Transat Holidays, one of our largest travel partners, can help you explore this land of plenty thanks to its numerous vacations designed to thrill and awe you.

Athens
Named after the goddess Athena, the capital of Greece is a fascinating blend of old and new. Known as the birthplace of democracy, this ancient city with its historic monuments and magnificent sights blends seamlessly into a thriving metropolis that is home to bustling cafés, restaurants and bars.

What to see and do
Acropolis: An inimitable monument situated on a hill that is home to the Parthenon, a museum, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erectheion. Plaka: The old Turkish quarter, packed with countless shops, tavernas, restaurants, discos and bars. Faliro, Vouliagmeni and Loutraki: Elegant seaside suburbs with fantastic beaches, great entertainment and an exciting nightlife.

Mykonos
This quintessential Greek island features traditional cube-shaped houses with stark white facades broken only by the intense blues and greens of doors and shutters and surrounded by brilliant blue seas.

What to see and do
Mykonos Town: One of the most picturesque places in Greece.
Nightlife: It is undeniably the party paradise of the Greek Islands.
Delos & Apollo Sanctuary: The legendary birthplace of Apollo and his twin sister Artemis.

Santorini
This beautiful island is what most of us envisage when we dream of Greece, and for once the reality far surpasses the fantasy. Few sights are more memorable than the dazzling whitewashed buildings that sit perched on the rim of black volcanic cliffs.

What to see and do
Fira: Built atop an extinct volcano, the picturesque main town of Fira is a kaleidoscope of eye-catching colours and experiences.
Beaches: The island features unique beaches with white, red and black sand. Akrotiri: An ancient city rumoured to be the Lost City of Atlantis.

Crete
This island paradise is a world of wonder with translucent seas, magnificent beaches, palaces and a scintillating nightlife. You'll find coastal towns with unique histories filled with lively tavernas, open-air cafés and many shops.

What to see and do
Knossos, Phaistos and Mallia: The ruins of three ancient cities that demonstrate the incredible wealth and sophistication enjoyed by the Minoan civilization. Rhymnon: The commercial centre of Crete, incorporating a blend of Venetian, Asian and Greek historical elements. Samaria Gorge: The longest gorge in Europe, surrounded by dramatic and rugged scenery.

Rhodes
This magical island combines the very best of Greece, both past and present. Explore the modern harbour of Mandraki, with its bustling energy and lively sidewalk cafés, or visit the mammoth gate and fortified walls of the medieval town.

What to see and do
Symi: A small picturesque island, which is a lively tourist haven.
Lindos: A bright gem of a village with an impressive beach.
Faliraki & Ixia: Popular beach areas on Rhodes with beautiful natural beaches and a lively nightlife.

Here are some other  tips to reduce stress during travel.

• Get away long enough time to let go of your daily grind.  A week is recommended.
• Watch your time zones – too many time zones actually increase your stress on your body’s natural rhythms.
• Don’t over schedule your trip – Make sure you have quiet time each day.
• Be social – making new acquaintances has a restorative power.
• Enjoy physical activity – moderate exercise like swimming and walking are great energy boosters.

How sad that a third or us do not use all our vacation days!  Hopefully this will inspire you to take some time to better your health with travel.

Ready to research a trip?

Here is our network of travel destination sites for travel planning made easy!

Africa Tours | Alaska Tours | Antarctica Tours | Asia Tours | Atlas Cruises & Tours | Australia Tours | Canada Tours | Christmas Market Tours | England Tours | Escorted Family Vacations | Fall Foliage Tours | France Tours | Greece Tours | Hawaii Tours | Ireland Tours | Italy Tours | Luxury Tour | National Parks Tours | Oberammergau | River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | South America Tours | Spain Tours

English is a widely spoken and understood as a second or third language amongst many Western Europeans, particularly those of the younger generations.

