Family Archives - Wizard of Odysseys

Croatia’s coast ticks all the boxes for a perfect boating vacation!

January 28, 2022 Pat Ogle-Collins Adventure, Cultural Experiences, Europe, Family, Off the Beaten Path, Scenic Beauty No comments

Croatia puts up one of the best shows when it comes to mind-blowing scenery. The Adriatic coastline, one of its most dazzling features, attracts vacationers from all corners of the world. Its shimmering waters, sunny beaches, and picturesque towns make the coastline a dream vacation destination for groups and families.

Traveling by vehicle down the coastline is what everyone does, but you can choose to do things differently by sailing instead. A chartered boat

vacation gives you a chance to explore the more than 2000km long coastline and gives you an unconventional perspective of the Croatian coast.

Your Guide to the Best Stops

The Croatian coast offers lots of eye candy for travelers with literally thousands of islands scattered across its waters, sheltered harbors, and fishing villages and historic cities. However, when sailing, you will dock at several ports that offer a variety of attractions that you can admire from the yacht or on foot during a brief tour of the mainland.

Dubrovnik and its marina at night.

Let’s start with the port Dubrovnik, which gives you a glimpse into Croatia’s vibrant culture. Located on the shoreline, the walled city which has existed for centuries gives you a chance to step into history and life of the people. It is also the location of several scenes of the popular movie, Game of Thrones. As you walk through the Stradun, the main street in Dubrovnik, conquer Minčeta fortress, the highest point on the city wall, and explore impressive buildings you will experience why it earned the title of the “most romantic destination” in Europe.

Next stop is Split, another Game of Thrones filming location. To get to the location in the tv series, you will need to climb up to nearby Klis Fortress which is also a great viewpoint of the entire city. On your return to Split from the fortress pass by the Diocletian Palace to view ancient Roman architecture in all its glory. The palace which was home to Emperor Diocletian takes up almost half of the town.

Korcula Island is a favorite stop for many sailing the Croatian coast because of the displays of deep culture and tools used to navigate the sea in ancient times. Also, known as the birthplace of renowned world traveler Marco Polo, you get to experience some century-old traditions as part of your sailing tour, such as sword dances and klapa or acapella groups. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, make plans to visit the pristine beaches, olive groves, and beautiful vineyards on the enchanting island.

Travel back in history on the island of Korcula, the birthplace of Marco Polo.

Hvar is the perfect sailing destination if you are traveling to Croatia during the summer. The island has a lot to offer with a hilltop fortress, thirteenth-century walls, and a renaissance-era cathedral in the main square as the main attractions. Hvar’s history is alive in its architectural heritage, seen in several monasteries and public theatres open to the public. When sailing, you also get to explore beaches like Dubovica and relax.

Quaint towns and beautiful beaches abound on the island of Brač.

Bol, on the island of Brač, is a haven for beach lovers looking to relax on one of the most popular Croatian beaches, Zlatni Rat, the most photographed beach in Croatia. In addition to the beach, stretch your sea legs on the promenade that stretches over a mile or hike to the top of Vidova Gora, the highest peak in the Adriatic. Enjoy meandering the town or visit the Dragon’s Cave, a temple used by medieval Slavid priests.

Is boating a great way to see the coastal areas?

The answer is YES. Chartering a boat isthe most flexible and versatile way to see the best of the Croatian coast. Options are numerous, with most focusing on travelers seeing as much of the coastline from their vessel of choice. Booking a yacht gives you a chance to take in the beauty of the coastal areas and at times exploring the mainland. So, are you the best fit for a sailing trip to Croatia? Here are some pointers to help you.

Chartering a boat with friends or extended family can make a custom cruise vacation more affordable than even some large ship cruises.

One boat split among travelers means affordability

When looking at the cost of a charter on a per-person basis, the cost of chartering can be less than that of cruising on large ships without the crowds. Chartering with your friends or extended family is a great way to spend time together creating memories that will last a lifetime. For those looking for a romance, what could be more memorable than an intimate sailing vacation enjoying sunsets wrapped in

each other’s arms while lying alone on the deck. Something you can’t do for any price on a cruise ship!

