Suites on Avalon Waterways Ships AvalonWaterways 1.75K subscribers Subscribe 171 170K views 9 years ago Learn what sets Avalon Waterways ships apart from the rest:. In short, wear exactly what suits you and the discoveries you make onboard and off best! In keeping with its Norwegian owner, Viking's ships have Scandinavian influences with lots of pale wood and clean lines. Some vacations have more restrictive regulations than these listed above, such as cruises on the Galpagos, Mekong, and Ganges. For payment of shipboard accounts, Euro and U.S. dollars are accepted as well as American Express, Visa, MasterCard, and Diners Club. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you. In Egypt: In Europe: How does Avalon handle itinerary disruptions? Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities. Our crew is devoted without being daunting, focused but not fussy and supportive minus the smother. Avalon's bathrooms also seem larger, due to the cabin's configuration at a slight angle (to give cruisers that river view mentioned earlier). (Avalon does have a barbecue on the top deck at least once per cruise, weather permitting.). But we're not ones to rest on our laurels. All Aboard! On the evening of the 4th day, the suitcase, Pros: Nice balcony room, comfortable bed, excellent excursions, the lady playing violin was really great and entertaining, too. What's the onboard technology - Wi-Fi, Electricity, Telephone and TV? Once the water levels are equalized, the gates at that end are opened and the vessel can continue on its way. Wine is included with lunch & dinner. Please note that Avalon reserves the right to ticket passengers upon receipt of full land and air deposit. Our expectations were exceeded. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations. All Aboard! What are Avalons onboard guidelines and services? Avalon Waterways Cruise Reviews - Cruise Critic Before the advent of highways and road transportation, the rivers were the only efficient method of carrying goods from one place to another. A project of this magnitude caused a lively debate over the environmental and economic consequences of its construction. Any charges are placed on your shipboard account. Both Avalon and Viking have enrichment activities and lectures that focus on the destinations visited. Onboard Language The poop is the stern section of a ship. From reclining on the open-air Sky Deck, relaxing in the spacious Panorama Lounge, or feeling the wind over the bough on the Observation Lounge, theres never a shortage of comfortable spots to stretch out, day dream, or just watch the world go by. Credit cards are accepted in Egypt, and you should have no problems using them in larger shops and restaurants. Would definitely do it again. Frequently Asked Questions Before You Cruise Travel Protection Air Arrangements Frequently Asked Questions AvalonGO App Both Avalon and Viking have enrichment activities and lectures that focus on the destinations visited. Please contact the reception desk if your stateroom is without one. Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Why am I asked to give my passport name, gender, and date of birth when booking a flight? display: none !important; Electricity: Onboard bathrooms have a dual 220v/110-120v plug for shavers and small appliances. Experience a world beyond your expectations. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, Avalon puts you in the captains seat to navigate your journey, fuel your passions and steer clear of the unexpected as you cruise down the worlds most memorable and mesmerizing waterways. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share. We're humbled and happy to share kudos we've received from some of the industry's most respected experts in river cruising, including readers and editors of Cruise Critic, USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, and TravelAge West. Experience a world beyond your expectations. The Rhine-Main-Danube Canal runs between the German towns of Bamberg and Kelheim via the historic city of Nuremberg, transporting thousands of river cruise ship passengers every year between the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. We filed in August, 2022 and were paid what we expected but not until February, 2023. Dress for your own fitness success. Egypt uses Egyptian Pound (EGP) as its official currency. These fees are your responsibility to pay and will be required at time of request. Wall sockets take a European 2-prong plug. 80% Off Avalon Waterways Coupon (2 Promo Codes) Feb 2023 - Dealspotr Wi-Fi is not available in the Amazon or Galpagos. Youd rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Routes: In Europe, you can sail the Danube, Rhine, Main, Moselle, Seine, and Rhne rivers. To complement the view, the line decided to go with sliding glass doors that open the full width of the room, creating an extensive open "French balcony" effect. And, of course, bring your favorite, most comfortable, walking or athletic shoes to keep your feet happy and your heart pumping. Comfort is the only code we go by for cruise attire. Both lines sail the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle, Seine and Rhone rivers. Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. First "Suite Ship" with 66, 200-square-foot (19m. Owned. TOE THE LINE Active excursions have also been added as for-fee choices in some ports. Once the vessel is moored inside the lock chamber, the lock operator closes the lock gates behind the vessel. Adventure is knocking. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you. The beauty of River Cruising with Avalon Waterways is that River Cruise Ships get you closer to to towns, villages and even cities such a Budapest, Vienna and Paris. Ask about special services available to help you celebrate. Cruise Director Avalons extraordinary expertise in river cruising keeps us prepared for all such unlikely disruptions or delayswith your comfort and convenience always our paramount priority. Telephone Service: Each stateroom includes a direct dial telephone which may be used to call between staterooms. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, Avalon puts you in the captain's seat to navigate your journey, fuel your passions and steer clear of the unexpected as you cruise down the world's most memorable and mesmerizing waterways. Wall sockets take a European 2-prong plug. Get answers to Frequently Asked Questions or contact us any time you have questions. This special meal is available on a complimentary basis to each passenger once per voyage, and usually reflects regional specialties. Laundry service is available on board for a modest fee. Viking's cabins are no slouch either. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Cons: It's the Avalon difference, and it doesn't get much better than that. Viking does not have bikes onboard, with the (not unreasonable) logic that in many European cities, rental bicycles are plentiful and inexpensive. My favourite Avalon Waterways excursions | Velvet Escape The best way to decide is to look at the specific itinerary and compare ports, dates and rates. We know why you travel. My wife's main course at the "gala dinner" was sole (fish). Europe. Onboard voltage is 220v with combination outlets to accommodate modern dual voltage electronics with no adapter/converter. Learn more about the Travel Protection Plan. Here, There & Every-WEAR What to Wear on an Avalon Cruise? How does Avalon support sustainable travel and protect the environment? On our Mekong, Ganges, Amazon, and Galpagos cruises, we recommend that guests forgo dressier attire completely due to warm, humid climates. The only way to keep track of and to know the function of all of these lines was to know where they were located. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share. Another feature of an Avalon sailing is a 15-course tasting menu with wine pairings, held several times per cruise. The specific hotels we have selected for you are listed separately for each vacation. The ship is very nice, with a cozy feeling. Avalon's Deluxe staterooms on lower decks are also larger than Viking's, with 172 square feet compared to 150 square feet. Depending on the destination, our contracts require us to provide the international ticket number in order to issue the intra-vacation air tickets. Both Avalon and Viking offer a comprehensive catalog of river cruises that offer superb value; the differences are really quite slight. Book your vacation as a group of 16 or more to save. More are on the way for 2020 and beyond. This page was last edited on 27 April 2021, at 16:01. Hassle-free planning, regional Tour Directors & Local Guides, Handpicked hotels and inclusions, seamless transportation, VIP access, and rare Local Favourites that go beyond the guidebook. The pre-trip was TERRIBLE. Filtered water refill stations are available 24 hours a day. On the 3rd day, told us that they think they found it and it should arrive by that eveningIt didn't. ATMs are available in most large cities and will dispense the local currency. The ship was spotless and our beds comfortable. The challenge facing the early navigators was how to tame the rivers and make them navigable along their entire lengths. Air is only available to passengers traveling from the United States and is only available when booked in conjunction with a land/cruise vacation. Its European ships also boast complimentary bicycles onboard that passengers can use while in port. Both lines offer a daily complimentary shore excursion, as well as options you can pay for; complimentary wine, beer and soda at dinner and lunch; enrichment onboard and free WiFi. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share. They lost my wife's suitcase for FOUR DAYS on their transfer from Paris to Saint Malo. Avalon Waterways River Cruises - 2023 & 2024 River Cruises 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Windstar Yachts vs. Windstar Sailing Ships, Holland America's Koningsdam vs. Nieuw Amsterdam, 8 Things You'll Love About Celebrity Edge, 9 Reasons to Get Excited About Marella Cruises' Marella Explorer 2. Choose from options like a breezy al fresco lunch at the Sky Grill, an elegant four-course dinner in the glass-walled Panorama Dining Room, or a more casual culinary setting in the Panorama Bistro. Dock to discovery takes mere minutes. With our contact-information policy at the time of your booking, to swift resolution protocols during your cruise, to ease of post-cruise communication with Traveler Services, your satisfaction and comfort remain our commitment to you. Although Viking's Veranda staterooms are technically larger at 205 square feet, that figure includes the balcony. This is accomplished by using two sets of gates to enclose a chamber. as well as 24-hour emergency assistance services. To be "pooped" is to be swamped by a high, flowing sea. Electricity:Onboard electricity is 220 volt. [1] The company became a member of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) in August 2009. Avalon's Deluxe staterooms on lower decks are also larger than Viking's, with 172 square feet compared to 150 square feet. They were superb in the attention to detail always having proper tickets for museums, trains, airports, etc. We know why you travel. There may be times when unforeseen events beyond our control impact travel schedules and potentially disrupt your vacation. Avalon Waterways Reviews, Ships & Photos - Cruiseline.com This special meal is available on a complimentary basis to each passenger once per voyage, and usually reflects regional specialties. [3], As of 2019, the company operates ships on the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Rhone, Seine and Saone in Europe;[3] The Mekong River in Southeast Asia,[4][5] as well as on the Yangtze (in China), the Ganges (in India) and the Amazon River (in Peru). Whether its your first Avalon Waterways river cruise, or youre joining us again, youre sure to have a few questions about what to expect on your cruise. Viking Longships do not have spas or fitness facilities onboard, but concierges can arrange services while you're in port. SE Asia. Avalon has signed a partnership with the Wrenkh brothers, noted Austrian chefs, who specialize in vegetarian and vegan dishes as part of the line's "Avalon Fresh" initiative. Amazon Pick. Avalon ships have a small fitness room with a treadmill, elliptical machines and free weights. Chief among these: Active Discovery itineraries on the Danube and Rhine, where you leave the coach behind and. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities. It's a simple way to travel and you're in the middle of the action, not seeing it from afar. Useful. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you. The diverse and fascinating geography of the European Continent has blessed it with magnificent and varied natural sights. With the vessel securely tied up and the gates closed, the lock operator can then open the valves at the opposite end of the lock. It stretches for a length of 106 miles from Bamberg, in Germany, via Nuremberg to Regensburg. What should I know about locks and canals? Air Conditioning and Heating This term also meant to cut the anchor cable and sail off in a hurry. Its European ships also boast complimentary bicycles onboard that passengers can use while in port. There may be a need to contact you during your trip or to contact your designated family member or friend in the event of unforeseen circumstances while you are traveling. USB charging ports are available on the Mekong. Electricity:Onboard voltage is 220v with combination outlets to accommodate modern dual voltage electronics with no adapter/converterUSB charging ports are available on the Mekong. Avalon Waterways ships are intimate and inviting and guests receive unsurpassed exceptional and personal service. While the quality of food is subjective, both Viking and Avalon make sure that cruise passengers have a wide variety of dishes, both familiar and local to the region at breakfast, lunch and dinner. The best way to decide is to look at the specific itinerary and compare ports, dates and rates. Television: Treasure of Galpagos provides a TV in the ship's library for playing DVDs only. If youre feeling fit for fun, we also want you to know that an Adventure Host will be your guide, at the ready for fitness activities, on all European cruises. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities. All 14 Deals 14 For Free Avalon Waterways Apply all Avalon Waterways codes at checkout in one click. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, Avalon puts you in the captain's seat to navigate your journey, fuel your passions and steer clear of the unexpected as you cruise down the world . Neither ship is designed for families; Viking actively discourages guests under the age of 18. Each circumstance is assessed as unique, based on our more than 90 years of experience in travel touring. Cruises on both Avalon and Viking are designed to be destination intensive, which means you won't find a lot of extras such as casinos or pools. Staterooms are also equipped with USB outlets which are useful for charging phones, tablets, cameras, etc. Presentation, taste. At Avalon, were committed to enhancing your cruising experience while reducing our own impact on the world. Europe River Cruise - Avalon Waterways Small Ship Electricity on board the Amazons Delfin III is 220v. Dinners are usually at 7 p.m., and you can sit wherever you want, although tables for two are hard to come by on both ships. Some examples: The "welcome aboard" lunch was noodles and hamburger. Exact docking locations will be available 24-72 hours prior to embarkation. Condo located at 7755 E Quincy Ave, Denver, CO 80237. usarestaurants.info cannot be held responsible or liable for the accuracy, correctness, usefulness or reliability of the data. Avalon Waterways Reviews | Read Customer Service Reviews of Taking care of a few simple steps before you cruise makes for smooth sailing! Whether you like to paddle a kayak or paint a canvas, each day on an Avalon river cruise is an adventure of the mind, heart, or heart rate if you prefer. Before, during, and after your Avalon Waterways cruise, we are dedicated to your safety, comfort, and convenience. Designed from the bottom up for comfort, space, and room to dream, each Avalon Suite Shipconsists of 80% Panorama Suitesoffering the widest view in river cruising. With Avalon, the views are as wide open as the possibilities. Both lines sail the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle, Seine and Rhone rivers. Even at 275 square feet, Viking's Veranda Suites are two rooms -- and the two 445-square-foot Explorers Suites Suites at the stern (with full balcony) are among the largest on the rivers. All ships have hair dryers for passenger use. When traveling outside the United States, a passport is required for U.S. citizens. Avalon is not responsible for additional baggage fees imposed by air carriers. Here, we trade formality for friendly; white gloves for welcomes and suits and gowns for suites and get-up-and-go! Locks employ a fixed chamber in which water levels can be varied to accommodate a vessel. Although Viking's Veranda staterooms are technically larger at 205 square feet, that figure includes the balcony. Avalon has added a number of cruises geared toward people with specific interests. And both river lines charge about the same amount for their cruises. While Avalon isnt interested in cramping your style with a dress code, some excursions may require one (no knees or shoulders in some holy places; or no shorts during some evening events in ports-of-call, for instance). Naturalists are on board in the Amazon and Galpagos. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. In addition, please note that there are no special arrangements or activities for children on our ships. We had two night stay in Amsterdam prior to the cruise. [18], The Ship That Sails to Yesterday: Exploring Myanmars Hidden Corners,, 8 Reasons to Skip Thailand & Head to Myanmar Instead,, "Sail Away: These Are the Most Popular Cruise Destinations," CNN, "The River Cruise Boom: Cruising through Europe,", "New Avalon Waterways ship christened in Europe", "Judy Bailey christens Rhine cruise ship", "Avalon Waterways plans two new ships for 2016", "Avalon sailing a third river ship in Southeast Asia: Travel Weekly", Avalon Waterways Adds Christmas Cruises,, Eat Pray Love Your Way Down the Danube with Elizabeth Gilbert,, International Best-Selling Author Diana Gabaldon Named Godmother of Avalons Newest Suite Ship,, Avalon Waterways Names Jann Arden Godmother of Avalon Tranquility II,, "Avalon Expression christened by Patricia Shultz | All Things Cruise", New Avalon