Europe guide 2015

THE EUROPE GUIDE 2015/2016

SCOTLAND

IRELAND ENGLAND GERMANY

FRANCE

ITALY

SPAIN

EUROPE EXPLORE THIS AMAZING CONTINENT WITH ONE OF GOGO VACATIONS’ CITY STAYS!

Europe is a treasure chest filled with priceless wonders. Every country shimmers with breathtaking sights, stunning buildings, and prized artifacts. With endless adventures and countless must-see attractions, you can spend a lifetime trying to discover every country and still not experience all each has to offer, which is why Europe is a premier continent to explore. You’ll experience endless amenities and ultimate relaxation at luxurious hotels and a bustling nightlife and historic sights in picturesque cities. In this guide, you’ll find affordable offers in London, Ireland, Scotland, Spain, Italy, and Germany, with a brief overview of what you find on your first—or next—trip across the Pond.

So don’t wait. Inquire about your upcoming European vacation today!

myTime AUSTRIA

•

CZECH REPUBLIC

•

ENGLAND

You can now Vacation Like a VIP in Europe! myTime is a new concept in vacations, providing unique recognition, extra amenities and special touches when traveling – all at no additional cost.

Differentiate yourself from other travelers.

Select one of our myTime properties and experience complimentary extras such as a welcome drink, buffet breakfast on your day of arrival, spa discounts, drink discounts and much more.

Whether you are traveling with a family, with friends, or with the one you love - make your next European vacation a myTime vacation.

Look for the myTime logo to see where you can receive VIP treatment! Ask your travel agent for a full list of participating properties & amenities.

•

FRANCE

•

GERMANY

•

HUNGARY

•

ROMANIA

•

SPAIN

ITALY FLORENCE

•

VENICE

•

ROME HOTEL OPTIONS:

Stunningly beautiful Italy is one of the most frequented regions of Europe with its countless historical and cultural sights, gorgeous landscapes, and exquisite cuisine. With a firm imprint on the arts, Italy is home to some of the world’s greatest creators, including Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, and Raphael, and was the epicenter of the Renaissance itself. With its unique flavors and impressive chefs, it is also a foodie’s haven with some of the most memorable meals.

The epicenter of the Renaissance, Florence is best known for its gothic architecture, including the world-renowned Duomo, and for its flavorful Tuscan dishes. Rome offers incredible museums and gorgeous cathedrals to explore, including the Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel, and the Colosseum, of course. Venice, the Floating City, attracts millions of visitors a year with its crystal waterways, picturesque bridges, and fashionista shops.

Regardless of where you travel in Italy, this enchanting country will not disappoint.

4.5-STAR

4-STAR

Hotel Brunelleschi Florence

Hotel Concordia Venice

SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS: • Walk & Talk Florence Tour • Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour • Romantic Waterways of Venice

4-STAR

Marcella Royal Hotel Rome

FRANCE PARIS The City of Light, the City of Love, Paris is the quintessential romantic escape. Every turn offers another magical memory with intimate bistros, fantastic sights, and world-class hotels. The lovely landscape is well-known with the Eiffel Tower, an architectural landmark; Musée d’Orsay, one of the largest collections of Impressionist paintings; and The Louvre, home of the Mona Lisa. A trip to Paris is not complete without seeing the spectacularly gothic Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle, historically important Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Bastille, the monolithic Centre Pompidou, and the socially imperative Élysée Palace. Less than an hour from the city, Versailles offers guests an opulent display of French history with the palace of Louis XIV and subsequent rulers.

The city itself is rich with cultural significance, wondrous views, and amazing history, perfect for a sightseeing adventure with a loved one. With world-class cuisine and famous gastronomy like caramels, bordier butter, chocolate, cheese, and of course, crepes, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Paris!

