Culture & Customs Archives

The Best of Ireland, Scotland & Wales: 18 Days You’ll Never Stop Talking About

by David McGuffin | Sep 4, 2026 | Blog, Culture & Customs, Daily lfe, Destinations, Essential Travel Resources, Experiencing Europe

There’s a moment on almost every tour when it happens. Maybe it’s standing at the edge of the Cliffs of Moher with the Atlantic wind roaring off the water.

Maybe it’s the first pint of Guinness poured at the Gravity Bar, with Dublin and the Wicklow Mountains spreading out to the horizon. Maybe it’s the quiet hush inside the 800-year-old abbey on Iona, or the whistle of a steam locomotive climbing into Snowdonia. Whatever the moment is, travelers on this tour tend to describe it the same way: this is why I came.

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Ireland, Scotland, and Wales in one unforgettable trip — without the stress of planning logistics, chasing trains, or wondering if you’re missing the “real” version of these countries — this is the tour built for you.

Three Countries, One Seamless Journey

Eighteen days. Three nations steeped in myth, music, and history — one small group, one dedicated guide, and zero guesswork.

This isn’t a whirlwind bus tour where you snap a photo and move on. It’s a deep, unhurried immersion into the landscapes and cultures that make the Celtic Isles unlike anywhere else on Earth — designed by someone who has walked every mile of it himself and knows exactly where the magic happens.

Galway & the West of Ireland – Buskers, pubs, and easy charm to start. Ride a ferryboat to the Aran Islands, stand at the edge of the Cliffs of Moher, and wander the Dingle Peninsula’s “forty shades of green.”
Kilkenny, Glendalough & Dublin- Kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, walk the peaceful monastic ruins of Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains, and toast Ireland’s capital with a pint at a Temple Bar pub.
Edinburgh- A short flight across the Irish Sea into centuries of history along the Royal Mile, with Edinburgh Castle watching over it all.
The Highlands & Islands- St. Andrews, home of golf; the haunting grounds of Culloden Battlefield; a Loch Ness cruise beneath Urquhart Castle; and a ferry to the sacred island of Iona from the harbor town of Oban.
The Lake District & North Wales- A peaceful overnight in England, then a spectacular finish in North Wales — medieval castles, a working slate mine, the flower-filled Bodnant Gardens, and a historic steam railway through Snowdonia National Park.

A field of vibrant yellow flowers under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

Why Travelers Keep Coming Back

What makes this tour different isn’t just the itinerary — it’s how it’s run. Every detail, from the trusted hotels to the restaurant reservations, has been personally scouted and chosen. Groups stay small (just 6 to 18 travelers), so you’re never herded through a site behind a guide holding up a flag on a stick. You’ll have plenty of structured sightseeing along with generous free time to wander, shop, or sit with a coffee and watch the action of everyday life.

Travelers who’ve taken David McGuffin’s tours to Ireland, Scotland, and Wales consistently point to the same things: a guide who goes out of his way to help with anything you need, drivers who make even long travel days comfortable, and the sense of getting to really experience a place rather than just checking it off a list.

“The Scotland/Wales trip was wonderful. Scotland is so beautiful, and we loved the small towns where we stayed. Dave was a great guide and so willing to help us in whatever we needed.”

Lavon, Colorado — Tours to Scotland and Wales

That personal touch extends to custom and private journeys as well. One couple who arranged a private Ireland and Wales itinerary with David described being pleasantly surprised at the value of having their own dedicated guide and driver, complete with a detailed advance travel planner. They came away impressed by the attention to detail, the quality of the accommodations, and the freedom of skipping the lines, luggage scrambles, and rigid schedules that come with typical group travel — while still enjoying first-class comfort every step of the way.

You can read more traveler experiences on the full testimonials page, or watch David’s tour experience come to life in his Ireland tour video.

A group of happy travelers standing in front of the Oban Distillery.