Waterways Ship Christened in Europe,, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Avalon_Waterways&oldid=1020171846, Owned. Wine, beer and soda are available at lunch and dinner on both Viking and Avalon. Email and Internet: Wi-Fi is not available in the Amazon or Galpagos. Our guests cherish the warmth of our crew members. Avalon Waterways is a river cruise company owned by the Globus family of brands and offers cruises in Europe, China, Southeast Asia, South America, India and the Galpagos Islands. Offering over 100 itineraries . Once your ships docking assignment is available, you can download a map that shows only that specific location, including address. In many cities, this includes multiple docking sites. The cruise was DELIGHTFUL. Avalon Waterways - Ships and Itineraries 2023, 2024, 2025 - CruiseMapper The river cruise wins hands down. Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Filtered water refill stations are available 24 hours a day. Both lines have just the right amount of inclusions to make the trip more enjoyable, such as shore excursions in every port and modern ships with a boutique feel. Library Rest easy (literally) as you enjoy bigger views, more space and 24/7 access to open-air cruising. In Ecuador: Avalon Waterways' Paris River Cruise With 'Sex and the City' Creator He would order the crew to cut the lashings on all the sails and run away before the wind. We know why you travel. A vessel enters through the open gates. .m-player__divider { Avalon has added a number of cruises geared toward people with specific interests. But its only because weve taken such pride in bringing you river cruisings only Open-Air Balcony stateroom design, featuring beds with a view. While we were busy delivering first-rate service to our guests on Avalon Waterways, it seems a few people noticed. Hairdryers If you are. When it comes to river cruising, Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways have quite a bit in common. Avalon shares the flavors of the world with the freshest local ingredients prepared by our talented chefs and served in your choice of venues on board. Avalon Waterways own 19 river cruise ships, 14 of these are sailing European Rivers, 2 in Asia, 2 in South America and 1 on the Nile. Improve this listing Similar Experiences LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Full-Day Small-Group White Cliffs of Sussex Tour from London 125 Bus Tours from $112.64 On a typical cruise, you see waves, water and more water. In case of emergency, a phone is available at reception for ship-to-shore calls. The cabin was great, quite spacious with nice amenities, and the housekeeper keep our room spotless. In addition, Viking sails in France's Bordeaux region, Germany's Elbe and Portugal's Douro, as well Russias Volga, Ukraines Dnieper, Egypts Nile, and Chinas Yangtze, while Avalon offers voyages on the Mekong through Cambodia and Vietnam; on Indias Ganges River; and charters ships (not river ships) on the Amazon and in the Galapagos Islands.Both lines run popular Christmas market cruises throughout Europe. Avalon maintains a policy of "Leave Only Footprints and Take Only Photos." All Longships have a choice of French balconies and veranda cabins, the latter having actual outdoor space. Review for .css-nczv9q{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:inherit;font-weight:500;}.css-nczv9q:hover,.css-nczv9q[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-nczv9q:focus-visible,.css-nczv9q[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}Avalon View to Europe - River Cruise, Review for Avalon Tranquility II to Europe - River Cruise, Cabin Type: Outside Stateroom with French Balcony, Review for Avalon Expression to Europe - River Cruise, .css-5j432c{font-style:normal;font-weight:400;}.css-5j432c::before{content:"\e0fc";display:inline-block;font-style:normal;line-height:1;speak:none;-ms-transform:rotate(-0.001deg);-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;} Traveled with disabled person, Review for Avalon Panorama to Europe - River Cruise, Review for Avalon Tapestry II to Europe - River Cruise, Review for Avalon Imagery II to Europe - All, Review for Avalon Passion to Europe - All, Cabin Type: Panorama Suite with French Balcony, Review for Avalon Artistry II to Europe - River Cruise. Avalon will email you a set of travel documents, which includes a copy of your itinerary and, where applicable, information on your hotels and optional excursions. Any charges are placed on your shipboard account. UNDER THE WEATHER This river line operates approximately two dozen comfortable, classy, well-designed ships in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Amazon for a mostly age 