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Finnair launches new routes to Norway, Sweden, Estonia and Southern Europe

Routes to Alta, Catania, Florence, Kos and Valencia were announced earlier this year, and Finnair is now adding flights to Kuressaare in Estonia, Luxembourg, Stavanger in Norway, Thessaloniki in Greece, Tirana in Albania, Turin in Italy and Umeå in Sweden. Anssi Partanen, Finnair’s Market Director for the UK and Ireland, said: “While this year comes to an end, here at Finnair we are already looking ahead and getting ready to take off with our super schedule for 2026. “We are excited to begin operating 12 new short-haul routes across Europe, strengthening our broad network of direct connections from our Helsinki hub “We know these new flights will prove very popular with those travelling for business, leisure, or visiting family and friends.” Included in the network update is an increased Norwegian offering, with a brand new route to Stavanger. Operated up to eight times per week, the Stavanger service complements Finnair’s already vast network in Norway, bringing the total number of Norwegian destinations to eight. Earlier this year Finnair announced a summer seasonal flight to Alta and with Stavanger added on the route map, Finnair will fly up to 82 weekly flights to Norway during the summer 2026 season. Known for its strong food scene, Stavanger offers a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, with Finnair’s flights launching in time for customers to attend the city’s famous Gladmat food festival. The city is also popular with hiking enthusiasts due to its close proximity to the stunning Lysefjord and two of Norway’s most famous natural attractions, Preikestolen and Kjeragbolten. The new service will operate via Stockholm, allowing customers to travel to Stavanger directly from Helsinki, or opt for a stopover in Sweden for those wanting to extend their trip before continuing on to Norway. Alongside Stavanger, Alta, known as the ‘City of Northern Lights’, will join Finnair’s extensive Nordic network. Apart from being one of Europe’s best locations to catch the infamous Aurora Borealis, Alta is also home to Northern Europe’s largest canyon. Finnair is launching other Nordic services including flights to Umeå in North East Sweden, strengthening the airline’s presence in the country. The flights will be operated up to nine times a week via Vaasa in Finland, allowing customers to explore both shores of the Gulf of Bothnia. Continuing its theme of expanding services across Northern Europe, Finnair is introducing three weekly flights to Kuressaare in Estonia as part of its summer seasonal network. Kuressaare adds to Finnair’s Baltic offering, with the up-and-coming island destination ideal for travellers seeking exciting outdoor experiences and rich cultural heritage. Alongside its Nordic and Baltic expansion, the carrier will also begin operating flights from its home hub in Helsinki to Luxembourg, Tirana in Albania, Turin in Italy and Thessaloniki in Greece. Routes to Catania, Florence, Kos and Valencia were announced earlier this year. The European capacity addition is enabled by expanding Finnair’s current longstanding wet lease partnership with Danish Jettime. Finnair offers smooth and easy transfers between flights from as little as 40 minutes, thanks to all flights operating from the same terminal at its Helsinki hub. All services have been timed to allow for easy connections from top UK airports, London Heathrow, Manchester, Edinburgh and the Irish capital Dublin. For winter 2026, Finnair will resume direct flights from Helsinki to Krabi in Southern Thailand and increase frequencies to Bangkok. The flag carrier will also continue operating its ever-popular route to Phuket, showing its commitment to the Asian market. Finnair will also reintroduce direct flights to Lapland from Brussels, Paris, and Zurich for winter 2026. These direct flights accompany Finnair’s broad offering of daily connections to Lapland via its Helsinki hub and further strengthens the carrier’s position as the only airline operating to Finnish Lapland on a consistent, year-round, basis. With these additions, Finnair’s network for 2026 includes 93 European, 11 Asian, seven North American, and two Middle Eastern destinations.

