1. Update on Charlotte

 Today is DAY 31 of Charlotte’s hospital stay in Freising, Bavaria, Germany. A few days ago, she was promoted from the ICU to a regular room on the fifth floor. It is an austere room, but it has a wonderful view out the window of Freising DOM Cathedral Hill, the Munich Airport, and the Alps in the distance.

We are hoping to get on a plane and get home soon. Maybe by mid-January? Charlotte is still very weak. She will need to get some more strength to maneuver on a flight home. So, if you are a praying person, we ask that Charlotte get some PT and get up and walk. All her organs and vital signs are doing well, and she is improving every day.

2. I am whittling down my spring travels

3.Off the beaten path in the Greek mountains –

Temple of Apollo Epicurius.  Read my blog and watch this video, and I bet you’ll want to go with me!

Off the beaten path at a Mt Etna Winery- 

1. Update on Charlotte’s ICU Condition-

Charlotte continues to improve little by little in the ICU at Kilinicum Freising. Charlotte became very ill a couple of weeks ago while on our first Christmas Markets tour from Budapest to Munich. Initially, we thought it was a cold or the flu. But as time progressed I knew it was much more than that. By the time I got her to the ER clinic at the Munich Airport, she could barely walk. (Photo below of us in Budapest on December 1st).

Charlotte was diagnosed with toxic shock septic infection and progressed to sepsis. Her vital organs rapidly shut down, and she was placed on life support. She was in a coma and unconscious for 6 days. On day 6, the intubator tube was removed, and she was breathing on her own, but with 50% O2. Charlotte was slightly aware that Jamie and I were in the room with her.

Over the last 16 days, Charlotte has done remarkably well. The doctors and staff say she is a miracle coming back from near death. Charlotte’s kidneys continue to improve. She is back on dialysis for a few days with the hope that this will be the final jolt to get them back in action. The “infection” (still unknown) is not eradicated an evident by a low-grade fever.

Many are praying for Charlotte, and believe me, we can feel your prayers. Please continue to pray that Charlotte’s kidneys will return to full function, that the infection will be eradicated, that she will stay healthy, and that she can regain her strength and mobility so we can return home soon. Please pray for me too as I remain here by her side in Freising.

2. Destination Report – Freising, Germany

I ended up in Freising not because I wanted to, but because I had to be here with Charlotte (see above).

Now that I’m here, I can’t believe I’ve missed it for the 48 years I’ve been coming to Europe. This charming Bavarian town, located just north of the Munich Airport, is one of Bavaria’s oldest settlements with a history stretching back over 1,300 years. For most of that time, Freising was a powerful and independent prince-bishopric. The Bishop of Freising was more than just a religious leader. He also held significant secular power as a prince of the Holy Roman Empire. With this, the prince-bishop controlled lots of land and wielded political authority that made Freising a major ecclesiastical center in medieval Bavaria.

3. Airalo E-Sim – A Cheap alternative to USA Cell Phone International Data Plans

2. Destination Deep-Dive: Salzburg, Austria—The Augustiner Braüstube

The Augustiner Brewery at Mülln in Salzburg was founded by Augustinian monks in 1621.  Brewing according to the good old Augustiner Bräu style has a long tradition.  Since ancient times, manual brewing according to the Purity Law of 1516 includes only malt, water, hops, and yeast – without any preservatives.

 Salzburg’s Augustiner Braüstube is in an old Benedictine monastery, located a short walk up the river on the hill at Mülln.  From Mirabel Gardens, cross the river on the pedestrian bridge, and follow the path uphill to the red-roofed church with a green-domed bell tower.

3. We Wish You A Merry Christmas! Always have a song on the tip of your tongue.

We are in the midst of our Christmas Markets tours right now.  This video, although filmed 10+ years ago, sums up our holiday experiences in Europe.  Enjoy scenes from Schwangau, Salzburg, and Munich.  And don’t forget, we’ve got a seat for you at Christmas time in 2026!

SICILY on Sale! – That’s the Palermo Skyline

1. Travel Hint – Bring a Drawstring Backpack

We send this lightweight drawstring backpack to all who sign up for a David McGuffin tour. It’s a multipurpose bag to carry small items with ease. Use it on the bus to keep your snacks, lotions, and supplies handy. Or use it as a day bag, like I do, to carry only what’s needed for the moment. But the sad thing is, more often than not, folks show up on tour and have left their DMEE bag at home. It’s only then that they realize what a mistake it is!

2. Destination Deep-Dive: Munich, Germany—The Ratskeller

The Ratskeller München is a famous historic restaurant located in the basement of the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), right at Marienplatz in the heart of Munich. It has a history dating back over 150 years, having opened in 1874, and is genuinely a Munich institution.

 The restaurant features over 1,000 seats across 15 function rooms, with stunning neo-Gothic architecture, vaulted ceilings, and a magnificent Prunkhof (courtyard). The historic ambiance makes it worth visiting to see the interior itself.

 The restaurant offers authentic Bavarian and Franconian cuisine.  The menu includes: Classic Bavarian delicacies like schnitzel, sausages, and roast pork; vegan and vegetarian options; and a variety of sides, including several potato-based options made with fresh ingredients, preferably sourced from the region.  read more

3. Behind the Scenes: Madame Brassiere – The Affordable Eiffel Tower Restaurant

I’ve visited the Eiffel Tower dozens of times, but it was only a few years ago that I discovered Madame Brassiere. Located on the first level, Madame Brassiere offers an affordable bar and restaurant with stunning views across Paris’ skyline.  

 Most tourists visit the Eiffel Tower for the ride to the top, a look around, and then hurry back down. But if you plan to linger a little, taking your time over drinks is an excellent way to experience Paris. Here’s my story.

 A few years ago, I was doing a private tour for a mom, dad, and teenage daughter. They tended to linger and shop a lot and did not really care much about art, history, or culture. When we got to the Eiffel Tower, they were loaded with shopping packages, so I volunteered to go up to the first level, find a seat, and watch their shopping bags while they ascended to the top.  

 It was mid-afternoon when I arrived on level one, so I asked if I could visit the Madame Brassiere bar to sit a while and have a drink. It was July, I was hot and sweaty, so I didn’t think I’d have much chance of getting into an upscale bar on the Eiffel Tower. But I was wrong! read more

1. A Travel Hack That Saves You Money

Ever landed in Europe, only to find your phone refuses to cooperate or charges you an arm and a leg for roaming? Here’s my go-to workaround: instead of buying a pricey international plan from your carrier, grab a prepaid European eSIM before you go. A recent tour member showed me how to use Airalo to get a week of high-speed data for less than the cost of a single day with my USA mobile provider. No more hunting for Wi-Fi or stressing over surprise charges. It’s a simple switch in your phone’s settings, and you’re online everywhere from Venice’s Piazza San Marco to the backroads of the Serengeti.

• Airalo Website
• Airalo review by a trusted traveler on YouTube.

 P.S. I’ll be trying the Airlo eSIM next month as I travel around Europe’s Christmas Markets. I’ll let you know how it’s going in December.

2. Destination Deep-Dive: Budapest, Hungary—Most People Only See it on a River Cruise

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is quickly rising to the top of my list of Europe’s most picturesque cities. I snapped this image of hilltop Buda, with my cell phone, a couple of months ago on a sightseeing cruise. It is two cities in one, split by the Danube River into two distinct parts: historic Buda on the west and lively Pest on the east. The town is fun, safe, and entertaining all year round; however, in December, it transforms into a magical winter wonderland, thanks to its charming Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and warm, festive atmosphere. Here’s your guide to exploring Budapest during the holiday season, ensuring you make the most of its sights, tastes, and Christmas cheer. 

3. Behind the Scenes: How I Discover Europe’s Best-Kept Secrets

People often ask how I find the off-the-beaten-path places that end up on my tours. The secret? I talk to locals—taxi drivers, market vendors, and fellow travelers at the next table. I follow my nose (and sometimes my stomach) down alleys, cobbled lanes, and remote villages. I also rely on decades of connections, a bit of curiosity, and a willingness to get lost. 

