Best Of
Re: Is it time to boycott cash tips to get Tauck to join the modern era?
This subject was discussed with the Tauck CEO on the 1925 Circle zoom meeting this morning. Here's my takeaway:
- They definitely are aware of the concerns about tipping and looking for solutions.
- They want to stick to the tipping model where practical (i.e. land tours).
- There is no app available that would allow tipping internationally (they've looked).
- They are going to try a pilot program of electronic tipping on tours in the US.
One interesting note, the reason that Bridges tours have the tipping included is that they found that parents don't tip for their kids - even though the kids require the most attention.
Re: Feedback about the Grand European Cruise experience
I've been looking at that tour for next year so please post your opinion when you return.
Re: Mobility steps
A few flights of stairs on this tour. Definitely in Doge's palace in Venice and Isola Bella, the later has stairs in the garden that might be tricky. There may also be steps in the Roman Ampitheater in Verona. Also, boat ride in Como and Venice, so you need to be comfortable getting on and off a boat. There are steep cobbled roads in Bergamo. Lots of walking on the tour, like most Italian tours. Some upstairs dining, but there should be hand railings for those. Hope this helps.
Re: Electronic Travel Authorization Requirement When Flying Through LHR
The ETA is not very expensive, easy to apply for, and good for two years. It's a good thing to have in your travel kit.
Re: Rhine Connoisseur
Gladys, don't worry about Ireland. I ate a ton of excellent seafood there. The trick is avoiding lamb/mutton.
Re: Lausanne OLYMPIC museum
We are going a couple of weeks after you. On the museum website it says that the permanent exhibition on Level 1 is closed. that appears to be the history of how the Olympic Games were started. I am getting more information on this from a local tour guide. Safe travels and look forward to hearing about your trips!
taxare
Re: England, & The West Country
Oradellian….we are not scheduled out of EWR but rather from Charlotte, NC. We are heading over a day early & spend the day in London. Good luck in your travels.
Re: Denmark - Copenhagen Restaurant Recommendations
Aamanns Deli, another place recommended on Someone Feed Phil. Out of this world smorrebrod sandwiches. So, so unique and flavorful.
Re: Electronic Travel Authorization Requirement When Flying Through LHR
If I were a betting man, I'd bet if you don't have an ETR but your connection flight is delayed a day, you can get special temporary paperwork so you can leave LHR for a hotel and return the next day to continue your journey. They will not ship you off to El Salvador, Sudan, or Guantanamo . . . . oh wait! 
AlanS