Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there, but most especially to my own mom, Inquirer chair Marixi, and my mom-in-law, Cynthia Valdes. If I had all the time in the world, I would take them on a trip to any place they want to go.
Since it’s summer, travel is on most people’s minds. And there are wondrous ways to see the beauty of the world. Taking a cruise is a popular choice, as well as backpacking. But for more discerning travelers who want a bit more uniqueness and less worry on their trips, there is Insight Vacations (www.insightvacations.com).
I recently experienced Insight, which touts itself as doing luxury-and-premium escorted journeys, in short, the “Art of Touring in Style.” With immense care and unwavering attention, Insight allows each intimate group to enjoy the exceptional history and great treasures of Eastern Europe.
For over 35 years, Insight has been designing the world’s finest escorted touring itineraries. Our tour, called “Bohemian Rhapsody,” took us to spectacular places in Prague, Vienna and Budapest. It was an awesome pleasure to be the country’s media representative to enjoy the Insight trip with 30 other media people from all over the world. Rajah Travel Corp. (www.rajahtravel.com), the Philippines’ general sales agent for Insight Vacations, had arranged every single detail from securing my visa, to Insight travel information, to flight transfers.
Accredited by the International Air Transport Association, Rajah caters to international and domestic travel and tours. Rajah’s Bernie Arnaiz made sure my tickets, as well as extra luggage allowance, were all in order. She saw to it that I had an extra suitcase for my notorious shopping habit!
Majestic
Our first stop was majestic Prague, famed capital of the Czech Republic, which boasts one of the most beautiful and intact medieval centers in Europe. Our leisurely paced tour took us to the thousand-year-old Prague Castle, the Lesser Town, Jewish Quarter, and finally, the Old Town Square.
Tour director Neira Milkovic took me, a first-timer in Prague, on a walking tour of the historic, beautiful city. Neira has been a tour director for 27 years all over Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans. She enchanted us with local tidbits unique to each place.
John Boulding, CEO of Insight Vacations, joined us. We walked to see the mechanized antics of the Astronomical Clock’s glockenspiel that delights onlookers each hour.
From the square, we walked toward Charles Bridge and crossed to visit the Church of the Infant Jesus. I was surprised to see that the museum in the church has a colorful display of different gowns of the Sto. Niño, with some done by Filipino designers like Pitoy Moreno and Joe Salazar.
The private tour of the Prague Castle was extra special because we didn’t have to wait in line and had access to rooms not usually open to the public.
Our luxury tour bus had business class seats and more legroom than other coaches, with free Wi-Fi. Baggage handling was seamless and prompt delivery to our rooms was all arranged. With my luggage getting heavier and heavier with each stop, I was so delighted that I didn’t have to handle my suitcases at all.
Lost in time
One of my fave stops was the ancient town of Cesky Krumlov. It appears that the town was lost in time—eternally suspended, as if by magic, in the Middle Ages. The castle is a medieval labyrinth of private chambers, courtyards, kitchens and dungeons. I was able to wear my Sea Princess crown and feel like royalty.
Next, we headed to Austria, capital of Vienna. In the City of Music, we were serenaded with an opera and ballet at one of the many opera houses. Beneath frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded Rococo frames, we enjoyed the private performance.
We also had an intimate tour of Maria Theresa’s Schonbrunn Palace and formal gardens. Being her tukayo (namesake), I ended up buying all sorts of souvenirs that had our name on them!
Our last stop was Budapest, capital of Hungary, which I enjoyed the most. There was the colorful Matthias Church, giant, domed Parliament, and the thermal baths next to the Danube.
Shopping at the Great Market Hall should not be missed. The five-star Sofitel Budapest Hotel boasts spectacular views of the famous Chain Bridge and was the perfect hotel to stay in.
Crossing the mighty Danube at night on a private river cruise was breathtaking, as the majestic city’s historical buildings are brightly lit up.
Insight also arranged additional perks, like wine and cooking classes, artisanal demonstrations of centuries-old crafts, and “red carpet” visits to the continent’s most important and cultural places.
Best part
All breakfasts are included, with several dinners as well. The welcome dinner and celebration dinner are part of Insight Vacations’ signature affairs and, just recently, it also added a dine-around dinner where guests can experience the local cuisine with a smaller group.
Discovering Eastern Europe’s history, its majesty and great treasures amassed by empires, was simply marvelous. With a perfect blend of private guided tours and free exploration time, Insight delivers ideal tour options.
It has truly raised the bar in luxurious escorted journeys. The wonderful experience, vivid memories and lasting friendships are all precious and unforgettable.
And the best part of it all? Insight Vacations has tours all over Europe, North America, Africa and even some destinations in Asia. It makes me wonder which places my two moms would like to visit!
By: Tessa Prieto-Valdes (The Philippine Daily Inquirer) | Published Sunday, 11 May 2014
