Helene in Between Christmas Market River Cruise!
Come travel with me as we take our chartered Christmas Market Cruise on the Rhine and Danube River! The ultimate itinerary awaits with my favorite markets in Germany and France!
This year we are hosting THREE Christmas Market River Cruises on the Rhine and Danube. Below you'll find details for all our sailings. Make sure you're on our email list in order to get the latest news!
Rhine Wonderland
See the Christmas Market CLASSICS!
Starting and ending in Frankfurt, Germany, this enchanting cruise takes you to the festive charm of Heidelberg, the magical streets of Strasbourg, the wintery beauty of the Black Forest, the sparkling markets of Mainz, and the cozy, wine-rich town of Rüdesheim. Immerse yourself in the timeless joy of Europe’s most iconic markets, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and holiday cheer.
Two sailings offered!
Cruise Week 1: November 30 - December 5, 2025
Cruise Week 2: December 5- 10, 2025
Deck the Danube
Cruise Week 3: December 12 - 19, 2025
As seen on Travel & Leisure!
State Room
*Panorama Room*
How to secure your spot?
We will announce 2025 information soon!
Ultimate Christmas Market River Cruise!
I can barely contain my excitement.
Come explore the magic of the Christmas Markets in Europe with the Christmas Market queen and king, Helene and Michael Sula of @heleneinbetween!
We hand-selected each destination, excursion, and the ship, which will be all our own.
We'll tour through Germany (to Heidelberg, where we lived! and the magical market of Cologne), through France (my all-time favorite market, Strasbourg), and see the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
It's the most glorious festive season, and we'll travel together aboard our very own ship! One of Europe’s most legendary rivers awaits you on this winter wonderland journey along the Rhine River.
On this custom Christmas Market charter cruise, we designed each stop, activity, and even our food and beverage package to maximize your time and make the PERFECT trip!
When?
Rhine: November 30 - December 5
OR
Rhine: December 5- 10
OR
December 12 - 19, 2024
A 6-Day Cruise on the Rhine River through Germany and France or, an 8 Day Cruise in Austria, Hungary and Slovakia.
All cruises with Helene and Michael Sula.
Where?
RHINE WONDERLAND: Start and end in Frankfurt, Germany, then heading to Heidelberg, Strasbourg and the Black Forest, Mainz, and Rudesheim!
DECK THE DANUBE: Start and end in Vienna, Austria, then on to Budapest Hungary, on to Esztergom and Szentendre, Bratislava, Slovakia, then Linz and end in Vienna, Austria.
Full details below.
What's Included?
Your beautifully appointed double occupancy room, and all gourmet food and drinks (top shelf alcohol, soft drinks, beer, and wine are all included) on board, as well as an excursion each day. Gratuities are included, too! We tip on your behalf, removing the stress and anxiety of when and how much to tip.
How?
Hold your spot with a $650 deposit per person. There is limited capacity per ship. 168 people on the Rhine, 158 people on the Danube.
What's not included:
Flight not included. We are starting and ending the trip in Cologne which makes flying easier and more economical.
Does not include Travel Insurance but it is required. We recommend World Nomads or Travel Guard.
Be the first in line!
I'll send an email as soon as the sale goes live!
Stateroom vs Panorama Room:
All the rooms are sized and appointed identically. There are 17 rooms on the main deck with porthole windows that are offered at a discounted price. All the other rooms have full, panorama glass windows. We would recommend the Panorama room to get a view from the comfort of your bed!
When you purchase, you can either select solo (and you will be paired with a roommate) OR two people and you will put down a deposit for both of you. You can choose to have the beds together or separated.
All of our trips have offered double occupancy rooms. It's the best to get to know each other and so fun! And, of course, you can travel solo! I would say 95% of the people on past trips have! This is the best way to make friends.
This is a great price, not only for the cruise, which includes your food/drink, accommodation, tip, transportation, and guided tours every day, but also the chance to have a trip with a community of incredible people from around the world!
Why a river cruise?
