Remarkable experiences. extraordinary value.

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

14 Nights featuring Windsor, Oxford, Stonehenge, Edinburgh, Dublin, Belfast, Amsterdam and Paris

Includes: International Airfare, Hotel, Tours, Transfers and More!

Land Program: Includes Guided Tours plus Some Free Time

Start Date: July 15, 2025
(Sailing July 18, 2025)

About This Journey

Set off on an extraordinary Journey that blends rich history, captivating culture, and stunning scenery. Begin in Windsor, where you’ll experience the charm of the British countryside before heading to Oxford, to see the iconic St John’s College, Trinity College and the historic Bodleian Library, where centuries of academic excellence meet stunning architecture. Explore the grandeur of Windsor Castle, a symbol of British royalty and stand in awe of the ancient wonder of Stonehenge, a monument shrouded in mystery. Then, embark on an 11-night cruise aboard the Norwegian Dawn, where you’ll discover Scotland’s dramatic landscapes, Ireland’s vibrant cities of Dublin and Belfast and the cultural allure of Amsterdam, Brussels and Paris. Every stop on this Journey promises unforgettable experiences, breathtaking views and a deep connection to the history and beauty of each destination.

Small Group Departure—due to the numerous cultural activities and interactions with local families, this Enrichment Journey will have a maximum of 20 guests.

 

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

Itinerary

Start Date: July 15, 2025
(Sailing July 18, 2025)

Day Port Arrival Departure
1 Arrive Windsor – Transfer to Hotel and Welcome Dinner
2 Windsor – Tour to Oxford
3 Windsor – Tour of Windsor Castle
4 Windsor – Visit to Stonehenge and Transfer to Southampton for Embarkation 4:00 PM
5 At Sea
6 Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland 7:00 AM 6:00 PM
7 Invergordon, Scotland 7:00 AM 6:00 PM
8 Stornoway, Scotland 7:00 AM 3:30 PM
9 Dublin (Dun Laoghaire), Ireland 9:30 AM 8:00 PM
10 Belfast, Northern Ireland 7:00 AM 3:00 PM
11 At Sea
12 Amsterdam, Netherlands 11:00 AM 7:30 PM
13 Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium 8:00 AM 4:30 PM
14 Le Havre (Paris), France 6:00 AM 10:00 PM
15 London (Southampton), England – Disembarkation and Transfer to Airport 5:00 AM

Interested in the land program without the cruise? Call us for a quote.

Land Program

Day 1 – Arrive Windsor

Upon arrival at Heathrow airport, you will be transferred to the hotel in Windsor. After check-in, you’ll have time to get settled in before joining your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2 – Windsor

Trinity College

Trinity College

Today, you will explore the historic city of Oxford, starting with a scenic drive from Windsor, where the landscape transitions to historic charm. The full-day sightseeing tour, led by an expert guide, will take you to Oxford’s renowned landmarks. Discover St John’s College, founded in the 16th century and celebrated for its beautiful gardens and impressive architecture. Admire Trinity College, known for its elegant quadrangles and historic Chapel and the Bodleian Library, famous for its vast collection of rare manuscripts and the iconic Duke Humfrey’s Library. Marvel at the Radcliffe Camera, a striking example of neoclassical architecture with its distinctive dome, central to Oxford’s architectural heritage. We’ll make frequent photo stops to capture the architectural beauty and rich history of these sites. After a delightful lunch, you will continue your exploration of the city before returning to Windsor for the evening. (B, L)

Day 3 – Windsor

Following breakfast, we’ll embark on a half-day sightseeing tour of Windsor Castle. As one of the oldest and largest inhabited castles in the world, Windsor Castle has been a royal residence for over 900 years. Its majestic architecture, including the iconic Round Tower and St. George’s Chapel, reflects centuries of royal craftsmanship and cultural heritage. You’ll explore the extensive grounds and opulent staterooms for a glimpse into royal life and tradition. Afterward, enjoy lunch before spending the rest of the day exploring Windsor at your own pace, perhaps wandering through its charming streets and local shops. (B, L)

Day 4 – Embarkation

Stonehenge

Stonehenge

This morning, we will check out of the hotel and then drive from Windsor to Stonehenge for a visit. A UNESCO World Heritage site built over 5,000 years ago, its towering stones and ancient mysteries offer a profound connection to the distant past. After exploring Stonehenge, we will continue to the port of Southampton, where you will board the Norwegian Dawn for an 11-night cruise to the British Isles. (B)

Day 15-14 – Cruising onboard the Norwegian Dawn (see below for cruise highlights)

 

Day 15 – Disembarkation

Enjoy breakfast onboard, then disembark the Norwegian Dawn and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

For meals not included in your land programs, all hotels chosen include a restaurant on property where you may relax and enjoy a meal. In addition, your guide is available to make suggestions on nearby dining, shopping or sightseeing.

