by Ron Largent | Dec 10, 2017 | Budapest. Hungary, Eastern Europe, Eastern Germany, European Travel, Germany, Hungary, International Travel, Matthias Church, Munich, Northern Europe Cruise, Organist, Special Events Travel Deals, St Stephens Basilica, St. Petersburg, Travel, Travel the World, Uncategorized, Viking Cruises, Vikings, Zurich
Saturday..Day 3 began as a cloudy and cold day…we had the usual delightful breakfast in the Club Lounge….then decided to Ride the Yellow Hop On and Hop Off bus….to see more of the city. About the Hop On Hop Off….there are actually 3 or 4 companies that call themselves Hop On Hop Off….and basically all of them are the same and three of the four wear the Red Coats….so it is a bit tricky to get the correct bus. And, a couple of the lines have a covered top, which is critical in this cold weather. In any case, you can pick and choose the bus…and we chose one that did not have the cover…so we sat inside the bus. You don’t see as much, but much, much warmer.
The ride was fine and when we concluded we decided to take the small streetcar that runs along the River up to the Parliament Building. This is a must see building and is the one featured on may many of the ;publications. Magnificent building. We went down into the Visitor Center…sold out for Saturday and Sunday….and the best way to get a ticket is on the internet. Probably well worth it, and more after the Viking Tour on Monday.
Upon returning to the Hotel, we decided to go straight on to the Restaurant that had the small museum that Carrie had told us about. We got there and it was full…but did go downstairs into the museum…very interesting and well worth it. The restaurant was full of Viking Pre Trip folks, and the food looked like full meals, etc,,..and pretty expensive…so sent down to Costa Coffee again….and again, pretty much sold out…so went back to Perfetto, where we were the night before. It was also jammed, but the manager saw us and got us a seat…big lunch of salad, sspaghetti, and lasagna…mine was great.
We then returned to the hotel and on our way heard the demonstration and saw the police cars…later found out it was a political demonstration to cross the Chain Bridge…which is the main bridge…. a big crowd of people walking with flags, etc….woman’s voice over the loud speaker in English…but not much more.
Had a nap and at 5:45 PM went down to catch the bus at 6:15 for the night light bus tour….as we were going to take it up to the Matthias Church, for the concert……and it was gorgeous going up and seeing the lights…definitely recommended.
The Solti Concert Orchestra and Choir and Soloists was the best of the best, and the setting in Matthias Church is unmatched in the world. Definitely another MUST SEE. Absolutely supurb musicians, with the concert master actually leading the orchestra on the first 3 numbers, which was a first for me. For me, the 90 minute program was perfect, as the quality of the musicians and the singers and soloists were the best that one could find anywhere. The magnificent church is probably perfect acoustically…..as you could hear every instrument and voice as is right next to you. The full house audience….probably 90% of them followers or the orchestra or patrons….would not quit at the end, with 3 “curtain” calls. Just a “once in a lifetime experience” for me.
We went next door to the Hilton for a “potty break” before heading back to the hotel using the taxi…10 minutes back and a good nights sleep.
Some observations…
- Budapest is a huge city that literally features its old and functional and beautiful buildings, and to see them lit up at night is a MUST.
- The River has allowed massive development on both sides, and both sides have these gorgeous buildings. Thinking of other cities in Europe, I cannot think of another one with this setting, with these magnificent buildings, palace, and parliament buildings being so prominent. London is a 2nd at this stage.
- The city just goes and goes, and the bus tour is a necessity….as traffic is very heavy and the road lanes run in all directions.
- The attitude of the people is very friendly….there is evidence of policemen around…but a very, very safe feeling all of the time. A lot of English is spoken, so it is easy to get around……
- Today we are going to change plans and go to the Central Train station…then back to the hotel by about noon…get ready for the River Boat…and will leave the room about 4…that is the plan.
