Topdeck Travel Blog

For her first wintry northern Christmas, Kara travelled to the magical Brugge Christmas Markets for some festive cheer!

If like me you are more accustomed to a warm and sunny Southern Hemisphere festive season complete with beachfront BBQs and long sunny days the thought of a wintery white Christmas is a magical and romantic prospect.

And you certainly can’t get a better northern Noel than with a visit to one of Europe’s Christmas Markets.

In this case, the Brugge (or Bruges) Christmas Market!

Brugge: A Fairytale Town

For anyone who has seen, and loved, the movie ‘In Bruges’ (Colin Farrell anyone?), the city holds a certain quirky appeal.

It’s hard to describe Brugge without using a lot of cheesy and romantic words… it’s a beautiful, breathtaking, peaceful and magical, fairy-tale town.

All these description are true – even more so at Christmas time!

With so many ornate buildings, stalls, shops and decorations it was hard to know where to turn next so my friends Kath and Becca and I needed a plan.

Our mission: to soak up as much of the Christmas Spirit as possible!

First we stopped for a look in a Christmas decoration shop. Thousands of handcrafted fairies, elves, Santas and nativity decorations hung throughout the store. The ornaments were pretty, but a bit pricey, but hey, it’s free to look!

So shiny & sparkly!

Next we sampled the local mulled wine and made our way through the first of two market squares. A warm beverage is pretty much a requirement to keep warm and feel cheery at Christmas time!

The old town is fairly compact and it doesn’t take long to cover the main area on foot and even if you get a little lost down one of the town’s many walkways you’ll soon get back on track.

The main market is found in the centre of the square in front of the Church of Our Lady. There an ice-rink is surrounded by stalls selling food, produce and Christmas-themed goodies.

My total lack of coordination meant skating was off the cards, so we tucked into some tasty banana fritters instead, followed by a round of Belgian hot chips!

Far too full to climb!

Suitably stuffed from our Belgian delights, we were far too full to climb the famous church tower so spent more time sightseeing and shopping.

My shopping basket was full of mouth-watering Belgian chocolates, locally made honey, delicate ornaments and a mini wooden tree complete with decorations.

You’d have to be a pretty big Grinch not to get caught up in the Christmas Spirit of this town. From the giant Christmas trees in town squares and fairy-lights hanging over the canal to the smell of festive delicacies.

A full on day of shopping, eating and walking really takes it out of you so by early evening we were exhausted.

Christmas cheer is everywhere in Brugge

What a better way to finish the day than with a special Belgian coffee – essentially a shot of coffee with a shot of a local liqueur topped with sweet cream. They also offer a rather tasty alcoholic hot chocolate! Nom!

So wrap up warm, don your best carol singing voice and head to the Brugge for the Christmas Markets!

If you fancy a stroll around Brugge with a hot bevvie in hand, why not join Topdeck’s overnight trip to the Brugge Christmas Markets!

Magical Brugge

by Kara Segedin

Ten minutes from full time and I couldn’t bear to watch! Peering through my fingers, this was scarier than any horror movie!

Would they, wouldn’t they? One tiny mistake and the hopes of a nation would be dashed.

And there it was, 80 minutes down and the whistle blew – the All Blacks were the 2011 Rugby World Cup champions and the crowd in our little London pub went wild.

We managed to show a little decorum and shared words of commiseration with our French friends, but it was near impossible to wipe the smiles from our faces!

The Rugby World Cup has been the perfect showcase of New Zealand’s all-round greatness (no bias here of course!). With matches played the length and breadth of the country, visitors to NZ’s shores were treated to the stunning and varied landscape of this small island nation. Not to mention the world class Kiwi hospitality.

Take a dive in Queenstown

When you grow up in New Zealand it’s easy to take its natural and cultural wonders for granted.

Watching matches with mates from overseas, the World Cup has given me the opportunity to see my NZ through the eyes of a visitor and it’s been a great excuse to brag about my home town and country to my Aussie, British and North American friends.

