Night 1 & 2: InterContinental Budapest Budapest, Hungary Situated in the heart of the city close to the main shopping street, Váci Utca, the InterContinental Budapest offers some of the best views in Budapest of the Danube River and the city from its public areas. The elegantly-appointed guest rooms feature all of the amenities that today’s sophisticated travelers expect. Guests have access to the Fitness Club, with an indoor, reverse-flow swimming pool, cardiovascular machines, weights and sauna. The Corso Restaurant, ranked among the best in Budapest, offers dining on an outdoor terrace overlooking the Buda Hills during the summer. *Le Méridien Budapest Budapest, Hungary Le Méridien Budapest is ideally located in the heart of Budapest, close to the city’s major sights. Lushly decorated guest rooms offer many amenities including coffee makers, mini-bars and televisions with cable and satellite channels. In the Health Club, guests can take advantage of the tranquility of the indoor swimming pool crowned by a glass roof, as well as exercise equipment and a whirlpool. The hotel’s staff enjoys an excellent reputation for their friendliness and enthusiastic efficiency. *July 31 departure (westbound) will stay at Le Méridien Budapest on nights 1 and 2
Night 3 – 9: Aboard MS Swiss Jewel, MS Swiss Sapphire or MS Swiss Emerald Cruising Europe's inland waterways exclusively for Tauck, the sister ships MS Swiss Emerald (launched in 2006), MS Swiss Sapphire (launched in 2008) and new-for-2009 MS Swiss Jewel represent the epitome of luxurious river cruising. In addition to their spacious, well-appointed cabins, all three ships offer 14 beautiful 300-square-foot suites -- equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, marble baths, flat-screen televisions and walk-in closets -- as well as 7 junior suites, adding up to four times more suites then most other European riverboats. The cabins, which range from 150 to 183 sq. ft., provide plush accommodations with plasma TV, terry bathrobes, fine L'Occitane toiletries, large windows and much more. Crews of 29 attentively serve just 118 guests. The Restaurant offers both an elegant dining venue and a fine dining experience, while the spacious Panorama Lounge in the bow, with its bar, dance floor and entertainment, is a delightful gathering spot in the evenings. The gracious Lido Bar in the stern has a 180° glass wall that opens for an indoor / outdoor cocktail hour, and offers alternative bistro dining featuring lighter fare – a first on Europe’s rivers. The Swiss Emerald, Swiss Sapphire and Swiss Jewel are definitely “top-of-the-line” – and operate only for Tauck!
Night 10 & 11: Prague Marriott Hotel Prague, Czech Republic This sleek, modern hotel is centrally located in Prague, at the gate to the Old Town Square and within walking distance of many attractions. Guestrooms are spacious by local standards and quite comfortable. The World Class Health Academy, the largest fitness center in Prague, offers an indoor swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool and fully equipped gym. Guests seeking other forms of recreation may want to try their luck at the hotel’s on-site casino.