Should be another great day….
by Ron Largent | Dec 4, 2017 | Asian Travel, British Open, European Travel, Germany, International Travel, Kentucky Derby, PGA Championship, Ryder Cup, Ski The Alps, Special Events Travel Deals, Special travel deals, The Masters, Travel, Travel the World, Ultimate Sports Events., Uncategorized, US Open
Make This Christmas Last…..Forever
A couple of years ago, Carlos gave his daughter Sabrina and her family a trip for Christmas. Other gifts given such as video games are no longer popular; clothes no longer in style; gadgets no longer cool. But trip photos are still on our phones and memories are still in our hearts and we’re still sharing laughs remembering the good time we had.
Add sports to the trip equation and it gets even better. A friendly family rivalry. Your wife is a Rafa fan; you’re a Roger fan. Your best buddy roots for Spieth; you’re still pulling for Tiger (by the way, did you watch the Hero World Challenge tournament this weekend – way to go Tiger PLUS did you see Rafa there cheering him on?).
Below is a list of trips to sporting events Ron Largent Travel, through our partnership group, is offering in 2018. We can customize any trip and if there is an event that isn’t on our calendar, no worries … we can make it work too!
This Christmas, share with the ones that your care for, and make your gift last!
GOLF
The Masters, Augusta GA: April 2 – 8
Open Championship, Carnoustie Golf Links, Scotland: July 16 – 22
Ryder Cup, Le Golf National, Paris France: September 25 – 30
Scotland or Ireland Golf: you pick the dates!
TENNIS
Australian Open, Melbourne Park, Melbourne Australia: January 15 – 28
BNP Paribas Open, Indian Wells CA: March 5 – 18 (head with us to Palm Springs and warm up after a cold winter!)
French Open, Stade Roland Garros, Paris France: May 27 – June 10
Wimbledon, All England Club, London England: July 3 – 16
US Open, Flushing Meadows, New York: August 27 – September 9
Laver Cup, Chicago IL: September 21 – 23
email me for further details on any of the above…… ron@ronlargenttravel.com
by Ron Largent | Nov 21, 2017 | Alaska, Eastern Europe, European Travel, Russia, Russian Market, The Masters, Travel, Travel the World, Ultimate Sports Events., Uncategorized
Make This Christmas Last
A couple of years ago, Carlos gave his daughter Sabrina and her family a trip for Christmas. Other gifts given such as video games are no longer popular; clothes no longer in style; gadgets no longer cool. But trip photos are still on our phones and memories are still in our hearts and we’re still sharing laughs remembering the good time we had.
Add sports to the trip equation and it gets even better. A friendly family rivalry. Your wife is a Rafa fan; you’re a Roger fan. Your best buddy roots for Spieth; you’re still pulling for Tiger (by the way, did you watch the Hero World Challenge tournament this weekend – way to go Tiger PLUS did you see Rafa there cheering him on?).
Below is a list of trips to sporting events Ron Largent Travel, through our partnership group, is offering in 2018. We can customize any trip and if there is an event that isn’t on our calendar, no worries … we can make it work too!
This Christmas, share with the ones that your care for, and make your gift last!
GOLF
The Masters, Augusta GA: April 2 – 8
Open Championship, Carnoustie Golf Links, Scotland: July 16 – 22
Ryder Cup, Le Golf National, Paris France: September 25 – 30
Scotland or Ireland Golf: you pick the dates!
TENNIS
Australian Open, Melbourne Park, Melbourne Australia: January 15 – 28
BNP Paribas Open, Indian Wells CA: March 5 – 18 (head with us to Palm Springs and warm up after a cold winter!)
French Open, Stade Roland Garros, Paris France: May 27 – June 10
Wimbledon, All England Club, London England: July 3 – 16
US Open, Flushing Meadows, New York: August 27 – September 9
Laver Cup, Chicago IL: September 21 – 23
email me for further details on any of the above…… ron@ronlargenttravel.com
The holidays are right around the corner and RON LARGENT TRAVEL has everything you need for the sports fanatic on your list!
We’ve left no stone unturned in search of the Ultimate Gameday Experience and are now offering you the first chance to secure these limited, once-in-a-lifetime sports experiences!
EXPERIENCE YOUR ULTIMATE GAMEDAY
Super Bowl
Start game day off with a game of catch with NFL royalty before The Big Game! This exclusive experience will include pregame hospitality at Club PRIMESPORT, an opportunity to play catch with an NFL legend…all before watching The Big Game while SEATED BESIDE the NFL Legend!
