Travel Tips - 7 Country Cruise

2008 - TIPS ON CRUISING
THE EUROPEAN WATERWAYS
MS “Switzerland I” and MS “Switzerland II”

To our “Valued” Passengers!

Traveling is always an exciting time - new places to visit, people to meet and things to do. However, to get the most out of your travel experience, preparation is the key! Therefore, we have compiled these Travel Tips to address some of the most frequently asked questions.

We hope the information provided will help you prepare for your river cruise adventure in order to make it your most memorable and rewarding vacation experience ever!

Welcome aboard!

In selecting one of these river cruises, you have chosen one of the most relaxing and fulfilling ways to see modern Europe. There is no packing and unpacking and your “floating hotel” takes you to the heart of historic cities and quaint villages.

You will enjoy the continuous and ever-changing scenery as you encounter a colorful world of legendary waterways, picturesque landscapes, splendid castles and local markets. You will meet the local people and enjoy their various cultures and history!

However, depending on your chosen itinerary, you may be traveling through several countries with various histories, customs and cultures different from each other and to what you are accustomed to back home. It is therefore important that we advise and prepare you for some of the cultural and social differences you may encounter. These Tour and Travel Tips have been designed to provide useful information and helpful suggestions to ease your adjustment and help you get around any obstacles you may encounter. Your journey will be greatly enhanced if you take the time to prepare for it. Thoroughly acquaint yourself with the information provided herewith - but also talk to others who have been in the countries you will visit, or study one of the many comprehensive guide books available – or browse the Internet. The effort you put into planning your trip before you go will make all the difference. Thank you!

GENERAL TRAVEL INFORMATION

Vouchers: If traveling within a group, vouchers may not be required or issued. If traveling as an individual and/or deviating from the regular itinerary, we may issue vouchers for services paid for. When included, vouchers will be listed on the check-off list sent with your final documents.

Air Tickets: Whenever air tickets are issued by our company, they will be included with your final documents. In some instances, when tickets are issued directly by the airlines involved, they may be sent to you under separate cover. Please see the check-off list.

Transfers: If you have purchased your airfare or have prepaid your arrival transfers through us, please look for Tour Guides holding signs with the NAME OF YOUR SHIP after exiting the Customs Area of the airport!

If you have purchased land/cruise only and are arranging for your own arrival and departure transportation, the names and addresses of your hotel and the port locations will be listed on the Contact Sheet sent with your final documents.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Before leaving home, please ensure that you have your valid PASSPORT and appropriate VISAS. Based on our programs and countries visited, US citizens do NOT NEED VISAS for traveling throughout Europe. However, please make sure your US passport has a validity of at least 6 months beyond your scheduled travel dates and check for visa updates with the U.S. State Department or the appropriate foreign consulates at least 90 days prior to your departure. If you are a foreign national – please check with each country’s consulate as requirements may be different. Remember: obtaining any visa and proper travel documents are YOUR responsibility!

BAGGAGE: Make a detailed list of everything you pack for the trip, and then leave this list at home. We cannot be responsible for lost baggage, but most airlines will make every effort to recover baggage or make proper compensation if you are able to itemize the suitcase contents. It is also a good idea to tape a piece of paper INSIDE your luggage, which shows your full name, home address and telephone number. The purchase of Travel Insurance is strongly recommended!

BAGGAGE WEIGHT: Please remember that weight allowances vary and are lower when flying domestic, and intra-continental routes, utilizing smaller aircraft. Check your airline ticket for instructions and pack accordingly – or you may face overweight surcharges!

BAGGAGE TAGS: Will be provided with your documents. If you would like your luggage to take the same vacation you do – please use them! Please note: The tags have been designed to allow you to list up to 6 points of travel (hotel to ship, ship to hotel, etc.). DO NOT DISCARD THEM! Simply cross out your previous location and write in your next destination (and room or cabin number if you know it). This will help our staff and porters deliver your luggage to you in the shortest possible time!

SQUARE LUGGAGE STICKERS: May also be provided. Please stick them visibly on your suitcases when possible - the stickers will allow you, our guides & porters to recognize them quicker and get them to their destination faster!

BADGES: Please wear the buttons or badges provided at all airports, transfer points, hotels, and any time you are embarking/disembarking the ship. Not only does your badge assist us in providing adequate security on the vessel by identifying you as a group member to our guides, staff and security personnel, it also allows you get to know your fellow passengers sooner!

NOTE: Since people go by nicknames, our buttons and badges are left blank. Please print your name with a permanent marker in the way you would like to be addressed and wear them at least for the first few days.