What’s Included, So You Can Just Enjoy the Trip

This tour is priced to be worry-free from the moment you land:

17 nights in traditional hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs, all with private en-suite baths
All breakfasts, plus nine included dinners at hand-picked local favorites
The flight across the Irish Sea from Ireland to Edinburgh
All tours and admissions — Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, Glendalough, the Guinness Storehouse, Edinburgh Castle, Culloden Battlefield, a Loch Ness cruise, the Isle of Mull and Iona, Bodnant Gardens, a Welsh slate mine, and a scenic steam train through Snowdonia, among many others
A full-time Exploring Europe guide and local experts throughout
All tips and gratuities to guides, drivers, restaurants, and hotel staff
Electronic tour handouts detailing each day’s history and culture
A guaranteed small group of 6–18 travelers
An unconditional tour price guarantee — once you book, your price never changes

Historic Edinburgh Castle perched on a rocky hill under a partly cloudy sky.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This trip is built for travelers who want to experience Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, not just glimpse them from a bus window. Most days call for light to moderate walking — a couple of miles on level ground, with some hills, cobblestones, and standing time built in — so a reasonable level of fitness makes the trip far more enjoyable.

If you love history, folklore, dramatic coastlines, castles, good food, and even better company, you’ll feel right at home.

Your Adventure Starts Here

Departures are already filling for 2027, with dates in May, June, August, and October. Given how quickly small-group departures sell out, now is the time to lock in your spot.

View Full Itinerary, Dates & Pricing

Or reach out directly — happy to answer questions and help you plan:
tours@davidmcguffin.com | 800-570-1351

Paris- Why It’s Still My Favorite City

by David McGuffin | Aug 9, 2026 | Blog, Culture & Customs, Daily lfe, Destinations, Eating & Drinking, Experiencing Europe

Of all the places I’ve traveled across Europe, Paris keeps its place at the top of my list. It has the grand boulevards, the boutiques, the outdoor cafés, the monuments and museums everyone comes for — and it has the Mona Lisa, the Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame. But none of that fully explains why it’s my favorite. What does is something quieter: the way Paris rewards you for slowing down.

It’s a City of Neighborhoods, Not Just Sights

Ask me why Paris beats out every other city I’ve visited, and my answer is that it isn’t really about the landmarks. It’s that Paris is made up of dozens of distinct neighborhoods where I can step away from the tourist crowds entirely. You should absolutely see the big attractions — but there’s so much more to the city than one more museum or one more church.

One of my favorite escapes is the Canal Saint-Martin, a canal dug in the early 1800s to move grain and building materials into the city. I once spent an entire late-September morning just walking one bank and back down the other — watching kids float leaves and toy boats, moms pushing strollers, cafés and bistros getting ready for the lunch crowd, all happening beneath the amber and gold leaves of the ubiquitous plane trees. No horns, no traffic, no tour groups. Just Paris living its ordinary life.

I feel the same way about the streets near the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, and Pont de l’Alma, where 18th-century blocks between Rue Saint-Dominique and the Seine are full of actual Parisians going about their day. After reading Julia Child’s biography, I learned she once lived in a small upper-floor apartment on Rue de l’Université. I still find myself walking that street, looking up, wondering who lives there in her old apartment now.

Slow Down — You’ll Enjoy It More

Paris can wear you out. I’ve led groups through two packed days trying to hit the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Tuileries, Luxembourg Gardens, a Seine cruise, Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur, the Champs-Élysées, and a picnic on the Champ de Mars — and by day two, travelers from age 13 to 80 are all asking for the same thing: more time to breathe, to slow down, to get a break.

That’s why in the past decade I’ve moved toward longer stays and fewer forced stops per day. The sights will still be there. What people remember afterward isn’t how many boxes they checked — it’s the afternoon they didn’t rush, sitting at an outdoor café with a drink, or enjoying a quiet corner in a park on a shaded bench.

A City Built for Eating Well

Paris might be the best city in the world for a meal, whatever form that takes — a picnic along the Seine, a coffee and croissant to start the day, or a proper multi-course dinner. My rule of thumb: skip anywhere with a big multilingual menu posted outside. That’s a sign the kitchen isn’t cooking for repeat customers — it’s cooking for someone who’ll only ever eat there once.

Instead, look for where the locals eat. Avoid the tourist traps in the Latin Quarter, around the Louvre, Champs-Élysées, or up on Montmartre. Instead, find a secluded neighborhood and a small restaurant. Look for handwritten menus of the day, often sitting out front on a black chalkboard. I love starting with escargot and a good baguette, then moving to confit de canard — duck leg and thigh cooked slow in its own fat until it’s falling off the bone. Near Notre Dame, several small places tucked into a sandy little triangle of a square called Place Dauphine serve a seasonal formule menu — try the bœuf bourguignon or onion soup (but only if you’re there in winter or fall).

