Takapuna local David Libeau could well be described as a globe trotter, having extensively travelled throughout New Zealand and around the world over the last 40 years. His travels have taken him to USA, Canada, South and Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean, Asia, Japan, India, Africa, Egypt, United Kingdom, Eastern and Western Europe, Russia, Scandinavia and of course Australia and the Pacific Islands.
While grounded here at home for the last couple of years, his desire to see places has not waned and David is looking forward to unfolding his wings once more and this time sharing his passion for travel with others. With his professional career spent in the airline and travel sector, his foray into tour hosting seems a natural progression. For a self-confessed lover of fine food and wine, as David is, a luxury Avalon River Cruise taking in the Rhine and Moselle with vineyards and castles is the perfect fit for his debut overseas tour.
Just to make it that bit more special is the fact that David was aboard the ship that will sail this cruise, Avalon Imagery 11, when she was on her maiden voyage in September 2018. Incidentally the ship’s godmother is none other than our own Judy Bailey and includes a spectacular piece of pounamu acknowledging its New Zealand connection.
David has added his own touches to this tour with a stopover in Singapore on the way, taking in parts of the city not always frequented by tourists. He has also handpicked the accommodation and restaurants in Paris and Amsterdam, backed by his recent visit to these cities, making this tour truly bespoke.
If you are looking to cruise Europe in 2023 and Holland, Germany, Luxembourg and France are on your list then this could be the perfect way to experience these countries.
ITINERARY
The tour commences in Auckland with a stopover in Singapore. On arrival in Amsterdam there is time to look around and adjust to local time before you board the scenic cruise along the Rhine River to Cologne, Germany; a 2,000-year-old city known for its gothic architecture. You’ll sail through the dramatic views of the Rhine Gorge; the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River where ancient castles perch on cliffs 400 feet above the water. In the charming wine town of Rüdesheim, enjoy a stroll through its famous cobblestone Drosselgasse.
Along the Moselle River, you’ll stop at the picturesque town of Cochem where the Riesling grape is cultivated. Visit Reichsburg Castle, nestled among vineyards and offering breathtaking views of the town and river valley below. In Bernkastel, enjoy a guided walk and taste some of the region’s best-loved wines. Go on an excursion to historic Luxembourg City. Ride the high-speed train to Paris, the last stop on this fabulous European river cruise. Guided sightseeing shows you the famous sights of the romantic 'City of Light': Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre Museum. Then it is back home to Auckland, or you could choose to extend your European sojourn.
Those who board a tour with David will be captivated by his charm that, combined with his passion and enthusiasm for travel and life, makes him the perfect host.
If you want to register your interest for this river cruise or be part of our mailing list for future tours led by David, please email us at strandon@helloworld.co.nz