Western European Language Basics

English	French	Spanish	Italian	German	Greek	Dutch
Good Morning	Bonjour	Buenos Dias	Buongiorno	Guten Morgen	Kalimera	Goedemorgen
Good Bye	Au revoir	Adios	Arrivederci	Auf Wiedersehen	Yasou	Tot ziens
Please	S’il vous plait	Por favor	Perfavore	Bitte	Parakalo	Alstublieft
Thank You	Merci	Gracias	Grazie	Danke Schon	Effaristo	Dank u
Yes	Oui	Si	Si	Ja	Ne	Ya
No	Non	No	No	Nein	Oki	Nee
Where is?	Ou est?	Donde ésta?	Dové	Wo ist?	Poo eeneh?	Waar is?
The toilet	Les toilettes	El lavabo	Il gabinetto	Die toilette	To oahlehtes	De toilet
The bank	La banque	Banco	Banca	Die bank	Trapeze	Bank
Post office	La poste	Correos	Ufficio postale	Die post	Takedromeo	Postkantoor
How much?	Combine?	Cunato?	Quanto?	Wieviel?	Posso?	hoeveel?
The bill	L’addition	La cuenta	Il conto	Die rechnung	To loghariazmo	rekening
Ladies	Dames	Enoras	Donne	Damen	Yinekon	Dames
Gents	Messieurs	Senores	Uomini	Herren	Anthron	Heren
Stamp	Timbre	Sello	Francobollo	Briefmarke	Grammatesimo	Stamp
One/two	Un/deux	Uno/due	Uno/due	Eins/zwei	Ena/thio	Een/twee
Three/four	Trios/quatre	Tres/cuarto	Tre/Quattro	Drei/vier	Tria/tesera	Drie/vier
Five/six	Cinq/six	Cinco/seis	Cinque/sei	Funf/sechs	Pende/eksi	Vijf/zes
Seven/eight	Sept/huit	Siete/ocho	Sette/otto	Sieben/acht	Epta/okta	Zeven/acht
Nine/ten	Neuf/dix	Nueve/diez	Nove/dieci	Neun/zehn	Enea/theka	Negen/tien
Open	Overt	Abierto	Aperto	Geoffnet	Anikton	Open
Closed	Fermé	Cerrado	Chiuso	Geschlossen	Kilson	Gesloten
Hot	Chaud	Caliente	Caldo	Heiss	Zesto	Hete
Cold	Froid	Frio	Freddo	Kalt	Krio	Koude
Water	Eau	Agua	Acqua	Wasser	Nero	Water
Tea	Thé	Té	Té	Tee	Chai	Thee
Coffee	Café	Café	Caffé	Kaffee	Kafe	Koffie
Beer	Biére	Cerveza	Birra	Bier	Bira	Bier
Wine	Vin	Vino	Vino	Wein	Krasi	Wijn
Excuse me (sorry)	Excusez-moi	Perdon	Scusi	Entschuldigung	Sygnomi	Sorry
Cheers	Santé	Salut	Saluté	Prost	Yamus	Proost

These Languages are of use in….

French – France, Southern Belgium (including Brussels) parts of Switzerland

Spanish – Spain (Spanish will be understood in most parts of Spain, however Catalan and Basque are spoken in Barcelona and the North of the country)

Italian – Italy, parts of Switzerland, Albania

German – Varying dialects throughout Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein

Greek – Greece

Dutch – Dialects throughout the Netherlands and Northern Belgium

Here is our network of Europe travel destination sites:

England Tours | Escorted Family Vacations | France Tours | Greece Tours| Ireland Tours | Italy Tours |  River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | Spain Tours

We also have specialty European Tour Operators sites:

Contiki Tours | Cosmos Tours |Gate 1 |General Tours | Globus Tours | Insight Tours | Tauck Tours | Trafalgar Tours

Ancient Agora: The Agora was the most important part of every city-state in ancient Greece. It was the center of life, of economic, social, political and judicial activity, as well as the main commercial center. The Ancient Agora of Athens covers an area of about 10 acres. It lies below the Acropolis, south of the hill of the Areopagus. On the north side of the Ancient Agora are the ruins of a structure known as Basilica, from the 2nd century AD, and a portico from a civic building from the 1st century AD. Here are also the remains of the "Politiki Stoa". It was erected in the 5th century BC with a Doric colonnade on the facade and an Ionic one in the interior. The philosopher Zeno, whose adherents were called Stoics, also taught there. In the central area of the Ancient Agora are the ruins of the sanctuary named Leokoreon. South of the "Poikili Stoa" are the ruins of the Altar of the Twelve Gods and even further south the Temple and the Altar of Aris (Mars). In the center of the market was the Odeon of Agrippa and the Gymnasium. The entire central space of the Agora was full of votive offerings. Roman Agora: Lying east of the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora has actually nothing to do with Romans, but took this name because it was created during the Roman times -1st century AD- in order to serve a growing Athens. It constitutes a self-sufficient space and is entered from Aiolou Street. Among its well-known buildings is the Agoranomeion for the Market Authorities, the Portico, and the Gate of Athena Archigetis (The Leader).

