Travel VIP - Helen Szczuczko

05/12/2025

EXPLORE GERMANY'S ROMANTIC ROAD

Linking Würzburg to Füssen the Romantic Road spans 460 kms in southern Germany and meanders through the States (Bundesländer) of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg.
The Romantic Road has it all – nature, culture and friendly hospitality. From north to south the vistas evolve from river valleys with vineyards and fertile farmlands, to forests and meadows, charming medieval villages and towns, fairytale castles and spectacular lakes and alpine mountain scenery.
The Romantic Road begins in Würzburg (approximately a 1 hr drive from Frankfurt) and ends in Füssen close to the Austrian border (approximately a 1 hr 40 min drive from Munich). Ideally 3 to 4 days is the perfect amount of time to travel this spectacular scenic byway. This route is also doable by train!

For more information on The Romantic Road or custom planned vacations in Germany contact me at [email protected]

05/02/2025

10 HIDDEN ATTRACTIONS IN LONDON!

Looking to escape the crowds of London's main tourist attractions for a day? Consider some of the suggestions below. Hidden attractions in London offer a more intimate and authentic experience, allowing visitors to discover the city's unique character and culture. Contact me at helen@travelvip for custom trips to the UK and Europe

1. THE OLD OPERATING THEATRE MUSEUM
The oldest surviving surgical operating theatre in Europe. This museum, located in the historic Old Operating Theatre, offers a glimpse into the world of 18th-century medicine, including a section dedicated to apothecaries and their role in creating remedies.

2. V&A CAFE
Located inside the historic Victoria and Albert Museum, the V&A Cafe was the first cafe to ever open inside a museum. Tucked away at the back of a V&A gallery, this lavish gallery cafe has a classic menu, mosaics, stained glass and occasional piano or harp music.

3. LEADENHALL MARKET
Leadenhall Market dates back to 1321 and is situated in what was the center of Roman London and is now the middle of London's financial district. The current building dates back to 1881 and it made of light airy wrought iron and glass. It houses boutique retailers, restaurants, cafes, wine bars and an award-winning pub.

4. TREETOP WALKWAY AT KEW GARDENS
Take a walk through the treetop canopy to discover magical views of Kew Gardens. Towering 18 ft above the ground and at 200 meters long the walkway provides a bird's eye view across the gardens and the tree canopies.

5. THE POSTAL MUSEUM
Visit London’s first "social network" at a museum dedicated to the postal service. This family-friendly museum showcases how sending, delivering and receiving messages via post revolutionized our lives. Take a ride on The Mail Rail is London’s 100-year-old postal railway. Jump aboard the miniature train and travel through the tunnels underneath London’s Mount Pleasant sorting office.

6. THE FAN MUSEUM
The Fan Museum is the only organization of its kind devoted entirely to the history, culture and craft of the fan. It is located in the perfect setting - a pair of beautifully restored Grade II* Listed early Georgian period townhouses.

7. ROYAL OPERA HOUSE ROOF TERRACE
Situated on the fifth floor of the Royal Opera House, the Piazza Terrace Bar gives visitors an incredible unrivaled rooftop views over London's most famous market area Covent Garden, plus food and refreshments in this iconic building make it a special experience.

8. FORTITUDE BAKEHOUSE
It's tucked away in a little side street behind Russell Square station and looks very unassuming. but Fortitude Bakehouse is indisputably one of the top quality bakeries in town. In addition to their wholesome bakes, single-farm coffee and Stonerolled tea they are most famous for their beignets which come out at 11:am until they are sold out.

9. THE CINEMA MUSEUM
Hidden away off Renfrew Street, The Cinema Museum is an authentic treasure trove of cinema memorabilia, from plush velvet seats, impressive illuminated signs and elegantly tailored usher’s uniforms to movie stills, posters and cans of film. 45 minute guided tours are available.

10. THE PAINTED HALL
Situated in the Old Royal Naval College, The Painted Hall boasts one of the most spectacular Baroque interiors in Europe. Also known as the 'UK's Sistine Chapel'. It is the highlight of any visit to the Naval College. Designed in the early 18th century by Sir James Thornhill, it features more than 3,700 painted square meters of Baroque walls and ceilings and took 19 years to complete.

