Marilyn Foster: See the treasures of Europe via rail

Everyone seems to want to travel to Europe at some time in their life, and there’s no better way to become familiar with Europe’s most iconic capitals than to travel on a Collette Vacations group tour where all the details are handled by a competent guide and all you have to do is just pack your suitcase and go.

We’ll be traveling between London and Rome via train so you will be able to see much of the countryside traveling on land instead of just looking down from your airline seat at 35,000 feet. There will be no two-hour plus check-ins at various airports, instead, you can enjoy luxury seating aboard a European train.

Between London and Rome, we’ll be overnighting in great destinations so you can truly experience Europe.

Departing on Oct. 24 from Reno, the journey begins in London to see the most iconic sights before boarding the famous Eurostar through the Chunnel to Paris. While in London, there is time to go to the theater if that is your bent, or perhaps enjoy a bit of high tea at Harrod’s. Though we spend only two nights here near the Tower Bridge, you will get a flavor of this bustling city.

When in Paris there is free time to explore on your own, but the highlight will be your included dining experience at the Eiffel Tower at the 58 Tour Eiffel Restaurant. Of course, there will be a city tour to point out the most famous sites that you may choose to later explore further. We spend two nights here at the Hyatt Regency Etoile.

From Paris, you will board the TGV high-speed train to spend one night in Lucerne, rated as one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities. You’ll have the day at leisure to explore.

Then it’s on to Venice and Florence — also via train — where we will explore these world-famous cities and, weather permitting, tour the famous glass blowing factories on Murano Island. There’s one night in Venice before leaving for Florence for two nights, stopping at a vineyard along the way to sample famous Italian Chianti. While in Florence, you will see the world-famous statue of David.

The last stop of your train journey of Europe is Rome. There’s a city tour planned along with a guided tour of the Colosseum. Your last day in Rome is on your own, so you can plan to see the famous Trevi Fountain, tour the Vatican (advance reservations suggested), climb the Spanish Steps, or just wander about soaking in the culture.

The tour will end on Nov. 4. The weather will be moderate, the crowds more sparse, and you will see a lot of Europe in this short time. Unlike so many tours where every minute is planned, this one is well-balanced to give you insight and an overview of each city before letting you explore on your own.

If you have been wanting to see the best of Europe by rail, this is the tour for you that includes four-star hotels, 15 meals, transportation, touring, baggage handling and so much more. Book now and save $200 per person. The Chamber is holding a block of seats. Want a few pre-tour days in London or post-tour days in Rome? That can be arranged.

Come hear about this tour and other Collette tours at the forthcoming Chamber Travel Club meeting scheduled for 2 p.m. Feb. 25. The first Chamber Travel Club meeting of 2019 will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 7 featuring Mayflower Cruises and Tours and the river cruise offerings for 2019. Must RSVP for both meetings by calling 775-882-1565.

Make this the year for travel to Europe!

(Marilyn always has a trip or two planned to learn more about our wonderful world. She will turn 90 on Jan. 29.)