Port Highlights

Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland

Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland

Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland: Make sure you pack your walking shoes for Edinburgh. Stroll along the medieval Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse to see the abbey and Queen Mary’s chambers. Savor the old town’s marvelous Georgian and Victorian architecture. Marvel at the impressive Edinburgh Castle, high on its volcanic crag with a fabulous view. Visit St. Giles’ Cathedral where John Knox once preached. Leave enough time to rest your legs at one of Edinburgh’s seaside restaurants to enjoy fresh salmon, scallops, lamb and prime Angus beef.

Invergordon, Scotland

Invergordon, Scotland

Invergordon, Scotland: Inverness is a city in the glorious Scottish Highlands. Teeming with bagpipe players and enthusiasts thanks to the city’s annual Northern Meeting in September, Inverness also boasts a diverse music scene. Gaelic was the native language until the turn of the 19th century.

Stornoway, Scotland

Stornoway, Scotland

Stornoway, Scotland: Experience life on the edge. This is the motto of the island community of Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis. And it makes sense since they’re located on the northern edge of the Scottish Western Isles, also known as the Outer Hebrides. Remote, rugged, uniquely scenic, the capital city of Stornoway is captivating. Hear the chatter of Gaelic and the unmistakable pitch of the bagpipes, breathe in the aroma of peat from the local smokehouses as they prepare the day’s catch and watch for wildlife, including northern birds like the Arctic skua, golden eagle and corncrake.

Dublin (Dun Laoghaire), Ireland

Dublin (Dun Laoghaire), Ireland

Dublin (Dun Laoghaire), Ireland: Discover the storied history of Ireland’s largest city, Dublin. Take a whimsical walk along Dun Laoghaire’s iconic East Pier or make your way up to the crest of Killiney Hill to experience the most majestic views of the capital. Treat yourself to a pint of Irish stout after exploring the history of beer at the Guinness Storehouse or imbibe a little Irish whiskey at one of the many historic pubs. Then stroll through St. Stephen’s Green in the center of the city before surveying the selection of shops along Grafton Street.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast, Northern Ireland: Exploring Belfast is a treat for urban fans. The city is rife with trendy cafés, restaurants, and nightlife yet it also boasts a lovely historical district. While the city is packed with things to do, rural landscapes are within a short reach.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Affectionately known as the “Venice of the North,” Amsterdam is actually situated below sea level and built entirely on stakes driven into the ground. The Anne Frank House, The Hague and a Delft Blue Pottery Factory are but a few of the sights that await your arrival.

Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium

Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium

Zeebrugge (Brussels), Belgium: The ultimate European city, Brussels has tons of museums, fountains, gardens and great shopping. Stroll the Old Town area to see St. Hubert Arcades and its shops, as well as Butchers’ Street with its plethora of restaurants and cafes and the Grand Place with its Baroque guild houses.

Paris (Le Havre), France

Paris (Le Havre), France

Paris (Le Havre), France: Hop on a tour bus to the City of Light to experience the magic of Paris. Stroll down the Champs-Elysées as you nibble on a croissant. Take photos of beautiful Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Montmartre and all the other iconic places of Paris lie 120 miles up the Seine from the port of Le Havre. Or explore the charms of Le Havre, spend the day at Monet’s Giverny or explore Rouen’s Old Market Place, where Joan of Arc was burned in 1431

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

Included Features

  • International airfare, transfers and baggage handling
  • 3-night pre-cruise land program in England
    • Windsor, England: 3-night hotel stay
      • Welcome Dinner
      • Half-day tour of Windsor Castle
      • Full-day tour to Oxford
      • Half-day tour of Stonehenge
  • Tour Leader throughout pre-cruise land program and Local Tour Hosts during included tours
  • Most meals while on tour (see itinerary highlights) and all meals while onboard
  • 11-night sailing aboard the Norwegian Dawn
    • MORE at Sea: Unlimited Beverages, Specialty Dining, Wi-Fi & Excursions Credits
    • 10% off shore excursions (see “special offers”)
    • Special Offer—Ends 11/30: Sail with up to $350 Onboard Credit and a $200 Gift Card of Your Choice. Call for details!