03/29/2025

A PERFECT VACATION IN CROATIA

With 2,500 miles of coastline, thousands of islands in the Adriatic sea, beaches, dense forests, gorges and waterfalls, ancient towns and villages and a rich history of Roman and Venetian era Architecture - Croatia offers unlimited diversity and something for every traveller. All still at a reasonable cost and easily accessible from anywhere in Europe.

Some of the unmissable locations include:

DUBROVNIK - also known as PEARL OF THE ADRIATIC
Famous for its Medieval walls and Baroque buildings, a circular walk along Dubrovnik's ancient fortified walls is an opportunity not to be missed. City views and sunsets are spectacular, marble paved squares, cobbled streets, palaces, monasteries and churches and terracotta rooftops are a cultural feast for the eyes.

MLJET NATIONAL PARK
Mljet National Park is located on the west side of the island of Mljet, which lies in the Adriatic Sea a ferry ride north of Dubrovnik. Known for its green lush forests and its unique two saltwater lakes. A great destination for adventure lovers, the park the perfect place for kayaking, snorkelling, boating, and other outdoor activities.

SPLIT
The 2nd largest City in Croatia, Split is a perfect blend of ancient and modern. With a beautiful coastline and easy access to many islands off shore, the city is a perfect blend of Greek and Roman history, fashionable shops, rich culinary traditions and vibrant nightlife - while being surrounded by beautiful beaches.

ISLAND OF BRAC
The largest island in central Dalmatia, Brac offers dreamy landscapes with pine forests, steep cliffs, and cobalt waters. It’s best known for its gleaming white limestone quarries which provided materials used to build Diocletian’s Palace in Split. A quieter less touristy island, Brac offers hiking opportunities, nature and tranquillity

TROJIR
A gem that should be included in any itinerary when visiting Croatia. The old town is on an island just 50 metres off the mainland linked by a bridge. The old town is totally unspoiled with buildings originating from 4 centuries of Venetian rule - there are no modern buildings on the island at all. easily explored by foot the old town is packed with scenic views, charm and great restaurants.

PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK
An experience one will never forget. The oldest UNESCO World Heritage Site in Croatia, Plitvice Lakes Park is a unique geological area consisting of 16 crystalline lakes, emerald blue in colour, connected by a series of 90 cascades and waterfalls and unique flora and fauna. Divided into 2 sections - an upper and lower - the Upper Lakes (12 of them), are located on a dolomite bedrock, and the Lower Lakes (4 of them), are cut into a limestone canyon.

ZADAR
The oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia, Zadar is situated on the Adriatic Sea. A world away from the more crowded cities of Dubrovnik and Split, Zadar's streets are alive with Roman history, the last glassblowing business and Museum of Ancient Glass in Croatia, a large market and spectacular sunsets.

For further information and custom or pre organized tours contact me at [email protected]

02/19/2025

5 HIDDEN GEMS IN FRANCE

When people think of France, PARIS is usually the first location that comes to mind. While the City of Lights with its spectacular architecture and style is definitely worth seeing, there are many other hidden gems in France that should not be missed. Here are just 5 of them!

EGUISHEIM - ALSACE
Eguisheim is a charming, well preserved village in Northeastern France. Located on the Alsace wine route, Eguisheim has been classified as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France since 2003. With fairy tale medieval architecture, cobbled streets, timber framed houses and an abundance of winebars, the village is built in a circular layout so you will always walk back to the same point.

GORGES du VERDON - PROVENCE
While the area of Provence is known for its extensive Lavender Fields, French markets, small hilltop villages and it lovely wines - it also offers the Gorges du Verdon. A natural phenomenon, in the heart of the region, this limestone river canyon extends for 25 kms and is carved into the rock by the Verdon River. The Gorges du Verdon offers breathtaking views, turquoise waters and numerous opportunities for outdoor adventure such as hiking, kayaking, mountain biking and paragliding.

LE CONQUET - EDGE OF THE WORLD - BRITTANY
At the remote, westernmost tip of mainland France in Brittany, you will find will find the charming windswept fishing village of Le Conquet, - that feels like the edge of the world! The landmark lighthouse and abbey ruin stand guard over the Atlantic ocean. This small village has lots to offer including a picturesque harbour, white sand beaches, quaint buildings and La Conquet's historical center remains mainly untouched with narrow streets and a good selection of art galleries and restaurants.

