As it turns out, our first impressions were dead-on. Asia and Bibi are so full of life and spirit, with an infectious energy; an energy that we felt it right away at our surprise welcome at the door of the restaurant. Over the next couple of days we could see that our guests were understandably smitten by these capable leaders! Asia and Bibi are perfect complements to each other and took great care of the group. From language lessons and slide shows, to being lively partners for the traditional Polish folk dance (the Taniec Ludowy, not the Polka which is actually Bohemian in origin), to fine-tuning the bikes, these ladies were great.

To our delight, this convivial Polish hospitality seemed to run-ramped throughout the country. Everyone we met at the hotels, restaurants and shops were very friendly and happy to talk about their country and its history. We had the pleasure of meeting a man in a small local craft shop in Krakow who is a writer and an artist. He didn’t speak English perfectly (as so many of the young people do because it is a mandatory language in school), but he had a worn Polish-English dictionary by his cash register that allowed us to have a lively conversation. He was absolutely charming, and we ended up finding some wonderful handmade wooden crafts, hand-dipped candles and painted cards to take home with us.

We also had some terrific tour guides at the absolutely incredible Salt Mines, in Krakow, who were very proud and knowledgeable people. Again, not quite knowing what to expect, we were amazed at the appearance of the rock salt. It was dark and smooth, almost like limestone. We learned that these amazing mines rested 450 feet below the surface and were made up of a 150-mile maze of tunnels. They also housed a fascinating subterranean cathedral whose centerpiece was a large, overhanging chandelier, carved all from rock salt.

We weren’t only struck by our time spent indoors and underground. Our daily rides took us through some absolutely stunning countryside. We were there just after peak foliage and the woodlands were golden and gorgeous – very much like Vermont in Autumn. But the small towns we rode through were quite different from those at home, with the contrasts of the new and the old.

Finally, we are beyond pleased that this tour makes its way from Warsaw to Krakow, two of Poland’s thriving cities. We would not have wanted to miss either of them as they were equally interesting and exciting.

Warsaw was fabulous. The rebuilt Old Town is a charming marvel. One would never know it was not original: Truly an astounding feat of hope, pride and determination. During our exploration, we stopped and spoke with a young woman who was working on a restoration project and marveled at the detailed work she was doing on an old church. She was trained as a lawyer but preferred repairing the stonework! We also had the opportunity to enjoy a delicious, traditional food, pierogi, in a local Warsaw restaurant.

Towards the end of our tour, Krakow was also extraordinary – the Main Market Square is full of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and the center was bustling with locals and tourists. There were lots of colorful flower stalls and pretzel stands. We had a fantastic tour of the town which ended with a carriage ride back to the hotel. Our guide, Anya imparted so much information which indeed helped our understanding of the culture and history – both ancient and recent – of Poland.

Having been home for a couple weeks now, we both have found that Poland has truly made a lasting impression upon us. It is a nation full of color, amazing history and great food! Most of all, we found that Poland is a beautiful land made up of warm, remarkable people who were seemingly always willing to chat and share as much as they could about their home with a couple of eager travelers.

We encourage you to join VBT on a Biking Vacation in Poland, and to fill us in on your own experiences in this outstanding European Destination!
-Gregg and Caroline Marston
Owners

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Though we are on vacation, we were so taken by all of the kind words we’ve received we were driven to pause and take a few moments to reflect. What rises to the forefront is our appreciation for our community of travelers and employees, and how lucky we are to have them both. This recognition from the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine validates our mission and encourages us to stay the course.

To be recognized in this fashion is truly an honor. We’re so very thankful and we’re encouraged by all of your support. Be assured we’ll hold up our end, and VBT will keep striving to be the best in the industry.