A few practical notes that catch people off guard: drinks don’t come with refills or much ice, though tap water is free if you ask for une carafe d’eau. Meals are a social event, not a race — your waiter won’t rush you, and you shouldn’t rush yourself either. And a service charge is already built into your bill, so tipping is a nice gesture, not an obligation.

Even the Hard Days Are Worth It

I was in Paris in April 2019, just days after the fire at Notre Dame. The mood on the streets was nothing like the Paris I knew — shock and quiet disbelief where there’s usually so much energy. Rounding a corner onto Rue Saint-Jacques and seeing the burnt-out cathedral for the first time stopped me in my tracks, and I wasn’t the only one. Even now, with most of the restoration complete, that image is part of the city’s story — a reminder that Paris isn’t just postcards, it’s a living place that endures.

So, Go — But Go Slowly

Climb the Eiffel Tower. Walk the Champs-Élysées. Stand in front of the Mona Lisa if you must. But don’t let the checklist run the trip. Find a bench in a park, a table at a sidewalk café, a canal to walk beside. Paris rewards the traveler who’s willing to slow down and just be in it.

That’s why, after all these years and all these cities, Paris is still my favorite. Next month, I’ll tell you my secret to landing a table with a view at the Eiffel Tower… for a reasonable price. Until then, au revoir.

The Cinque Terre: Twenty-five years and still loving it!

by David McGuffin | Mar 9, 2026 | Adventures in Tour Guiding, Blog, Culture & Customs, David's Journal, Essential Travel Resources, Experiencing Europe

by David McGuffin

My First Visit to the Cinque Terre

That morning nearly 25 years ago, I woke to delivery vans, Vespas, Apes, and business owners starting their day. Beneath the buzz of engines, I heard the steady sweep of sandals on the street below. Distant waves, gulls, and the occasional boat horn punctuated the soundscape. Today, via Fingina in Monterosso al Mare remains much the same.

A few days earlier, I drove into Cinque Terre from the AutoStrada toll highway about thirty miles north. Charlotte and friends Tippy and Marje joined me on the harrowing, winding mountain roads without safety barriers. We all felt relief reaching the seaside’s flat ground. I was scouting destinations for my European tours.

25 Years and a lot of Changes

Reflecting on those early days, I wrote in my journal, “Monterosso is a tourist town, but out of the way enough to keep crowds away.” Much has changed since then. Cruise ships now bring waves of passengers, flooding villages a few times a week. Trenitalia increased local rail services, transporting thousands into the five villages multiple times daily. Guidebooks continue to boost the Cinque Terre’s fame. Despite this, I still love it!

The rugged coastline of Liguria is dotted with small fishing villages, terraced vineyards, olive groves, and breathtaking vistas. Even as the Cinque Terre has become a popular destination, I still find the locals devoted to their customs and traditions. When I’m here, it’s almost impossible not to set my sightseeing plans aside, relax, and embrace a true Italian vacation in this region.

A Bit of History

The Cinque Terre—or “five lands”—is a loose group of villages on Italy’s northern Ligurian Sea. For centuries, residents lived off land and sea. Castles from the Middle Ages protected land barons and serfs. Raiders and pirates often kidnapped locals for slavery or ransom. In the Renaissance, villagers grew more independent, focusing on fishing, vineyards, and olive groves.

The steep, rocky mountains aren’t ideal for farming, but isolation forced locals to adapt. They built hundreds of miles of terrace gardens, all supported by freestanding stone walls.

The five villages are linked by trails winding through vineyards, gardens, and lemon and olive groves. These trails were originally built to access terraced gardens and provide transportation between villages.

Today, this area is a national park that balances tourism and conservation. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To help fund park projects, a permit is required for trail use, and we provide it to all our guests.

Why I Still Go to the Cinque Terre today, and why you should go with me!

Cinque Terre still draws me back yearly. When Charlotte and I vacation in Italy, we often rent an apartment in Monterosso and relax. The villages are crowded by day, but evenings bring magical al fresco dining, wine bars, parks, and locals mingling. We spend our days in rented beach chairs. The hiking trails between Monterosso and Vernazza, and around Manarola, are challenging but rewarding. Hopping between villages by train or boat is a great way to enjoy the region’s scenery, art, cuisine, and coast. And since last year, the “Via della Amore” has reopened between Riomaggiore and Manarola.