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

What to Expect on Your Trip

Pacing

 

4 out of 5 – Land Program Includes Guided Tours plus Some Free Time

The overall pace is active, as we have included guided tours to most major attractions in the area. Most days will include a full-day or half-day tour, with some free time mixed in as well. Guests should be prepared to walk a couple miles per day while on full-day tours. Breakfast is always included at the hotel. Some additional meals may be included, while other meals may be at your leisure. All hotels will have a restaurant on property where you may dine. If you wish to go out, your guide is available to make suggestions for nearby dining.

During the cruise you will have a mix of relaxing days at sea and exciting days on land to explore the port cities. You may choose from optional shore excursions, which will allow for cultural immersion, exotic meals and numerous activities.

Physical Activity

The land portion of the trip should be considered active and includes a considerable amount of walking.

Enrichment Journeys will do everything in our power to ensure comfort through our third-party providers, including air-conditioned buses and comfortable accommodations where applicable. However, some areas cannot be accessed by coach, so our drivers will get you as close to sites as is legally allowed. Sensible, rubber-soled walking shoes are strongly recommended. Historical sites often do not have elevators, escalators, or ramps due to the age of the building/structure. Steps can be steep and uneven. Based on crowds and traffic, order of visits may be changed.

Wheelchair access at many sites is limited to extremely limited. A fold-up wheelchair may be able to be stored on the bus but requires prior arrangements. Guests must be able to transfer from their chair to the transportation. Guides/drivers are not allowed to lift or push wheelchairs, so guests requiring physical assistance must travel with a companion who can assist. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this group program.

For the cruise portion of the trip, passengers will board and leave the ship up stairways and gangways and you may have to walk a moderate distance to transfer to train, bus and car stations. Time spent on the road and traveling can be long, so you will need to be prepared for stretches of down time in between destinations.

Cultural Focus

You will encounter dishes and ingredients typical to the region that you may not have encountered before and you will be introduced to local artistry of the region. Enrichment Journeys encourages an open mind when in unique situations and meeting people abroad. Sometimes the attractions, beaches and cities themselves can be crowded, especially while on the cruise.

Unique Factors

If you have special needs or physical limitations, you will need to check in with your personal vacation manager before booking the trip. The temperature can vary between day and night, so pack accordingly with items that can be layered. Some guests may wish to have a light sweater or windbreaker with them.

Transportation

While on tour:

Windsor to Oxford: 1-hour coach transfer

Please note that these times are approximate and only reflect the transportation time. Our trip may be longer due to stops for sightseeing along the way.

International Airfare:

Included international airfare is from select airports only. To inquire about a different airport, please contact your Personal Vacation Manager.

Enrichment Journeys is committed to providing remarkable experiences at extraordinary value. As a result, airlines and routes are selected to maximize that value and may involve multiple stops and extended layovers versus non-stop or direct flights. Passengers wishing to utilize specific carriers, direct/non-stop flights, Business Class upgrades, or to extend their time in any of our beginning or ending destination cities may do so by contacting Enrichment Journeys and inquiring about the Custom Airfare Program. There is a $100 per person charge for this service, however this charge will be applied toward any flights or upgrades you choose to purchase. The $100 charge must be paid prior to receiving a custom air quote.

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles


Special Offer—Ends 11/30: Sail with up to $350 Onboard Credit and a $200 Gift Card of Your Choice. Call for details!

MORE at Sea: Unlimited Beverages, Specialty Dining, Wi-Fi & Excursions Credits

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

2-night London Extension (pre)

Although everyone on the Enrichment Journey will fly into the London Heathrow airport, the itinerary does not include any time in the city of London. With this optional extension you will arrive 2 days early and stay in London for 2 nights, giving you time to explore the city on your own before transferring to Windsor to start the Enrichment Journey program. Note: tours are not included. Price of $650per person (based on double occupancy) includes:

  • 2-night hotel accommodations in London with daily breakfast
  • Private transfer from airport to hotel (applicable when air is booked through Enrichment Journeys) and London hotel to Windsor hotel

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

Dates & Prices

07/15/2025 Retail Value EJ Price Savings Per Person Single Rates
Balcony (BA) $12,399 $9,299 $3,100 CALL FOR DETAILS
Mini Suite (ME) $12,932 $9,699 $3,233 CALL FOR DETAILS
Suite CALL TODAY TO REQUEST A QUOTE

Prices are in USD and are based on double occupancy.

