Backdoor Passages

Best of Europe Tour June 2004

by Margaret Bernarding



I joined the Rick Steves “Best of Europe” tour with a bit of hesitation, as I have been a fairly content independent traveler, and have been repulsed by tour groups mindlessly following a plastic flower-toting guide, going from one crowded tourist attraction to another like a whirlwind. The varied itinerary in 6 countries, and a pledge from a friend who was a former RS tour member thankfully won me over. My tour mates were casual and fun loving, which enhanced the experience, if anything. I still had plenty of time to explore on my own when I wished, and yet the company of 24 people of all ages from all over the country with a world of experiences to learn from.

Countries We Visited:
Netherlands
Germany
Austria / Bavaria
Italy
Switzerland
France