SECRET CHATEAUX OF THE LOIRE VALLEY
The Loire valley boasts over 300 Chateaux. Overshadowed by some of the famous, larger Chateaux situated along the Loire River there are many other little known chateaux that are well worth visiting. These less famous Chateaux offer a more intimate experience in beautiful countryside or in elevated positions above the Loire River Included in the list of "secret chateaux" would be Château de Montpoupon, Château de Montreuil-Bellay and Chateau de Saumur.

EZE - COTE D'AZUR
Dating back to the middle ages, and built high up on the cliff tops on the coast between Nice and Monaco lies the charming town of Eze. It offers spectacular panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea. This small medieval town full of stone streets, hidden alleys and stairs , and a vibrant abundance of flowers is entirely walkable. Romantic and a photographer's dream, Eze is an unforgettable experience.

For more details about these locations, France as a whole and custom planned tours - contact helen@travelvip or https://www.travelleaders.com/agent/48973

01/17/2025

JANUARY 16th - UK CHANGES ETA ENTRY RULES FOR TRANSIT PASSENGERS. Electronic Travel Authorization no longer required for TRANSIT passengers only.

Good news for travellers transiting through the UK: they will not have to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). But bad news for the wallet, the price of the ETA could soon increase…

01/11/2025

15 GREAT REASONS TO VISIT ITALY!!!

- ITALY has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country in the world. 58 in total. These include Rome, Amalfi, Siena, Val D'orcia, San Gimignano, Caserto, Florence, Assisi and Urbino to name just a few few.

- VENICE had over 400 bridges and about 150 canals connecting its islands. 72 of these bridges are privately owned. 300 are made of stone, 60 of iron, and the rest of wood. The most famous, The Rialto Bridge, in the heart of the city was the first stone bridge to span the Grand Canal.

- ROME is called "the city of fountains" and is home to more than 2,000 public fountains. All are small or great treasures hiding unique stories or legends. The most famous being the Trevi Fountain where it is estimated Euro 3,000 in coins per day are thrown in (to allegedly ensure a return to Rome one day!)

- ALMOST half of Italy is made up of coastline - in 2024 a total of 485 beaches were awarded a "Blue Flag". "Blue Flag" is a certification given to beaches by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).[1] These beaches have the highest standards of water quality, safety, and public environmental education

- POMPEII is the world's largest archaeological site covering 150 acres. At the time of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius Pompeii housed between around 20,000 people. Around noon on August 24, 79 BC, a huge eruption from Mount Vesuvius showered volcanic debris over the city of Pompeii, followed the next day by clouds of blisteringly hot gases. Everything was buried beneath a blanket of ash and pumice.

- PUGLIA's rich farming landscape is dotted with Trulli - dry stone huts with corbelled, domed roofs, originally built for farm workers - dating back to the 1400s. Today, the charming interiors, rustic stone construction, and unique ambience, the trulli houses of Puglia are the perfect option vacation accommodation.

- THE DOLOMITES is northern Italy are part of the Alps. The most beautiful mountain landscapes anywhere, they comprise of 18 peaks with vertical walls, sheer cliffs and numerous deep, long valleys. A hikers paradise!!

- BOLOGNA has 62 kms in total length of porticoes. Originally built in the middle ages from wood to expand homes, they were later constructed of brick and stone. Today they provide shade and shelter from the elements and a wonderful long or short stroll to encounter and appreciate the various types.

- ITALY produces more wine than any other country in the world. Wine production in Italy began over 4,000 yars ago. Today, there are 20 different wine regions in Italy and more than 2,000 grape varieties.

- CINQUE TERRE is a coastal area in north western Italy comprised of 5 different villages, mostly easily accessible by local train. With breathtaking scenery, blue Mediterranean sea, steep green hills and brightly colored houses, each village has its own distinct character and charm.

- AGRITURISMO - for a long time, one of Italy best kept accommodation secrets and the best way to experience rural Italy. Typically, an agriturismo is an independently-owned working farm that the owners have decided to use partially for accommodation purposes often with an option of delicious home grown/cooked meals. There are currently just under 20,000 agriturismi scattered over rural Italy.