Kolonaki/Lycabettus: The Chic Square of Athens is Kolonaki, officially known as Philikis Etaireias Square. Some of the most fashionable stores in Athens are located on Kolonaki square and the surrounding streets, along with many pastry-shops, cafeterias and bistros which are crowded all day long. The Gennadios Library is on Soudias St., and specializes in Greek publications after 1453. The excellent Museum of Cycladic Art is housed on Neophytou Douka St. The funicular railway that goes to the top of Lycabettus is in the Kolonaki area. Lycabettus is always beautiful! You can climb it throughout the year and enjoy the superb view that it offers. You can reach the hill either on foot following the stairs, or by car taking the road that leads to the theater of Lycabettus. But the most romantic way to reach Lycabettus, is with the funicular railway thats starts from Kolonaki and goes all the way to the top (275 m.). During antiquity the hill was called Aychesmos Lycabettus. During the times of Pausanias, Aychesmos Lycabettus had a statue of Zeus Aychesmios at its summit. Lycabettus hill is mentioned in Aristophanes' "Clouds" and in Plato's "Critias". During the Middle ages there was a chapel to the Prophet Elijah at its summit. Today there is a chapel to St. George which was built after 1835. On its northwest side is a cave with the small church of St. Isidore. During the summer, the Lycabettus theater hosts various theatrical performances and concerts. It is a spacious theater with 5,000 seats and occupies one of the most inspiring and idyllic sites in Athens.

Parthenon: Seen from the Propylaia, the Acropolis is dominated by the Parthenon, set on the rock's highest ground. Parthenon is one of the worlds most stunning sights. Even its constructors, however, could not have anticipated that their temple would come to symbolize no less than the emergence of human civilization. The erection began in 447 BC, and the inauguration was held in 438 BC during the celebration of the Panathenaic Games. The sculptural decoration of the building would be completed in 432 BC. Iktinos and Kallikratis are known as the architects of the Parthenon. The temple is Doric, peripheral, with eight columns on each façade and 17 columns on the long sides.

Plaka: The neighborhood of the Gods, as Greeks and foreigners alike have named it, singing its praises. Located on the northeastern slopes of the Acropolis rock, Plaka was the center of Athens since antiquity. Plaka holds it's fascination as it manages to preserve the sense and the aroma of a more romantic and carefree era, despite the growth of the city during the last decades.

Stadium: The Panathenaic Stadium was built on Ardittus hill next to the Ilissos river. In 330 BC Lykourgos built this stadium of stone. In 140 AD Herod Atticus renovated it, adding marble and a majestic Propylaia. The track has a length of 204 m. and a width of 33.36 m. The course was marked out by herms instead of ordinary distance markers. The herms were square columns with the busts of Dionysios and Apollon. Only four of these columns have been found. The Panathenaic Games were held in the stadium and included all the usual contests. The winner's trophy was an amphora, which contained olive oil from Athena's olive tree. In 1896, with the revival of the institution of the Olympic Games, the first games were held here 1,500 years after the final ancient Olympic games. Soon, in the year 2004, Panathenaic stadium will be the starting point for the Olympic Games of Athens with the ceremony of the"Holly Flame".

Temple of Olympian Zeus: The Columns of the Temple of Olympian Zeus rise up in one of the most beautiful settings in Athens. This area, because of its proximity to the Ilissos river, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Here was the center of the town, and where tradition places the oldest sanctuaries such as the sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the Pythion and the sanctuary of Gaia. According to Pausanias, the site is connected to the myth of the creation of the human race. Devkalion,according to the myth, was the founder of the sanctuary of Æeus. He and his wife Pyrha, were the only human beings who survived from the Great Flood. he temple that was built here was one of the largest in Greece and the largest built in the Corinthian style. Its foundations were laid by Peisistratos in the 6th century BC. It was completed in the 2nd century AD by Hadrian. The temple is built on a large rectangle, 250 m. long and 130 m. wide. On the north side there was a Portico with four columns and the main entrance. The temple is dipteral with eight columns. Today 16 columns have survived of the original total of 108. Of these, one lies on the ground since 1852, when it was hit by a bolt of lighting.