The Ryder Cup
The best golf competition in the world heads to Paris in 2018 as the Ryder Cup teams square off on Le Golf National for international bragging rights! PRIMESPORT is your source for access to this once-in-a-lifetime event…and we’ll Level Up your experience with access to play Le Golf National a couple days after the tournament ends!
DAYTONA 500®
Experience the 60th Annual DAYTONA 500 on Sunday, February 18 like no other fan with a pre-race party at the PRIMESPORT VIP Midway Suite and a private meet & greet with 2015 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Champion Kyle Busch!
The Ultimate New York Sports Experience
Travel to the Big Apple for the ultimate sports weekend! Your weekend will include private transportation to/from the airport, in addition to tickets and private transportation to each of these stellar matchups: Rangers vs. Kings (NHL) on Friday, Knicks vs. Thunder (NBA) on Saturday and Giants vs. Eagles (NFL) on Sunday!
Los Angeles Football Experience
Prepare for your ultimate football weekend with a pregame party and pregame field access, all before taking your seat to watch the Chargers vs. Raiders on Sunday, December 31 and the CFP Semifinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Northwestern Mutual on Monday, January 1!
THESE CAN BE YOURS AT THIS HOLIDAY TIME….EMAIL FOR DETAILS, ETC….
ron@ronlargenttravel.com
Visit the amazing cities of Russia and witness the greatest soccer tournament in the world! The 2018 World Cup will take place in cities spanning the country of Russia. Top Destinations include St. Petersburg and Moscow. We have been providing exceptional World Cup travel packages, lodging accommodations and match day experience since 1994. All travel packages can be customized to suit your travel dates and budget. e-mail for details, prices, dates, accomodations, etc…. ron@ronlargenttravel.com
by Ron Largent | Nov 11, 2017 | Asian Travel, Cruise Line Deals, European Travel, International Travel, Special Events Travel Deals, Special travel deals, Travel, Travel the World, Uncategorized
Today we have Norwegian Cruise Lines “Norwegian Dawn”…. A beautiful new NCL ship…Southern Caribbean for 7 nights…Starting at $349 with Suites at $879, plus bonuses. This is a very attractive deal on a gorgeous ship. Email me at ron@ronlargenttravel.com for more details.
Highlights:
• 15 dining options including Asian, French, Italian, steakhouses, O’Sheehan’s & more.
• Dazzling entertainment and lively casino, 3 pools and 6 hot tubs.
• 12 fun bars & lounges including Sugarcane Mojito Bar
• The ultimate Freestyle Cruising experience & fun-filled casual atmosphere.
Your Package Includes:
Your package includes shipboard accommodations, ocean transportation, entertainment and daily activities, on-board meals and some beverages. It does not include shore excursions, personal expenses, gratuities, or alcoholic beverages. Government fees and taxes are not included.
by Ron Largent | Nov 11, 2017 | Asian Travel, Cruise Line Deals, European Travel, International Travel, Special Events Travel Deals, Special travel deals, Travel, Travel the World, Uncategorized
Starting today I will be adding a “Travel Special” page to my website. These will be specials for sports, entertainment, culture, and adventure events, but I will also add other travel specials that come to me through the partnership. From unbelievable deals on the Cruise lines, to very good deals on event packages….as soon as I know I will enter the event on this page as well as put it on Facebook….Ron Largent Travel. So, stay tuned for travel specials. Visit us at. wwww.ronlargenttravel.com Thanks.
by Ron Largent | Sep 21, 2017 | Alborg, Asian Travel, Bergen, Copenhagen, Cruise Line Deals, Denmark, Eidfjord, European Travel, Finland, Fjords, Gdansk, Germany, Helsinki, Iceland, Iceland Hiking, Iceland Tours, Icelandair, International Travel, Latvia, Northern Europe Cruise, Norway, Poland, Russia, Special Events Travel Deals, Special travel deals, St. Petersburg, Stockholm, Sweden, Tallin, The Fjords, Travel, Travel the World, Uncategorized, Viking Cruises, Vikings, Volcano Island, Warnemunde
Located in the middle of these giant mountains, the fjords, which are bodies of sea water that flows in to the inner part of Norway (kind of like our bays)….Eidfjord is a little tiny place literally dwarfed by the soaring mountains around it. Breathtaking is an understatement…. We have never seen anything like it, including the glacier areas of Alaska. The mountains soar 4000 feet almost straight up ….. With sheer cliffs coming down to the water. We went to the museum….saw a video, and then got one, as it is the best way to show this incredible area. Not many of the cruise ships come in here as they can only handle one at a time..but well worth it if only for the natural beauty.