Bottom line: we love them. We think this is hands down the best way to travel together as a group to experience the Christmas Markets in Europe.
We have hosted group trips throughout Europe, but absolutely nothing beats Christmas.
Christmas in Europe is undoubtedly magical. But the best way to experience the markets is to go from place to place, city to city. Unpacking every day, taking trains and public transportation is not only a hassle, it takes away from the time you can be spending exploring.
We designed the cruise so we mostly cruise at night and wake up each morning in different locations. We hand-picked the destinations and maximized our time at each stop.
Having attended over 100+ Christmas markets in Europe, we found the best and designed the perfect itinerary- all with the ease, comfort, convenience, and the BEST price on our own chartered ship.
Christmas Cruise at a Glance:
We created these itineraries with what we know works best. We maximized time at destinations, offer two excursions per day, and made sure you could do both OR have time to explore on your own. It's up to YOU.
Plus an incredible luxury boat, beautiful rooms, delicious food, and the magic of Christmas. There is simply nothing like it!
ALL INCLUSIVE: All drinks (including beer, wine, soft drinks, and top-shelf alcohol), food, gala party, tips, and one daily excursion.
TIME: Having done many cruises, time is always a factor. Which is why we managed the time to a T- creating the perfect itinerary - with time to explore, take guided tours, relax on the boat, and create a trip that is special.
Hassle-Free Travel: Unpack ONCE! No stress of packing and repacking, and go from destination to destination, all on a luxury river cruise. No lugging suitcases up and down staircases and across cobblestone streets!
No sea sickness, because we're on a river and there are no waves! Truly, it feels more like a moving luxury hotel.
We've combined the best of the Christmas markets, ease of travel, a luxury ship, and unbeatable prices to make this a memorable and accessible trip.
Rhine Wonderland Full Itinerary:
Day 1
Arrival in Frankfurt & Walking Tour
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We start off in one of the best Christmas Markets in Germany: Frankfurt!
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Why Frankfurt? Because it's the easiest way to fly from the USA and/or within Europe. It is super close to Frankfurt Airport. Flights are very easy and affordable here, plus Frankfurt has great train connections.
- The Christmas market here is so classically German and dates back to 1393! It's super easy to explore with a large market all interconnected throughout the main square. Frankfurt offers a delightful blend of modern skyscrapers and historic charm. Our included walking tour will guide you through the city's highlights, from the quaint half-timbered houses of the Römer to the iconic St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral.
- You'll also explore the lively Christmas market in the picturesque Römerberg square, where wooden stalls brimming with festive treats and holiday decor create a magical atmosphere. It's the perfect introduction to your Christmas market journey!
Day 2
Heidelberg and Mannheim
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Today is VERY exciting because we are heading to my favorite city: Heidelberg! I'm biased because Michael and I lived here. But this city is the PERFECT mix of a romantic castle, river, amazing, walkable Christmas Markets, and utter beauty!
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In our included excursion, we'll take a tour of Heidelberg, explore the LARGEST wine barrel in the world, see the castle, hear the history and find over 100 decorated stalls at the Christmas Market!
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Stay at our port and explore Mannheim! Mannheim is a city of Baroque opulence built uniquely on a chessboard grid layout. Carl Benz first successfully demonstrated his car here in 1886, the palace is one of the largest ever covering 14 acres of interior space and the red sandstone water tower and Luisenpark further beautify the city.
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Bad Dürkheim is home to both the largest and oldest (dating back to 1417!) wine festival in the world and our optional excursion for the day. This wine region known as the Pfalz is just a few miles from the French border and has actually changed its nationality several times throughout history. This in-depth tasting will feature several wines in addition to sparkling wine and liqueur. Local sausages will complement the wines.
Day 3
Strasbourg and the Black Forest
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Strasbourg is the Capital of Christmas for a reason! With a 100-foot Christmas tree towering over the main square, over 300 Christmas stalls spread throughout the city, and over-the-top decor wherever you go!