HOTEL OPTIONS:

5-STAR

4-STAR

Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris

K+K Hotel Cay´ re Paris

SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS: • Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour • Reims and Champagne • Secret Paris: Cheese, Art, and Local Life 4-STAR

Hotel Regina Paris

IRELAND & SCOTLAND EDINBURGH

•

DU BLIN

•

GLASGOW

Both Ireland and Scotland possess absolutely stunning scenery and magnificent castles, making them some of the most eye-pleasing destinations in Europe. The lush, vibrant landscape gives Ireland its nickname “The Emerald Isle,” but in Dublin, there are busy streets and seaside wonders. Don’t miss out on the bustling taverns along West Bridge and High Street or the medieval wonders like Dublin Castle with its Bedford Tower, where the crown jewels were stolen and never recovered. Farmleigh House, owned by the Guinness Family, is known for its gardens and clock tower and has been used by visiting dignitaries and guests of Ireland.

Similarly, Scotland is known for its rolling hills and iconic landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Edinburgh with its namesake castle and historic Old Town. The Royal Mile, which is actually a Scots mile long or 1.12 miles, offers guests a medieval castle, Reformation buildings, gothic taverns, and more. Glasgow is a trendy retreat with a lively nightlife, beautiful parks, and a shopping haven.

HOTEL OPTIONS:

5-STAR

4-STAR

G&V Royal Mile Hotel Edinburgh

Doubletree by Hilton Dublin

SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS:

4-STAR

Hilton Glasgow

• Scotland Explorer Pass • Ultimate Chocolate Experience in Dublin • Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour In Dubin, Lochness, Glencoe & The Highlands Tour In Glasgow

GERMANY BERLIN

•

MUNICH

•

FRANKFURT

The centerpiece of Europe, Germany inspires travelers, culturists, and foodies alike. Three cities that must be visited are Berlin, Germany’s capital and largest city; Munich, the capital of the Bavarian region; and Frankfurt, the financial center of Europe. In Berlin, the Reichstag, Germany’s parliament building, was the site of the “final battle for Berlin,” one of the major turning points during World War II. Schloss Charlottenburg, Berlin’s largest palace, is home to splendid wealth such as 18th century French paintings, the Belvedere Teahouse, and the mausoleum of Queen Louise. The Glyptothek in Munich is the only museum in the world that is completely dedicated to ancient sculptures and includes such aesthetic pleasures as Greek and Roman marble statues and some pieces predating 650 B.C. As the center of European economics, Frankfurt offers a diverse population with fantastic eateries to match and historical wonders to explore.

With robust wines and decadent crèmes, you’ll experience Gemütlichkeit in Germany on this trip of a lifetime.

HOTEL OPTIONS:

4-STAR

4-STAR

Lindner Hote Am Ku Damm Berlin

K+K Hotel AM Harras Munich

SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS: • Storyline of Berlin Tour • Hop On/Off Bus Tour, Munich • Frankfurt City Tour

4-STAR

Savoy Hotel Frankfurt

SPAIN BARCELONA

•

MADRID

Between the Mediterranean Sea and the Bay of Biscay, Spain is well-known for its fabulous beaches, but the country is diverse with a plethora of climates, terrain, and culture. In the north, travelers will experience green meadows, lavish valleys, and even snowy mountains, which contrast the southern desert regions quiet beautifully.

Madrid is centrally located, which is a perfect placement for the Spanish government and the Royal Palace, where many kings of Spain have resided.

With winding streets and elaborate plazas, including the world-renowned Plaza Mayor, Spain’s largest city welcomes visitors with interesting architecture and fascinating sites. Barcelona is best known for embracing the arts and for hosting of the 1992 Olympics, but it’s also the home to Camp Nou, the FC Barcelona’s stadium. Diverse, exciting, and historic, Spain is beauty, personified.