55-plus crowd. Welcome aboard your new home suite home! ATMs are available in most large cities and will dispense the local currency. Your single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30"x21"x11" and a weight not exceeding 50 lbs. "Suite Ship" with 67, 200-square-foot (19m, Owned. Viking and Avalon are almost the same when it comes to inclusions and pricing, although the latter can vary depending on itinerary and promotions. Some guests do prefer to dress up for celebratory evenings onboard including the Captains Reception or Farewell Dinner. So what makes these two lines, both considered moderately priced for river cruises, different? If your reason for cancellation does not qualify for a cash refund, you would instead receive a Cancel for Any Reason travel certificate equal to the cancellation penalty amount. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics. The possibilities are as wide open as the views. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, Well planned excursions, good food, superb service & great scenery on Avalon Panorama, Some Good -- but MANY Problems and Issues. In this video you will discover the five things Avalon Waterways does the same as other European river cruise lines, and the seven things that are different about Avalon Waterways. To access the ship's Wi-Fi Internet network, you will be given a PIN number at reception to use on your laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, Avalon puts you in the captain's seat to navigate your journey, fuel your passions and steer clear of the unexpected as you cruise down the world's most memorable and mesmerizing waterways. Avalon Waterways 4 32 #1 of 3 Tours & Activities in Bromley Sightseeing Tours Write a review See all photos About Bromley, Greater London, England Contact Suggest edits to improve what we show. River Cruising with Avalon - Avalon Waterways Experience a world beyond your expectations. Avalon Waterways Amazon River Cruises The Amazon River Is situated mainly in Brazil and Peru. A complete listing will also be available in your travel documents. avalon waterways robbery - kikuyajp.com The Amazon River runs right through the Amazon Rainforest, and way beyond. We enjoyed the 24/7 hot chocolate, water, and sweets. Because they have French balconies instead of outdoor space, the 200-square-foot Panorama cabins on Avalon's "Suite Ships" feel bigger than most river cruise cabins. Please see the Terms & Conditionsfor full information on our Pricing Policy. Some airlines also charge fees for checked baggage, and these fees are not included in our vacation or airfare package price. TourRadar offers 438 Avalon Waterways tours through many destinations including Budapest and Vienna. There is no shop on board ships in the Galpagos. These include, but are not limited to, severe weather conditions, acts of nature, and government travel advisories. Due to the satellite system, there may be times when reception is poor or falls away altogether for short periods. Once Avalon has received your full non-refundable land/cruise deposit your vacation price is guaranteed and you are protected against any base land/cruise price increase due to currency surcharge. Viking also offers pre- and post- options, but their expertise is really on the rivers instead of with land tours. To use any small personal appliance such as an electric razor, curling iron, or electric plug-in type alarm clock, you will need an adapter to plug into the wall sockets for dual voltage appliances and a converter as well as an adapter for appliances that are not dual voltage. Avalon Waterways and Avalon Waterways Cruise Line Ships on iCruise.com The Indian rupee is the currency used throughout the country. Thus any changes at your request made after receipt of your full deposit are subject to airline-imposed change fees and/or changes in airfare price. If you want to step outside your cabin and sit on a "proper" balcony, or want a suite that lives up to its name and is made up of two rooms rather than one large space, then go for Viking. In 1740 British Admiral Vernon (whose nickname was "Old Grogram" for the cloak of grogram which he wore) ordered that the sailors' daily ration of rum be diluted with water. The ships staff was friendly and always ready to serve us. When it comes to river cruising, Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways have quite a bit in common. Avalon Waterways' Romancing The Rhine: 6 Perfect Getaways for Different Types of Cruisers in 2021 February 9, 2021 The second-longest river in Central and Western Europe, the Rhine flows 800 miles from the white-dusted peaks of the Swiss Alps to the rainbow-hued blossoms of the Netherlands.