PASSENGER MIX: Most of our European sailings have been reserved for our North American clientele and most, if not all, passengers will be Americans or Canadians. On some dates, however, there may be a mix of other European nationalities but either way the primary language is always ENGLISH.

CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS: The dress code on our cruises is INFORMAL!

Please - PACK LIGHTLY! Combine a few tee shirts, several shirts, a turtleneck, 2 wrinkle free slacks, one skirt, one sweater, a pair of shorts, a wind-breaker and a sports jacket - and you are done! Leave your formal evening clothes at home; tuxedos and evening gowns are inappropriate! The only times you will need to "dress up" are for the Welcome, the Captain’s and the Farewell Dinner aboard the ship or if you choose to attend an evening concert or ballet performance. On these occasions, a jacket and tie for gentlemen, and a cocktail dress for the ladies will be fine. But generally, the dress code is informal (and that goes for excessive jewelry too!) Remember - you are traveling to see - not to be seen!
Keep it simple and you'll thank yourself later! DO pay particular attention to footwear - you should have a good pair of comfortable walking shoes with thick rubber soles and firm arch supports. If you buy new shoes, "break them in" before the trip. Suitable footwear aboard the ship would be sneakers, deck shoes, tennis shoes, and similar rubber-soled shoes. Our cruises involve extensive walking during visits ashore, so you need to be comfortable!

PHYSICAL DISABILITIES: Please note that the majority of the passenger vessels sailing the various rivers of the world (including those featured in our programs) have limited services for the physically impaired. Entrances to cabins and doorways may not be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. In addition, due to their small size and shallow draft, the ships often anchor at remote ports and stops. While this ability enhances the itineraries, it also means that most of the shore excursions are done on foot. Therefore, severe walking disabilities may limit the passenger’s overall enjoyment on these programs.

Regretfully, we do not recommend these cruises to
severely disabled or wheelchair bound passengers!

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS (when applicable)

HOTELS: On some of our tour/cruise packages, we add pre/post stays at hotels in various cities (check your itinerary). In all such cases we use First Class or Deluxe 5* properties and a buffet breakfast is always included. Other meals are provided as specified in your tour itinerary. In all cases, hotels are carefully selected to provide the best combination of location, comfort and value. But remember – quality and service levels at some of the hotels may lag behind what we are used to in the Northern America! For actual hotels used on your particular departure, please check the "Contact List" included with your final documents.

CRUISE RULES

River cruising is a unique form of travel. Some General Rules to know are:

1. Maritime Law - As with a pilot on a plane, the Captain of a ship is the ultimate law. He/she is responsible for the ultimate safety and comfort of the vessel and its passengers. It is within the Captain's jurisdiction to change the sequence of stops and ports if necessary due to inclement weather conditions, high or low water levels, dock and lock schedules, technical reasons, etc. The Captain has the right to remove unruly passengers, quarantine the ship in case of disease and similar. Therefore, although unlikely, certain changes in schedules may happen. Although we expect to provide sightseeing of all the major attractions listed in our cruise programs, there is always a possibility that the sequence of ports may be altered to take into account the operating hours at museums, galleries and monuments. Shore excursions may be changed in response to sailing conditions and other factors. Your understanding and cooperation in such instances will be greatly appreciated!

2. Cultural Differences - Remember that you may be traveling through countries whose political, social and cultural backgrounds may be different from your own. Do not let political differences govern your perspective. Instead, travel with an open mind, and you will satisfy your curiosity about the people, their lands, their history and their culture.

3. Service - If you receive poor service at any point, try to take it in good humor and solve it directly. If you have any serious complaints, take them to your guide and/or Cruise Director.

4. Bureaucracy - Expect a little bit of red tape, and try not to be bothered by bureaucratic rituals, which may be different from country to country.

5. Do not compare things you see by American standards. The diverse river vessels were all specifically built for cruising the narrow rivers, low laying bridges and tight locks that dot the routes. Therefore, although clean and comfortable, they are small and practical and should not be compared with huge ocean faring vessels. Above all, keep your sense of humor and enjoy the cultural legacies, physical geography, and rich variety of the people as you sail through these unique and different lands!