HOTEL OPTIONS:

5-STAR

4-STAR

Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona

Spendom Suites Gran Via Madrid

SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS: • Panoramic Madrid Tour • Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour in Barcelona • A Tapas Evening Walking Tour 4-STAR

K+K Hotel Picasso Barcelona

ENGLAND LONDON

Tally-ho! England is the first stop over from the States and lures guests with cheerful accents, fascinating museums, and world-class accommodations. Big Ben, Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and the EDF Energy London Eye are just some of the sights to see when visiting the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, and as one of the leading cities of the world, London offers a refined, luxurious vacation for the sophisticated traveler.

HOTEL OPTIONS:

5-STAR

4.5-STAR

Grange Tower Bridge London

Grange City Hotel London

Sure not to disappoint, London is a sports and movie fan’s city. It is a soccer (European: football) mecca with no less than six professional teams based in the city, and the NFL stops by every year with a minimum of three games. Multiple Harry Potter tours and the iconic Kings Cross Station with Platform 9¾ is sure to excite even the leisure fan.

Coupled with the famous Tower Bridge and lively Piccadilly Circus, London hosts once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

SIGHTSEEING OPTIONS: • Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour • See London by Night • Historic Royal Palaces, Three Palace Pass 4-STAR

K+K Hotel George London

TRAVEL TIPS Have a set budget so you don’t overspend.

Europe is a treasure trove of international goodies, from food to souvenirs. Know your budget and use resources accordingly.

Bring cash and cards in case of emergency.

You don’t want to be stuck in a foreign country with no roof over your head and no way to get home.

Contact your bank before heading overseas and let them know your itinerary. This is now a painless experience with online banking and will avoid problems at the register.

Plan your trip before even booking it.

Having a set plan will help you save money by avoiding costly mistakes and potential headaches like transfers, rental cars, and spontaneous accommodations.

Be frugal— Do you research before leaving, so you can get the best deals. Don’t overspend in London when you can get that same shirt in Madrid cheaper.

—but indulge Unless you are insanely wealthy, you may not return to Europe for sometime. Taste that crepe or manicotti; take that extra day on the walking tour.

Explore all you can.

Consider driving In most cases, four people driving in a car works out cheaper than four people buying rail passes.

Just call your insurance company to make sure you’re covered.

Use local currency Local stores and most bed and breakfasts are cash only operations in Europe, so make sure you have enough on hand to cover the costs.

Don’t overtip Only Americans tip 1520 percent. In Europe, ask the locals. Most only put an extra 5-10 percent on the table.

Buy insurance!

Unexpected issues arise in your daily life. That doesn’t change on vacation. Ask your travel agent for information, so you can have the coverage you need abroad.

ME LONDON FASHION. BOUTIQUE. GLAMOUR You’re going to visit the Queen, so you should stay like royalty. Free WiFi, check-in and check-out in suites, fresh flowers, free iPad in the room during your stay, assistance in unpacking and packing, and a la carte sunset amenity service, are just some of the luxuries you’ll receive when you choose the posh ME London, and special touches like atmospheric lighting, a pillow menu, and an integrated media hub create a personalized experience that’ll make you feel like nothing than less than a guest of Her Majesty.

At Melía hotels, you’re in the middle of the excitement but with the comfort of a world-class hotel. ME London received a coveted spot on the famed Condé Nast Traveller Hotlist 2013, which includes only the most distinguished new hotels in the world. It exceeds all expectations and continues to deliver, from its exceptional service to its spectacular views. The hotel is also situated in the heart of London, a short distance from the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

London is one of the cultural and economic hubs of Europe, and ME London caters to every traveler’s palate. Discover homemade flatbread pizzas, or fantastic steaks and prime meats at STK London, which also doubles as a party with a DJ after 10pm. See the famous sights of London from the Radio Rooftop Bar, or relax with a drink at the elegant Marconi Lounge and Nine Story Atrium.

Europe awaits! Don’t backpack. That’s so 1980’s. Stay sophisticated at Melia Hotels and Resorts in Italy, France, Germany, Greece, Portugal, Spain & more!

THE EUROPE GUIDE 2015/2016

For Information & Reservations, Contact: