Which brings us to the fact that it is impossible to gain weight with Rick Steves. Really. The tours are active enough to burn off all those calories and then some! But that isn't why we chose Rick Steves.

The coach has WIFI and plenty of room for spreading out. Woo-hoo. The drivers are a delight in themselves and they take all the stress (and the "Honey, we really should ask someone") moments from navigating yourself through a foreign country, especially one that drives on the wrong side of the road. Coach time involves interesting commentary on local customs, language, music or history. But that isn't why we chose Rick Steves.

The tour guides are not just random hires, many are actually referred to Rick by other RS guides or Rick finds them himself.  Our guides to date have been FUN, yes very fun, because laughter makes for a relaxing time. They are also knowledgable, professional and helpful in times of need. Our guides have been well received by the locals and have given us seamless travel. And that gives you an added benefit all around. Because if the locals like the guide, the locals like you too. But that isn't why we chose Rick Steves.

Our tours have had a good balance between guided walking tours, local activities, scenic beauty, and more formal tours with a good amount of mixed in free time. When you arrive at a location you are ready to roll right to the front of the line, STRESS FREE. When possible, your guide gets you there before the crowds.  It is worth getting up just a wee bit earlier allowing the guide to set you up for immediate success. All the preliminaries have been taken care of with no sweat on your part, like those frustrating times when you can't get a signal on your phone for a reservation. But that isn’t why we chose Rick Steves.

The conveniently located inns, small hotels, bed and breakfasts you stay in are locally owned and operated by passionate hosts. Hotels are very nice, clean and often quaint.  A hearty breakfast is included every day. But that isn’t why we chose Rick Steves.

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Dinners...wow.  Half your dinners are included in your trip.  We have often been introduced to something new or unexpected to love.  And there is no scrimping where quality or quantity is concerned.  You earned that meal now enjoy every bite! But that isn’t why we chose Rick Steves.

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If you combine all of the above you create an experience. It isn’t just a vacation, or just a tour, it’s an authentic travel experience in the people, history, culture and beauty of the destination. Real local people for a real local experience for a great price.  And that’s why we chose Rick Steves and why you should too.