- Our included excursion will stop at all the major sites in town, including the Notre Dame cathedral with its beautifully complex astronomical clock, picture-perfect Petite France, and free time in town.
- The fairy tale famous Black Forest will be our optional excursion for the day. We’ll travel through the beautiful wintry mountains to visit the Vogtsbauernhof, an open air historical museum featuring the rich Schwarzwald culture. We’ll learn about the traditional dress, cuckoo clocks, and even try the famous Black Forest cake! On the way back we’ll stop in the beautiful town of Gengenbach to enjoy the world’s largest Advent calendar and a more locals only German Christmas Market.
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You will be able to do both if you like or have free time to explore!
Day 4
Mainz & Wiesbaden
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Mainz's 2000-year-old history is highlighted by one famous individual, Johannes Gutenberg. The man who invented the modern printing press (creating the original information age) changed the world, and not one but two of his original Bibles can be found in his hometown museum.
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Strolling Mainz’s historic center with its medieval market squares is a delight, and that’s just what we’ll do along with our entertaining guide for our included excursion of the day. We’ll learn all about the 1,000-year-old cathedral as we pass beautiful Christmas Markets. Mainz is surrounded by gorgeous half-timbered architecture and unique Christmas Markets! There's the main town square and one just next to the cathedral that reminds me of Cinderella!
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Our optional excursion for the day will be a visit to nearby Wiesbaden. One of the most beautiful cities in Germany, it was designed as such with wellness and luxury in mind. This spa town has spectacular architecture with grand spires reaching to the sky all across town. Your guide will teach you all about it as well as provide free time to explore on your own.
Read more at: https://europe.stripes.com/travel/the-christmas-markets-of-mainz-and-wiesbaden.html
Source - Stars and Stripes
Day 5
Cruise to Rüdesheim and Winery
- Did you know there are more castles on this stretch of the Rhine than nearly anywhere in the world?! All located along the tall cliff sides of the Rhine. We know this guided sailing will be a highlight of the week. Our port city, Rudesheim, is located in the heart of this wine valley with half timbered homes and wine shops almost too cute to believe.
- The included excursion is a walking tour throughout town, including the narrow Drosselgasse, ending at the Mechanical Instrument Museum, where guides will demonstrate these fantastic machines for us!
- The optional excursion will be to a coffee house to try the famous Rudeseheimer coffee, fortified with their local spirit, and then on to a winery to taste some of the best German wine you can find.
Day 7
Frankfurt
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All good things must come to an end, but what better place to wrap up our journey than in Frankfurt? We chose to start and end in Frankfurt because it’s home to one of the world’s largest and most well-connected airports, making onward travel a breeze. Frankfurt’s central location and excellent train connections also make it easy to extend your trip if you’d like to explore more of Europe!
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Frankfurt has so much to offer, from its picturesque Christmas markets to its blend of modern skyscrapers and historic charm. The interconnected markets throughout the Römerberg square are a highlight, offering festive treats, handcrafted gifts, and the perfect holiday atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing one last Glühwein or taking in the city’s twinkling lights, Frankfurt is a wonderful way to end the adventure.
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We will say "Auf Wiedersehen" to Frankfurt, but the memories of this magical Christmas market cruise will last a lifetime!
Deck the Danube Full Itinerary:
Day 1
Arrival in Vienna
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Welcome to Vienna, one of the most beautiful cities in the world and the perfect starting point for your Danube Christmas Market cruise! Known as the City of Music, Vienna’s charm lies in its blend of grand imperial architecture and festive markets.
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Why Vienna? Vienna is truly a jewel of Europe. It's easy to fly in and out of, and it's a city worth exploring. We start and end the cruise here with two days so that we have maximum amount to time to explore!
- Vienna’s iconic landmarks, including the majestic Hofburg Imperial Palace and the world-famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Stroll through the pedestrian-friendly city center and explore charming Christmas markets filled with holiday delights. It’s the perfect introduction to Vienna’s timeless elegance and Christmas magic!