- FLORENCE - once the capital of Italy for a brief time (1865 - 1871). Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, the Piano and Gelato! A very walkable city packed with history, culture, arts and architecture, with a famous cathedral (Duomo) that took over 140 years to build.

LAKES - Italy has over 1,500 lakes. The most famous and popular being Lake, Como, Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore, all ringed with picturesque villages and back by steep mountains. However there are numerous other beautiful choices, away from the crowds. These Lake include Lake Iseo (Lombardy), Lake Ort (Piedmont), Lake Trasimeno (Umbria) and Lake Turano (Lazio) where you can lose yourself in nature, swim in clean waters, and indulge in local delicacies.

TUSCANY - is famous for its rolling hills and vineyards producing superior wines, Carrera marble mines, its beaches and 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites just in the one province. Florence's dialect gave birth to today's Italian language. Michaelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Amerigo Vespucci and Pinocchio all come from Tuscany.

SICILY - the largest island in the Mediterranean (with 600 miles of coastline) is owned by Italy. It has its own language, is home to 2 of Italy's 3 active volcanoes, and has a rich culture (including Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, French, German, Italian and Spanish civilizations). Famous for its food and Sicilian wine it is a highly recommended addition to an Italian vacation!

For your CUSTOM PLANNED TRIP TO ITALY .... contact [email protected] or see https://www.travelleaders.com/agent/48973

12/26/2024

TRAFALGAR TOURS
300 different trips
7 continents
70 countries

Annual Big Tour Sale is on!
Book off season travel ..... avoid the crowds ..... save up to 15%

A FEW OF THE FAVORITES INCLUDE:

IRISH HIGHLIGHTS (7 days)
MONKEYS, JUNGLES and VOLCANOES OF COSTA RICA (8 days)
GREEK ISLAND HOPPER (10 days)
IMPERIAL EUROPE (10 days)
WONDERS OF ITALY (11 days)
SPLENDORS OF JAPAN (13 days)
NEW ZEALAND UNCOVERED (17 days)

For more information on these or dozens of other Trafalgar Tours for 2025 contact Helen at [email protected]
https://www.trafalgar.com/en-ca

12/13/2024

PORTUGAL 2025

Offering one of Europe's highest amounts of sunshine, Portugal is not a large country but has something to offer to everyone. Bordered by Spain to the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Portugal has an abundance of geographical and scenic diversity, history and culture.

From the most Southern region of the Algarve, and its 200km of coastline, beautiful sandy beaches, limestone caves and grottos, picturesque fishing villages and stunning golf courses .........

to the character and charm of the capital Lisbon, the Palaces of Sintra, the medieval, fortified town of Obidos and the world record surfing waves of Nazare in Western Portugal ........

to the Central region of Portugal with its mountainous terrain, forests and valleys, picturesque towns, steeped in significant historical and architectural interest and authentic charm including Coimbra with one of the oldest Universities in Europe .......

to the terraced vineyards of the Douro River Valley in Northern Portugal, the vibrant city of Porto with its many bridges and red roofed houses descending down the hills to the river, and the oldest town in the country Braga - founded by The Romans over 2,000 years ago .....

AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN .. Portugal is a destination not to be missed.

For more information, travel advice or custom planned trips - please contact me at [email protected] or https://www.travelleaders.com/agent/48973

all images from iStock

10/30/2024

NEW RULES FOR ENTERING THE UK AS OF JANUARY 2025

Effective January 8, 2025, U.S. citizens traveling to the U.K. will need to have an electronic travel authorization. They can apply as early as November 27, 2024. Here’s how it works.

08/26/2024

JAMAICA WINTER 2024/2025
Considering a winter getaway to warm, sunny Jamaica? Is the idea of staying in a brand new resort appealing? Below are details of Jamaica's 2 newest all inclusive resorts due to open on September 15th, 2024

Both resorts are set in the area of Green Island - a small, charming town located on the north coast of Jamaica, situated in the Parish of Hanover. This area offers crystal clear waters, a long sandy coastline, lush greenery and a location away from the biggest tourist crowds.

Both resorts will fall under the Princess label. The Princess Senses The Mangrove and Princess Grand Jamaica will offer more than 1,000 rooms.