Perfection for those that love the outdoors

Boating vacations provide an opportunity to have a great time outdoors under clear skies. Your perfect vacation includes waking up to a beautiful sunrise, exploring islands, visiting towns, and climbing hills and fortresses. Some days you get to enjoy the solitude of quiet bays and other days the Adriatic air will be abuzz with townspeople going about their daily lives. You can expect a mix of everything as you sail around different parts of Croatia.

Enjoy the local culture

Get ready for a great cultural experience as you sail from one port to another on the Croatian shoreline. The islands showcase the history of the people through wonderful architecture influenced by different cultures. You can also visit local markets and festivals filled with activities like dancing, music performances, and showcases of traditional customs.

Boating allows those that love the outdoors to be in their element 24/7.

Different boats for different people

Although known as a superyacht destination, you can still book motor vessels and other smaller sailing vessels, including a captain and chef. If you prefer a privately chartered yacht, where the crew is attentive and caters to your every need so you can enjoy some well-deserved R &R without moving a muscle, Croatia is your best bet. No matter your choice of a sailing vessel, you are guaranteed gorgeous views and stops at marvelous harbors.

For a dream trip to Croatia, combine a week of boating with a week on land to ensure to see various inland destinations and get an up-close experience of the country. Call me today so that I can get you cruising the Croatian coast ASAP!

Don’t tiptoe thru the tulips – cycle!

December 17, 2021 Pat Ogle-Collins Adventure, Cultural Experiences, Europe, Family, Scenic Beauty No comments

Imagine cycling through the countryside among fields of colorful tulips stretching for miles with the sight of a pretty windmill in the distance. Just over a rustic bridge, you stop for a rest, inhale the scent of the fragrant flowers and take photos of the scenery surrounding the path you are traveling.

Biking through the Netherlands provides a form of slow travel that allows you to experience truly local sights and get a fitness fix at the same time. This beautiful European country has charming towns, quaint villages, and lovely countryside that will keep you entranced. Biking tourism is popular for many reasons, including how easily you can hit the bike brakes to stop and admire the sights and then continue your adventure when you are ready.

For the Dutch, cycling has become a way of life – almost everyone owns a bike, including children and the elderly. The biking culture is so popular in the Netherlands that most people ride every day and some paths serve double duty as bike paths and power generators because these solar cell-covered paths collect energy!

Narrow streets and canals means you get to your destination faster than by car in Amsterdam.

The flat landscape of the Netherlands makes it easy for leisure riding, so you don’t need to be ultra-fit or a serious cyclist to enjoy this mode of travel when you visit. Those with young children or in their retirement years, might dismiss biking as being too energetic and demanding, but once you see how the locals embrace biking, you might be tempted to give it a try. The locals will always be cheering you on in their warm and friendly way, as they love seeing visitors embrace their biking culture.

Tulip time provides not only beautiful scenery for a bike tour, but a delightful scented tour as well.

Since travelers are all different, you will find different kinds of bikes for your journey, including recreational bikes, e-bikes and road bikes. Depending on your experience and fitness level, you can match the right bike and tour, so you have a wonderful time cycling the great outdoors. You can even choose your bike seat to help you have a comfortable ride.

There are many kinds of bike tours available with something for everyone from hour-long tours to full or multi-day tours. You can find group tours, luxury

tours, and family-friend tours, making your bike trip a great social experience. For those that enjoy time in the company of friends and/or family or even alone, you can head out on a self-guided tour through a tour company, leveraging the services just like you would get on a tour. This more independent style of bike travel works out to be affordable yet still comes with services including routes, information and a help hotline.

There is nothing like being able to enjoy your pedal-powered travel without the hassles and logistics. All the details are arranged when booking a group or self-guided bike tour. When moving on to a new hotel, your baggage will be transported for you while you use peddle power to reach your destination. If your bike needs a repair or the weather turns bad, you will be rescued, making it a stress-free adventure that will be exhilarating. Getting to your destination promises to be both rewarding and exciting. After biking thru the scenic countryside all

Due to its biking culture, you frequently see crowded bike parking lots.

day, indulge in some guilt-free local cuisine with drinks and dessert. The beer that waits for you at the end of a fun day of cycling will taste incredible.