Thank You,

Gregg and Caroline Marston
Owners

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Italy

Italy has been producing wine for 3,000 years. Today, hundreds of indigenous grapes are grown throughout the country. Here are some traveler favorites:

Chiantis, Vino Nobiles, and Morellinos of Tuscany. These world-renowned vintages are most closely associated with the Sangiovese grape, known for its spicy and strawberry flavors. The grape is also used to make bold “Super Tuscan” wines. Tuscan Hill Towns by Bike, The Tuscan Coast, Tuscany by the Sea

Gewurztraminer and Blauburgunder. These floral-noted wines are produced in the cooler climes of South Tyrol – an unsung wine region amidst the Dolomites. They are, if not easy to say, then easy to sip. Italy: Cycling the Dolomite Valleys

Malvasia. The Po River Valley in northwestern Italy has brought new life to a vine imported from Greece – it makes a sweet wine with a nice finish. Italy: Po River Valley and Lake Garda

As dessert in Italy goes, perhaps nothing compares to this famed post-meal digestivo.

Limoncello. The truest version of this potent liqueur (it averages 35% alcohol) is made from the Sorrento lemon peel and served in small ceramic glasses. The Amalfi Coast & Capri

France

Centuries ago, a group of devout monks in Burgundy “invented” red wine. All it took, they discovered, was macerating the skins of grapes during the wine-making process and – voila! – their wine resembled the blood of Christ. France still produces divine vintages.

Cabernet Franc. In Bordeaux along the Dordogne River, this grape is grown for blending with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, but is vinified on its own in the castle-dotted Loire Valley. Bicycling Bordeaux & the River Dordogne

Chenin Blanc. This white grape is also grown in the Loire, where it is valued for its malleability in making everything from sparkling wines to sweet dessert wines. Loire Valley

Spain

Sangria. This refreshing drink, perfect for warm Mediterranean days, is typically served in a pitcher for sharing and made with red wine, chopped fruit, sugar or honey, and a small amount of brandy or triple sec. Spain: Under the Andalusian Sky

Pedro-Ximenez. The climate, soil, and sunshine of Andalusia give rise to sweet, fortified sherries. Among these, the Pedro-Ximenez grape (PX for short) is believed to have Moorish origins and been brought to Spain from the Canary Islands. Spain: Under the Andalusian Sky

Portugal

Port. Portugal’s port has been shipped to England since the 1670s. It wasn’t until the 1800s that shippers fortified it with brandy to preserve it for the long trip. Walking Portugal’s Douro River Valley

Vinho Verde. Its name translates into “green wine” for its green-ish tint, is often grown off the ground – up trees or fences – so that vegetables can be grown below the vines. Walking Portugal’s Douro River Valley

Croatia

Plavac. An ancestor of the Zinfandel grape, Plavac yields rich flavors of blackberries, dark cherries, and pepper. Croatia: The Dalmatian Islands, Walking Croatia’s Dalmatian Islands

Prosek. Plavac’s white counterpart is more expensive since it requires seven times more grapes to produce. Its sweet dessert wine is made throughout the Balkans. Croatia: The Dalmatian Islands, Walking Croatia’s Dalmatian Islands

Holland & Belgium

Beers and Ales. Amstel. Heineken. Grolsch. While pale lagers like these make up 95% of production in Holland, many brewers also make special brews like witbier, or white beer. Belgium has been brewing beer since the Middle Ages. Today, 125 breweries dot the landscape of this small country. From Trappist and Abbey beers to brown and blonde ales, it seems there’s no beer that Belgians can’t brew. Holland and Belgium Bike & Barge, Netherlands Bike & Barge

Ireland

Stout Porter. Arthur Guinness founded a brewing company in Ireland 250 years ago. His enterprise remains, producing more than 10 million glasses each day, for pubs around the corner and around the world. Ireland: Galway & Connemara Coast, Ireland: Walking the West Country

Hungary

Palinka. Don’t be alarmed in Hungary if someone wishes you “Palinkas jo reggelt!” They’re merely wishing you “Good morning with palinka,” which goes to show you the importance of this fruit brandy in their culture. The cordial can be made with plums, pears, peaches, and apricots. Hungary & Slovakia: The Best of the Danube

Peru

Chicha. The Inca used this corn-based brew in rituals and drank it in large amounts during religious festivals. In today’s Peru, it is usually prepared with purple corn, resulting in a sweet, unfermented drink. Peru: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley

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Holland and Belgium Bike & Barge 40^th Anniversary Vacation April 18-24, 2011

After an eternity of little tasks that need attention before a week out of the office, I leave Bristol at mid morning for my flight departing from Montreal for Amsterdam, a familiar city after all these years. My first memory of Amsterdam is a post 9-11 meeting and re-negotiation with Jossie where we needed to negotiate new costs in order for both companies to survive. We have maintained our partnership with Jossie these many years later, with pleasure.

