Looking for a bucket-list getaway that includes one of the most-iconic regions of Europe, and where you are surrounded by like-minded travellers looking for authentic experiences and a sense of community?
Canadian/American-based Detours Travel, which specializes in small-group, 8- to 13-day gay adventure tours to select destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania and South America, has unveiled its newest offering, a river cruise on the Rhine River in time for Oktoberfest.
Taking place between Oct. 1 and 7, Detour’s all-inclusive Rhine River Cruise through Alsace is an unforgettable journey highlighting the heart of Europe. The adventure begins in Frankfurt, where—after exploring the city at your leisure—you can board a brand new and modern riverboat that will be your travelling hotel starting at noon.
In fact, you will be the first among the first guests to experience the Transcend Connect. This stylish floating accommodation features an onboard restaurant, library cafe, and main and aft lounges perfect for an afternoon or end-of day cocktail, beer or glass of wine while listening to one of the lively performances featuring local talent. And, as the tour is all-inclusive, all meals and drinks, even guided activities and onboard entertainment are included.
During that first evening, you will be introduced to all your like-minded travellers, trip leaders and ship crew. It will be followed by a fabulous evening performance before you return to your room for a well-earned rest as the Transcend Connect makes its way to the city of Mainz.
All accommodations on the ship feature European king-sized beds, stocked mini-refrigerators, luxury bath amenities, daily housekeeping and turndown service, and unlimited Wi-Fi. You can select between one of the eight luxurious suites, 14 of the category ‘A’ staterooms or 30 category ‘B’ staterooms—all of which comes with French balconies.
After a good night’s sleep, your morning begins in Mainz, one of Germany’s oldest cities, where on a guided tour led by a knowledgeable local guide, you will learn about its Roman history and walk through the streets of its lively old town. Detours trips are a mix of planned and free time, so you have ample opportunity to wander on your own and indulge your passions—from cultural attractions to wine tastings or just people watching.
To help you explore, you can use one of the 20 complimentary bikes available to Transcend Connect guests, and—once back on ship after a day of exploring—be sure to unwind in its 2,600 square feet well-being zone that features a spa, sauna, relaxation lounge, two private treatment rooms, fitness facility and yoga deck.
That laid-back pattern of guided excursions and free time to explore will be repeated as you continue along the Rhine to romantic Heidelberg, the spa town of Baden-Baden, charming Strasbourg, the vineyard surrounded Breisach, before making your final port of call in the vibrant Swiss city of Basel. It is from there that you will catch your flight home.
To experience even more of Germany, Detours guests have the option of extending their time in the country with its Oktoberfest in Munich tour from Sept. 28 to Oct. 1. Preceding its river cruise adventure, this three-night experience takes you to the heart of Munich in time for world’s largest folk festival, the legendary Oktoberfest.
This multi-day celebration of Bavarian culture, music and beer will see you in the middle of all the action inside enormous tents full of traditionally dressed locals laughing, dancing, singing and parading. You won’t be able to resist being swept up in the festivities. Or, digging into the savoury pretzels, schnitzel, roast chicken and apple strudel on offer.
Tour highlights also include Munich’s iconic sights such as Marienplatz, a central square in the city, and the Glockenspiel, a large mechanical clock, and a visit to the English Garden, an expansive park in the city, and to a classic Bavarian beer garden.
For more information about Detours Travel’s all-inclusive Rhine River Cruise through Alsace and its Oktoberfest in Munich tours, or to learn what sets it apart from other tour companies, visit detourstravel.com