Theseio: At the peak of Agoraios Kolonos hill is the best preserved temple of antiquity, the Theseio. The Theseio or the Temple of Hephaestus, is a peripheral temple, the same as the Parthenon. It was built with pentelic marble. It has 13 columns on its long side and 6 on its narrow. The feats of Hercules and Theseus are engraved in relief on its metopes. The Theseio was built during the time of Pericles. After 1821, it was the only closed and covered space usable as a museum, the first national archaeological museum of modern Greece. During the early years of Christianity the temple was converted into the church of Saint George. There was also a square building on the same hill known as the Skevothiki, a small sanctuary from the 2nd century BC, that was dedicated to Demos and the Three Graces.

The Greek Isles

• One of the world's top destinations for all types of travelers, the Greek Isles offer everything you could want in a vacation: Sun, sand, scenery, history, excellent nightlife and glowing sunsets.
• Cruising is the perfect way to experience these magical isles. Viewing them from the sea, as they were by ancient mariners, is a dream experience, then go ashore and explore at a leisurely, Mediterranean pace. Discover such magical places as Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos and Crete.

Greece

• Mainland Greece will captivate you with its mix of archaeological sights and museums. How could you not be moved by experiences like standing at the top of the Acropolis in Athens, looking across the city where modern democracy was founded?
• There's a wonderful culinary heritage here as well. Food and wine is meant to be enjoyed with friends leading to some very lively tavernas wherever you go. You'll see fresh sea food hanging to dry on nets along the waterfronts. This could be your next meal!
• From the mountains of the north to the southern Peloponessos, often called the real Greece, there are many intriguing regions to visit. The mountaintop monasteries of Meteora; the spiritual center of Delphi and ancient Olympia where the Olympic Games began are just a few of the important sights to see.

Turkey

• Turkey is filled with highlights for travelers. From the therapeutic pools of Pamukkale, one of the natural wonders of the world, to the rock cut churches of the Cappadocia Region, there is much of interest for visitors.
• Straddling Europe and Asia is the city of Istanbul. It sits on the Bosphorus River, with Europe on the west side and Asia on the east. Here you'll enjoy the majesty of the Topkapi Palace, the famous Blue Mosque and Haghia Sophia, now a museum of Christian and Islamic art. The Grand Bazaar is more like a small town than a market. Home to 4,000 shops, along the miles of passageways you'll come across mosques, police stations, banks and restaurants.
• Ephesus is one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world. Dating back to the 12th Century BC, this thriving city had a population of 250,000 in Roman times. Notable sights include the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and the well preserved Celsius Library, a favorite with visitors.

The Near East

• At its most easterly, the Mediterranean borders the countries of Israel, Lebanon and Syria, countries off the beaten tourist track yet rich in history with much to offer visitors.
• Israel draws pilgrims to the holy land to visit biblical destinations like Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea and more.
• Israel's Tel Aviv is a very popular resort destination right on the coast. In this cosmopolitan city English is widely spoken and the people are known for their friendliness. The fabulous beaches have warm, clear water and no rocks so swimming is comfortable. Cuisine is Mediterranean and delicious accompanied by local wines which are surprisingly good, both red and white.

Egypt

• This is a place of legend. The Pyramids, Great Sphinx of Giza, Temple of Karnak, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings famous for the discovery of the tomb of Tutankamun conjure images of Egypt's spellbinding history.
• Modern Cairo is a bustling city with many museums and street markets of interest while coastlines from the Mediterranean to the coral reefs of the Red Sea offer some outstanding beach resort locations.
• Cruising the Nile River is a great way to see the interior of the country. Uniworld offers 9 and 13-day Nile sailings which they tell us are "like watching 5,000 years of culture unfold before your eyes. Marvel at the contrasts as you sail past simple villages surrounded by luxuriant palm groves, fertile plantations, romantic desert hills, lush oases, modern cities and ancient colonnaded temples and pyramids."