As we fly high above the Netherlands, I see so much water. Like a sponge. Canals everywhere. Major container ship highway heading into Amsterdam. Reflection of the early morning sun off the Ijsselmeer Lake in the distance. Everything is geometric.

Railway to Antwerpen. Smooth. Quick. Flat. Geometric fields. Rows tilled with precision. Straight rows. Green outside. Random patches of vibrant tulips. A lonely tractor in a vast sea garden of dirt.

Antique Antwerpen rail station. Seventy five degrees. Gorgeous. Sunny sidewalk cafes. Little kids filled with excitement. Deserted buildings. Renovated buildings. Town square and massive Cathedral filled with original Rubens. Fun rendezvous with my daughter Sarah, who arrived from France, at 2:25 PM sharp. Coffee in a cafe, then we hail a cab for a ride to the Willemdok where we meet the barge Iris. After greeting Jossie, Lenny, Gertie and Phyllis (able and passionate Iris team) we walk into the city square to greet the enthusiastic group for a beer at a sidewalk cafe, then dinner at a traditional and authentic restaurant, once home to a successful merchant.  As a group we walk the kilometer back to the vessel underneath a remarkably clear and star-laden sky. Then to bed for welcome night’s rest.

Theo, our veteran 10 year trip leader, leads the group out of the city through a tunnel 90 feet underneath the River Scheldt, to the other side. This tunnel was built in 1933 and, some say, was bombed in WWII only to be rebuilt in 1948. It is a key pathway to civilization for many. Soon the awakening city bustle succumbs to quiet neighborhoods and bike paths, through quaint and tranquil villages, farmland and nature preserves, and along the River Scheldt. By mid morning we are in a small village named Kruibeke where a folk market is set up. Local farmers, butchers, fishermen, and merchants come to sell their wares and produce every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. This is a hearty and traditional European event that I look forward to every time I visit. Sarah bought some Gouda Oud (strong, aged Gouda cheese, preserved with a fine, barely-noticeable, layer of salt) to share with the group for a snack. Soon after, with my interest in maps and navigation, I was delighted to visit Rupelmonde (mouth of the river Rupel) where the inventor of the modern scale map, Gerhardus Mercator was born and raised.

After a day meandering through the countryside, we arrived in Temse for a picnic lunch on the river bank.   Some folks embark the barge at this point to enjoy an afternoon cruising the river, relaxing with a book, or taking a nap. I was tempted…!!

We cruised into Dendermonde in time for a beer and a shower before we hustle off for an excellent 40th anniversary wine tasting. Then back to the barge for a wonderful dinner of duck and other traditional Dutch/Belgian specialties.

On Thursday we ride 25 miles (the long option-there is a shorter option as well) along the river, through local farmlands and along bike paths and tow paths, until 12:30 PM when we get onboard for lunch and an afternoon cruise to Ghent. It is a wonderful transition at this time of the tour to get off the bike and watch the world go by while dining on Gertie’s fine cuisine. Shortly after we arrive, we are greeted by Astrid, skipper of a little canal boat, who will take us into Ghent center and offer a tour through the historic canals. This provides an excellent overview of this amazing, historic and vibrant medieval city (67,000 students in the city of 250,000). Afterwards we have a few hours to explore the churches and castles, or shop, or drink beer at a local cafe with everyone else on this lovely spring afternoon. We then have a wonderful dinner at Brasserie Pakhuis, a super restaurant in a renovated traditional warehouse.

