in Zurich. The main stations are called HBF’s. For 30 euro we took a taxi from one side of the train station to Fred’s Guest House, on the other side of the train station. Which if we had walked out the other side of the train station is a 3 minute walk. But it was a safer bet to use the taxi.

Super nice staff at the hotel. Typical European hotel, very small elevator. Fitting in two Americans and their bags is almost an impossible feat.

After dropping the luggage in the room, we went walk about. The old part of the city is between Lake Zurich and our hotel near the train station.

This will be are stomping grounds for 30 hours. Just a little over a mile top to bottom. We end up walking about 7 miles the first day with a nap in between.

Old Zurich is known for its water fountains. Yes, the water is safe to drink. If you look to the left side at the base even dogs get to drink the water. Each fountain is different; some ordinary, some very ornate. Unless there is a particular theme for what is near by, the old standby is the lions head. This has an Anchor on the front. We are pretty close to a river and small marina. Note the two metal bars across the fountain under the water spout. Every old fountain has them. Can you guess why?

The Swiss drive on the right hand side of the road which makes it easy for us. But the Electric trams are everywhere. Bikes have their own lanes. We were able to figure out, when there is no stoplight, but there is a crosswalk. Trams, cars and bikes all give way to the pedestrian. You just needed to know whether there was a stoplight or not.

Look at this government building from 1917. Slate roof with a twist. Two cornucopia and a clock on the front. You have never seen so many clocks and advertisements for watches until you visit Zurich. Have you ever noticed every watch advertisement has the hands roughly at 10:10?

Wrought iron balconies are common. Majority of older houses are 4-5 floors. Common for a business to be ground floor and then apartments above. I doubt many have elevators. No fat Swiss.

End of a bridge across one of the rivers running through town. Very ornate lamps with a metal Lion sculpture on top.

Many of the really old houses paint their shudders in a one off design and color. I assume it was to facilitate people finding the address. You can see these from several blocks away. Pay attention to the photos below.

River cruise boats on Lake Zurich. Originally these were paddle wheelers. Not sure if the wheels work now or not.

Swans and seagulls being fed from the Quaibrucke (bridge). Fall colors still.

Looking across Limmat river.

Several of these were around town. I will give you a hint why in the next photo.

Bikes parked at the train station. Several hundred if not a thousand bikes around the station. One of many bike parking areas here. The previous photo was of a bike cycle pump.

No straight roads. Green shudders on the house.

Fish fountain with the Limmet river on the other side of the wall. Since there are no iron bars across the water you can tell it is a modern Fountain.

This is a door to the only church we went in. The inside of the church was fairly plain. The stain glasses were nice but not as picturesque as many of the churches we have been in.

Typical cobblestone side street, pedestrian only.

Old fountain (see the bars), water spewing from the lions mouth. I am sure there is story behind the old guy on the top reaching into the mouth of the lion.

Have you figured out the metal bars supported the pots people would put under the spout, then slid it back to the edge. Before carrying it home.

Look at the ornate building on the left.

This is viewing the Hotel Storchen (Hotel Stork) from across the Limmet River. They have a small platform you can bring a boat up too. On the roof to the right side is a sculpture of a mother stork and her baby in a stick nest. The church steeple in the center is for St. Peters church behind it.

Check out the nest on the top of the building.

The boss and the guy with the level were on vacation when the roof was built. Hope the home owner got a discount.

Roasted chestnuts, 4 euros. Heading back to Fred’s Guest house for a nap!

Fred immortalized on the side of his guest house. I think he got the idea from Conrad Hilton. Note the slightly open window on the building to the right. Nancy opened our window. The top fell into the room 6 inches. We thought she broke it.

[charlesandmartine]

Friday 1st November 2024

This is a strange and mystical place. It all started as we watched Poirot around 9.30 last evening. It was an episode that we have seen on numerous occasions no doubt, but still the culprit appeared as illusive as ever, and only the little grey cells could ever hope to resolve the riddle. However, the noise from outside became more and more invasive. With the confidence and naivety a novice outbacker might be expected to possess in these circumstances, we trusted this minor interruption to the airwaves would very soon cease. Not so. On turning in, the cacophony could only be described as getting more intense. It starts with an, as it were, oink, followed be an, as it were, honk, at the bass end of the octave. Then in tenor comes, ti ti ti ti. Now put that into some kind of order it becomes, oink, honk, oink, honk, oink, honk with ti, ti, ti, ti all the while. Now speed that up, turn up the volume, and repeat it for 2 hours. My head was placed between two pillows resembling a foam burger bun, and still the rhythm perpetuated. Just as it might suddenly cease, so there would then be an, oink and the whole thing began again. To venture through the external sliding door to ascertain more information regarding the source of this nocturnal orchestra would be folly in itself. The heat and barage of indeterminate flying objects would be prohibitive so the barricade pricinciple had to prevail.