Life in the Netherland’s bike lane is great for first-time bike tour travelers. It is a very safe place to cycle, so safe that wearing a helmet isn’t required. Even with group tours, you can ride at your own pace and enjoy the sights and scenery; taking your time to experience the environment is what it’s all about. Once you experience the fun of cycling in Holland, you might consider bike tours in other countries too. Barge cruises and biking trips are also popular for travelers who like to mix it up. This different kind of travel is easy to get used to and might be your new-found pastime.

See the Netherlands by land and water on a bike and barge tour.

The Dutch constructed over 35,000 km of bike paths where you can see lush forests, pristine rivers, ocean, plains, towns and more. You might stop to explore a local bakery and farmer’s market with the freshest cheese for your picnic later. You are free to ride and park as your wish, making every day full of unexpected surprises.

Bike sightseeing provides a great way to immerse yourself in the communities you visit. Conversations with locals flow when they see you are riding through

their country and often, questions about where have you been and where are you going spark meaningful exchanges. These rich travel experiences probably wouldn’t happen if they were on a tour or driving by car.

As well as health and fitness benefits, cycling means you contribute to improving the environment. You will notice how fresh the air is, especially in the countryside. As you can tell, there are numerous benefits to biking in the Netherlands. If you’ve been considering a bike tour, I am sure you will find it immensely enjoyable. If this idea is new to you, I’m excited to help you discover this new form of travel. Just give me a call!

Even cheese goes by bicycle in the Netherlands!

Boots not required for this Best of New Zealand!

August 13, 2021 Pat Ogle-Collins Adventure, Australia/NZ, Family, Scenic Beauty No comments

Known for its diverse landscape, New Zealand’s spectacular scenery makes it the perfect place for exploration of all types of surroundings, from mountains to rivers and even glaciers and natural hot pools by all types of travelers. Spend a day in Tongariro National Park to experience all of these! Established in 1887, Tongariro National Park was the fourth national park

Mt. Raupehu

to be created globally and the first in New Zealand! UNESCO also recognizes the park with dual World Heritage status for both its cultural and natural features.

What makes this national park so unique is its unparalleled scenery. Made up of three volcanoes that dominate the region, Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro, and Mt Ngauruhoe, as well as beech forest, waterfalls, and rivers. Stepping foot into this park, you’re rewarded with some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes.

A New Zealand Best – the Alpine Crossing!

Located in the center of the North Island, Tongariro National Park is home to one of the best hikes in New Zealand, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. This hike is around 20km and takes between 7-8 hours to complete depending on how fast you choose to walk. This spectacular hike (that isn’t a loop, so arrange organized transport) takes you over the volcano through different terrains, such as springs, lava flows, volcanic rocks, and the famous emerald lakes.

Hiking track, Tongariro National Park

The best time of year to tackle this famous hike is during spring or autumn when the temperatures aren’t too cold or hot. You’ll need to have a relatively high level of fitness to complete this hike and proper hiking boots.

Although this is the most famous activity in Tongariro National Park, it should not discourage anyone from visiting, as there is still a range of activities on offer.

Magnificent scenery awaits in the desert!

When you picture New Zealand, the desert isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. However, if you plan to drive from Auckland to Tongariro National Park, that’s what you’ll get.

After you leave sub-tropical Auckland, pass the geothermal areas around Rotorua and crystalline Lake Taupo. All you’ll see is a deserted sandy road with nothing in sight until you reach the three volcanoes that make up the Pacific Ocean’s ‘Ring of Fire,’ Mt Tongariro, Mt Ruapehu, and Mt Ngauruhoe.

Love Lord of the Rings? See Mt Doom up close!

