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Famous Melk Abbey - UNESCO heritage site in Austria
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HALLO Bruce, our fellow traveler!
Coming off of the heels of our trip to Croatia, our intrepid traveler and the other half of Allora'Scapes, Bruce Marcolongo, was able to squeeze in a 5-day getaway to Austria, the home of Mozart, The Sound of Music, and everyone's favorite founder of psychoanalysis, Dr. Sigmund Freud. Below is a recap of his adventure!
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From top left through bottom right; beautiful wooden houses of Hallstatt, chef making wienerschnitzel in Vienna, St. Charles Church, Vienna, National Library, Quaint Alleyway in Hallstatt.
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Naturally, Vienna stole the show. We marveled at the architectural grandeur of the Hofburg Palace, the stunning Vienna State Opera house and the incredibly elegant St. Charles Church. No trip to Vienna would be complete without indulging in Wienerschnitzel (marvelously made at Meissl and Schadn Wein) or a slice of Apple Strudel at a traditional coffee house like Cafe Central.
Additional exploration led us to the Austrian National Library, a stunning library filled with medieval manuscripts, rare maps and atlases, and several listening stations where we could enjoy various mozart compositions through the use of headphones. We also ventured into Sigmun Frued's house where we enjoyed seeing many of his personal belongings on display, his iconic analyst's couch, and an immersive exhibit delving into his psychoanalysis theories.
We also managed to venture outside of Vienna to a few breathtakingly amazing places in Austria:
Melk: A quick train ride from Vienna landed me in the heart of Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The crown jewel here is undoubtedly Melk Abbey, a Benedictine monastery perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Danube River. The abbey's baroque architecture and opulent library are breathtaking. This magnificent Benedictine monastery perched on a cliff overlooking the Danube is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The on-premise library is a bookworm's paradise, and the incredible, ornate architecture of the abbey church left us speechless.
Hallstatt: This postcard-perfect village nestled amidst the Salzkammergut mountains is pure magic. We wandered the charming streets lined with colorful, traditional wooden houses. Walking down to the water's edge, we enjoyed the swans frolicking on the crystal-clear Lake Hallstatt, soaking in the fresh mountain air. It was fun to watch the funicular ride to the Hallstatt Skywalk - although we did not have time to partake! A quick stop for lunch in a quaint cafe satisfied our hunger with burgers and Thai food! Hallstatt is a postcard-perfect village nestled . We took a boat ride on the crystal-clear Lake Hallstatt, marveling at the lining the shore.
Salzburg: The birthplace of Mozart comes alive with music! We explored the Mirabell Palace and its stunning gardens, stood in awe of the grand Salzburg Cathedral, and soaked up the atmosphere of Getreidegasse, a bustling shopping street lined with baroque facades. A classical music concert at the Salzburg Festival Hall was the perfect ending to a perfect day.
Overall, Austria truly exceeded our expectations. From the imperial grandeur of Vienna to the fairytale charm of Hallstatt, every city had its own unique magic. And don't even get me started on the delicious food - not only was the apple strudel divine, but we had some of the best Thai and Japanese food you could imagine! If you're looking for a country that blends history, culture, and stunning natural beauty, Austria is a must-visit.
If you're planning a trip, let us know- we're happy to set you up on a special getaway and share more details and recommendations!
Fun Fact on Austria:
Vienna, Austria's capital city, is considered the coffee house capital of the world! Coffee houses have been a social hub in Vienna for centuries, and going for a leisurely coffee and conversation (often with a pastry on the side) is a beloved tradition. These historic cafes boast beautiful architecture, elegant settings, and some even have live music.
Happy Travels!
Your Travel Concierge Team,
Anca and Bruce
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🎄Calling ALL Christmas Enthusiasts!
Get ready to experience the magic of Europe during the most enchanting time of year! Allora'Scapes is thrilled to unveil our inaugural European Christmas Journey winter 2025, partnering with the renowned Amawaterways for an unforgettable exploration through Germany, Austria, and the captivating city of Prague.
Prepare to be swept away by festive markets, charming towns adorned in twinkling lights, and heartwarming holiday traditions. We'll unveil the captivating itinerary, travel dates, and all the delightful details soon, so stay tuned!
In the meantime, Anca and Bruce have already started dreaming of snow-capped landscapes, steaming mugs of cocoa, and the spirit of Christmas filling the air and we are hoping you will join us!
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Spotlight Destination... Albania, Europe's Undiscovered Gem!
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Crystal-clear turquoise waters of Albania
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Often overlooked in favor of its more established Mediterranean neighbors, Albania is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. This Balkan beauty boasts a captivating blend of pristine beaches, rugged mountains, ancient history, and a warm, welcoming culture.