Our last day of riding was one of my favorites. The weather was supreme: light breeze, clear skies, bike paths, farmland, spring blossoms of fragrant trees, bushes and flowers. Although there were 14 and 24 mile options, I chose the 37 mile option, I could have gone forever. The churches and chapels along the way, the villages, the Flemish countryside, and the panoramas…..all offering me a yearning to, once again, return to the Netherlands and Belgium.

Arriving in Bruges was simple and, again, on sidewalks and bike paths. The distinction between riding in the countryside, empty and peaceful, to the lively city, bustling and alive, was enlightening.  After a quick visit to the city center I returned to the barge for a fabulous farewell dinner prepared by Gertie and the crew. I had salmon while others had the filet. They entertained us with five different wines and port, and an amazing array of Belgian chocolates and cakes. Very, very well done for this 40th anniversary tour with old friends and new friends.

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What a great group of travelers, many have traveled with us multiple times, lots of history and very pleasant and relaxing rides through sleepy villages along dikes.

Wow! I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

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Dear Traveler,

A very good friend of all of us here at VBT, and of many of our travelers over the past 32 years, is retiring in May. His name is Gerry Slager, and his approaching retirement is the one reason that all of us have been dreading the arrival of spring this year, even after enduring such a long, cold, snowy winter.

Gerry is a valuable friend and an irreplaceable Trip Leader who has touched the lives of thousands of travelers. I can’t imagine life here at VBT without him, but I’m filled with pride at having known him. He’s the ultimate techie—no one knows more about caring for a bicycle, whether coaxing a finicky derailleur back to life or adjusting the squeak out of a new set of brakes. He also knows how to make the perfect cup of coffee—and we Vermonters are crazy about our coffee beans. I may have to switch to tea after Gerry leaves us. No one has demonstrated more care and concern and affection to our travelers over so many years than Gerry. He is a master at anticipating travelers’ needs, entertaining them with colorful stories and historical tidbits, and making sure that each traveler has a day filled to the brim with adventure and discovery. As we operate our fortieth year of vacations this year, Gerry has been here for 80% of them. He has been my conscience and, in short, is the heart and soul of VBT.

Gerry Slager is what my Mom used to call a “character.” She meant it as an ultimate compliment, and so do I. Gerry is a character because he’s played an important and unforgettable role in the drama of our lives. He’s a character because he’s unique, with his own way of talking and walking and nodding his head and shaking your hand. When you hear Gerry’s footsteps on the wide wooden planks of the barn floor here, you know it’s him, and you can tell the mood he’s in by the sound and the tempo. He’s a character because his sense of humor reflects his beautiful way of looking at the world and his boundless love for his coworkers and our travelers.

On Gerry’s resume here at VBT, he might be the only Trip Leader to list one language spoken: English. But it isn’t entirely true. Gerry also speaks a language we in Bristol call “Vermont.” This is the language Gerry uses when he talks to a freshly poured, newly brewed beer at The Bobcat Café, where we all love to gather for meetings and meals. “Mmm,” Gerry says, staring at the ring of foam on the inside of the mug after taking the first swallow. It’s the language Gerry uses when he talks to the new spokes he’s slipping into a bicycle hub, the “Yup” followed by the spinning sound of a perfectly balanced wheel made true by his sure and careful adjustments. And it’s the language he uses to coax outside the occasional skunk that wanders into the barn and sets up shop by the coffeemaker on cold autumn mornings. “This way,” Gerry says. “That’s it,” followed by an “All right, then,” as he slowly closes the door behind the ambling visitor.

Gerry loves nature, as only a Vermonter can, whether it’s the sound of an ax cutting through a thick wedge of white oak on a cold winter morning, or as happened just this past February, the rare sight at that time of year of bluebirds setting up shop in the tree between the barn and the farmhouse that serves as our office. Gerry reminded us that it was the same tree that drew cedar waxwings last year—both unforgettable firsts for all of us, and both all the more memorable now that Gerry is retiring.