If you’re a fan of the Lord of the Rings series, visiting Mt Ngauruhoe or “Mt Doom” must be on your Tongariro National Park activities list. Standing between Mt Tongariro and Mt Ruapehu, this 2,29m (7,516 ft) mountain is the second tallest in the park and was a big part of the film franchise, drawing in thousands of tourists

Mt. Ngaurahue, also referred to as Mt. Doom from the Lord of the Rings films

every year. However, if you’re not a big Lord of the Rings fan, it’s still an impressive sight to see!

Stunning landscapes and beautiful waterfalls!

As well as spectacular mountain ranges, New Zealand is also home to some pretty impressive waterfalls. Located in Tongariro National Park, Taranaki Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, and you have to see it to believe it.

The falls are found halfway through the 6km loop and tumble 20-meters into a boulder-ringed pool. There are two viewing points, one from the top and one from the base of the falls. While you’re there, you’ll have stunning views of all three mountains that make up Tongariro National Park.

Taranaki Falls, Tongariro National Park

The walk to the falls is one of the easiest and most impressive in the national park as it takes you through beech forest, shrubland, past the Wairere Stream, Cascade Falls, and manuka forest.

Tea overlooking snow-covered mountains!

If you are more of a slow traveler who enjoys the little things, such as high tea

with a sensational view, then be sure to check out the Chateau Tongariro. From their High Tea menu, you can choose from a range of sandwiches, scones, and treats, as well as your choice of coffee or fresh tea, served to you at a table overlooking the impressive Mt Ngauruhoe. Located within Whakapapa Village, indulging in this high tea needs to be on your list, especially in winter when snow covers Mt Ngauruhoe!

Bike along the Old Coach Road!

Not only are there amazing hikes throughout Tongariro National Park, but there is also a range of biking trails that you can explore. One of the best ones to add to your itinerary is Old Coach Road. Located at the southern end of Tongariro National Park near Ohakune, this 15km one-way (2hr 20 mins) trail takes you through a mix of terrains, such as forest, railway relics, and rural countryside. Or, if you don’t have a bike, you can also walk this trail, which takes around 41/2 hrs.

Whatever way you choose to tackle this trail, you will be blown away by the sheer beauty of the landscapes you’ll see along the way. Without a doubt, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike is the park’s most notable visitor draw. But non-hikers have plenty to see and experience without hiking boots and walking stick. From bike trails to high tea at Chateau Tongariro, no matter that type of activity you’re into, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this little corner of New Zealand.

Active Mount Raupehu with Chateau Tongariro

So, whether you prefer hiking boots or sneaks, a terrific day awaits you at Tongariro. All you have to do is give me a call!

Even a Scrooge can’t scowl at glüwein and twinkly stars!

July 30, 2021 Pat Ogle-Collins Bucket List Destinations/Experiences, Cultural Experiences, Europe, Family 1 comment

Walking through a European Christmas market feels like being in a romantic winter wonderland movie. As the aroma of spiced wine mixes with the cool breeze, you will experience a feeling of joy and happiness as you roam a fairytale holiday market filled with festive treats.

Germany, Slovakia, Poland, Belgium, Austria, and Hungary are a few countries that put on a Christmas market that would impress the socks off Santa and all his elves. Every country has a unique market with various winter displays, events, parades, and food. Picking a favorite one is simply impossible.

Christmas Market in front of Town Hall in Vienna, Austria

Prague’s Christmas Market in its Old Town

Shopfronts are decorated in cheery festive Christmas themes that are so beautiful it’s hard not to stop at each and every one. Historic architecture makes the perfect backdrop to this dreamy annual event. Many stalls line the streets with welcoming cafes and rustic restaurants everywhere, so it is easy to rest when you get weighed down by all your shopping bags.

Christmas mugs, handmade knick-knacks, souvenirs, ornaments, toys, decorations, fabrics, fashion, sweets, and more are just some of the buys you will

want to take home. Christmas decorations are probably one of the most exciting items at the markets because local artisans make beautiful decorative pieces that you will never find anywhere else.