The Eastern Mediterranean is one of the richest areas in the world for discovering ancient history. In this extraordinary region you're sure to enjoy some of the most enriching and powerful experiences possible.

One of Italy's most romantic cities is Florence-the home of poets and painters and the spawning ground of what must be much of the world's great art. Even today, it's a city where art and creativity are in the forefront of everyday life, a city of timeless beauty tailor-made for lovers. So, imagine honeymooning or sharing a lovers' tryst in the stunning 400-year-old Grand Hotel Villa Medici, an historical residence located in the center of Florence within walking distance of all major art sites and shopping locations. Here, the high-quality service meets the elegance of the interior's historical furnishings, with each of its 88 rooms and 15 suites showcasing original antique furnishings and tapestries. Wide windows frame Florence and the Tuscany landscape, while the rooms on the top floor-which have private terraces and are a must for honeymooners and lovers-overlook the captivating cityscape. Or, there's the Il Magnifico Suite, which has a large terrace and jacuzzi. The hotel's Sina Fitness Club is the perfect place for couples to relax, enjoy a sauna, a Turkish bath or work out in the gym, while the restaurant Lorenzo de Medici with its Tuscan cuisine, provides an excellent and romantic Florentine dining experience. The restaurant abuts the Conservatory, another dining experience with a modern interior and verandah leading to the garden and pool. Clients of both restaurants can enjoy warm summer nights listening to live music and tasting exquisite wines.

Venice, too, of course, ranks right up there as a city for lovers. It's here, after all, where you'll find the famous Bridge of Sighs where, local legend says, lovers will be assured eternal love if they kiss on a gondola at sunset under the bridge. Unfortunately, the name really came from the fact that this was a passageway that took prisoners into the palace prisons from which few returned and where the hapless victims looked out onto freedom for the last time with a sigh. Except for one, the famous Casanova who was arrested in 1755 for spreading antireligious sentiment and escaped 15 months after he crossed the Bridge of Sighs-now that's romance. Nearby, overlooking the Riva degli Shiavoni, just steps from Piazza San Marco, St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, the restored and romantic Hotel Danieli is made up of three interconnecting palaces. The main building, the 14th century Dandolo Palace, is Venetian gothic lavishly appointed with pink marble, stained glass, gold-leaf decorated ceilings, Murano glass chandeliers and antiques. The adjacent Casa Nuova building is a 19th century palace whose decor reflects a rich, Venetian baroque style. The building to the right of the central Dandolo Palace is the Danielino, dating back to 1948 with decor focusing on Old World charm. But it's the lagoon-view rooms-some of which have a balcony-that are beautifully decorated in Empire or Venetian style with romantic views of the Venice lagoon, another must for honeymooners and lovers. Directly overlooking the Grand Canal with an incomparable view of Venice and just a short stroll from the Piazza San Marco, the Hotel Gritti Palace has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most romantic hotels in the world, attracting elite guests such as the British royal family, the Duke of Windsor, the Princess of Monaco and a bevy of Hollywood stars all the way up to today's most popular celebrities. And it's not like this is a new thing for the property, considering it was commissioned in 1525 as the residence of the Doge of Venice-Doge Andrea Gritti-and was later used as the official residence of the Vatican's ambassadors to Venice. As one of the most celebrated hotels in the world, there's no better place to take advantage of a honeymoon program-what the hotel describes as, "a fairy tale honeymoon in magical, dreamy Venice." Couples are welcomed with a bottle of wine and a bouquet of flowers in their hotel room where they'll spend a memorable night in the intimacy of a richly decorated double room or luxurious jr. suite or suite. The next morning, they're awakened leisurely to a daily breakfast served-at their discretion-in room or in the Club Del Doge restaurant. Various tours-individual, group, walking, boat, guided-may be organized through the hotel concierge. Tour guides are available upon request and honeymooners can arrange for a late check-out at 4:30 p.m.