Europe Dominates the Global Passport Index 2025 as UK and US Lose Ground

Representative Image Global Citizen Solutions (“GCS”), an advisory firm in citizenship and residency planning, released its Global Passport Index 2025 highlighting a decisive shift in global mobility leadership driven by governance, innovation, and institutional trust as well as regional integration. Europe remains the undisputed global leader, holding nine of the top ten positions, with Sweden retaining the number one spot for a second consecutive year. Unlike single-metric passport rankings, GCS’s Global Passport Index measures not only where citizens can travel, but how well they can live and invest once they get there. It assesses passports across three dimensions—Enhanced Mobility, Quality of Life, and Investment Attractiveness—offering a more comprehensive picture of the life and opportunities a country and its passport provide, beyond visa-free travel. While the United Kingdom (#8) remains among the top global performers, the data shows that smaller nations such as Ireland (#7) and Switzerland (#2) continue to climb by pairing openness with policy coherence and innovation strength. Estonia (+16 places) and Croatia (+7) are among the fastest risers, demonstrating how digital governance and EU integration can rapidly elevate a country’s global standing. “Europe’s sustained dominance in the Index reflects the power of stable governance, innovation ecosystems, and regional integration,” said Dr. Laura Madrid Sartoretto, Lead Researcher at GCS’ Global Intelligence Unit. “For the UK, maintaining strong institutional trust and investment competitiveness will be essential to preserve its influence in a changing global mobility landscape.” The Global Passport Index underscores how the meaning of passport power is evolving—from a measure of access to a reflection of how nations enable long-term stability, opportunity, and quality of life for their citizens. The Anglosphere, once at the centre of passport power, is witnessing a collective retreat (with the exception of Ireland). The United States suffered an unprecedented 13-place fall—its sharpest drop in the Index’s history—while the UK and other English-speaking nations have lost ground amid rising political polarisation, infrastructure strains, and tightening migration frameworks. In contrast, a new generation of agile nations is reshaping global mobility. Singapore remains the world’s only non-European passport in the top 10 with disciplined governance, global connectivity, and financial influence shows how a small state can project strength far beyond its borders. Caribbean citizenship-by-investment nations have also achieved collective gains (+14, +10, +8, +4), rewarded for compliance reforms and regional cooperation that have enhanced both credibility and investor appeal.

On the Scene: Travel Daily Media Explores Europe with Avalon Waterways – Day 7

All good things come to their natural end, and such was the case as Avalon Waterways' northbound Romantic Rhine cruise arrived at its penultimate port: Amsterdam in The Netherlands. For Travel Daily Media CEO Gary Marshall, parting with the lively company he spent the week with aboard the Avalon Envision was somewhat bittersweet. As he puts it: “Final day on Avalon Envision after eight unforgettable days cruising the Rhine from Basel to Amsterdam with a super nice group of travel media comrades, an amazing Avalon crew, and our superstar hosts Hallie Chua and Laneisha Lynch. Grateful for the laughs, the experiences, and memories created together.” But just because it was the last full day on board didn’t mean that guests were in for a quiet day; on the contrary, the final day of the voyage took them on a dynamic tour of one of Europe’s most interesting cities. Off the beaten path in Amsterdam The morning gave guests the opportunity to sail through Amsterdam’s famed canals in a 15-minute micro-cruise through some of the city’s most scenic areas. Afterwards, they took the lesser-known paths on the Amsterdam Off the Beaten Path excursion which took them to some sights not usually covered by conventional tours of the city. Among the more unusual sights encountered on this unique trek were a saunter to the rooftop of the NEMO Science Museum which has been transformed into a community park where locals and tourists can enjoy coffee or tea, whilst enjoying spectacular views of downtown Amsterdam below or splashing in for a good time at the area’s interactive kinetic water sculpture. Going off the beaten track also enabled guests to explore museums depicting the city’s uniquely nautical way of life, including those located in converted houseboats and the Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, an unusual canal house museum. Originally built in the 1600s, the museum served as living quarters for generations of locals and conceals a treasure beneath its rafters: a Roman Catholic church built right into its attic. Going into the De Wallen district where the Oude Kerk stands brings respite to the footsore in the form of De Koffieschenkerij which, despite its name, specialises in tea and serves a tempting Dutch apple cake. In the afternoon, some guests went for the optional Zaanse Schans & the Symbols of Holland excursion wherein they visited the historic village of the same name, marvelling at the iconic windmills and quaint wooden houses. A few final thoughts The thing about Avalon Waterways’ Romantic Rhine cruise is that it gives travellers the opportunity to experience a different side of Europe at a less frantic pace than on a conventional tour. While shore excursions were part of the itinerary, the beauty of Avalon lies in the way guests can opt to pick their adventures every day from the guided tours, to more adventurous jaunts, and even cycle through certain destinations on their own. At the same time, even the hours spent on board were a learning experience as the cruise director would hold talks about each destination in the afternoons or evenings; a much-needed recap to foster greater understanding of each destination and the people who call these places home. Likewise, the cruise showered guests with exceptional comforts for the entire duration of the voyage, essentially becoming a home away from home thanks to good food, great company, and excellent amenities. And while the journey itself may be over, parting doesn’t really mean a farewell; indeed, we’ll take a cue from Gary on that score: “It’s never goodbye, just until next time.” Relive Travel Daily Media's coverage of the Romantic Rhine cruise through Gary's earlier adventures aboard the Avalon Envision: Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 For those looking into a European experience of their own on the water, get in touch directly with Avalon Waterways' Asia team at https://www.avalonwaterways.asia/contact/ or contact their country-specific call centres at the following numbers: All photos: Gary Marshall on Instagram

On the Scene: Travel Daily Media Experiences Europe with Avalon Waterways – Day 6

With Avalon Waterways’ northward Romantic Rhine cruise drawing to its conclusion, guests aboard the Avalon Envision found themselves enjoying the scenic vistas of Cologne. Travel Daily Media chief executive Gary Marshall found the energy of the sixth day of the voyage more leisurely and relaxed as the vessel made its way towards its final port of call. As he put it: “We explored beautiful Cologne! We enjoyed a gentle bike ride along the riverside and into the countryside, while the rest of the group discovered the historic town and the iconic Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral).” And Cologne is certainly an amazing area to explore, given its 2,000-year history and its strategic location which has made it a major port of commerce for the German economy. Cologne in a nutshell The area we know today as the city of Cologne was initially established in 38BC as Oppidum Ubiorum, a rustic settlement inhabited by the Germanic Ubii tribe. In AD50, the Romans occupied what is now Western Europe, and the settlement became a colony of the Roman Empire. The colony’s name, Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, honoured the Emperor Claudius and his wife, Agrippina the Younger, who was born in the region. Eventually, the area was simply known as Colonia / Cologne, and the appellation has been in use for centuries. Today, the 405-sqkm city is home to over a million people and, despite the ravages of internecine and global war, prides itself on its beautifully preserved Romanesque architecture, historic bridges, and storied heritage that can be seen and felt throughout the metropolis. Where history teaches profound lessons Along with the architectural highlights of Cologne, Avalon Waterways’ Romantic Rhine itinerary also included a thought-provoking activity: a Jewish Heritage Tour of the city. While contemporary Cologne’s population is now predominantly Catholic, the city prides itself on its truly unique Jewish heritage. The Jewish people first came to Cologne in the fourth century, around AD321, when their numbers were recorded during a census commissioned by Emperor Constantine I. While Judaism was recognised as a religio licita (permitted religion) as early as the 300s and Jews were exempted from making offerings to the Roman gods, the community faced persecution throughout the centuries: first from other religions, later from the rise of the Nazi government. Persecution notwithstanding, Cologne’s Jewish community produced a significant body of scholarly work throughout the Middle Ages and well into the Renaissance. Today, Cologne is still home to the largest Jewish community in Germany, and they share their story with travellers, taking them to various memorials that serve as a grim but quiet reminder that prejudice serves no one and that harmonious co-existence better serves the people. With the lessons of the Jewish Quarter echoing gently in guests’ minds, the Avalon Envision set sail to its final port in Amsterdam. When in Cologne… A trip to Cologne would not be complete without taking a whiff of the fragrance that bears its name to this day. Known by its brand 4711 which was actually the registration number of the factory that made it, classic Eau de Cologne was the brainchild of parfumier Johann Maria Farina who crafted a pleasant fragrance which he named after his hometown. While contemporary 4711 is produced by global conglomerate Proctor & Gamble, Farina’s descendants are still actively involved in its production, making it one of the oldest family-held perfumes in the world. If chocolate rather than perfume is your thing, you certainly need to pay a visit to the famed Lindt Chocolate Museum where edible temptations abound. Catch up with Gary's earlier adventures aboard the Avalon Envision: Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 For those looking into a European experience of their own on the water, get in touch directly with Avalon Waterways' Asia team at https://www.avalonwaterways.asia/contact/ or contact their country-specific call centres at the following numbers: All photos: Gary Marshall on Instagram

On the Scene: Travel Daily Media experiences Europe with Avalon Waterways – Day 5

Day 5 aboard Avalon Waterways’ Avalon Envision proved to be a more relaxed one compared to the previous days of the voyage. Following their foray into the German cities of Heidelberg and Mainz, Travel Daily Media’s Gary Marshall and other guests on board found themselves in the quaint town of Rüdesheim am Rhein. Located within the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO Heritage Site, Rüdesheim is listed among Germany’s winemaking communities as well as the home of the country’s famed Asbach brandy. But more than a place where wine and spirits are made, Rüdesheim is also known for its excellent museums which specialise in the riches of the town’s long history, as well as the numerous castles and forts dotting the landscape and built between the Dark Ages and the middle of the 19th century. The picturesque town is also a walker’s paradise: narrow streets that enable sightseeing on foot or on a bike, flanked by picturesque structures and quaint shops. Indeed, given how Rüdesheim is home to just over 10,000 people, travellers can easily explore the town within a day. As Gary described his Rüdesheim experience: “As for me I steered away from the guide’s flag and took one of the ship’s push bikes and meandered through this beautiful little town, stopping at some of the gorgeous coffee shops along the way.” Where whimsy meets reality As for the other guests, Gary remarked: "Some guests hit the trails for a vineyard hike with a stop at the famous Rüdesheimer Coffee while others explored the quirky Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, so unique and fun." Indeed, there is something for travellers of every stripe at this quaint part of Germany that is right in the heart of wine-making country. As stated, several guests opted to head to the vineyards where the region's famed red wines begin, though the grape harvest for this year has already been gathered and, most likely, pressed and processed. Others made their way to one of Germany's most whimsical attractions: Siegfried's Mechanisches Musikkabinet or Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. By mechanical musical instruments, the museum goes farther afield from the player-pianos most people know; indeed, the museum's 350-piece collection runs the gamut from dainty music boxes playing tunes that wouldn't be out of place in a child's nursery to a massive fairground organ used to call audiences to rides or sideshows. The 45-minute tour through Siegfried's musical cornucopia at the Brömserhof gives guests the opportunity to see the diversity of the novelty instrument on display, adding a dash of fun to an already exciting tour. Come noon, guests made their way back to the Envision aboard the old-fashioned Rüdesheim Winzerexpress train for lunch and a lively discussion on the Rhine Gorge with the cruise director. Then the Envision made its way up the pictureque Rhine towards its next stop: Koblenz. Things to enjoy in Rüdesheim No trip to Rüdesheim would be complete without sampling the town's famous Rüdesheimer Kafee, a coffee-based cocktail that makes use of the local Asbach Uralt brandy. Especially welcome during the winter months, this cocktail is the creation of German television chef Hans Karl Adam in 1957: hot black coffee sweetened with three sugar cubes, then flambeed with a splash of brandy and served with a dollop of whipped cream in a specially designed porcelain cup. If alcohol isn't your thing, Rüdesheim also offers a number of scrumptious delicacies, including baumstriezel, a sweet local pastry that's a cross between classic German baumkuchen (tree ring cake) and the Eastern European chimney cake or kürtőskalács. Baumstriezel are made by wrapping a strip of sweet yeast dough around a spit, rolling it in sugar, baking it over charcoal, then basting it with butter until it turns golden-brown. Unlike baumkuchen which are served sliced on plates, these yeast cakes are served like massive wafer cones as these are filled with custard and whipped cream before being dusted with confectioners' sugar, making them an indulgent treat for Kafee und Kuchen. Catch up with Gary's earlier adventures aboard the Avalon Envision: Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 For those looking into a European experience of their own on the water, get in touch directly with Avalon Waterways' Asia team at https://www.avalonwaterways.asia/contact/ or contact their country-specific call centres at the following numbers: All photos: Gary Marshall on Instagram

On the Scene: Travel Daily Media experiences Europe with Avalon Waterways – Day 4