Join me for an unforgettable experience—reserve your spot on my Best of Italy and Essence of Italy tours now! Let’s explore the Cinque Terre together—book your adventure today.

—

David McGuffin has been leading small-group tours to Europe for nearly 50 years. His mission is to encourage Americans to broaden their cultural mindset through engaging and exciting travel experiences. Learn more about his tours at davidmcguffin.com.

Join a McGuffin Tour to the Cinque Terre & Italy - Click here

Watch David’s “Cinque Terre” Episode from his Best of Italy Video Series.

1977 Lunch in Rome on flight layover to Athens

Sunny beach with orange umbrellas and clear blue water.

People relaxing by the seaside in a picturesque coastal town under clear blue skies.

Tom Hickinbotham - The Cinque Terre

Afraid to Travel? It’s Much Ado About Nothing!

by David McGuffin | Jan 9, 2026 | Blog, Culture & Customs, Essential Travel Resources, Experiencing Europe

by David McGuffin

I spend several months on the road in Europe each year. I’m either leading tours, checking in on my tour groups, or doing my own travel and research. One of the joys of travel, especially when I’m on the road in Europe, is avoiding the never-ending doom-and-gloom news reports from around the world, especially from the USA. At home, I have friends who have those cable news channels running 24/7 and believe everything that’s put out on the daily talking points. Then there are others who believe everything that appears on social media sites is the gospel truth. I can’t tell you how many times I get asked, “Is it ok to travel over there?” or “Don’t you feel unsafe with all that’s going on in the world?”

This year, all the negative media hype about travel seems worse than usual. I’ve been reading these headlines, listening to the hand-wringing, and watching friends and acquaintances second-guess their travel plans. I spoke to a friend the other day who usually takes his students on a music performance tour with us every few years. So, when I reached out to him about his 2027 plans, he said there was no interest in his community to go anywhere with all that’s going on in the world. It’s frustrating, because I know it’s nonsense.

The real story…

In 2025, I crisscrossed Europe, from Ireland to Italy, from Portugal to Budapest. Not once did I feel unsafe or out of place. I found Europeans living their own lives. Tourists from all over the world enjoying themselves. Streets filled with laughter, cafes buzzing with conversation, and Christmas markets sparkling under winter lights.

The idea that Europeans are sitting around waiting to give Americans the cold shoulder because of our political situation back home is laughable. In my almost fifty years of traveling Europe, I’ve witnessed plenty of political ups and downs on both sides of the Atlantic. Europeans have seen it all before, too, and they, just like us, are too busy living their own lives to spend time judging American tourists. Sure, there might be occasional political conversations if you bring them up. But Europeans are welcoming people, and tourism is a vital part of their economy. They want you there. Your dollars, euros, and presence are appreciated.

Recently, I’ve settled in for 30+ days in a small Bavarian town near Munich. This is a first for me, because my overnight stays on tour are typically two to three consecutive nights. My point is, here in this town, I’ve begun to feel like a local. The grocer knows me, the lady at the pizzeria knows what wine I like, the hotel staff are very kind, and on and on. Everyone recognizes the “Amerikan” whose wife is in the hospital up the hill. But, instead of grilling me on politics or the state of the world, most folks like to use me as a chance to try out their English!

I was in Portugal for Easter. I’ve walked the streets of Florence, Siena, and Palermo. I explored Christmas markets in Prague and Munich. I stood on O’Connell Street in Dublin, wandered down Grafton Street, and ate Shepherd’s Pie in Temple Bar. Not once did anyone treat me differently because I’m American. Not once did I feel unwelcome.

Year after year, the Europeans I encounter are warm, friendly, and eager to share their culture. They asked about where we were from, recommended their favorite restaurants, and helped us navigate their cities. I’ve been doing this for almost fifty years, through multiple US presidential administrations from both parties, and I can tell you that European hospitality toward Americans remains as strong as ever.

It’s more expensive to travel in 2026.

It’s true, Europe is more expensive than it was a few years ago. Prices have gone up everywhere, from hotels to restaurants to admissions. Economic uncertainty and rising costs have affected international travel planning, and many Americans are indeed adjusting their travel habits. But just like at home, European destinations have expensive options and budget alternatives. A spritz with a view costs the same whether there’s drama at home or not. A morning cappuccino in a quiet piazza doesn’t care about the state of the world or its politics.

