Best Of
Re: is there a benefit to booking EASTbound VS WESTbound
With pre-and-post tour days, the direction makes no difference as far as the itinerary. Available and direct flights might make a difference, however.
We started in Madrid because we had several things we wanted to accomplish before the journey began. We knew we would enjoy the slower pace once on the boat, so we put in our most active days beforehand. Ending in Lisbon afforded us the opportunity to relax and do what we wished at a leisurely pace.
Edited for clarification.
kfnknfzk
Re: Valparaiso
We thought about going to Iguazu, but at the time there was a visa requirement which was later postponed. We were on an18 day tour and really wanted to get back as it’s a busy social time of year for us right now. We went to Niagara for the first time last year and on our Patagonia tour we visited incredible waterfalls which wound their way through volcanic rock areas just a drive away from Puerto Varas. We’ve never seen such beautiful falls. I’ll post a photo, oh, not downloaded from my phone yet.
One couple on our tour went to Iguazu first and another went on to Easter Island from Santiago. They are going to report back
British
Re: Yet another Tauck Freebie
2024 was the 200th anniversary of my alma mater and they didn't send me anything (besides a request for donation).
BKMD
Re: Valparaiso
We went to Iguazu falls in 2017, as a post cruise excursion. You can see what it was like at https://www.mikeandjudytravel.com/2017SouthAmerica-11.htm
Photography is not very good but you can tell what's going on. It was an interesting excursion.
Re: Valparaiso
British - thank you so much for all of the advice and suggestions. We are extending and going to Iguazu Falls when the tour ends in Buenos Aires. For those that are interested in pursuing this add on - there are 2 airports to fly into Iguazu. The city airport in Buenos AIres is much closer than EZE and offers round trips on Aerolineas Argentina. Book in advance because the prices definitely creep up closer to the date and are much less expensive for carry on only rather than checked bags. We arranged with the Sofitel to hold our large bags, and booked an extra night there after Iguazu. While in Iguazu, for us, it was more convenient to stay on the Argentina side. We got the best prices at the Melia, which is in the park, by calling. It was a significant difference in price ($900 versus $500). The Tauck travel insurance will still cover our flights back to the US and any medical issues which may come up while we are in Iguazu. It will not cover the flights to and from Iguazu nor will it cover the hotel in Iguazu. We have another extra day in BA and plan on taking the ferry and going to Colonnia in Uruguay. If any one is interested and wants specifics, PM me.
Re: Savoring France: Paris, Lyon & Provence - Excursion Choice Guidance Requested!
Please don't go to any trouble. I used my truffle oil sparingly over angel hair pasta...très bon! That is a trip I hope to do again. So fun and memorable.
kfnknfzk
Re: Good Review of Cruise Options
I read some of the guy’s website and there are many of us here who have taken more Tauck trips than him. I’m waiting for an invite to be on the Advisory board and I’ve already traveled with Peter Tauck.
Only taken one big cruise, they are just not for us. The biggest we go is Tauck small ship cruise but we still prefer their land tours.
What I want these days is longer more in depth tours to areas of the world, not a tour that says an ‘Essence’. Anyone there at Tauck listening?
British
Re: Savoring France: Paris, Lyon & Provence - Excursion Choice Guidance Requested!
kfnknfzk - The gift shop was right next to the tasting room. They sold many truffle products, jams, artwork and other assorted items. I'll post a picture if I can find it.