The Princess Senses The Mangrove is an adults-only all-inclusive: the rooms are all either suites (with ocean views or swim-out options) or a collection of over water villas with their own private pools. The property will offer 14 eateries and 15 bars and lounges.

The Princess Grand is a family friendly resort with a kids club for the little ones, a teens center, the option for hire nanny service and a host of sports options. Amenities include everything from three pools to eight bars to nine restaurants.

For more information and pricing on these fabulous new properties contact me at [email protected]

All images are artists impression from the hotel Management publications

06/16/2024

AMSTERDAM IN THE FALL

Amsterdam in the fall/autumn has many benefits to offer the visitor. Visitors will find fewer crowds, beautiful autumnal colors, cooler days, less expensive accommodation and a cultural calendar packed with events.
Home to more than 400,000 trees, fall is the perfect time to take a walk or bike ride (popular cargo bikes, tandems or electric bikes) through Vondelpark and enjoy the red, yellow and orange autumnal forest.
Visit one of the numerous Art, Music, Film or Food Festivals in Amsterdam, all scheduled for the fall months.
On a sunny fall day in Amsterdam explore the city by boat and relax as you cruise through the beautiful tree lined canals and past iconic sights as well as picturesque canal houses.
Explore some of the world's best museums without the huge crowds. Amsterdam has a total of 75 museums!
Watch (or partake in) the Amsterdam Marathon, Amsterdam City Swim or the Grachtenrace (rowing race) which all take place in September or October.
Indulge in traditional Dutch fall treats such as their warm apple pie, hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, or a more hearty Dutch stamppot washed down with a traditional Herftsbok beer.

For much more information on all Amsterdam has to offer, accommodation, flights and tours of other Dutch cities and sights contact me on helen@travelvipca

05/06/2024

3 FABULOUS VACATION DESTINATIONS TO CONSIDER IF YOU WANT TO AVOID THE LARGE CROWDS

VALENCIA - SPAIN
Valencia is the 3rd largest city in Spain and lies on the Mediterranean Sea on the eastern coast of the country. It is much less busy, less expensive and more relaxed than Madrid or Barcelona. The city is packed with authentic history, culture, incredible architecture (both classic and modern) and delicious food. Valencia's old town dates back over 2,000 years and its cobbled streets and squares can easily be explored on foot at the travelers' own pace. It boasts one of Europe's largest indoor markets, over 2 million sq meters of green space, beautiful golden sand beaches and over 300 days of sunshine each year. VALENCIA is a destination not to be missed if visiting Spain.

THE ORKNEY ISLANDS SCOTLAND
The Orkney archipelago is comprised of 70 islands lying approximately 20 miles off the northeast coast of Scotland. With a total population of under 25,000 people just 20 of the islands are inhabited. Tranquil and natural the Orkney's are less touristy than Isles of Skye, Mull or Aran. They offer beautiful landscapes and a wildlife paradise with huge populations of seabirds, dolphins, seals and whales. Additionally the Islands are vibrant and culturally rich with ancient ruins and Neolithic archeological sites (pre dating Stonehenge). The largest Island is called Mainland and has been inhabited for at least 8,500 years. The Orkneys are accessible either by ferry or by air. THE ORKNEY ISLANDS are highly recommend if you are planning on visiting Scotland.

ANGUILLA - EASTERN CARIBBEAN
One of the Caribbean's best kept secret is the island of Anguilla. At just 35 sq miles (16 miles long and 3 miles wide) it lies east of Puerto Rico and directly north of Saint Martin. Anguilla is famous for its beautiful white powdery beaches and pristine coral filled waters. It offers tranquillity and relaxation for those travelers who are want to escape to uncrowded palm fringed beaches, breathtaking views and excellent water sport opportunities. Unlike some of the neighboring islands Anguilla is not visited by the larger cruise ships. There is also an embargo on high rise hotels and casinos. The best way to get to Anguilla is by ferry shuttle or by light aircraft from Saint Martin. If you are looking for world class uncrowded beaches, delicious cuisine, a laid back vibe and warm, welcoming locals ANGUILLA is the island for you.

Contact me for more information or these or any other destinations [email protected]