- With over TWENTY Christmas markets in Vienna, palaces, music, and holiday cheer, this city truly is one of the best destinations!
Day 2
Budapest
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Known as the "Queen of the Danube," Budapest is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and stunning architecture. Once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the city is split into two sides—Buda, with its historic castles and hills, and Pest, bustling with urban energy. A city that shines even brighter during the holiday season.
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Our included excursion begins at the Great Market Hall, Hungary’s largest indoor market, built in 1896. Here, you’ll discover Hungarian specialties like Tokaj wine and paprika while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Continue to the City Park, home to the romantic Vajdahunyad Castle and the famous Széchenyi Baths, some of Europe’s largest thermal baths.
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In the evening, experience Budapest as it SHOULD be: lit up like a fairy tale as we cruise along the Danube. A folklore show on board will take it to a whole other level! Truly the best way to see the city.
Day 3
Esztergom & Szentendre
- Szentendre is truly a hidden gem! This city feels like stepping in a storybook. Think: winding streets, unique museums, and an adorable Christmas Market.
- Stroll through the charming Foetér square, lined with cozy cafes and unique souvenir shops. Don’t miss the Marzipan Museum and the festive Christmas Museum, perfect for holiday enthusiasts!
- Continue to Visegrád, where the ruined fortress offers spectacular views of the Danube Bend, one of the river’s most scenic spots.
- Esztergom was once the royal seat of Hungarian kings. Visit Hungary’s largest cathedral, a magnificent basilica featuring an ornate red marble chapel and breathtaking interiors. It’s a day filled with history, art, and stunning vistas. A Christmas market is here, of course!
Day 4
Bratislava
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Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, boasts a unique blend of Gothic, Baroque, and modern influences. Once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the city has a rich history as a coronation site for Hungarian kings.
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Frankly, the Christmas market here is AMAZING. The food here is absolutely unmatched! Climb the town hall tower for a panoramic view of the city and its bustling Christmas markets.
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Our guided walking tour takes you through the beautifully restored old town, where cobblestone streets and pastel-colored facades create a picturesque backdrop. Highlights include St. Martin’s Cathedral, Grassalkovich Palace, and Michael’s Gate, the last remaining medieval fortification. Then, we'll try the famous Pressburger roll!
Read more at: https://europe.stripes.com/travel/the-christmas-markets-of-mainz-and-wiesbaden.html
Source - Stars and Stripes
Day 5
Melk Abbey & Dürnstein Abbey
- Prepare to have your mind... BLOWN! Melk Abbey is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in teh world and it's perched ona hill overlooking the Danube. his Benedictine abbey is famous for its stunning frescoes, grand marble hall, and historic library filled with medieval manuscripts. It’s no wonder Melk Abbey inspired Umberto Eco’s novel The Name of the Rose. We'll also have a mulled wine tasting here!
- Rising from the water, you can't help but notice the baby blue Dürnstein Abbey! We'll explore Dürnstein, a lovely wine village and romantic old town!
Day 6
Linz & Salzburg
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Linz, Austria’s third-largest city, is a delightful mix of medieval charm and modern innovation. The Christmas Markets in Linz are lovely and uncrowded! The Stiegl Klosterhof market is one of the most magical and elegant I've ever seen!
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For music lovers and holiday enthusiasts, Salzburg is a dream destination. This UNESCO-listed city is the birthplace of Mozart and the filming location for The Sound of Music. Wander through the historic old town, marvel at Baroque architecture, and visit the famous Salzburg Cathedral. End your day in Mondsee, a picturesque village nestled between dramatic mountain peaks, before returning to the ship.
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You will be able to do both if you like or have free time to explore!
Day 7
Vienna
- Back in Vienna, we'll take in the city that truly sparkles and buzzes with life!
