David Cox, CEO of APT Travel Group, recently boarded the brand new River Ship, Travelmarvel Vega, for the first cruise of the year and gave Karryon the good news of the expedition.
David Cox recently returned from his visit to check out Travelmarvel’s newest ship in Europe and we managed to get a glimpse of what he discovered and experienced during his #ArrivalRevival adventure.
WARNING: you’ll probably want to book a trip to Europe soon after reading this.
What was it like traveling to Europe for the first time in over two years?
Leaving Australia was remarkably easy COVID tests are no longer necessary leave Australia or enter Hungary.
Upon arrival in Europe, the journey was equally smooth, with minimal queues – we were out of the airport and on the road in no time.
Traffic is particularly light in Hungary – partly because it’s the start of the season, but also probably due to a misperception that traveling in Europe is difficult. The result means that visitors can travel through the city with relative ease…not that a slower pace would bother a tourist when there are incredible views of Budapest to enjoy!
It must have been exciting getting on board, tell us about your first impressions
Arriving aboard our brand new contemporary river vessel, the Travelmarvel Vega – the excitement was palpable.
After many years of development and construction, we were finally able to get on board and experience it for real.
Guests were incredibly excited to board the new ship and explore its features as well.
Consciously designed suites offer all modern conveniences with a few added extras. You can rest assured that the curtains close perfectly so no early morning light wakes you, and the self-closing draws mean you can’t hear the noise from the next cabin.
And for Australian travelers in particular, we’ve made sure that large suitcases fit comfortably under the bed.
The spacious public areas include several restaurants and lounges and the Sky Deck Bar has understandably become a favorite very quickly.
Bar McGearya feature that was always close to our hearts in development has also proven to be a success with passengers.
How was the vibe going out and getting around?
From Budapest to Puszta, from Mohács to Vukovar, the feeling was always the same: Europe is open!
Passengers on board were particularly proud to have been early adopters of the return to international travel and felt they were reaping the rewards of flying first.
In addition to showing our vaccination certificates on boarding, once the ship left the port, COVID felt very far away.
Have you tasted home away from home?
The chefs on board Travelmarvel do an incredible job of exceeding catering expectations – incorporating local cuisine and specialties into the restaurant’s lunch and evening menu; but sometimes after a day of excursions, nothing beats a pint and a parma!
Thanks to the McGeary Bar, guests won’t feel far from home. The décor is reminiscent of an Irish-style pub, with a classic bar and a menu featuring typical pub fare.
There’s also entertainment most nights, so you and like-minded passengers have the opportunity to discuss the day’s events over a well-deserved drink.
A final thought? Is Europe again the place to be?
As Australia gradually heads into winter, it was great to be back in Europe for early spring, especially when we were able to travel in such style.
Overall the new Travelmarvel Vega was very impressive and The best of the Balkans the cruise really lived up to its name.
I left the tour confident that Europe is open and ready to welcome back all of our guests. It is as magical and exciting a place to visit as ever. It feels good to be back!
Customers can also experience brand new Travelmarvel ships on the most popular European Gems to visit. With the added incentive of great deals running on 2022 sailings – from just $4,995 for 15 days!
There’s never been a better time to book your clients in Europe with Travelmarvel.
For more information visit travelmarvel.com.au or talk to your awesome ATG BDM.