A bit cloudy and colder today as we are getting closer to the North Pole…..but a great day to just enjoy this incredible beauty.
By the day, becoming more impressed with Norway. Very clean, …..very, very progressive, and very industrious…..which is so key to surviving in these cold areas. By the way, leading country in the world for electric cars…all over the place..and all models…
Off to Bergen…the 2nd largest city in Norway and former capital….more later.
Located in the middle of these giant mountains, the fjords, which are bodies of sea water that flows in to the inner part of Norway (kind of like our bays)….Eidfjord is a little tiny place literally dwarfed by the soaring mountains around it. Breathtaking is an understatement…. We have never seen anything like it, including the glacier areas of Alaska. The mountains soar 4000 feet almost straight up ….. With sheer cliffs coming down to the water. We went to the museum….saw a video, and then got one, as it is the best way to show this incredible area. Not many of the cruise ships come in here as they can only handle one at a time..but well worth it if only for the natural beauty.
A bit cloudy and colder today as we are getting closer to the North Pole…..but a great day to just enjoy this incredible beauty.
By the day, becoming more impressed with Norway. Very clean, …..very, very progressive, and very industrious…..which is so key to surviving in these cold areas. By the way, leading country in the world for electric cars…all over the place..and all models…
Off to Bergen…the 2nd largest city in Norway and former capital….more later.
Day 14–Bergen
The day in Bergen started out cold and windy and continued though the day…..we got on the mid day included excursion….guide was ok but not up to the par of the others….too young and inexperienced. But this was the Panoramic Bergen excursion…so we did get to see this gorgeous city built around the fjords, with the wharf area being the world showplace. The wooden houses in various colors are on the postcards in the Bryggen area right along the harbor, Marina, etc….and it was busy, in spite of the wind and rain. Bergen has over 250 days of rain a year…so thus was a normal day for the locals…in fact they said it was pretty mild. Oil and gas and the related industries are driving this area, and even with the high taxation, is frequently voted the happiest city in the world. After the tour we told a short walk from the hotel, which was the Radisson Blu right downtown..and this was a perfect location so we walked a few doors and had a great snack in a locally owned place…..very nice. We walked for a few minutes more then decided too nasty so returned to the ship ….Audy had a good rest and I decided to explore more….and went back out to see what we had not seen in the downtown area such as the fish markets and other shopping areas. Rain and wind off and on but got to see their main shopping and tourist areas….very impressive. The plan was to stay on the ship this night and then disembark the next morning….and go on another city tour…which we did and this one covers additional parts of the city..well done…and then to the hotel, as we were then on the Bergen to Oslo extension. After lunch locally we walked through the fish market areas and saw the sights as today the weather turned sunny and the area is so beautiful. Got to the food area and, along with the other thousand tourists got to have our Local pancake and ate it standing along the stores and shops….just enjoying the locals, Etc…
After a rest went down the street to a Brew and Bar…and clearly one of the most delicious hamburgers we have ever had, Norwegian style. Back to the hotel and prepared for the early departure from the hotel to the train to Oslo. 68 folks on the extension so we got on the train early for a good seat..so the start of a good day.
In Summary, Bergen is a must, and is a must for many of the Cruise lines…due to the history connections with the Vikings and with the historic trade of the area. Due to its critical location, it was a key player in the Hanseatic League….which established traders the primary reason for being . Bergen was the capital of Norway with the King living here…and being the center of the fishing trade…started out being a wealthy city..and then with the oil discovery in 1969….one very wealthy and affluent place. Well worth the time. Off to Oslo…