- Vienna’s Christmas markets are among the best in Europe, offering a variety of experiences across the city. The Rathausplatz market is a must-see, with its grand backdrop of the illuminated City Hall and over 150 stalls selling handmade gifts, ornaments, and traditional Austrian treats. At Schönbrunn Palace, the market combines Baroque grandeur with holiday cheer, featuring artisanal crafts and mulled wine. For a cozier vibe, the Spittelberg market winds through narrow streets filled with unique stalls and local charm.
- In the evening, attend the “Sound of Vienna” classical concert, featuring Strauss waltzes, operettas, and enchanting ballet performances. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Vienna’s timeless musical heritage.
Day 8
Vienna
- All magical journeys must come to a close, but what better place to end than in Vienna, a city that truly embodies the festive spirit of the holidays? Vienna’s well-connected airport makes traveling onward a breeze, and its central location offers endless opportunities for exploration if you choose to extend your trip.
- Vienna is one of the most iconic cities in Europe, with its enchanting markets, grand architecture, and rich cultural history. Whether you want to visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral one more time, enjoy the bustling markets filled with handcrafted treasures, or indulge in one last slice of Sachertorte, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your final moments here.
- We will say "Auf Wiedersehen" to Vienna, but the memories of this unforgettable cruise will stay with you forever!
The Ship
Michael and I have taken dozens of cruises, and our favorite way to travel is a river cruise!
You don't feel like you're on a ship (no motion sickness!). They are small - only 170 passengers, and intimate but large enough to have multiple dining areas.
We've partnered with Nicko Cruises to make a CUSTOM, unique itinerary with our favorite destinations, excursions, and drink packages! The ship itself is a new, modern design, built in 2021, with three restaurants, elegantly styled bedrooms and interiors, and panoramic windows. There is also a spa and a gym with a sauna for workouts and additional relaxation.
Each room offers panoramic windows, double beds - king beds that can easily be split into two twins, and a bathroom.
The upper deck offers a lounge and bar as well as informal dining and Mario's dining. The Middle deck offers more formal dining (but no dress code enforced!), concierge and the ship shop. The main deck is the spa and sauna. There's a sun deck for incredible outdoor views.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the dates?
Is there a payment plan?
What is included?
What are the types of rooms?
Can I go solo?
Can I book with my friend/husband/mom?
I want to go with a group/ my family/ friends!
What about free time?
What are the age limits?
What if I am Vegan? Vegetarian?
Can I extend my trip or come before the date?
What is not included?
Will there be a waiting list?
Will I get to know the other passengers?
Where do I get travel insurance?
Is there a dress code?
How much money do I need to bring?
I have a question!
SO...
Who is this trip for?!
YOU!
We've had people from all over the world travel with us. First time to Europe, seasoned travelers, solo female travelers, mom and daughter duos, best friends, husbands and wives!
Hands down, one of the best parts of these trips is the people you meet. Truly, these friendships last a lifetime!
This year, my parents are joining the trip - both my Mom and Dad! This trip is for adults only. Must be 21+.
One of the best parts of this experience are the other travelers. We will have a group set up before the cruise, and we will also have Zoom meetings to get to know each other! I'll also be sending out information like a packing list!
Hi! We're Helene and Michael!
We've lived in Germany (and now in Oxford, England) and have attended over 100 Christmas Markets. You can say we're obsessed.
We are full-time travel bloggers and have traveled Europe extensively for the better part of a decade. We've made it our mission to bring you the best travel experiences, and nothing can top Europe's magical markets!
Michael and I are both from Dallas, Texas, but we lived in Heidelberg, Germany, from 2016 to 2019 with our two dogs, Hugo and Millie. I just published my debut novel (here).
We cannot wait to show you the beauty, excitement, and joy of Christmas Markets in Europe!
Why did we charter a ship?
The truth is, Michael and I have been traveling Europe for a decade and absolutely love the Christmas Markets. Having been to so many and explored them in so many ways, we loved the river cruise best.
However, the issue was many of these itineraries were not designed for how many might like to travel. We know what we like: maximize time at each destination, offer time to explore on your own, and be able to do MULTIPLE excursions in one day.