Albania's coastline is a revelation. Picture azure waters lapping at golden sands, reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast, but with fewer crowds. From the bustling port city of Durrës to the charming coastal towns of Saranda and Vlore, the Albanian Riviera offers a diverse range of experiences. Sunbathe on secluded beaches, explore hidden coves by kayak, or indulge in fresh seafood at beachfront tavernas.
But Albania's allure extends far beyond its coastline. Venture inland to discover a world of towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valleys. Hike through the Accursed Mountains, a hiker's paradise offering breathtaking panoramas and encounters with traditional mountain villages. Explore the Blue Eye, a mesmerizing natural spring with an otherworldly turquoise hue, or visit the ancient city of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a hilltop overlooking the Osum River.
Immerse yourself in Albania's rich history and culture. Wander through the vibrant capital of Tirana, a city brimming with youthful energy and a fascinating mix of Ottoman, communist, and contemporary architecture. Explore the ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site showcasing remnants of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian civilizations. Discover the country's artistic heritage at the National Historical Museum or the National Gallery of Art.
Albania's culinary scene is a delightful surprise. Savor the flavors of fresh, locally sourced ingredients in dishes like byrek (savory pastries), tavë kosi (lamb baked in yogurt), and fëllë (cornbread). Pair your meal with a glass of Albanian wine, a growing industry producing exceptional varietals.
For those seeking adventure, Albania offers endless possibilities. Go white-water rafting on the Vjosa River, explore hidden caves, or embark on a multi-day trek through the Albanian Alps. For a more leisurely pace, relax in a traditional Albanian guesthouse, soak up the sun by the pool, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment.
Albania is a destination that will capture your heart and ignite your wanderlust. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, it's no wonder this Balkan gem is quickly gaining recognition as one of Europe's most exciting emerging travel destinations.
A few things to note: Albania is still a relatively undiscovered destination, offering authentic experiences without the crowds. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Albanian phrases will go a long way in connecting with locals. The country is experiencing rapid development, so expect to find a mix of old and new.
We believe Albania is the perfect destination for adventurous travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Let us help you plan your unforgettable journey to this captivating country.
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Featured up-coming 2025 Allora'Scapes Trips
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On Deck! 9/14 - 9/21 Allora'Scapes' Signature Amalfi Coast Trip, our most popular trip by far, 10 years and running! We are capping that off with a Puglia and Rome trip from 9/21 - 9/28! We are looking forward to hosting you on these spectacular Italy adventures! #63daysandcountingdown
And of course we are not stopping there! In addition to our European Christmas Market River Cruise, we are also in the process of finalizing the rest of our travel line-up for 2025!
Sneak Peak:
- Malta and Sicily (June)
- Amalfi Coast (June and September)
- Tuscany Food and Wine Tour (September)
- Puglia (September)
- European Christmas Markets on the Danube (November/December)
P.S.🇬🇷 Greece is a serious consideration and would love a show of hands 🙌 for those seriously interested in a June catamaran sailing trip.
More to come!
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Oceania Cruises is a five-star cruise line that offers small, luxurious ships and itineraries that visit over 400 ports around the world. The cruise line is known for its culinary program, which is inspired by Master Chef Jacques Pépin, and its immersive tours that explore the destination's cultural and culinary traditions. Oceania Cruises also aims to provide a warm and inviting country club atmosphere on every voyage.
Destinations
Oceania Cruises offers cruises to Europe, Northern Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and the Americas. Some of the ports they visit include historic cities, modern destinations, and charming seaside villages.
Onboard experience
Oceania Cruises aims to create a casual and friendly atmosphere where guests can feel comfortable and be themselves. Some say it's easy to make new friends and strike up conversations over cocktails. The cruise line also hosts a festive Captain's welcome party on the first full day of the cruise, which includes live music and canopies.
Exclusive PROMOTION through Allorascapes! Right now through December 31, 2024, Oceania Cruises is offering a Simply MORE promotion that includes:
🛳️ 2 for 1 Cruise Fares
🛳️ Shore Excursion Credit
🛳️ Beverage Package
🛳️ Specialty Dining
🛳️ Unlimited WiFi
*Simply MORE amenities are based on double occupancy for 1st/2nd guests.
*Simply MORE free shore excursion credit is available for all double occupancy cabins and varies ($400 - $1,400) per stateroom, by voyage length from $400-$1400.
If you are interested, please reach out to us to help book your cruise travel destination!
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Contact Anca or Bruce to help plan your next adventure!
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Happy Travels!
Anca and Bruce
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