Forget the media hype and trust the boots-on-the-ground information.

There are many like me who spend a good part of our lives traveling outside the USA. Without exception, each will tell you, “Go while you can and travel without fear.” We live in a world hyped up and driven by a media that thrives and makes money on anxiety and fear. The headline, “Americans are Having a Wonderful Time in Europe,” doesn’t make for a clickable headline. But “Should Americans Be Afraid to Travel to Europe?” does.

I recently encountered a fellow in Italy who was on one of those big bus group tours visiting Rome. He was worn out, hot, and overwhelmed, but you know what he wasn’t? Scared. He wasn’t worried about being American. He was just tired from trying to see too much too fast, which is a completely different problem and one I help people avoid with our small group tours.

OK, just go!

If you’ve been dreaming of seeing the Eiffel Tower, walking through the ruins of the Roman Forum, standing before the David in Florence, or sipping a pint in an Irish pub, don’t let these overblown stories stop you. Don’t let fear-mongering headlines steal your dreams. Instead, book your trip, seize the moment, and go have the time of your life!

I’ve built my entire career on encouraging Americans to broaden their cultural horizons through engaging and exciting travel experiences in Europe. I wouldn’t do that if I thought it was unsafe, unwelcoming, or unwise.

Europe is open for business. The cobblestone streets are still there. The museums are still filled with masterpieces. The cafes still serve excellent apertivi. The views from mountaintops still take your breath away. And the Europeans are still welcoming visitors without judgment. So pack your bags, book that flight, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Europe is waiting. I’ll see you there.

—

Prost from the Hofbraühaus

A man and woman looking out into Lake Como.

Exploring Beyond Europe: New Destinations, New Adventures!

by David McGuffin | Nov 8, 2025 | Blog, Culture & Customs, Destinations

For almost fifty years, my heart has belonged to Europe—until a single sunset in the Serengeti changed everything.

I’d spent nearly five decades leading tours through cobblestone streets and medieval castles, convinced I’d seen it all. But as I grew older, I realized there was a finite number of days left on this Earth, so we’d better experience all we can while we can. That’s how I found myself standing in a Toyota Land Cruiser, camera in hand, marveling at a herd of giraffes gliding across a brilliant orange Serengeti sunset—about as far from a Tuscan hill town as you can imagine.

Europe will always be my choice destination. I’ve spent 48 years showing folks like you around my favorite European places. I still cherish those jokes that I’ll lead tours when I’m 90, encouraging my group to “move along; it’s just another 10-minute walk.” But something shifted in me that day in Tanzania. I realized there’s a whole world of wonder waiting beyond the familiar.

Why Go Beyond Europe?

Like I said, “I’m not getting any younger.” That’s why I’ve crafted my Exploring Beyond Europe series—small-group tours that take you to places where the culture, landscape, and wildlife are unlike anything you’ll find in the USA or Europe.

If you’re feeling that same restlessness, that whisper asking “what else is out there?”—you’re exactly who these journeys are for.

Our adventures in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands are a perfect example: think volcanic islands with blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises lumbering through misty highlands, and snorkeling with playful sea lions. These trips are designed with the same spirit as our European tours—immersive, authentic, and always focused on connecting you with local people and experiences.

What Makes These Journeys Special?

Just like our European itineraries, these Exploring Beyond Europe trips are all about small groups, personal guidance, and immersive local experiences. We work with trusted guides, stay in locally owned lodges, charter boats owned by our friends, and make sure every day is packed with opportunities to learn, taste, and explore. It’s travel that’s both adventurous and comfortable—always in the McGuffin style!

Here’s what sets our adventures apart:

Small group sizes (only 12 people) mean more flexibility and camaraderie—you’ll actually get to know your fellow travelers, and we can pivot when we discover a hidden gem or local festival. Personal guidance from me and our expert local partners ensures you’re not just another face in a tour bus; you’re part of a curated experience shaped by decades of travel wisdom. And authentic experiences are at the heart of everything we do—from home-cooked meals in Andean villages and photo hunting for wild game in Tanzania, to hikes through cloud forests where your guide grew up.

On a recent Safari tour, we were sitting around the dinner table recalling our adventures the last few days. Everyone shared their highlight, their wow moment, they were all different, yet the same… Roy shared, “For years I’d dreamed of going on a safari to experience the animals in the wild, I’ve enjoyed every moment and now I can tick this off my bucket list.”

