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August 4–13, 2015
Amadeus Cruises MS Elegant
10-day tour starting in one of Europe's most attractive cities - Prague. Cruise from picturesque Passau to Linz, Melk, Vienna, Bratislava ending in Budapest.
Your all gay adventure begins with two nights hotel and guided sightseeing in Prague, the "Jewel of Eastern Europe." One of Europe's best-preserved cities, Prague's medieval center remains a beautiful mixture of cobblestone pathways, guilded towers and gothic catherdrals. From Prague we travel to one of Europe's most fabled rivers, the Danube.
There's no better way to experience Eastern Europe than on a Brand g riverboat cruise. Discovery, friendship, style and comfort all come together for the perfect all gay vacation.
On board the ms Amadeus Elegant you will be pampered by a crew of forty in an atmosphere of total relaxation. With this great riverboat, we've created an itinerary that includes the two best Eastern European cities which have become prime destinations for gay and lesbian travelers.
This cruise vacation has it all—historic sites, charming towns, world-class wine and cuisine and more!
The Ship
The Amadeus Elegant is true to its name. With the famous pointed bow and measuring 361 ft in length and 37.4 ft in width, this ship fits in perfectly with the traditional elegance of the majestic Amadeus fleet. The vessel accommodates up to 150 passengers in its comfortable 68 cabins and 8 Amadeus suites. A crew of about forty strong are on hand to meet every wish in an atmosphere of total relaxation. The bright, modern, and inviting standard cabins have a floor area of 161 sq ft, giving passengers a space of their own with all the amenities and services of an ocean-going cruise liner. Suites are a spacious 236 sq ft with French balconies and minibars.
Travel Itinerary
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
Arrive in Prague and transfer to your hotel. The balance of the day is free time to start exploring this beautiful city.
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Prague
This morning's sightseeing reveals why Prague is considered one of Europe's most attractive cities. You'll have the opportunity to visit the Church of Tyn, see the famous Astronomical Clock and walk over the spectacular Charles Bridge. Mix with the locals at Wenceslaus Square, shop for souvenirs or enjoy one of the charming cafés or restaurants. Wander along the banks of the Vltava River, relax at an outdoor restaurant, or shop for local handicrafts and art work.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Prague - Passau, Germany
After breakfast, drive from Prague through the pastoral countryside to Passau, where the Rivers Inn and Ilz join the Danube. On the way there stop in the historic town of Cesky Krumlov. Tonight gather on board for a Gala Welcome Dinner.
Friday, August 7, 2015
Passau - Linz, Austria
 After breakfast enjoy a city walk through Passau, gaze at this fairy-tale city founded more than 2,000 years ago. Or, take an optional full-day tour to Salzburg and its most popular "Sound of Music" sights including the Wedding Church, exquisite Mirabell Gardens, the Great Salzburg Festival Hall and much more. For those staying on board, enjoy a scenic cruise from Passau into Austria and on to Linz. Take a walk through this delightful town, Austria's third largest city.
Saturday, August 8, 2015
Melk - Weissenkirchen - Vienna, Austria
 Cruise through the narrow Strudengau and reach the Wachau Valley early this morning. We arrive in Melk home of the magnificent Benedictine Abbey, one of Europe's largest baroque monasteries. Return to the ship for lunch as you cruise the romantic Wachau Valley. Late this evening arrive in Vienna, the "City of Music" and Austria's magnificent capital.
Sunday, August 9, 2015
Vienna, Austria
 Today explore the vibrant Austrian capital on your own or savor the Baroque elegance of romantic Vienna on the optional guided city tour which includes the world famous Vienna Opera House, Ringstrasse, St. Stephen's Cathedral and more. The tour is followed by free time in the city center to shop for souvenirs or sampling some of Vienna's famous pastries.
Monday, August 10, 2015
Vienna, Austria
 Another day in Vienna is yours to enjoy as you like. Relax by the pool on deck, stroll the city at your own pace or take one of the optional tours available, including a guided tour of Schonbrunn Palace or a visit to the Belvedere Museum, housed inside the magnificent Upper Belvedere Palace, which features masterpieces from many eras and movements.
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
Bratislava, Slovakia - Budapest, Hungary
 Bratislava, known as Pressburg until 1945, is the capital of Slovakia and one of the most famous cities on the Danube. An optional tour takes us past the Archiepiscopal Palace and the National Theatre to the 13th century Bratislava Castle which has a view as far as the border of Austria. Other attractions include the city gates, the Baroque palaces of the noblemen, and the elegant residences that have all survived from the days of the Danube monarchy. A walk through the pedestrian precinct, past St. Martin's Cathedral, the Town Hall and Michael's Gate, brings you back to the ship. Late evening arrival into Budapest.
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Budapest, Hungary
 This morning, a sightseeing tour takes you to historic Buda Castle, where you can enjoy a splendid view of the twin cities of Buda and Pest. Your tour also features the Fisherman's Bastion, the Royal Palace, St. Stephen's Basilica, Heroes' Square and more. After dinner, the ship will sail a special evening cruise past the city's beautiful riverfront.