Eventually the music stool lid went up and the music was put away for the night and all quiesced for the remaining hours of darkness, but the fear of a resurgence was never too far away.

One theory, away from the perils and dangers of the night, is the source of the noise might be a form of geese or maybe, according to speculation by the lady in the tourist information place, they might be fruit bats!

This morning we did what all newbies do when they hit town; go to Woolworths to buy a rubbery chicken and Tim Tams, and pop into the Tourist Information Office. It wasn't long before we were parked up at the TI and we met up again with the little family from Melbourne that we had got to know a little simply because we are always at the same places at the same time. We only just met up because they were leaving for Darwin to get their van fixed. We agreed to look out for them when they get back. The TI booked us on a cruise up the Katherine Gorge on Sunday, which should be good and pointed us in the direction of all the places we should visit. First up was the Railway Museum. That was shut.

Katherine had been an Aboriginal meeting place for thousands of years, but it wasn't until 1862 when the first European, John Stuart, arrived. This is the 'Stuart' who gave the name to the Stuart Highway, sometimes simply referred to as 'The Track'. John McDouall Stuart led the first successful expedition from St Augusta in the south all the way through the interior to Darwin in the north, finding a route for the transcontinental telegraph line. By 1872 the line was up and running, and an office was opened in Katherine. The railway had been running from Port Augusta near Adelaide to Alice, since 1878 but did not open for passengers from Alice to Darwin until 2001. Katherine today is a very mixed society with nearly half of the 18,000 people being Aboriginal, more than non-indigenous when undeclared are taken into account.

We set off for Katherine this arvo to follow an Art Trail around the town centre. It started at the old railway bridge crossing the Katherine River, last to see a train crossing it in 1976. The works of art are murals depicting local aboriginal people who have in their own way served the community of Katherine and are inspirational, especially to this latest generation; some of whom we see around the town who desperately need a purpose and direction in life.

Returning to our little house looking out across the fields, we supped SB and watched the sun gradually set behind the trees.

ps. Terrible TV here. At about 8pm last night they were advertising coffins!

[savvytravelers]

Moselle River Cruises

Unlocking The Majesty: The Rhine, Main, & Moselle Rivers

Journey through the heart of Europe's storied waterways, where the Rhine, Main, and Moselle rivers converge to create a tapestry of beauty and history. Embark on a voyage of discovery with Savvy Travelers, where each bend reveals a new wonder to behold, from ancient castles perched atop vineyard-clad hills to enchanting medieval villages, lost in time.

Destination HIGHLIGHTS

Majestic Castles: Over 40 majestic castles line the banks of the Rhine, standing as silent sentinels of bygone eras, each with its own tale of romance and intrigue.

Gothic Splendor: Behold the awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral of Cologne, a towering testament to the faith and craftsmanship of generations past.

Enchanting Alsatian Charm: Lose yourself in the enchanting Alsatian town of Strasbourg, where French flair meets German charm in a captivating blend of cultures.

Rhine, Main & Moselle DISCOVER MORE

Delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Europe's history, traditions, and local delicacies, as you explore each destination along these legendary rivers. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to hidden culinary gems, there's something to delight every traveler.

Why Cruise THE RHINE, MAIN & MOSELLE

Experience the epitome of luxury and personalized service aboard our highest-rated river ships. From innovative design to unparalleled amenities, every aspect of your journey is crafted to exceed your expectations.

Highest Rated RIVER SHIPS

Sail in style aboard our innovative river ships, where every detail has been carefully curated to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. From spacious staterooms to gourmet dining, you'll find everything you need for a truly unforgettable voyage.

Exclusive EXPERIENCES

Indulge in exclusive experiences that offer a deeper insight into the region's rich heritage and culture. From private castle tours to culinary-themed excursions, these unique offerings promise to create lasting memories.

A Variety of EXCURSIONS

Customize your journey with a variety of excursions tailored to your interests and activity level. Whether you prefer leisurely hikes or thrilling adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Rhine, Main & Moselle ITINERARIES

Choose from a selection of curated itineraries, each offering a unique blend of destinations and experiences to suit your travel preferences. From shorter journeys to extended voyages, there's a perfect itinerary waiting for you.

NEW IN 2025: 14-night Grand Rhine & Dutch Canals

Embark on an immersive 14-night journey through Holland, Belgium, and the Rhine River, taking in the architectural marvels and cultural treasures of these historic waterways.

10-night Rhine & Moselle Delights

Discover the charm and beauty of four countries along the storied Rhine and Moselle rivers, with grand palaces, picturesque gardens, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites awaiting your exploration.

11-night Rhine & Moselle Fairytales

Embark on a magical journey through the fabled landscapes of the Rhine and Moselle, where colorful canals, towering fortresses, and steep vineyards create an enchanting backdrop for your adventures.

7-night Captivating Rhine

Experience the captivating beauty of the Rhine, with its vineyard-clad hills, ancient castles, and charming towns waiting to be explored.