Interested in the land program without the cruise? Call us for a quote.

Air Add-Ons
City Add-On City Add-On City Add-On
Atlanta $350 Houston Intercontinental $300 Phoenix $450
Boston $200 John F. Kennedy $0 San Francisco $450
Chicago $300 Los Angeles $400 Seattle $450
Newark $200 Miami $250
– Business Class Air Available on Request
– Additional Gateways Available on Request
– Air Add-On Rates are subject to change without notice. While we try to include the most common airports by default, we have many clients coming from different parts of the country. If you desire air from an unlisted airport, you must first reserve your Enrichment Journey with one of the listed airports as your default gateway and then ask, or have your Travel Agent ask, Enrichment Journeys to provide a quote for your preferred gateway.

All prices on our website and e-Journey Travel Guide are subject to change without notice. While we make every effort to provide you the most accurate and up-to-date information, occasionally, a trip or pricing category may be misprinted or unavailable at the time of booking. In the event of an incorrect price due to typographical, photographic, or technical error, or error in pricing information received from our suppliers, we retain the right to correct the price and to refuse or cancel any bookings placed at the incorrect price. In addition, all offers, prices, and conditions of sale may be subject to change without notice including tours, included features, highlights, minimum or maximum stays, itinerary, times in port, and/or other conditions/restrictions.

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

The following hotel list is preliminary and subject to change. Although we contract for hotels a year or more in advance, unforeseen circumstances do occasionally require a change of hotel. Should it be necessary to change a hotel, one of equal quality or value will be substituted and you will receive confirmed hotel information with your final itinerary.

Accommodations

Macdonald Windsor Hotel

23 High Street, Windsor SL4 1LH England

Tel: +0 344 879 9101

With the magnificent Windsor Castle just two minutes’ walk away, you’ll get a sense of being somewhere quite unique when you arrive at Macdonald Windsor Hotel, situated in the heart of the historic town of Windsor. It’s easy to unwind in style in this contemporary townhouse, with 120 luxury bedrooms, richly hued interiors and a fabulously attentive team creating an atmosphere of calm and well-being. Step out and discover the local area – a real treat, with several of England’s best-known attractions within easy reach, and this beautiful hotel is the perfect base for exploration.

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

Before You Go

Money Matters

How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.

ATM Machines

These are often readily available, especially in major cities. Some will charge fees on top of what your hometown bank may charge for using ATMs abroad. Look for well-marked machines that have the Visa or MasterCard symbols.

Foreign Banks

Currency can be exchanged at most banks, if needed. Ask a local host or tour manager if there is a nearby bank that is open.

Credit Cards

During your trip, you’ll find that most major credit cards are accepted. Call your specific card issuer ahead of time to find out its limitations and benefits overseas.

Incidentals

Do be aware that some additional charges for mini-bars, laundry and room service will not be included in the tour package. Plan accordingly for these extra charges.

Packing Guidelines

Pack as simply as possible for easy transfers and customs screenings. Check with your domestic and international carriers regarding baggage guidelines, allowances and check for additional fees. All bags will be screened before boarding flights and the cruise ship.

What to pack

Basics and layers are key to a comfortable Journey. Be sure to check the weather in the destinations you will visit and pack accordingly. There are always unpredictable variables as well, so make sure you have one sturdy jacket and an outfit for a formal occasion too, just in case.

Here are a few key items to take on your trip:

  • Raincoat/poncho
  • Hooded jacket/fleece pullover
  • Pants with pockets
  • Skirt with pockets
  • Hat with visor & sunscreen/bug spray
  • Warm socks
  • Sturdy sandals
  • Practical shoes for walking/easy hiking
  • Extra pair of prescription sunglasses and/or glasses (if needed)
  • Camera(s)

Have back-ups for everything to avoid disappointment. Charge batteries in advance and bring extra film or digital memory cards. If bringing a high-end camera, consider investing in insurance to protect your asset.