It wouldn't be right to exclude Rome, the Eternal City, in a Europe honeymoon review and we would certainly be remiss not to mention the Hotel Hassler, which has been recognized as one of the prime hotels in Europe for more than 100 years. With an unbeatable location atop the Spanish Steps, it's one of Italy's most luxurious with 82 rooms and 13 suites, all of which are elegantly furnished with antiques while equipped with modern leisure. The suites feature exquisite boiserie and frescoes, original paintings by the Titian and Tintoretto schools and the furniture is in original 18th century Louis XV style. The large bathrooms are finished in precious Italian marble and 23-carat gold-plated faucets. Fine Italian cuisine is available at Imago, the Salone Eva Restaurant & Bar, and the Palm Court Garden Restaurant & Bar during the warmer weather seasons. Beauty and wellness treatments are also available at Amorvero SPA. The Honeymoon package includes four nights in a luxury deluxe accommodation, daily buffet breakfast or room service, continental breakfast, a bottle of Prosecco (Italian sparkling white wine) in room upon arrival, daily fresh fruit in room, a special gift from the hotel's management from the Amorvero Home Collection, a romantic dinner at panoramic, Michelin-starred Imago, with Rome's most breathtaking views and creative Italian cuisine, plus guaranteed upgrade from deluxe to an exclusive grand deluxe double room.

Despite its recent financial woes, there's no place like Greece and the Greek Islands for a truly classic honeymoon experience and indeed, many of its island resorts were built primarily with romance in mind. At Cavo Tagoo Resort on Mykonos, for example, the overall seductive design screams romance and intimacy-everything from the infinity pool overlooking the blue Aegean Sea, to the chic, luxurious and comfortable rooms and suites, all designed to embody a contemporary minimalist island aesthetic while remaining true to the traditional character and architecture of the Cycladic Islands. All modern amenities and conveniences are provided to ensure an experience of utter comfort in an elegantly minimalist and relaxed chic setting, while excellent touches of luxury are added such as jacuzzi tubs and private pools. The Cavo Tagoo Spa is also designed with a focus on classic Greek beliefs and legends and has been ideally placed in a unique location immersed in Cycladean light, facing Delos, the birthplace of the mythical God of the sun, Apollo. Its mission, they say, "...is to fuse the latest in international spa trends with a simultaneous, traditional Greek approach to wellness and beauty in our award-winning treatments and products. The Cavo Tagoo Spa Experience is an indigenous journey of the six senses-see, smell, touch, hear, feel, and experience." Couples can also take tours to Delos, charter boats or rent cars for trips to the Mykonos town.

On Santorini, honeymoon and lovers will be mesmerized by the Andronis Luxury Suites, a breathtaking all-suite boutique hotel that sits high above the sea with panoramic views of a volcano or caldera soaring into the sky across the water. The property offers five different suite categories with the first three offering spacious living areas, separate bedrooms and private, seaview verandahs, while the exceptional suite category offers a jacuzzi and a jet pool, while the pool suite offers an infinity pool overlooking the sea. Needless to say, there's plenty of 21st century comforts and amenities including satellite TV, CD player, wireless internet and international telephony-all offered in a classical but timeless island setting. The onsite restaurant serves local cuisine with traditional recipes that include virgin olive oil, fresh vegetables, Greek herbs and succulent meats, blended with organic ingredients and elements of nouvelle cuisine to create a superlative menu-all washed down with some of Santorini's famous local wines, cultivated from the island's very own vineyards. There is also a special selection of international wines. Mare Et Sanus Spa, inspired by Greek nature and the healing power of the gods, offers massages and body treatments or even a complete Day Spa Program. Local ingredients such as propolis, tomato, cucumber, orange, fig, cinnamon and almond are all part of the spa's unique, different treatments that relax, rejuvenate and revitalize.

It's not possible to list European honeymoon and romance choices without mentioning Paris, the City of Light and Love, where romance fuses with culture. Which is why couples will enjoy celebrating the centennial of the Hotel Lutetia-a property that calls itself a "...modern-day reflection of the belle epoque and Art Deco periods; the embodiment of contemporary, stylish Parisian living." Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Pres, it's within walking distance of the Seine, the Musee d'Orsay, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the boutiques and designers' studios on the Left Bank. Views of the nearby Eiffel Tower can be enjoyed from many of the rooms and suites where the classic styling of the 1930s is combined with all the modern amenities. In fact, the sculpted Art Deco facade and welcoming statue of Gustave Eiffel, along with pictures of artists who once lived here, attest to the fact the hotel is full of artistic surprises. But while it's not a honeymoon or romance spot for everyone, it's ideal for couples who enjoy the arts. Even today, it's a meeting place for artists, writers and politicians, with the lobby boasting a lively edginess with displayed works of art by renowned contemporary artists such as Arman, Cesar, Philippe Hiquily, Perrin and Thierry Bisch. Surrounded by Art Deco architecture, period furniture, crystal chandeliers and the sounds of jazz music drifting through from the highly popular Lutetia Bar, this is a place truly immersed in a lively Parisian atmosphere.

But for those who want to honeymoon outside of the City of Light, there's a great option in sunny St. Tropez-the Chateau de la Messardiere, the 75-room and 6-suite Leading Hotels of the World property with a history that goes all the way back to the seventh century. Today, it's a beautifully restored, five-star beauty that sits near the beautiful French Riviera and combines traditional beauty with contemporary flair. It's a great honeymoon spot and for couples who want to combine a lovers' solitude with a little seaside fun. The different room categories offer a variety of views, but for the best romantic experience, book either the deluxe room with views from the terrace or the balcony to the countryside and the gardens, or even better, the Prestige Room with large private terraces and breathtaking views of the sea from the room and the terrace. The Chateaux spa offers a variety of body treatments and fitness equipment, but the truly pampering experience here is the gourmet restaurant Les Trois Saisons, reputed to be one of St. Tropez's best dining addresses and open evenings only. The hotel claims that the restaurant is "...the perfect venue for a romantic dinner for two or with friends," because Les Trois Saisons serves refined and creative Mediterranean-style cuisine in a truly exceptional ambiance. The restaurant's huge terrace offers sweeping views over the beaches of Pampelonne. The wine selection, by the way, is as sweeping as the panorama with over 400 wines and champagnes from France and the world over, with new wines being added every year.

There's still another take on a resort stay on the French Riviera with a relatively new property near St. Tropez-La Reserve Ramatuelle, a 23-room and -suite boutique hotel with an additional 12, 4- and 5-bedroom rental villas on site. It's the boutique aspect, of course, that lends itself to honeymooners or lovers, with each of the rooms and suites enjoying their own private garden or terrace. All of the modern amenities are included, of course, with drop-dead gorgeous views of the Mediterranean thrown in for free. The hotel's restaurant and bar promises "...meticulously flavored tastes of the south, that are subtly combined for pleasure, as well as health." But it's the spa here that's the real spoiler. It even includes a 6-day program designed to focus on the personal health objectives of the guest with the goal of achieving long-term health improvement and "...maximize the future life potential of each participant." Still another program is called Discovery Day, where guests get to sample the unique spa offerings, such as baleneotherapy, of their choice, exfoliant or wrap, a 50-minute body treatment, jet shower and lunch. Then there's the Creme de la Mere, which they say is exclusive skin care with the goal of relaxation and pure pleasure and includes two regenerating facials and body treatments.

For a truly fairy tale honeymoon, look no further than Europe's own fairy tale city-the beautiful and wonderfully preserved city of Prague in the Czech Republic. This is a city, in fact, that stands for many things-music and theater, Kafka and Mozart, beer and dumplings-but especially for its romantic, charming and unforgettable atmosphere. So what could be more romantic for your couples than booking into The Iron Gate Hotel & Suites, set in a 14th century building located in the heart of Prague's Old Town, in a picturesque, cobbled side street just steps from the famous Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square-the perfect choice for enjoying the wonders of Prague, in spacious, elegant and historical surroundings. The Iron Gate Hotel & Suites offers 43 unique rooms and suites, each with a different layout, view and decor. This beautiful landmark, set in the privacy of an inner courtyard with unforgettable atmosphere, is certainly one of the hidden gems in Prague. Most rooms and suites are decorated with original 14th to 18th century frescoes or painted ceilings and some Royal Suites even offer two bathrooms and a jacuzzi. Room and suite amenities include DVD player with a selection of over 80 DVD movies available free of charge, in-room Internet connection, minibar, alarm/clock radio, satellite and cable on 28-inch large-screen TV, ETRO Designer toiletries and luxury linens. The hotel has a 2-night Romantic & Honeymoon stay in one of its luxurious jr. suites or 1-bedroom Royal Suites. The program includes Mercedes car transfer from and to the airport or railway station, welcome drink, full buffet breakfast or breakfast served in the room, flower arrangements in the room, a bottle of Bohemian sparkling wine, coffee and tea service, as well as a romantic 3-course candlelight dinner.

Talk to Atlas Cruises & Tours at 800-942-3301 to set up a honeymoon or romantic escape to Italy, France or Greece.

By: Rick Shively
Brought to you by Recommend Magazine and Atlas Cruises & Tours

What a Stress Free, Hassle Free way to travel to Europe? 

Leave all of the travel details to a tour operator. They provide you with comfortable transportation, several meals, a rich sightseeing program and much more.

Traveling can be stressful, especially if you are traveling to a country where English is not their first language. Something amazing happens when you feel comfortable.  Your senses have the luxury to stray from the detail and worry, finding in their place anticipation and wonder.  You'll feel comfortable staying in first class hotels located in clean, safe areas.

Save time and money. Spending hours in line to get into major attractions such as the Louvre or Vatican Museums can take all day. Groups have a separate entrance, and get to go in with little or no wait so that you have more time to enjoy the sites, and more free time in the city.

Nothing introduces you to the true flavors of your destination like fine local cuisine.  Included three course dinners are carefully planned to avoid the repetition of entrees.  From the tapas bars of Spain to the vineyards of Italy and France, the tour operator will include on your trip optional specialty dinners and plenty of free time to venture out on your own. For the evenings when dinners are not included, your tour director will have a number of suggestions for favorite nearby restaurants. After all, one of the best ways to learn about a foreign culture is to eat like the local do!

The tour buses are air conditioned are are equipped with emergency washrooms.  The bus normally accommodates 53 seats, but they install fewer seats (44) for extra leg room.

If buses are not for you, tour operators have many other options including city stays, rail packages and river cruises through Europe.

There are hundreds of tour operators you can choose from, however some have been in the business for over 50 years and have proven over time that they offer consumers the best value and service. Check with a travel agent if you need assistance finding a reputable operator.

Here is our network of Europe travel destination sites:

| England Tours | France Tours | Greece Tours| Ireland Tours | Italy Tours | River Cruise | Russia Tours | Scandinavia Tours | Spain Tours

We also have specialty European Tour Operators sites:

Contiki Tours | Cosmos Tours | General Tours| Gate 1| Globus Tours | Insight Tours | Tauck Tours | Trafalgar Tours

Trafalgar offers 8 different styles of touring, as well as river cruises in Europe. All travel is carefully designed to appeal to all types of travelers. There is only one choice to make to ensure a hassle-free, dream vacation…Trafalgar.

City Breaks:  These are designed with the independent traveler in mind who prefers to explore Europe’s great cities at their own pace. Packages include transfers and breakfast daily.

Free & Easy:  Experience the art of perfectly balanced touring with longer stay in each destination. The slower pace means less packing and unpacking and more leisure time to enjoy the cities on your own.

Europe Discoveries:  Travel throughout the length and breadth of Europe’s varied destinations on multi-country vacations.

Regional Tours:  Enjoy the traditions, customs and scnery on these tours which concentrate on one country or a specific region of Europe.

Train Tours:  Rediscover the magic of train travel through the heart of Europe’s wondeerland on a choice of 5 exciting journeys featuring modern, high-speed trains in combination with state of the art motorcoaches.

Eastern Mediterranean:  Explore the cultural and historic treasures of Greece, Egypt, Israel and Turkey with included sightseeing and cruises. Embark on a tour of discovery in this fascinating region.

Cost Saver:  Perfectly balanced vacations combining all the benefits of fully escorted touring with the flexibility of traveling independently.

Breakaway: Tours designed for 21 to 38 year olds.

River Cruising:  An intimate, stylish and sophisticated experience, gliding down Europe’s waterways on a luxury river cruise is a peaceful and relazing way to see Europe’s great cities.

For a complete selection of Trafalgar Tours visit : http://www.escortedtrafalgartours.com