I promised myself that I wouldn’t get blue about Gerry’s retirement—so I won’t. I won’t tell you how much we’ll miss his wisdom and experience, how much we’ll miss his subtle observations on human nature, how much we’ll miss his daily stories about his adventures bicycling, hiking, skiing, kayaking, cooking (vegetarian, of course), and riding his motorcycle. Gerry will have plenty of time now to do more of something he’s always loved to do—putter around the house. In fact, I expect that in just a short while, Gerry will be setting world records for puttering. He’ll find new ways to combine pizza and pineapple, and a use for real Vermont maple syrup that no one’s ever thought of before. And there’ll always be a new beer or ale at the Bobcat for Gerry to approve of. I expect I’ll bump into him there, and the sooner the better. The first round’s on me, Gerry.

So, bon voyage, my friend. All of us here at VBT, and all of the travelers whose lives you have graced, offer you every best wish for good health and boundless happiness. And remember, Gerry, as you so often remind us, “It’s okay to have too much fun!”

Happy traveling,

Gregg Marston

President

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I’m so pleased to introduce Argentina: Walking in Patagonia. On this invigorating new Walking Vacation, we explore this rugged land in the utmost comfort, staying at elegant hotels that exude a rustic Patagonian flair. We’re even privileged to stay at the coveted Los Notros Hotel, the only property with direct views of Perito Moreno Glacier.

But there’s more to this trip than exhilarating walks and superior accommodations. We’ll connect with local culture and also take picnic lunches in these great outdoors, surrounded by towering granite peaks. Indulge in an authentic, Argentine barbecue. Learn the remarkable story behind the estancias that have played host to travelers like us for more than a century. And chat with the locals of El Calafate and El Chalten, two of our home bases, who have plenty of stories to share about their outpost towns.

VBT’s Director of Worldwide Product, Chris Skilling, spared no effort in adding these authentic details that make this a Patagonia vacation unlike any other. “It’s a truly captivating part of the world,” he kept telling me as he pulled it all together. “And it gives VBT travelers another warm locale to explore during winter months since the seasons are reversed south of the equator.”

We’ve worked to provide the highest caliber experience, even in a region as remote as Patagonia. Incredibly, you’ll enjoy our exclusive itinerary for one low price, and it includes all this: international airfare, fuel surcharges, deluxe accommodations, many meals, two expert local Trip Leaders, cultural activities, FREE use of our custom VBT walking poles, and van support.

I hope you’ll join us on our newest Walking Vacation, Argentina: Walking in Patagonia. Fall 2011 departures are now available; you’ll also find our very first offering of 2012 warm-winter departures on our website. But call soon to reserve – space to this last great wilderness is sure to fill quickly.
Happy traveling,
Gregg Marston
President

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All of us at VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations – here in Vermont and in our worldwide offices – share an intense passion for connecting with the world through travel. And we love to share that passion with travelers like you during our wonderful vacations. There’s nothing I love more than hearing how a conversation with a Dutch villager broadened a VBT traveler’s mind … how a beginner rider pushed himself to cycle a longer route option and felt stronger for it … or how a breathtaking vista along a walking path made someone’s spirit soar.

But we also know that many of you in our passionate community of like-minded travelers have transformative experiences during your own explorations, far from VBT’s biking and walking trails. That’s what inspired us to enhance our blog page. Here, I invite you to share highlights from both your VBT trips and your personal travel. For our part, we’ll be using this space to keep you better informed, and more enriched by our own experiences around the world.

Bookmark this page on your browser and visit often for:

• Useful travel tips
• Updates on cultural and arts events in the U.S. and around the world
• Informative and fun dispatches by traveling VBT associates
• Recommended recipes and books related to VBT destinations
• My personal updates from the road as I visit with you during special receptions and vacations here in the U.S. and during our special 40th Anniversary President’s Tours overseas

We hope each and every blog entry will be informative to travel lovers like you, with interesting discussions that will enhance your own travel life. I hope to hear from you in our blog pages, too. Share a travel story, a bicycling or walking tip, or an idea for future online discussions. And, as always, I hope you’ll let us know how we’re doing and how we might improve our trips and our services.

Happy travels, and happy blogging!

Gregg Marston
President, VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations

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