“Yip, the North Island is awesome. Beaches, bush, vineyards, world class restaurants and nightlife – what more could you want.”

Check out the Bay of Islands

“Oh, and the South Island – heaven on earth springs to mind topped off with some of the warmest people on the planet.”

If I was going to describe New Zealand to someone who has never visited I’d say it is a land of contrasts.

Sunny, sandy beaches, snow-topped mountains, lush bush and chilly glacial drifts – NZ has it all.

It is home to both extreme, heart pumping adventures like skydiving, bungee jumping and jet boating and more leisurely activities such as horse riding, kayaking and tramping.

Mouth-watering food, beer and wine found in even the smallest town and a unique Maori heritage that goes back hundreds of years, this small island nation at the bottom of the world doesn’t lack culture.

Spend the night on a traditional Maori marae

Topdeck trips take you right across the country from North to South and vice versa or focus on one of the two islands.

Experience all sides of New Zealand with an overnight stay on a tradition Maori marae, get your thrill fix in the adventure capital Queenstown, sample life on a sheep farm and take in the scenery on a cruise through Milford Sound.

And who knows, you may even spot an All Black in the flesh taking a much deserved break on one of the country’s beautiful beaches.

Fancy your own NZ adventure? Visit Topdeck’s website & get planning!

Cruise the beautiful Milford Sound with Topdeck

by Kara Segedin

One of the largest and best known festivals in the world, Oktoberfest, is nearly upon us.

Topdeck designer Brett shared some of his tips, insights and memories (well, what he could remember) of Munich’s Beerfest.

“I first went in 2006 and then again in 2009,” says Brett.

“The experience was amazing - it was a real party atmosphere.”

The beer tents close around 10-11pm and he says everyone goes back to their campsites or hostels and keeps on partying.

The 16–18 day festival runs from late September with more than 5 million people attending every year and almost 7 million litres of beer is served.

Known as the largest Volksfest (People’s Fair) in the world, Oktoberfest has been held in Munich since 1810.

The festival is right in the heart of the city on a huge ground with rides, food stands and of course, beer.

“The majority of the time is spent in the beer halls because that’s where you get the unique experience,” says Brett.

The Beer Halls at Oktoberfest

There are about a dozen beer tents ranging in size some holding thousands of people.

Only locally brewed, Bavarian beers are allowed to be served at Oktoberfest. Each tent serves one brand of beer, sometimes with variations such as a lager or weissbier.

Brett first visited the Löwenbräu and then the Hofbräu. Hofbräu is possibly the most famous beer hall and is open all year round.

Brett says the best beer he sampled at Oktoberfest was made by a small brewery called Spaten.

“It was just so crisp, it was a really good beer, and it was a much smaller tent and the majority of the patrons were locals and I think that’s where you get the better experience from”

Inside the halls are lined with picnic-type tables with a stage in the centre where bands play music all day long.

“On the hour they’ll play a song to cheers everyone called Prost,” he says.

Brett recommends dressing for all sorts of weather. It can get ridiculous cold outside the tent, but once inside the temperature rises.

The local residents really get behind the event and many Germans (and tourists) get dressed up in traditional outfits.

Brett & a friendly local Bavarian

“The Bavarian women! The outfits! The Dirndl is absolutely incredible. It is one of the sexiest traditional outfits in Europe.”

Like a restaurant, each girl has her own serving section and they come around taking drinks orders.

“You don’t get served unless you are sitting at a table - they are quite strict with that, the beer wenches”

Besides the beer, food is a big thing at Oktoberfest.

A mix of hot meals and snacks, a number of traditional German and Bavarian delicacies are on offer including Würstl (sausages), Brezn (Pretzel), Knödel (potato or bread dumplings), Kasspatzn (cheese noodles), Reiberdatschi (potato pancakes) and, of course, Sauerkraut or Blaukraut (red cabbage).

“The chickens are absolutely sensational, it’s a bit expensive, but it’s some of the best chicken I’ve ever had,” says Brett.

Towards the afternoon and early evening local Germans start arriving at the festival from work.