Luggage Screening Process

To pass through screening, have liquids either in small containers and bagged, or in checked luggage. All valuables necessary for the trip should be on your person at all times, if possible. This includes medications and documentation. We recommend one main bag and a carry-on, per airline guidelines for weight and size.

Labeling

Have all your bags labeled with your name and address clearly marked. Add something to you luggage that is recognizable in the event your bags are misplaced. You may also consider marking your bags with “Enrichment Journeys” for efficiency.

Carry-on items

In many countries, including the US, large liquid containers are not allowed in carry-ons. On the way back into The States, food or agriculture items are prohibited. If you have questions about a certain item, visit www.tsa.gov for a list of items that cannot be packed.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers are included as part of your Enrichment Journey. Local representatives will advise you of the departure time from your hotel the night before departure. Generally speaking, arrangements have been made to have you at the airport approximately three hours in advance of departure, though this may vary depending on local circumstances. At the end of the cruise, an airport transfer will also be provided. Please advise your Personal Vacation Manager if you do not require transfer arrangements at the time of booking your Journey.

Cell phones

Some cell phones will work overseas, but incur additional charges for the use. Choose whether you would like to add an international plan by calling your carrier, or consider purchasing a pay-as-you-go phone overseas. However, in some destinations, many smartphones and tablets can pick up wireless Internet for free.

Protecting the Value of Your Travel Investment

Enrichment Journeys offers a comprehensive travel insurance package you can purchase alongside your trip. It eases the mind and lets you cancel your trip for a covered reason up until the departure date with a full refund of the Journey.

The insurance covers a wide variety of incidents, including travel delay, emergency medical services and even baggage delay. You will also receive a pre-existing medical conditions waiver if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of your initial deposit. For a full list of coverage provided, visit the FAQ section of the website.

Medical Issues and Handicaps

As with any extensive trip abroad, our excursions with Enrichment Journeys will require some physical capabilities, including transfers from cruise ships, walking on cobblestone streets and navigating through some busy cities with guides. Although we encourage all types of travelers to join us, we do ask you are aware of your own physical limitations. Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual care to those who may have walkers, wheelchairs or other aids. Enrichment Journeys also cannot accommodate pregnant women past their six month gestation period. Please speak with one of our Personal Vacation Managers to see if certain itineraries are suitable for you and your needs. We are happy to suggest other viable options for you that are more accessible.

Per the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, travelers have the right to be reasonably accommodated in terms of tours in public situations. However, the laws do not apply for trips and outside the United States. So you must let Enrichment Journeys know ahead of time of any physical limitations, including information added to our questionnaire that needs to be filled out by all passengers. Failure to inform Enrichment Journeys of these limitations could result in refusal to participate, whether it be at the airport through the airline, on board the ship or at the accommodations booked.

If you have any sort of prescription medication, this should be a number one priority in packing. Bring extra, just in case. A small medical kit is also advisable for quick access to remedy minor aches and pains.

Briefing sessions

A local host or tour manager will be happy to guide you through the trip and answer all of your questions. Upon arrival to your destination, an Enrichment Journeys representative will meet with the group and go over items such as the daily schedule, weather and local customs.

Hotels

All hotels booked by Enrichment Journeys are held to a high standard of comfort and quality, in accordance to international accommodation standards and rating systems. However, each accommodation varies so you may experience various types of properties throughout your excursions.

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

Regional Information

Travel Documentation

Have your passport and visas ready and available at all checkpoints. Scan and copy these documents to print out. It is recommended that you e-mail a copy to yourself and someone back home in the event these documents are misplaced. Also, it may be worth bringing an international ID or license.

Passport and Visa

To travel internationally, you must have a passport in good condition and it must be valid for at least 6 months after the last day of your trip. Visa requirements change frequently and for various reasons. As a result, our Personal Vacation Managers are not always able to provide visa information and you should not rely on the information provided below to be the most current and accurate. The best way to obtain up-to-date information regarding visa requirements is to visit the official US government website for Americans traveling abroad, Travel.State.Gov (Canadian citizens should visit https://travel.gc.ca/, for all other countries please visit your government website or local embassy), which details specific information on the countries you would like to visit, including visa requirements.

You may also use a third-party visa service. These services require an additional service fee but make the process of applying for a visa much simpler.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are recommended to protect one’s health from preventable diseases abroad. It is always good to have routine vaccinations up to date when traveling for ailments such as chickenpox, measles and the flu shot. Use your own discretion when deciding on what vaccinations to have based on your preferences and personal medical history. During your Enrichment Journeys tour, the utmost care will be taken with prepared food, atmosphere and other elements, so the likelihood of contracting diseases is scarce.