If you are obsessed with Christmas decorations, save a whole section in your suitcase for wooden sleds, nutcracker creations, handprinted trees, sparkly stars, and Santa decorations that are irresistible. Delicate snow globes are not easy to travel with but are worth the effort.

When it comes to Christmas shopping, the European markets have something unique for everyone, even that most hard-to-shop-for person who has everything. Even if you travel to the markets this year during the holidays and delivering your gifts after your trip or even next year, nobody will mind if they get a gorgeous Christmas-inspired gift from Europe.

Nuremberg’s Christmas Market is known for its traditional decorations and ornaments.

Children aren’t the only ones that look forward to the sweet treats at Christmas markets throughout Europe.

Sweet treats are a big part of the European Christmas markets which are loaded with delicious temptations. Indulge in iced sugar cookies, crepes, cake, donuts, chocolate, and candy. If you don’t have a sweet tooth, there’s plenty of other scrumptious options like roasted chestnuts, dumplings, soup, and gingerbread cookies. You might even discover reindeer sausages or Töki pompos (cooked dough with bacon, onion, and cream toppings a favorite in Hungary). Drinks with a dash of spice, peppermint, or something stronger are great to carry around as you roam the markets.

The daytime and nighttime atmospheres at a Christmas market are quite different, so make sure you explore the markets at both times. During the day, there is a busy vibe as everyone shops and enjoys music with festive food and drink. At night the glow of the lights adds a romantic feel, and the pace of life seems to slow down a little. Locals and tourists linger over meals of traditional Christmas fare and soak up the holiday atmosphere that surrounds the whole village or city.

An ice skating rink filled with happy children is a breathtaking sight and the little ones will also love to see puppet shows, Father Christmas, and live Christmas performances with all the classics being played. Even if you don’t have children with you, your inner child will be thrilled to feel a level of excitement about Christmas that you might not have felt since your youth. Every corner seems to be another picturesque scene of festive yuletide cheer.

Nativity sets fill the Aix-en-Provence Christmas Market.

Find the nearest church or cathedral near the market because they are sure to be in the holiday spirit with nativity scenes, twinkling lights, and Christmas carols. Spend time reflecting on the rich history of the traditional Christmas markets that originated in Germany hundreds of years ago.

The market in Munich takes place under the watchful eye of its famous Glockenspiel on Marienplatz in the center of the city.

As the snowflakes fall, it is time to dash indoors for one more hot chocolate, glühwein, or eggnog next to a Christmas tree adorned with pretty fairy lights. Make sure you take plenty of photos and videos to remember this once-in-a-lifetime Christmas holiday experience.

Call me today to discuss what city might be calling your festive soul to visit. While December probably isn’t a month you usually travel, this year can be different. I can arrange an amazing European

winter vacation, with the highlight being the Christmas markets, faster than a 10-year-old can rip open a gift-wrapped box on Christmas Eve.

There’s more than one magic kingdom!

July 9, 2021 Pat Ogle-Collins Cultural Experiences, Europe, Family, Scenic Beauty No comments

Magical when describing a place – what does that bring to mind? Fairytale castles? Misty mornings? Gingerbread-style houses? Powdered sugar-covered mountain peaks? If so, places like this don’t exist only in theme parks and storybooks. A short drive south of Munich, Germany you will find just such a place.

A wonderful destination awaits which will please everyone. During the colder months of the year, winter sports enthusiasts flock to Garmisch-

View of Garmisch-Partenkirchen

A wonderful destination awaits which will please everyone. During the colder months of the year, winter sports enthusiasts flock to Garmisch-Partenkirken, a beautiful town in this southern area of Bavaria. During the warmer months of the year, activities abound in the surrounding area. And I do mean abound! With careful planning, you can enjoy the best of the area in a couple of days. For those that want a slower pace or to enjoy nature more fully, one can easily fill up a week using Garmisch as a base. Thus, this picturesque vacation area offers a lot of fun for families, couples, and solo travelers. What can you do in and around Garmisch-Partenkirchen? Let your journey begin!

