Best Of
Essence of Japan in Autumn
Hello All,
I am thinking about taking the Essence of Japan tour in October/November. I was wondering, for those who have been in Japan at that time, if you encountered the beautiful fall colors that you see in photos of Japan?
Also, how was the weather in October/November?
Thank you!

Yellowstone Winter Insights
We are recently booked for Yellowstone in Jan 2024 and reviewing clothing recommendations. Planning on layers and we are familiar w/ winter wear, synthetics, no cotton, etc. Ski pants / bibs w/ elastic internal snow shields over boots.
Biggest question is re footwear as we may need to make an addition there. I'm guessing wool socks, insulation & water proof bottoms most important. Lace up vs slip in for better fit and avoiding snow over tops. Would like to avoid calf high tops if possible due to space to pack... is something above ankle ht sufficient for walking, viewing, etc? We are not planning on snowmobiling, XC skiing, snowshoeing... just viewing the sights. I'm thinking boot / toe warmers can go a long way for comfort vs super arctic pacs? Any insights appreciated.
Thnx
Re: Okavango Delta
We timed our Z,B, and SA trip to be at the Falls at maximum flood stage and the Okavango full of water. Both the Victoria Falls and the Okavango were spectacular.

Re: Arriving in AM in Amsterdam before checkin
Short, what a great city Amsterdam is! I love the hop on hop off buses that you can pick up along the canal near Centraal Starion. Some even include a canal cruise. Or perhaps just take a canal cruise. I look for a hop on hop off bus every time I land in a major city after a long flight that arrives early in the AM. The buses are like big baby carriages for the jet lagged!
Re: Accessibility for people with mobility scooters
It would be best to contact Tauck directly with your concern.

Re: Accessibility for people with mobility scooters
I agree with everything Claudia stated in her post. I just returned from this trip on April 17. I need to be blunt here. Even if this person is able to get around without the motor scooter, it will be very challenging if they have issues walking. There is alot of walking on this tour, many stairs, uneven terrain, cobblestone streets, etc. If they somehow make it on to the boat, they will probably have to stay onboard the entire time and they will require an able companion to stay and assist them. (See Tauck Health and Safety insert below). If you are attending an excursion, the crew can't be expected to assist. There is an elevator, but not to the top deck, which would limit their ability to just sit and enjoy the view . I don't think it would be very enjoyable for either of you. Perhaps there are tours out there that would cater more to individuals with disabilities.
The following is listed under the General Information:
Health and Safety:
Please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice. Tauck regrets that it cannot provide special assistance for walking, wheelchairs, motorized scooters, dining or other personal needs. Guests needing such assistance must be
accompanied by an able companion who will assist them. We regret that all river cruising itineraries cannot
accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.
Re: Accessibility for people with mobility scooters
jlrm Hi.
Look at the health considerations for this cruise Tauck specifically says they "cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters". The tour coaches aren't set up for this.
Re: Accessibility for people with mobility scooters
I believe some of the large cruise ships can accommodate scooters. Good luck!
Re: Accessibility for people with mobility scooters
Try Googling "European tours for people with mobility issues"
A poster on the Rick Steves website listed this one: (I know nothing about it) https://www.sagetraveling.com/ There were several other posts on Rick's site on this topic.
Here is an article on Conde Nast: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/tour-companies-dedicated-to-travelers-with-disabilities
You will likely find some companies that meet your needs, unfortunately, Tauck is not one of them.
