Day 2: Touch down in Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. We will be met by our Tour Manager; after we clear customs, he will be with us for the duration of our stay in Europe. We will depart the airport, and take in a panoramic tour of the city. There are many spectacular sights in this cultural and historical city with elegant gables and delicate spires making up the skyline. Amsterdam packs an extraordinary variety into a small space- over 7,000 historical buildings, 10,000 shops and a host of museums and art galleries to suit all interests. After checking in to our hotel we are free to relax and settle in. (Dinner is on your own)

Day 3: An early start this morning as we enjoy a visit to Aalsmeer and the famous Bloemenveiling, the largest flower auction in the world. Here we admire the hustle and bustle of the market and admire the vibrant colors and beauty of the thousands of flowers there. Onwards then to Zaandam and the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. With its characteristic wooden houses, museums and many varieties of windmills, it has remained as it was since the 17th century. Many of the old crafts are still practiced in the traditional way. Just wander through the ancient narrow streets, visit the windmills (which are still in use), watch the cheese makers and the clog makers at work. Savor the atmosphere and experience the true traditional Holland. (Dinner is on your own) (B)

Day 4: Today we drive north through the Dutch countryside and stop in Hoorn. Birthplace of the explorer Willem Schouten (who named Cape Horn after his home town), this bustling port has splendid 17th century merchants houses and warehouses lining the waterfront and the harbor is crammed with every type of boat imaginable, from traditional brown sail-boats to modern fast yachts. After time here, we head on to Volendam- possibly the most typically Dutch town in the country. A pretty fishing harbor with small boats which still bring their catch home each evening, people who still genuinely wear the national costume and clogs, old wooden building. It was “discovered” by artists in the 19th century and still attracts artists and art-lovers. This evening we enjoy dinner in a local Dutch restaurant. (B, D)

Day 5: Today our journey continues on, across the border and into Belgium.  Our first visit is to the charming city of Antwerp, one of the world’s largest ports. Here we are joined by a local guide who takes us around the city and shows us the highlights such as the majestic cathedral, the bustling market square and the birthplace of the artist Rubens. Antwerp is also home to Diamond Land and in this district, 80% of the world’s diamond trade is handled, worth 23 billion US dollars a year! As well as learning about the diamond cutting craft, this is an ideal place for you to buy beautiful diamonds and have them set to your requirements. Our journey continues on to Brugges, home for the next three nights. (B, D)

Day 6: Our day starts with a scenic canal trip through Brugge, considered to be one of the best preserved cities in Europe and known as the “Venice of the North”. The remainder of the day we are free to pursue our own interests and there is a wealth of different things to see and do. Why not shop for traditional lace and chocolates, admire the works in the art galleries, and enjoy a tour and tasting in the brewery or why not have a romantic carriage ride through the city. (B, D)

Day 7: This morning is spent at leisure in Brugge and this afternoon is spent at the popular and lively coastal resort of Ostend, known as “Queen of the Seaside”. Its wide beach and long promenades charmed many eminent members of Europe’s Royal families. Today Ostend has a very individual charm, characteristic sea front, marinas, parks, bustling markets and shops. Ostend also boasts Belgium’s largest casino that dominates the promenade so perhaps you would like to try your luck on the tables. (B, D)

Day 8: After checking out of our hotel, today we will enjoy an excursion to Gent, centre of the Flemish language, and culture and no other city in Belgium has so many listed buildings. Gent has been a lively town since the 14th century and has not lost any of its original beauty and charm. We enjoy a tour around the city and admire sights such as striking St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the belfry, Castle of the Counts and the ancient St. Nicholas Church. There is also time for us to stroll around at leisure to you may wish to take a boat trip from one of the picturesque riverside terraces and enjoy beautiful views (price of this is not included). We also spend time strolling around the medieval structures in the Patershol District where amongst the cobbled streets we many traditional shops. Onwards then to Brussels, the capital of Belgium and dinner at our hotel for the evening. (B, D)

Day 9: The cosmopolitan city of Brussels is the decision making heart of Europe and also has a lot of history. This morning a local guide takes us around and teaches us the history of the area. The old part of the city is rich in culture and the Grand Place, one of the finest cobbled squares in Europe, has narrow streets surrounding the square and are a delight to explore. Other sights include the statue of Mannekin Pis, the Bourse, the Palais de Congress and the Parliament Building. The remainder of the day is spent at leisure. (B)

Day 10: A busy day ahead as we set off to Bastogne. It was in this area that the bloody Battle of the Bulge took place in World War II and where thousands of people lost their lives. A visit is made to the Bastogne Historical Centre that depicts the history of the battle, with an interesting slide presentation and displays of uniforms and other artifacts. Time is also spent at eh Mardasson Memorial that was presented by the Belgium people to the American army and allies in thanks for liberating the country, the Patton Monument in memory of the General who liberated Bastogne and a Sherman Tank that symbolizes the American victory and played a vital role in the battle. This afternoon has been left for you to spend at leisure. Take the time to soak up Brussels beautiful atmosphere, why not visit “Mini Europe”, a miniature reconstruction of Europe’s main landmarks, shop for  traditional goods or enjoy drinking popular Belgium beers. Tonight, to celebrate the success of our tour, we enjoy a special farewell dinner together. (B, D)

Day 11: Sadly, it is time to bid our farewells as we drive to the airport for our transatlantic flight home to Chicago. (B, in-flight meals)