TDM's Gary Marshall poses across from the Avalon Envision Day 4 of Avalon Waterways’ northbound Romantic Rhine cruise took guests to the German cities of Mainz and Heidelberg, two historically important areas for both Germany and the world. Sailing in from Strasbourg in France’s Grand Est region, the Avalon Envision docked in the port city of Ludwigshafen. While Ludwigshafen itself is a key location in German history, being both the birthplace and final resting place of Chancellor Helmut Kohl, guests aboard the Envision made their way further into the country with Heidelberg as their first destination of the day. Historic Heidelberg To say that Heidelberg is historic would be an understatement: the area has been populated for nearly 600,000 years, with archaeologists noting that the city boasts of the earliest proof of human habitation anywhere in the world. The area gets its name from Celtic settlers who came to the area in the 5th century BC and built a place of worship on the highest peak, referring to it as Heiligenberg or the Holy Mountain. In terms of recorded history, however, the earliest mention of Heidelberg in any records dates back to 769AD during a census that named the area Bergheim or Mountain Home. Since then, it has evolved into a city of learning as it is considered one of the centres for Western philosophy, having been a key area for mediaeval scholasticism, Renaissance-era humanism, as well as the German Reformation. Indeed, Martin Luther himself was summoned to the city to defend his Ninety-five Theses in April 1518, just months after he initially proposed them. Today, Heidelberg continues to draw in tourists as well as thinkers, impressing travellers from the world over with its beautifully preserved mediaeval and Renaissance architecture and numerous points of interest. It is also important to note that Heidelberg is also one of Europe’s largest university cities, with students making up close to 25 percent of its total population. Guests aboard the Avalon Envision who chose to learn more about the city’s academic history were taken on a more detailed Philosophers’ Walk with cruise Adventure Host Raluca. Into Mainz and the history of the printed word As Gary recalls: “We stepped into the birthplace of the printing revolution at the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz, Germany. Founded in 1900, this world-famous museum celebrates Johannes Gutenberg, the genius who gave us movable type printing. We saw original Gutenberg Bibles, a replica of a 15th-century printing press, and centuries of global book culture under one roof.” Indeed, the Guterberg Museum is a dynamic tribute to a native son who changed the history of global communication, making the written word more accessible and thus boosting the level of literacy throughout the world. As the museum’s official website puts it: “The museum is primarily dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg, a native of Mainz and Man of the Millennium, who invented printing with movable metal type more than 550 years ago, initiating a media revolution.” Aside from comprehensive information regarding Guteberg’s life, work, and innovations, the museum also presents several key artefacts from the history of letterpress printing, and has advocated for the art of printing since it initially opened its doors in 1900. Here, the permanent exhibition gives travellers a closer look at two jewels of the history of printing: two copies of the world-renowned 42-line Gutenberg Bible which may be seen and compared in the walk-in vault. The museum’s permanent collection also includes technical printing tools, typesetting machines, and printing presses, along with exceptional examples of European book culture from the 15th century to the present day. After an afternoon exploring the history of printing, guests hied back to the Avalon Envision to enjoy a spot of Kaffee und Kuchen before the vessel made its way to its next port of call in Rüdesheim. Catch up with Gary's earlier adventures aboard the Avalon Envision: Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 For those looking into a European experience of their own on the water, get in touch directly with Avalon Waterways' Asia team at https://www.avalonwaterways.asia/contact/ or contact their country-specific call centres at the following numbers: All photos: Gary Marshall on Instagram

Lohono Stays Makes Its European Debut with Luxury Villas at Lake Garda, Italy

Lohono Stays by Isprava Group, a luxury villa hospitality brand, announces its entry into the European market with luxury villas at Lake Garda, Italy. Emerging as one of Italy’s most captivating destinations for the discerning traveller, Lake Garda is where Alpine beauty embraces Italian elegance. Framed by crystal-clear waters, breathtaking mountain backdrops, lush vineyards, and charming lakeside villages, the region offers a rare blend of privacy, indulgence, and cultural heritage. These villas open doors to exquisite luxury, one that offers slow living, deep connection, and a sense of timeless escape. While the collection is thoughtfully situated within this rich landscape with a backdrop of the lake, each villa offers distinct experiences rooted in design, history, and atmosphere. The villas come with private pools & gardens, stone gazebos and saunas. The stay is further elevated by amenities like yoga, tennis, golf and experiences like personal chef & cooking lessons and guided treks & boat tours with a private skipper. Commenting on the launch, Nibhrant Shah, Managing Director & Co-CEO, Isprava Group (Isprava, Lohono Stays, The Chapter), said, “Affluent Indian travellers are moving beyond the obvious Italian hotspots to explore destinations like Lake Garda, that feel more intimate and layered. They are seeking experiences that blend exclusivity, authenticity and a deeper cultural resonance over just sightseeing and standardised luxury of hotels. Lohono is meeting this demand by curating villas that go beyond a stay to deliver immersive, world-class living in destinations Indians are only just beginning to embrace.” Dhimaan Shah, Executive Director & Co-CEO, Isprava Group (Isprava, Lohono Stays, The Chapter), added, “Indian outbound travel is projected to cross 80 million journeys annually by 2030 and with Italy being one of the top five destinations for Schengen-bound Indian travel, the opportunity is immense. Lohono’s target audience expects us to offer something unconventional. Hence, entering the European market with Lake Garda is a strategic step towards extending a differentiated holiday experience to our customers in terms of stay as well as the location.”

On the Scene: Travel Daily Media Experiences Europe with Avalon Waterways – Day 3

TDM's Gary Marshall takes a snap within the nave of the Strasbourg Cathedral It’s now the third day of Avalon Waterways’ northward Romantic Rhine sojourn aboard the Avalon Envision, and guests got a taste of the good life as only the French know how as they made their way into Strasbourg. The capital of the province of Grand Est which was originally known as Alsace, Strasbourg is also the seat of the European Parliament given its close proximity to the German border. The eighth largest metropolis in France, Strasbourg has been occupied since Paleolithic times, but first made it into the history books in 12BC when a Roman military encampment known as Argentoratum was established in the fertile lands of the Upper Rhine Plane. Today, it is occupied by over 671,000 citizens, accounting for 14 percent of the total population within the Grand Est. Cycling into Strasbourg For Travel Daily Media CEO Gary Marshall, Strasbourg is a city best experienced on foot or on a bicycle as opposed to seeing it through the windows of a tour bus, no matter how panoramic they may be. Indeed, there is much to be said for the city’s impressive architecture which has withstood the test of time despite having been built as far back as the First Millennium AD. As Gary puts it: “We took on a gentle three-hour morning cycle through Strasbourg which led us to the magnificent Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, a Gothic masterpiece steeped in history.” Referred to in German as Liebfrauenmünster zu Straßburg, the Cathedral has occupied the same place in the city since 1015, but was not completed until 1439, more than 400 years later. For all the beauty travellers can see when they enter the Cathedral, it is sobering to know that it was used as a pawn throughout the interfaith conflict of the Reformation Years, with militant Protestants destroying parts of the church in their iconoclastic fervour. One such artefact lost to the destruction was the famed high altar which has been recorded by art historians to be a prime example of Renaissance architecture and craftsmanship; its fragments may be seen today in the nearby Musée de l'Œuvre Notre-Dame. Strasbourg’s astronomical clock Catholics and Protestants will, however, agree on one thing: the Strasbourg Astronomical Clock is one of this storied city’s crown jewels. The timepiece in question is actually the third to be installed in the Cathedral, and was inaugurated on 31st December 1842, the masterpiece of artisan Jean-Baptiste Schwilgué who also made the clock at the Freiburg Cathedral in 1851. The astronomical clock was something of a passion project for Schwilgué and it took him the better part of five years to craft his masterpiece. What is interesting about the clock is that it has two sets of hands: one in gold to show mean solar time, and another in silver to show Central European Standard Time. Another curious aspect involving the clock hands is that mean solar time is around 30.4 minutes behind standard time during the winter months. The clock’s visual appeal is further boosted by a planetary calendar showing the positions of the sun and moon throughout the day, as well as a whimsical mechanical rooster. At half-past noon every day since the clock was first installed, the metal rooster crows, summoning Christ’s 12 Apostles who make their way in a grave procession around the clock. Elsewhere on tour Throughout the Avalon Envision party's trak through Strasbourg, they were also fascinated by the number of storks that appear to have made their home in the city. While these fine feathered creatures have long symbolised Strasbourg and the Grand Est, they nearly went extinct in the 1970s. Today, thanks to a regional feeding programme, their numbers are back at healthier levels. But Strasbourg is more than its cathedral and its storks; indeed, the city is famous for its rich foie gras and the richly-flavoured geese from which it is derived; the excellence of its vineyards, as well as gastronomic delights with a distinctively Germanic flavour. For those interested in more contemporary history, the Avalon Envision tour also included a trip to the Maginot Line which served as Northeastern France's strongest defence against its aggressive German neighbours throughout the Second World War and well into the 1960s when many of its fortifications were decommissioned and now serve as museums. After a day within Strasbourg's historic perimeter and the surrounding areas, guests headed back to the Avalon Envision to prepare for their next stop: Ludwigshafen am Rhein. Catch up with Gary's earlier adventures aboard the Avalon Envision from Day 1 and Day 2. For those looking into a European experience of their own on the water, get in touch directly with Avalon Waterways' Asia team at https://www.avalonwaterways.asia/contact/ or contact their country-specific call centres at the following numbers: All photos: Gary Marshall on Instagram

On the Scene: Travel Daily Media Experiences Europe with Avalon Waterways – Day 2

Travel Daily Media CEO Gary Marshall is currently aboard Avalon Waterways’ vessel Avalon Envision, making his way north up the Rhine. On the second day of the voyage, Gary and other guests sailed to the French town of Colmar in Alsace which is known as the country’s Germanic province. Gary said of the Day 2 experience: “It was an adventurous day that took us through three countries, including Germany and Switzerland, and that was actually all in one morning!” Indeed, the schedule for the day was a fully-packed one that began with an exercise session early in the morning with Avalon Adventure Host Raluca to get travellers warmed up for a day of exploration. Into the heart of Colmar The shore excursion into Colmar is actually an optional one for those on Avalon Waterways’ northward Romantic Rhine cruise, but it is one that we highly recommend that travellers should go for. One specific district in Colmar is referred to as La Petite Venise [Little Venice], and the city’s tourism department explains that this is because the lines of buildings flanking both sides of the Lauch River which runs through the city gives those on the water the feeling that they are sailing through one of the famed Venetian canals. Located in the Quai de la Poissonnerie [The Fishmongers’ Quarter], La Petite Venise starts behind the Koïfhus, goes through the fishmonger's district, and to the bridges Turenne and Saint-Pierre. This area also marks the entry into another district, the Krutenau, which is home to a community of market gardeners on the outskirts of the urban zone. It must be noted at this point that the Krutenau was once home to tradesmen, mostly market gardeners, vintners, and boatmen. Today, it is considered one of the more picturesque areas in Colmar, as well as in all Alsace, and travellers take their time walking through its cobblestoned streets or sailing down the Lauch. A whimsical alternative For those who weren’t up for the excursion into Colmar, Avalon Waterways took them to Germany’s famed Black Forest to see one of the region’s most popular artefacts: cuckoo clocks at the House of Black Forest Clocks in Hornberg. Cuckoo clocks actually began as a way of coping with the winter doldrums in an area that was primarily agricultural until well into the 20th century. Farmers who found time heavy on their hands took to wood-carving throughout the winter months, creating incredible items that were both beautiful and, in the case of the clocks, useful. Even now that we are well within the 21st century, a new generation of artisans in Hornberg continues the work of their forebears, crafting intricate timepieces that display a high level of craftsmanship and quality. This voyage is getting mediaeval The afternoon brought the intrepid voyagers to Freiburg, Germany's southernmost city, which has changed relatively little over the centuries and stands as one of the prime examples of mediaeval architecture anywhere in Europe. Historically, Freiburg has long been known as one of Germany’s most fiercely independent cities, and its name actually translates into English as “free town.” Founded in 1120AD as a mercantile community, the city has prospered throughout the centuries thanks to significant silver deposits within the surrounding area as well as its position at the crossroads of several key trading routes connecting Germany with the rest of the continent. Freiburg is also a university town and has been home to the University of Freiburg (originally known as the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität) which was established in 1457, making it one of the country’s oldest institutions for higher learning. This distinction has also made the city fertile ground for artists and other creatives as it is one of southern Germany’s leading centres for culture and the arts. While most of the guests opted to explore Freiburg, more adventurous types mounted their bikes to follow Adventure Host Reluca on a cycling tour of the town of Breisach. Come four in the afternoon, everyone made their way back to the Avalon Envision for a spot of Kaffee und Kuchen [coffee and cakes] as a welcome restorative after an eventful day with the vessel making its way to the gourmets' paradise that is Strasbourg in the night. Travel Daily Media's tips for intrepid travellers When in Colmar, don't miss out on a quick sail down the Lauch in La Petite Venise to get a feel of the city's ancient past. At the same time, Colmar is also a centre for gastronomy, so it is worth hunting out Alsantian specailities that have a distinctively German accent like chocroute garnie [braised pork and sausage cooked with sauerkraut], nid d'abeilles [bee-sting cake made with honey, cream, and almonds], as well as the local cheeses and foie gras from nearby Strasbourg. For those making their way to Freiburg, the city's Old Town is always a joy to explore with its beautifully preserved structures that date as far back as the Middle Ages. Also not to be missed: the Schlossberg, a hill that offers some of the most awe-inspiring views of the city; one can get there via funicular train or they can hike up on one's own arched insteps. Read about Gary's Day 1 experiences aboard the Avalon Envision here. For those looking into a European experience of their own on the water, get in touch directly with Avalon Waterways' Asia team at https://www.avalonwaterways.asia/contact/ or contact their country-specific call centres at the following numbers: All photos: Gary Marshall on Instagram