I'll never forget one woman on my trip, distraught because she couldn't possibly choose between the Black Forest or Strasbourg. And honestly? I wouldn't want to choose either! So, we personally customized the itinerary for well over a year.
This is the best Christmas Market itinerary... ever. And I have no doubt this journey will be a trip of a lifetime!
The Ship Amenities:
- All food and drinks included (including cocktails, top shelf alcohol, beer, wine, and soft drinks)! Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Michael has been known to order 3 entrees at dinner. LIVE IT UP!
- Three Restaurants: seated dining, casual dining, and Mario's Grill
- Flexible table times (meaning, go when YOU want!) with a free choice of tables that fit perfectly into your own daily rhythm. Whether multi-course menus or the large selection of theme buffets. The choice is yours!
- Expert Cruise Director who knows the Rhine like the back of their hand!
- Sun Deck
- Sauna and Fitness area
- Dining Options: Dine al fresco in the panoramic “garden” on the bow, the main restaurant on the middle deck, or on the terrace at the aft of the upper deck. All incredible views!
- Panorama windows throughout the ship with a stunning lounge, upscale bar, and reception area
- Rooms are designed for maximum space and lovely panoramic windows.
- All king beds can be separated into two twins, plus a spacious wardrobe as well as convenient shelves in every bathroom.
- The glazed bow of the ship offers excellent views! There are so many areas to relax, read, or enjoy the view with coffee, tea, or something stronger.
- We will also host a gala dinner!
Food and Drink on Board
The food is truly one of the best parts of our river cruise! Everything is included - including beer, wine, soft drinks, cocktails, and top-shelf alcohol! You'll get to try foods inspired by the local cuisine of each destination we are sailing to!
There are multiple options for dining: seated menu, casual dining and Mario's Grill. Each one offers impeccable service. Most cruises offer only a selection of beer and wine each day. We wanted you to feel free to try whatever suits your fancy! There is also coffee, tea, and snacks always available!
"I’ve been on two group trips with Helene and Michael (Italy and the first Christmas Market cruise) and each one was incredible. You can tell from the start that they find so much joy in showing you their favorite places and they genuinely want you to have the best time. She obviously knows how to plan an epic adventure, but my favorite thing about traveling with Helene is her ability to being people together. As a natural introvert, I really appreciate when people go out of their way to strike up a conversation and whether it’s a random question to the group to get people talking, or a 1:1 check in, both Helene and Michael do an AWESOME job at making sure everyone feels included. Also, she isn’t kidding when she says you can meet friends on her trips. I still talk to several people from both trips and consider my Florence roomie to be one of my best friends. I will always always always recommend a Helene group trip, and I hope to never stop taking them, myself!"
Sarah Arnstein sarahseeksadventure.com
"Thank you so much, Helene and Michael, for hosting the trip of a lifetime! I loved every second of it. It was great to see so many different Christmas markets - they were pure magic! I also liked how we mixed things up by going to palaces, cathedrals, and the classical music performance. I enjoyed the attention to detail that was put into the trip, and felt welcomed by everyone. I can't wait to keep in touch with everyone and travel with you again in the future. Thank you!"
Jessica Rust
"I’ve been on 3 of Helene and Michael’s group trips and each one has been 10/10 because the itineraries are incredible, the people you meet are lovely, and traveling with Helene just makes everything more fun!”
Laurel Wilson @lostinlaurelland
"I thought I would really just be hanging out with the group on tours but mostly doing my own thing in a country I’ve never been to. In reality, I couldn’t have imagined doing what I had planned. This group of travelers have been the most inspiring, intelligent, and genuine people I could only have hoped to meet. I’m so thankful for this journey that has pushed me outside of my normal and for the friends I now have in my life.”
Julie Holder
The fine print:
$650 deposit is non-refundable. No spot is guaranteed until I, Helene, email you from [email protected]. Ports subject to change based on weather and unforeseen circumstances. You will be responsible for booking your flight and travel insurance.
Questions? Email: [email protected]
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