Zugspitze

Not far from Garmisch-Partenkirchen you will find the highest mountain in Germany. At its 2,962 meter summit, breathtaking views from this imposing peak draw visitors from around the world. While there, check off your list that you visited Austria by taking a few steps over the border.

Summit of the Zugspitze

Albspitze

The Albspitze may not be as big as the Zugspitze, but this mountain is a favorite of many. The striking north face with its pyramidal peak stands guard over Garmisch-Partenkirchen creating an impressive panorama. Its formidable presence makes it one with the city and its symbol.

Especially in summer, you can hike through the idyllic landscape. With some climbing experience, one of the most popular climbing routes in all of Bavaria awaits you. Not a climber, no problem. Several cable

cars transport summit seekers to the top. The view from the platform “Alpspix” should be a reason to call this mountain a must-see!

Partnach Gorge

Located about three kilometers to the southeast of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you find Partnach Gorge, by far one of the most impressive works of art that Mother Nature has given southern Bavarian. Through this rocky gorge flows the Partnach River, which carved its way through the rock over millions of years.

In summer, the gorge will blow your mind with its simply breathtaking landscape. In winter, when snow covers the whole area, a much more spectacular sight awaits. Massive ice formations give the already beautiful gorge the final touch.

Oberammergau

You’ll find the village of Oberammergau about 20 kilometers north of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Although just a very small town, it offers visitors plenty to see. Strolling the picturesque streets of this generally quiet village, you’ll notice the many murals on the houses depicting various scenes from the bible and notably the Passion of Christ.

In addition to its famous woodcarving school and shops filled with the work of these craftsmen,

Quaint restaurant in Oberammergau

Oberammergau hosts the world-renowned Passion Play which takes place every ten years during the late spring thru early autumn. In thanks to Godfor saving the town from the bubonic plague, the play draws attendees from around the world to see the production by the citizens of the town. During other years you can still visit the Passion Theater for a tour of the theater and stories of how this event is produced that will leave you amazed.

Neuschwanstein Castle

If there is one castle known all over the world for its breathtaking beauty, the Bavarian fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein stands out. Sitting atop a hill near the base of a mountain, this castle commands the surrounding area. One of three castles built by the so-called Mad King Ludwig, this castle inspired the castles in Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella. In addition to a visit inside the castle, allow time to walk or take a carriage ride up the hill to the castle and enjoy the views. For those with more time, explore nearby Hohenschwangau, the childhood home of the mad king.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Keep in mind that you are not the only one who wants to enjoy the breathtaking sight. Long lines form early and last throughout the day. With limited time and/or families with children, purchase “skip the line“ tickets in advance for a less stressful visit.

In addition to this fairytale castle, you will also find numerous other castles throughout Bavaria worth a visit. However, if you have a tight schedule, Neuschwanstein Castle, the most beautiful of them all, should be at the top of your list.

Linderhof Castle

Linderhof Castle is the smallest of Neuschwanstein and Herrenchiemsee (located between Munich and Salzburg) castles built by Bavarian King Ludwig II. In this castle, the so-called fairy tale king stayed here most often. Why you may ask? This castle in the Alps was the only one completed during his lifetime.

Above all, the beautiful gardens and relaxing fountain around the imposing castle will completely inspire you. The mix of baroque and rococo styles gives this royal residence a flair that can hardly be compared to any other royal dwelling.

And that’s not all!

Of course, you will find plenty of other interesting places to visit in addition to these should you opt for an extended time to explore the area. For example, Höllental Gorge, Ettal Abbey, the Wieskirche, and the town of Fussen are just a few of the other sites in this area jam-packed with things to see and do. If you love the outdoors, literally thousands of trails can keep you challenged the entire length of your stay.

Linderhof Castle

Don’t let the small alpine town of Garmisch-Partenkircken and surrounding area known for skiing lure you into thinking you can see everything in a day or two. With a well-planned itinerary, you can see the highlights, but to savor the area and all it has to offer, you can plan to spend 4-7 days. Call me to help you create a perfect itinerary for you!

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