For a list of recommended vaccinations based on destination, visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or feel free to contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention directly at 1-800-232-4636.

Electric Current

You will need an adaptor for some parts of your trip.  To see what the plugs will look like at your destination, visit https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/ and click on each country from the right menu.

You may also need to use a converter. Most countries outside of North and Central America use 220-240 V, whereas the U.S. and Canada use 110 V. However, most chargers these days have a box which will act as a converter so that it can be used in all countries around the world. If your charger box says “Input: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz” then you do NOT need to use a converter (but you may still need an adaptor so that the plugs fit in the socket).

Some hotels may have two and three pronged outlets to use for various appliances. Ship cabins also have outlets for you to use with their converter. However, we recommend having at least one or two adaptors with you, as we cannot guarantee that all hotels will be able to accommodate this.

Local Currency

The United Kingdom uses the Pound Sterling, also known as the British Pound (£), currency code GBP

Ireland, Netherlands, Belgium and Franceuse the Euro (€), currency code EUR

Please visit https://www.oanda.com/currency/converter/ for the current exchange rate.

How you handle your currency and financials while on the trip is up to you. Some people prefer to exchange all their money in advance, while others will rely solely on credit cards. We suggest having at least some local currency with you during the trip, at least enough to take a taxi if needed. Consider calling your bank ahead of time to make them aware of your international travel, especially when using cards or withdrawing money.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is always appreciated but not always required. Expect several instances throughout the hospitality industry that allow for tipping. Have small bills ready for hotel staff, boat crew, restaurant servers, drivers, guides and baggage handlers. If you have a meal outside the itinerary or hire a resident driver, a few dollars in the local currency is customary.

Gratuities are included for group meals, at hotels and at airports. The host, guide, or tour manager can be tipped roughly $10-$12 USD per person, per day. Drivers can be tipped $5 USD per person, per day. To view the gratuities policy for Norwegian Cruise Line, please visit https://www.ncl.com/ca/en/cruise-faq/what-is-onboard-service-charge.

For more information about when and how much to tip in each country, feel free to speak with your tour guide at the start of your Journey. A good reference for international tipping is https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2008-11-11/etiquette-101-tipping-guide.

Time Differences

Please be aware that you may be crossing through several time zones throughout your Journey. To view a time zone map, visit https://m.worldtimezone.com/m-index12.php.

Climate

With the tour covering various regions, you will most likely come in contact with warm and/or cool weather, occasional rain, wind and/or damp environments. Check the weather online before departing for an up-to-date look at the conditions in major destinations.

Many countries outside of North America use Celsius. Here is a °C to °F quick reference guide:

-5° C = 23° F 5° C = 41° F 15° C = 59° F 25° C = 77° F 35° C = 95° F
0° C = 32° F 10° C = 50° F 20° C = 68° F 30° C = 86° F 40° C = 104° F

High/Low Temperatures in Fahrenheit:

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Oxford 45/34 45/34 48/36 54/37 59/45 66/48 70/52 70/52 64/48 57/45 48/37 45/36
Amsterdam 41/34 42/32 48/37 53/40 61/46 66/52 69/55 70/55 64/51 57/46 48/39 44/36
Dublin 45/37 45/37 50/39 52/41 59/45 63/50 66/54 66/54 63/50 55/46 50/41 46/41
Edinburgh 41/34 43/34 48/36 52/37 57/43 63/48 66/52 66/52 61/48 55/45 48/37 45/36
Paris 45/37 46/37 54/41 61/45 68/52 73/57 77/61 77/61 70/55 61/50 52/43 46/37

Practice the Local Language

Knowing a few phrases in the local vernacular can be a wonderful way to connect with people and feel immersed in the culture. Here are some keywords and phrases:

UK and Ireland: English (below are some differences between British and American English)

  • Holiday: Vacation
  • Lift: Elevator
  • Biro: Pen
  • Rubbish: Trash
  • Bin: Trashcan
  • Coriander: Cilantro
  • Courgette: Zucchini
  • Chemist: Pharmacy
  • Biscuit: Cookie
  • Chips: French Fries
  • Crisps: Potato Chips
  • Plaster: Band-aid
  • Ground Floor: Ground/First Floor
  • First Floor: Second Floor
  • Zebra Crossing: Crosswalk
  • WC (water closet) or Loo: Bathroom