ABOUT OUR SHIPS

Built in 1988, and renovated as recently as the winter of 2003, the “MS Switzerland I” is a delightful first class vessel that has been ever popular thanks to its limited capacity of only 115 passengers! The cozy 120 ft standard cabins are spread over two decks, both of which are above water level and with big picture windows. The standard cabins feature all modern amenities including 2 lower berth twin beds, a private bathroom with shower and hairdryer, a radio and TV, mini-fridge and individually controlled air conditioning. Two single cabins, one mini suite and three triple cabins complete the cabin choices. The ship’s public areas are cozy and warm and include a reception area with a small shop, a library/reading corner, a restaurant and wood accented Panorama Lounge and bar featuring floor to ceiling windows guaranteeing gorgeous views of the passing countryside. The food is superb with full buffet breakfasts, buffet lunches and sit down dinners. Swiss management and a European crew ensure that passenger wishes are always handled with efficiency and a smile.

The younger sister ship “MS Switzerland II” is similar to the “MS Switzerland I” in its looks, cabin structure and amenities and was designated as a first class 4 star vessel as well. It has consistently been rated top of its class by past passengers due to its small and cozy ambiance (110 maximum passengers,) great food, entertainment and on board service provided by superb Swiss Management and a delightfully young and enthusiastic crew of 26!

Some general on board “A, B, C’s”

• Air conditioning & heating
All staterooms on all ships have individually controlled air units.

• Beverages
Coffee, tea and ice water are provided for free at all meal times. Sodas, bottled water or alcoholic beverages are at extra charge (they will be charged to each passengers individual shipboard account).

• Beds
Beds are hotel style twin beds with European bedding (there are some non feather pillows available on request). Beds cannot be pushed together.

• On Board gift shop
All ships have an on board shops where you will find basic accessories, film, souvenirs and gifts. Please remember European TV/Video systems (Pal/Secam) are different than in the USA (NTSC). Make sure you bring along enough blank tape/memory cards! Important: European DVDs are encoded differently from US DVD. If you purchase a DVD in Europe, even if it is without a Region code, you may only be able to play it in laptop computers but not your DVD player

• Cuisine
All food aboard is prepared by our superbly trained European chefs and feature an international assortment peppered with local delicacies of regions you will be sailing through. Breakfast is served buffet style featuring a wide variety of hot and cold eggs, meats, cereals and fruits. Lunches are also mainly buffet consisting of salad and sandwich bars as well as pasta dishes, hand carved meats, and dessert trays. Dinners are multi-course meals with a selection of appetizers, entrées and desserts.

• Currency/Credit cards: ON BOARD CURRENCY ON ALL SHIPS IS THE EURO
Major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Yet, it is STILL a good idea to take some cash with you for stops off the beaten track and for smaller purchases at souvenir stands or other smaller local vendors.

• Dining
All meals are served at one seating. The ships promote the open seating policy, so that passengers are free to sit and mingle at different tables at all meals.

• Electricity
Onboard electricity is 220V. Although a hair dryer is provided in each cabin, you will need an adapter pin plug for other small personal items such as a razor or curling iron. If your appliance does not convert between 110 and 220, you will also need a converter/transformer. The ships have neither adapters nor converters available for rent, so you must bring your own. Please note: Many recent laptops, cameras, etc. are able to automatically convert between the currents----please check!

• Elevators
Regretfully, there are no elevators on board the MS Switzerland I and II.

• Embarkation
Each ship and program has a different afternoon embarkation time. In case of an early arrival, please alert us ahead of time. Then you may check your luggage onto the ship and explore the port city a little on your own before embarkation.

• Gratuities
Tipping is a personal way to show satisfaction for good service and is always appreciated. The suggested amount is approximately 5% of your cruise fare, or 8 to 10 Euros per passenger/per day, which is shared and distributed among all of the ship’s Crew. For Cruise Directors that take care of you throughout the program, we recommend 2 to 3 Euros per person/per day. For local tour guides/drivers in ports of call 1 to 2 EURO per person, per excursion is suggested.

• Hairdryers
All cabins are equipped with hairdryers.

• Handicap Facilities
Handicap facilities on board are limited. Cruise vessels are not equipped with wheelchair ramps, and hallways and doors onboard may not be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. Additionally, motor coaches and mini-buses used for shore excursions may not be equipped with wheelchair ramps. Any condition requiring special attention must be reported at the time of booking. Facilities and services for passengers with disabilities differ among destinations to be visited and, in some cases, may be limited or non-existent. Cruise participants requiring special assistance must be accompanied by a person who will be responsible for providing such services.

• Laundry
Laundry services are available aboard at an additional cost. Price lists are in your cabin. We regret that clothes cannot be dry-cleaned.

• Medical services
The on board personnel are trained in First Aid and can assist with minor medical problems. In the event of an emergency or more serious illness, passengers may be evacuated to the nearest medical care facility on shore at the passenger’s own expense. Existing medical problems which may require treatment by the vessel’s staff must be brought to our attention at the time of booking. Neither we, nor the vessel’s owners and operators, will be liable for any act or omission in regards to medical assistance. If you require special medicine, please remember to bring a supply with you. There is no medicine available for purchase on board, and there is no on board physician.