7-night Christmas Markets on the Rhine

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Europe's timeless Christmas Markets, where twinkling lights, festive music, and the aroma of mulled wine create a magical atmosphere.

7-night Enchanting Rhine

Step into a world of enchantment as you cruise along the Rhine, with its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and picturesque villages offering a glimpse into Europe's rich history and culture.

7-night Europe’s Rivers & Castles

Explore the picturesque landscapes of Europe's rivers, with their charming villages, historic castles, and vineyard-clad hillsides creating a scene straight out of a fairytale.

7-night Medieval Treasures

Step back in time as you explore the medieval towns and cities along the Rhine and Main rivers, with their cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and rich history waiting to be discovered.

7-night Rhine & Moselle Splendors

Discover the splendors of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, with their fairytale villages, medieval castles, and breathtaking scenery creating an unforgettable journey through Europe's heartland.

7-night Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Rhine Gorge, with its 40 majestic castles, before journeying through the Swiss Alps to Amsterdam, where iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes await.

7-night Swiss Alps & Rhine Castles

Cruise through the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the Rhine River and the majestic landscapes of the Swiss Alps.

7-night Treasures of the Main & Rhine

Explore the treasures of the Main and Rhine rivers, from the historic cities of Prague and Amsterdam to the charming towns and villages that dot the riverbanks.

7-night Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle

Indulge your senses as you cruise through the vineyard-clad valleys of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, sampling world-class wines and exploring charming villages along the way.

Unforgettable LAND PACKAGES

Enhance your journey with optional land packages, staying at renowned hotels and enjoying a range of included amenities and excursions.

Local CULTURE

Immerse yourself in the rich culture, fascinating legends, and timeless customs of each port of call, with immersive experiences that offer a deeper insight into the region's heritage and traditions.

Authentic Regional CUISINE

Savor the flavors of Europe with regionally inspired cuisine prepared with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, from hearty German classics to delicate French pastries.

Local Recipes

Try your hand at traditional European recipes, from German Sauerbraten to Alsace Kugelhopf, and create your culinary masterpieces aboard our ships.

In Conclusion

Embark on a journey of discovery along the Rhine, Main, and Moselle rivers with Savvy Travelers, where each moment is a treasure waiting to be uncovered. From ancient castles to charming villages, and from gourmet cuisine to immersive experiences, every aspect of your voyage promises to be unforgettable. Discover the magic of Europe's waterways with us and create memories that will last a lifetime!

[lonestarbattleship]

USS ARKANSAS (BB-33) on the Nieuwe Maas River within the background of the Fijenoord Shipyard. ARKANSAS was visiting European ports during her summer Midshipmen cruise in 1924.

Posted by Gottfried Alexander van der Horst to "The Big Gun: Battleships, Battlecruisers, & Monitors" Facebook group page: link

[europeantravel]

Paris Travel Package

European Travels lets you explore the different shades of Paris giving you unique experiences of culture and tradition with their Paris travel packages. Our fully customizable all-inclusive Paris trip packages will help you explore the best of the destination, leaving you with memories of a lifetime. 

Paris package starts from $ 1142

Package inclusions

5 nights stay in Paris

Daily Breakfast

24 Hours Hop on hop off bus tour with Seine river cruise

Lunch at Eiffel Tower 1st Level Madame Barsserie with Lift ticket to 1st level /No transfers

Return Airport Transfers on pvt basis

[burlveneer-music]

The Ironsides - Changing Light - lush cinematic soul, with orchestra (Colemine Records)

The Ironsides have arrived. Changing Light is the first full-length effort from this masterful collective of Bay Area musicians. It melds classic psych-soul sounds with sweeping orchestral arrangements – reminiscent of a cinematic soundtrack from a 60s European film. Inspired by the soundtracks and library music of European composers during the 60's and 70's, the Ironsides set out to create a collection of lush songs that evoke a diverse range of feelings, emotions, and memories. The Ironsides enlisted the help of Lou King, a New York based maestro, who had previously made arrangements for Max Ramey (Bassist). Once the tunes were ready to go, the band started contacting the local musicians who would bring them to life. “We hired a group of Bay Area working musicians,” Max explained. “Many of them play a range of music, from jazz to classical, in clubs and orchestras. Using these local musicians was really important to us.” The Changing Light evokes strong imagery of an open road, a breathtaking view, and scenes of a vast landscape begging to be explored. Cruise up the coast, where sweeping orchestral arrangements rise and fall with the tide. As you head North, the countryside opens to an undeniable groove. Tremolo-soaked guitar tones grow on the vines, and timeless, soulful bass lines flow like wine. In higher altitudes, French horns and trumpets soar like eagles. A river below carries bellowing cello tones through a mountain pass into an expansive canyon. Down in the desert, fuzzed-out electric guitar cuts through the dry heat and leaves the listener thirsty for more.