On the Scene: TDM Experiences Europe with Avalon Waterways – Day 1

As one of the world’s leading river cruise providers, Avalon Waterways has given global travellers the opportunity to experience some of Europe’s most beautiful locations whilst travelling in grand style. Travel Daily Media’s very own Gary Marshall is currently aboard the Avalon Envision on its Romantic Rhine voyage which takes travellers from Basel, Switzerland to Amsterdam in The Netherlands. Over the course of the eight-day voyage, Gary will be sharing sights as well as insights from some of Western Europe’s most amazing destinations. Good beginnings From Bangkok, Gary flew via Thai Airways from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to the Zurich Airport for the first leg of the journey. Spending the first night of the trip at the Radisson Blu Zurich Airport, members of the Avalon Waterways team were on hand at the lobby to help travellers check into the voyage well before making their way to Basel. The bus transfer to Basel from Zurich took about an hour and a half, and guests were welcomed with a good lunch before traversing the Swiss city’s storied streets for a walking tour. Wilkommen in Basel Gary shared his initial thoughts on Basel, saying: “It is an intriguing city: a mixture of the incredibly old and the startlingly new. You can feel the history with every step you take, but it’s also well-rooted in the modern world and very cosmopolitan thanks to the immigrants who made their way here over the centuries.” That is not surprising, given how the earliest recorded mention of Basel dates way back to the year 786AD and its original Latin name of Willa hints at its origins as a Roman encampment. In the earliest stage of its history, Basel’s economy was primarily agricultural, but this changed by the 19th century when the city’s extensive transport connections brought in industrialisation and a surge in economic growth. This began early in the 20th century with the construction of a railway marshalling yard linking Basel with the town of Weil am Rhein in 1913, leading to the development of both communities into significant cities; and this growth was pushed further along by the establishment of the city harbour in 1934. Following the Second World War, the influx of refugees and stateless persons enabled Basel to grow into the culturally diverse metropolis it is today. Likewise, the merger of the communities of Ötlingen, Haltingen, and Märkt between 1971 and 1975 significantly increased the city’s scope. All aboard the Avalon Envision Come evening, Gary and other guests for the Rhine adventure made their way to the Avalon Envision for dinner as well as a safety briefing before the vessel makes its way down the Rhine. Throughout this week, the Avalon Envision will be visiting several ports in Germany and France before its guests disembark in Amsterdam. The Avalon Envision is part of the youngest fleet of ships on Europe's waterways, offering panoramic views of the surrounding environment whilst immersing its guests in the richness of the continent’s heritage and traditions. Here, relaxed luxury is paired with the ultimate in service excellence to create a truly unforgettable voyage. The vessel boasts two full decks of award-winning Panorama Suites sporting wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the space into one’s own personal balcony and viewing deck. Around 30 percent larger than standard staterooms throughout the industry, Avalon’s Panorama Suites are fitted with the line’s signature window-facing Beds with a View, enabling guests to wake up to spectacular views of the sunrise or wind down with exquisite sunsets. The Envision also offers numerous options with regard to dining and leisure, ensuring that its guests are thoroughly engaged and enjoying themselves on and off shore. With everyone on board, glasses were raised as the Envision set sail for its next port of call. Some things you need to experience when in Basel As one of the most attractive cities in Switzerland, Basel is home to numerous attractions that draw in history buffs, art lovers, and gourmets to its doorstep. No visit to Basel would be complete without a trip to the Old Town or, as it's known locally, the Alstadt, as this is the heart of the city's history and heritage. Among the Altstadt's key attractions are the Rathaus [Town Hall] with its striking brick-red facade and impressive watch tower, along with frescoes depicting local saints and figures from Swiss history; the Basler Münster cathedral with its Gothic / Romanesque architecture, spellbinding stained glass windows, and intriguing history; as well as the Tinguely Fountain in the Theaterplatz which combines water and kinetic energy to create a dynamic spectacle. Basel is also where the famed Art Basel exhibitions began, and the city is a Mecca for both traditional and contemporary art as seen in the profusion of museums within the vicinity. Make it a point to visit the Kunstmuseum Basel, the oldest collection of public art in the world, as it covers a broad spectrum of movements from Hans Holbein and other Renaissance masters, to Impressionism and Expressionism, to Cubism by way of fine examples of the work of Pablo Picasso and Georges Brach. If you find yourself famished from your explorations, keep in mind that Basel is also famous for its food which is at its best when sampled this season at the Basel Herbstmesse [autumn fair]. The fair offers a wide range of specialities including Basler Leckerli [frosted honey and spice cakes], Wäie [savoury cheese and onion tarts], and the local take on cured salmon, all serving up a taste of a most appealing city.

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