Thursday, August 13, 2015
Budapest, Hungary
Departure day. Budapest is an amazing city with new adventures around every corner. Spend an additional day or two and experience one of the many spas that the city has been famous for since Roman times. (Additional post hotel nights available.)
Add-Ons
Private Airport Transfers
Individual arrival airport transfer in Prague with Meet & Greet, English-speaking driver,and luggage assistance: USD $49 per person based on 2 guests per car.
Individual departure airport transfer in Budapest with airport assistance, English-speaking driver,and luggage assistance: USD $59 per person based on 2 guests per car.
Optional Tour
Salzburg, the Sound of Music, $99 per person.
Scenic drive from Passau to Salzburg via the lake district to see the sights of the Sound of Music: Mondsee wedding church; lake district Salzkammergut, St.Gilgen, Lake Wolfgang; Hellbrunn Gazebo ; Leopoldskron Castle; Nonnberg Abbey; and Mirabell Gardens. Enjoy a guided city tour of Salzburg before departing back to the ship.
Detailed highlights:
Mirabell Gardens - The Mirabell gardens were laid out in the 18th century. Maria and the children were seen dancing around the statue of Pegasus, the winged horse, and throughout the gardens singing "Do-re-mi".
Leopoldskron Castle - The front side of the castle was used as the Trapp family home, the children were boating on the lake and fell into the water. The Venetian room was copied from this castle and used as the ballroom.
Hellbrunn Castle - This hunting castle was built in the early 17th century by Prince- Archbishop Markus Sittikus. In the gardens the glass pavillon was reconstructed for the pleasure of those fans still returning after more than 35 years.
Nonnberg Abbey - Nonnberg Abbey is the oldest convent in the German speaking part of Europe. Maria was a novice there. The Baron and Maria were married here in 1927. The scenes for the movie made here include the opening with the nuns going to Mass and Maria coming too late.
St. Gilgen and Lake Wolfgang - Scenery shown at the beginning of the movie was filmed at Lake Fuschl on the way to St. Gilgen. Like the Mozart family, visitors from all over the world appreciate the beautiful village in the the Salzkammergut. - Wedding church Mondsee The former benedictine abbey dating back to the 12th century is one of biggest gothic churches in Austria with wonderful baroque interieur.
Accommodations
Prague, Czech Republic
InterContinental Prague Hotel
Located on Prague's most famous and luxurious shopping boulevard 'Parizka' connecting the historical Old Town Square with the banks of the Vltava River, the InterContinental Prague is a truly exceptional Prague hotel. Our exclusive accommodations provide the perfect base to explore the shops, restaurants, and architectural treasures that give this region its distinctive character. Enjoy majestic skyline and romantic river views at every turn. Or admire the city from our unique rooftop, gourmet restaurant, Zlata Praha. An enchanting destination unto itself, this exceptional Prague Czech Republic hotel offers elegance and comfort in a premier downtown setting.
 InterContinental Prague has a full-service spa, an indoor pool, and a health club. Wireless Internet access is available in public areas (surcharges apply). This 5-star hotel features business amenities including a business center, a meeting/conference room, and limo/town car service. This luxury hotel offers 2 coffee shops/cafés, a restaurant, and a bar/lounge. Additional amenities include a rooftop terrace, a sauna, and a library. Onsite parking is offered for a surcharge. The property has designated areas for smoking.
The 372 air-conditioned guestrooms at InterContinental Prague include minibars and safes. Televisions are equipped with premium satellite channels and pay movies. All accommodations provide desks, complimentary newspapers, and phones. Bathrooms offer bathrobes and hair dryers. Additional amenities include coffee/tea makers and irons/ironing boards. In addition, amenities available on request include in-room massages and hypo-allergenic bedding.
Additional Pre Night(s):
Single - $249 ; Double - $139, per person, breakfast included.
Budapest, Hungary
InterContinental Budapest Hotel
Enjoy the enchanting city of Budapest built on the banks of the Danube River. The hotel is ideally located in the city center near the Budapest Parliament, Buda Castle and other popular attractions. The InterContinental's 402 guest rooms all are elegantly appointed and all expected modern amenities, as well as luxurious bedding. With breathtaking views of the vibrant life of Budapest, the InterContinental Lounge provides its guests with a superb feeling of exclusitivity. This hotel's convenient location and amenities make it the perfect travel destination.
 At this 5-star hotel, guests can work out in the 24-hour fitness center or relax in SPA InterContinental, a sleek, full-service facility offering massages, body and facial treatments, manicure and pedicures, and body wraps and scrubs. Or, they can dine on superb Hungarian dishes, updated with the latest gourmet twists, at the onsite Corso Restaurant. Continental breakfast is served every morning.
Air-conditioned guestrooms at InterContinental Budapest feature contemporary décor and desks. LCD TVs are equipped with satellite channels and pay movies. Rooms provide safes, and multiline phones with voice mail. Wireless and wired Internet access are available (surcharge). Rooms include minibars and coffee/tea makers. Bathrooms offer bathrobes, scales, and hair dryers. Guests enjoy windows that open to city or river views. Rooms also have irons/ironing boards and trouser presses.
Additional Pre Night(s):
Single - $249 ; Double - $139, per person, breakfast included.
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