Gaelic in Ireland

  • Dia dhuit (Jee-ah ghwitch): Hello
  • Slán leat (Slawn lat): Good bye
  • Tá (T-ah): Yes
  • Níl (Neel): No
  • Más é do thoil é (Maws aye duh hull aye): Please
  • Tapadh leat (Tapahlat): Thank you

Netherlands and Belgium: Dutch

  • Hallo (HAH-low): Hello
  • Vaarwel: Goodbye
  • Alstublieft (AHL-stuu-BLEEFT): Please
  • Dank je (DAHNK yuh): Thank you
  • Ja (YAH): Yes
  • Nee (NAY): No

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/dutch/ for more phrases with sound.

France and Belgium: French

  • Bonjour (Boh(n)-zhoo): Hello
  • Oui (wee): Yes
  • Non (No): No
  • Où sont les toilettes? (Oo soh(n) lay twa-let?): Where are the restrooms
  • Merci (Mare-see): Thank you
  • Je vous en prie (Zhuhvoozahnpree): You’re welcome
  • S’il vous plaît (Seal voo play): Please
  • Pouvez-vous m’aider? (Poo-vayvoo meh – day?): Can you help me?
  • Au revoir (Ah reh-vwarh): Goodbye

Visit https://www.17-minute-world-languages.com/en/french/ for more phrases with sound.

Fun Facts

Check out these interesting facts about the destinations you will visit on your Journey.

England

  • English people consume more tea per capita than anybody else in the world (2.5 times more than the Japanese and 22 times more than the Americans or the French).
  • French was the official language of England for about 300 years, from 1066 till 1362.
  • The English class system is not determined by money, but by one’s background (family, education, etc.). Many nouveau-riches, like pop-stars or football players, insist on their still belonging to the lower or middle class.
  • Fish ‘n chips isn’t any more of a traditional English dish than Chicken Tikka Masala is. The first fish & chips restaurant was only opened in 1860 by an immigrant, Joseph Malin.
  • Britain has the highest per capita consumption of cider, as well as the largest cider-producing companies in the world. Over half of England’s cider is produced in Herefordshire and the world’s largest producer of cider is H. P. Bulmer, based in Hereford. Cider making was introduced by Viscount Scudamore in 1639, who brought the recipe from France. In 1674 he built the county’s largest house with cider money at Holme Lacy, near Hereford.
  • London has a reputation of being rainy, but it actually receives less rain than Paris or New York.

Scotland

  • The official animal of Scotland is the unicorn.
  • The shortest scheduled flight in the world is one-and-a-half miles long from Westray to Papa Westray in the Orkney Islands of Scotland. The journey takes 1 minute 14 seconds to complete.
  • Scotland has approximately 790 islands, 130 of which are inhabited.
  • Scotland has more than 600 square miles of freshwater lakes, including the famous Loch Ness.
  • The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is only its second largest city, after Glasgow.
  • Edinburgh was the first city in the world to have its own fire brigade.
  • Scotland had its own monarch until 1603. After Elizabeth I died, James VI of Scotland also became James I of England, ruling both countries.
  • Scotland is currently the second largest country in the UK, after England.

Ireland

  • Ireland is a snake-free island. Due to its isolation from the European mainland, Ireland lacks several species common elsewhere in Europe, such as moles, weasels, polecats or roe deer.
  • Halloween traces back its origins to the Gaelic festival of Samhain, a harvest festival held on 31 October to mark the end of summer. Samhain became associated with All Saints (1 November) from the early Middle Ages and the two progressively merged over the centuries, creating Halloween.
  • Cats now outnumber dogs by two to one as Ireland’s most popular pet.
  • Dublin boasts one pub for every 100 people in the population.
  • The River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland or Britain.
  • The Irish consume in average 34.6 gallons of beer per year – the 2nd highest per-capita consumption after the Czech Republic.
  • Many Irish family names start with “Mac” or “O’…”, which means respectively “son of …” and “grandson of …” in Gaelic.