I often say, “I’ve spent years poking around Europe’s nooks and crannies in search of excellent food, good wine, better beer, and sparkling water.

Every time I stumble onto a gem, I test it out myself before ever adding it to a tour. That’s how you end up sipping wine in a centuries-old cellar, discovering a festival you never knew existed, or finding a trucker’s restaurant on the back roads of France.

1. Travel Hint – Bring a Drawstring Backpack

We send this lightweight drawstring backpack to all who sign up for a David McGuffin tour. It’s a multipurpose bag to carry small items with ease. Use it on the bus to keep your snacks, lotions, and supplies handy. Or use it as a day bag, like I do, to carry only what’s needed for the moment. But the sad thing is, more often than not, folks show up on tour and have left their DMEE bag at home. It’s only then that they realize what a mistake it is!

2. Destination Deep-Dive: Munich, Germany—The Ratskeller

The Ratskeller München is a famous historic restaurant located in the basement of the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), right at Marienplatz in the heart of Munich. It has a history dating back over 150 years, having opened in 1874, and is genuinely a Munich institution.

The restaurant features over 1,000 seats across 15 function rooms, with stunning neo-Gothic architecture, vaulted ceilings, and a magnificent Prunkhof (courtyard). The historic ambiance makes it worth visiting to see the interior itself.

The restaurant offers authentic Bavarian and Franconian cuisine.  The menu includes: Classic Bavarian delicacies like schnitzel, sausages, and roast pork; vegan and vegetarian options; and a variety of sides, including several potato-based options made with fresh ingredients, preferably sourced from the region.

The restaurant also includes additional spaces: a Bistro & Wine Bar, the Royal Dolores Munich Pub & Bar (which stays open until 1:00 AM), and a Franconian wine tavern.

The restaurant is open Monday to Sunday, including public holidays, from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The prices are moderate, typically €20-30 per person for a meal. It’s popular, so I recommend making a reservation.

3. Behind the Scenes: Madame Brassiere – The Affordable Eiffel Tower Restaurant

I’ve visited the Eiffel Tower dozens of times, but it was only a few years ago that I discovered Madame Brassiere. Located on the first level, Madame Brassiere offers an affordable bar and restaurant with stunning views across Paris’ skyline.  

 Most tourists visit the Eiffel Tower for the ride to the top, a look around, and then hurry back down. But if you plan to linger a little, taking your time over drinks is an excellent way to experience Paris. Here’s my story.

 A few years ago, I was doing a private tour for a mom, dad, and teenage daughter. They tended to linger and shop a lot and did not really care much about art, history, or culture. When we got to the Eiffel Tower, they were loaded with shopping packages, so I volunteered to go up to the first level, find a seat, and watch their shopping bags while they ascended to the top.  

 It was mid-afternoon when I arrived on level one, so I asked if I could visit the Madame Brassiere bar to sit a while and have a drink. It was July, I was hot and sweaty, so I didn’t think I’d have much chance of getting into an upscale bar on the Eiffel Tower. But I was wrong!

 Actually, there were very few people inside. The bar looked out over the Seine and the Trocadéro, with sweeping vistas across Paris. So, for the price of an expensive glass of wine, I had the place practically to myself for the afternoon. After a bit, I asked what it would take for me to bring in my guests for dinner. Unfortunately, the dining area upstairs was fully booked, but the waiter told me I could stay in my comfy seat (with incredible views) and tell my friends to join me when they wished. That began a late-afternoon experience capped off by a vivid sunset dinner overlooking Paris! It probably cost me €100 for my drinks and dinner, but it was an experience of a lifetime, and significantly cheaper than booking a table at the upstairs restaurant.

ZOOM Webinar TONIGHT – Exploring Beyond Europe

Join me tonight on this live Zoom Webinar. In less than an hour, you’ll learn all about our tours and experiences in THE SERENGETI and ECUADOR.  Register here.

7:30 P.M. EST