TO SUM IT ALL UP


The Tour Group, Sharing Smiles All Around!

The most meaningful aspect of this tour was the relationships formed among participants. During our final meal together as a group, Bill and Susan distributed postcards to the other members. Such thoughtful gestures truly exemplify their kindness and thoughtfulness.


Takeaways:
* Memories to cherish
* Lessons learned and shared with others
* Friends to remember fondly
* Excellent wine
* Italian glasses
* Apreol-Spritz
* Dreams of more Rick Steves' Tours
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Here are our master bus driver, Rachelle, who's always friendly and reliable, and our incredible tour guide, Lisa, full of wisdom and charm!

Our final meal as a group (in Paris).


Why I chose the Rick Steves' Tour?
Generation X is a generation raised on the Public Broadcasting System (PBS). We absolutely loved Sesame Street, Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, and Reading Rainbow. As I grew older, I found myself drawn to the more cultured programs on PBS. When it was time to plan my celebratory retirement tour, I naturally turned to PBS for inspiration. I dove into Rick Steves’ books, watched his videos, and listened to several podcasts and radio shows. I also checked out reviews from people who had gone on his tours, and they all raved about how much their experiences changed their perspectives on the world. What really stood out to me was how familiar Rick Steves felt—there’s a sense of safety and trust with him that no other tour company can match. About six years ago, I began watching Rick’s PBS programs, dreaming of the day I could actually put his travel advice into action. I knew I wanted to learn more about the world and also discover more about myself along the way. No other tour company came close to what I was yearning. Once I booked the tour, it was game on! I couldn’t stop discussing it with everyone—I think some were curious, and a few were even a bit envious. I just knew I had made the right decision. And after this amazing experience, I can’t wait for my next Rick Steves adventure. The Switzerland part of this particular tour was just long enough to leave me wanting more.Yep, we’re heading back to Switzerland in August 2026 with Rick Steves’ Tours!

Quick Tips We Learned Along the Way
* Purchase an e-sim for your cell phone before you leave for your destination.
​* Purchase a cheap bag at the end of your tour, and place your new fortunes in this bag and "check" your dirty clothes on the flight home.
​* Download movies and books for the days you are on the bus and airplane
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Purchases
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* Bring a debit card (or Wise Card) for taking cash out of the ATM. Be sure you understand the fees.
​* Ask your tour guide where to take out cash from the ATM.
* Bring 2 different credit cards for purchases to assure transactions will go through and business accept at least one of them.
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Financials
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*Pack light and practice packing light. ​
* Wear your money belt when going in public spaces.
* Wear a satchel with locks (example-Pacsafe).
​* Be aware of your surroundings when on public transit.
​* Wear the best walking shoes you can afford. You will be on your feet a lot.
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Attire


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* Adhere to the "no grumps" policy.
* Open your heart and your mind as you meet your tour group. These are your people.
* Read up and watch videos on where you are going and plan plan plan. This may mean purchasing tickets in advance.​​​​​
* Do it! When given a chance to try something new, do it!
Agreements