Northern Ireland

  • Belfast is second largest city on the island of Ireland.
  • While Belfast stayed a small settlement during the Middle Ages, the city played a leading role in the Industrial Revolution and was Ireland’s largest city around the early part of the 20th century.
  • The Ulster Fry is one of the best known dishes in Northern Ireland and while it is loaded with things that will make the health conscious run in terror, it is utterly delicious: bacon, egg, soda bread, sausage, potato bread, mushrooms, fried tomato, baked beans and pudding.
  • Lough Neagh, in the middle of the country, is the largest lake in the UK and among the top 40 largest lakes in Europe.
  • Titanic was built and launched from Belfast Harbor.

The Netherlands (Holland)

  • The Netherlands is larger than the state of Maryland, but smaller than West Virginia.
  • The Dutch are the world experts on keeping water held back and preventing flooding. The US government turned to the Dutch for help during the Hurricane Katrina disaster and the Dutch are the current leading experts in preparing coastal cities for sea-level rise.
  • The Dutch are the tallest in the world with an average height of 6 ft. for men and 5 ft. 6 in. for women. Some believe it’s the combined result of DNA and dairy.
  • Tulips, tulip fields and flower bulbs are typically Dutch. Yet, tulips do not originate from the Netherlands. The first tulip bulbs were imported from Turkey to the Netherlands, where they proved to grow extremely well on Dutch soil.

Belgium

  • Belgium has the most castles per square mile than any other country in the world (though this is disputed with Wales, who also claims the title).
  • There are over a thousand unique Belgian beers and over 300 breweries in Belgium.
  • Belgium makes over 220,000 tons of chocolate every year.

France

  • Paris was originally a Roman city called “Lutetia”.
  • The French government gives medals to citizens who have “successfully raised several children with dignity.”
  • There’s only one STOP sign in the entire city of Paris.
  • French toast isn’t a French cuisine. Joseph French advertised the modern toast but forgot to add the apostrophe “s.” It should have been advertised as “French’s Toast” not “French Toast.”
  • Louis XIX was King of France for just 20 minutes.

Recommended Reading List

Vacation should be easy, peaceful and, most of all, completely stress-free. Let us handle the details, so you can sit back, relax and curl up with a good book as you count down the days to your next Journey! We’ve compiled the following list of books and movies to introduce you to the destinations you are about to visit.

Books

  • England: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
  • England: Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens
  • England: Atonement by Ian McEwan
  • England: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare
  • England: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peeling Society by Mary Anne Shaffer
  • Ireland: Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift
  • Ireland: Dubliners by James Joyce
  • Ireland: Ireland and the Irish by John Ardagh
  • Ireland: A Short History of Ireland by Richard Killeen
  • Scotland: Scottish Proverbs by Julie MacDonald
  • Scotland: novels by Robert Louis Stevenson, such as Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
  • Scotland: Sean Connery: From 007 to Hollywood Icon by Andrew Yule
  • Scotland: poems by Robert Burns, such as The Poems and Songs of Robert Burns
  • France: The Hunchback of Notre Dame by Victor Hugo
  • France: The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
  • France: The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George
  • Netherlands: Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
  • Netherlands: The Van Gogh File: A Journey of Discovery by Ken Wilkie
  • Netherlands: Amsterdam by Ian McEwan

Travel Guides

Films

    • England: from classics like A Canterbury Tale to modern series like Downton Abbey, there are endless hours of British movies and TV series to watch before your trip. Here is a list to get you started: https://www.timeout.com/london/film/100-best-british-films
    • Scotland: Braveheart (1995)
    • Scotland: Brave (2012)
    • Scotland: Macbeth (1971)
    • Ireland: The Commitments (1991)
    • Ireland: Brooklyn (2015)
    • Ireland: Once (2007)
    • Ireland: Intermission (2003)
    • Ireland: History Channel drama series Vikings was mostly filmed in Ireland
    • France: Les Miserables (2012)
    • France: Amelie (2001)
    • France: An American in Paris (1951)
    • France: Midnight in Paris (2011)
    • France: A Good Year (2006) – set in Provence region
    • France: for films about D-Day in Normandy, watch Saving Private Ryan (1998), The Longest Day (1962), Where Eagles Dare (1968), Eye of the Needle (1981), The Americanization of Emily (1964) or the television mini-series Band of Brothers
    • Netherlands: Girl With a Pearl Earring (2003)
    • Netherlands: Diamonds Are Forever (1971)
    • Belgium: In Bruges (2008)

Journey to Windsor, Oxford and the British Isles

eJourney Guide

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