Travel Tips for New Frontiers

Stepping outside your comfort zone doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or safety. Here’s what I’ve learned from taking European travelers to new continents:

Pack layers, not suitcases. Climate varies dramatically—from chilly morning game drives to hot afternoon hikes. Lightweight, breathable layers work everywhere from the Galápagos to the Serengeti.

Embrace local rhythms. Unlike Europe’s predictable schedules, many destinations operate on “island time” or “safari time.” This isn’t inefficiency; it’s a different relationship with life. Go with it, and you’ll find yourself more relaxed than you’ve been in years.

Say yes to the unfamiliar. That guinea pig dish in Peru? The fermented tea in the Himalayas? Some of my best travel memories come from saying yes when my instinct was to politely decline.

Trust the expertise. Our local guides know these places intimately—where to find the best light for photos, which trails are less crowded, when the sea lions are most playful. Listen to them, and you’ll have experiences other tourists miss entirely.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Europe will always hold a special place in my heart—and in our tour calendar. But life is short, and the world is vast and waiting. Whether it’s watching a leopard lounge in an acacia tree, snorkeling alongside sea turtles older than most European cathedrals, or sharing stories around a campfire under the Southern Cross, these new adventures offer something your soul didn’t even know it was craving.

I’ve spent 48 years perfecting the art of small-group travel. Now I’m taking everything I’ve learned and applying it to the rest of the world. Join me, and let’s explore beyond Europe together.

Browse our upcoming Exploring Beyond Europe itineraries, or reach out to chat about which adventure might be calling your name. Trust me—that sunset in the Serengeti is waiting for you too.

A lion cub resting in the grass with a natural background.

A seal and a man interacting on a sandy beach near rocky cliffs.

White yacht anchored near rocky shore on calm sea.

Catamaran Anahi

A giraffe and an antelope in a green savanna landscape.

A cheetah walking across a dirt road in a grassy area.

When History Gets Stolen: The Louvre Heist

by David McGuffin | Oct 26, 2025 | Blog, Culture & Customs, Destinations, Experiencing Europe

Last Sunday, I was on my way to church when I heard the news —the Louvre had been robbed. Not pickpockets lifting wallets from distracted tourists, mind you, but an actual heist. Four thieves with angle grinders and a furniture lift had just pulled off what authorities are calling one of the boldest museum robberies in modern history.

It happened Sunday morning, October 19th, at 9:30 a.m., while tourists queued outside, clutching their pre-purchased tickets and cameras. The crew scaled a furniture lift to a second-floor window of the Galerie d’Apollon, forced it open, and in seven minutes flat, smashed display cases and fled with eight pieces of Napoleonic jewelry—emerald necklaces, diamond tiaras, brooches worn by Empress Eugénie and Marie-Louise. They fumbled Empress Eugénie’s crown during their escape, damaging its 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds.

The haul? Prosecutors say $102 million, though officials call it “inestimable cultural and historical value.” President Macron called it “an attack on a heritage that we cherish.”

I’ve stood in that same Galerie d’Apollon, where the inscription above the door proclaims, “Opened 10 August 1793 by legislative action for all the people of France.” Entering the Galerie, you can’t help but look up, gaping open-jawed at the lavish decor… gold, gold, gold, everywhere! After a fire destroyed this palace wing, Louis XIV commissioned the Galerie in the 1660s and dedicated it to Apollo, the Greek god of the sun and arts.

The reports and news stories about the robbery continued all last week. Then, this morning, I heard reports that one of the thieves was arrested at Paris’ Charles De Gaulle Airport as he was preparing to leave the country. But, I can’t help but wonder: how does the world’s most-visited museum become vulnerable in broad daylight?

Join me in Paris, or almost anywhere in Europe!

Paris is my favorite big city in all of Europe. It has so much to offer, from museums like the Louvre, quaint neighborhood cafés, green parks, the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, fantastic food, and more. Where many tour companies “do Paris” in a whirlwind two-day tour, I’ve designed my tours to spend at least four days in the city. This gives you time to slow down and experience the City of Light, get out and explore on your own, while still seeing the major tourist sights with your local guide. Check out my Best of France, or London, Paris, Rome tours to savor Paris at a slower pace.

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