• Money aboard ship (cashless)
All purchases and services aboard are signed to your personal shipboard account which can be paid with cash or charged to a credit card prior to disembarkation. (Visa, MasterCard)

• Onboard language
The onboard language is English. All staff and crew speak fluent English as do the tour guides. All announcements and lectures will be presented in English.

• Room Service
Room service is not available.

• Safes
Cabins are equipped with in-room safes. It is recommended to keep jewelry and valuables in the safe when away from the cabin.

• Sauna and Solarium
On the “MS Switzerland I”, you have a sauna and solarium available. Regretfully, the “MS Switzerland II” is not equipped with these facilities.

• Schedules of tours and activities:
Daily schedules are printed and distributed to the cabins each evening.

• Smoking
Smoking is only allowed outside on the Sun Deck. The interiors of the vessels are non-smoking.

• Special Diets
Passengers requiring special diets, such as vegetarian, low salt or low cholesterol meals, should advise the Maître D’ when on board. The chefs will make every effort to accommodate all requests. It is advisable to inform your travel agent of any food allergies or dietary meal restrictions in advance.

• Stamps, postcards and mail
Stamps and postcards are available at the reception desk, and mail is sent from port each day.

• Sun Deck
The Sun Decks are located on the top of the ships. For your enjoyment, there are plenty of deck chairs.

• Telephones
Each cabin has its own direct dial telephone. Ship-to-shore calls will be billed to your cabin and placed on the personal shipboard account. International calls are about thee Euro per minute. Depending on routing, there may be times when the ship is moving that calls cannot be connected. An instruction manual is available in each cabin. For fax services, contact the reception desk. There is no email facility on board.

• Televisions
All ships are equipped with satellite systems. There are color TV’s with English channels in each cabin.
However, please bear in mind that reception during sailings is sometimes limited.

OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION

Sample of Average Annual Temperatures: (L/H)

	May	June	July	Aug.	Sept.	Oct.
Amsterdam, Netherl.	F47/62	F54/66	F57/68	F59/74	F56/65	F55/63
Berlin, Germany	F48/63	F52/65	F55/67	F59/78	F58/68	F56/64
Budapest, Hungary	F58/68	F60/72	F62/79	F63/82	F61/77	F56/67
Vienna, Austria	F52/65	F55/66	F58/69	F60/71	F57/66	F54/64

Temperature Conversion (Celsius to Fahrenheit)

Multiply the Celsius temperature by two and add 30. For example, if the temperature
is 20°C, that would be 70°F (20x2+30=70).

General Conversions

To Change	Into	Multiply by
Kilometers	Miles	0.621
Miles	Kilometers	1.609
Centimeters	Inches	0.394
Inches	Centimeters	2.540
Meters	Feet	3.280
Feet	Meters	0.304
Liters	Gallons	0.264
US Gallons	Liters	3.785

PACKING TIPS & SUGGESTIONS

Items You May Wish to Bring Along:

• Facial tissues, conditioner (if needed) and washcloths, as they are not supplied on board.
• Skin cream and other cosmetics for sun protection & insect repellent.
• Spare set of eyeglasses for emergencies. If you wear contact lenses, bring a pair of eyeglasses for occasions when contacts are bothersome to wear, such as in strong wind or dust.
• Medications, which are vital to your health. A letter should accompany these from your doctor (signed and dated), certifying that such medications are vital to your health. Always pack any personal medications in your carry on luggage, not in your checked baggage.
• Common remedies such as laxatives, indigestion tablets, aspirin and travel sickness pills
(However, the latter will probably not be needed while in the protected waters of the inland rivers and waterways).
• Sunglasses.
• Plenty of film, memory cards, and blank video.
• Sewing kit, cosmetics, first aid kit, and paper towelettes.
• Binoculars (excellent for viewing scenes from the rivers).
• Batteries for cameras, shaver, etc.
• Electrical extension cord (if needed).
• Transformer, if needed, and plug adapters (purchased at K-Mart, Thrifty, or other appliance stores)

FOR MORE INFORMATION SEE YOUR TRAVEL AGENT OR CONTACT

VALUE WORLD TOURS, INC.
17220 NEWHOPE ST. #203
Fountain Valley, CA. 92708
Tel: (714) 556-8258, Fax: (714) 556-6125,
Email: travel@valuecruises.net Web: www.valuecruises.net