“That’s one of the best things about Oktoberfest,” says Brett. “ It’s not just drinking the beer, but because you’re on communal tables your sitting with, Americans, Germans, French, anyone and everyone, and it’s such a friendly atmosphere, you end up talking to the rest of the table and cheering and dancing around with them.”

“I’ve done a few festivals before and this is the one I’d keep going back to.”

TIPS

• The tents open between 9-10am so get there early to get a seat.
• Try smaller tents and go in the evening to mix with locals.
• Eat a lot of local food.
• Wear layers – outside it can get very cold while the tents get warm.
• Have fun!

Don’t miss out on Oktoberfest 2011! We have a few spaces left so book now http://www.topdeck.travel/festivals/oktoberfest-tours

by Kara Segedin

“Four days in Venice, isn’t that a little long?”

“Well, it’s more like three days, four nights…”

“You know it’s full of tourists, locals who will scam you and it smells, right?!”

And that is how one conversation went when I told an acquaintance we were off on a summer holiday to the famous Floating City. Had we overestimated the time we’d need? Was it going to be one big stinking hot mess? What had we gotten ourselves into?!

Luckily for us, said acquaintance couldn’t have been more wrong.

From the moment I first stepped foot in Cannaregio, the northernmost of Venice’s six historic districts, I was in love.

Ahhh, Venice

It was well after 11pm when we dropped out luggage at the hotel and despite the fun of budget airline travel we were ready to hit Venice’s cobbled streets!

But before we could go anywhere I was in desperate need of a gelato and thankfully (dangerously) there was an amazing gelato shop right at the door of our hotel *bliss*.

We had arrived in town on the eve of Festa del Redentore (more about that later) so the streets were fairly deserted as we strolled over the famous canals for the first time.

However, come the morning the city was buzzing.

Traffic Jam: Venice Style

Travellers of all ages and all nationalities wandered up at down the streets while men opened their stalls selling souvenirs and replicas of traditional Venetian masks and Murano glass.

It’s fairly easy to spot the authentic stuff – they are usually found in dedicated stores and have price tags that reflect the quality.

With nowhere in particular in mind we made our way slowly into the middle of the island.

I would recommend spending at least one day getting totally lost, wandering up and down the thousands of small alley ways that sprawl across the city.

They are also a great escape from the crowds and the hot summer sun.

Making our way into the heart of Venice, we followed the official (and handmade) signs showing the way to Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge and were joined by an ever increasing number of fellow travellers.

The square is massive and in the blazing midday sun we were grateful for the shade from the shop front canopies.

Chilling in Piazza San Marco

If you’re tired of walking, or fancy doing some sightseeing from the water, the best way to get around is by waterbuses (vaporetti).

That night after take a rather long detour on a vaporetti we found ourselves on the island of Dorsoduro right in the middle of Festa del Redentore celebrations.

Hundreds of tables filled with big Italian families ran the length of the canal looking out across to the city centre. They feasted on giant plates of local food (it smelt so good!) and glasses of wine. Grandparents, parents, aunties, uncles and cousins singing, dancing and gossiping the evening away, waiting for the main event – the fireworks!

And what a display!

For at least 45 minutes pyrotechnics took over the city. Colours lit up the night sky and booming explosions echoed around the ancient street – if you didn’t know better you’d swear it was a war zone!

Festa del Redentore = Fireworks!

The following day we tried a bit of island hopping, Venice style. First stop, Murano.

Famous for its glasswork, the island was largely empty on the Sunday we stopped by.

Still, there were plenty of opportunities to pick up pieces of jewellery and take in the sights.

It was a recommendation from a colleague that proved to be one of my trip highlights - the island of Burano

Every Venetian lagoon seems to be famous for something, and in Burano’s case it is lacework and rainbow coloured buildings – my kind of place!

The first thing you see when getting off the boat is a rather frightful looking wailing woman – no idea what she represents, but it can’t be nice.

Why is she so upset?

Thankfully your eye is quickly caught by the brilliant red building to your left and from there you can’t help but smile at the array of pinks, blues, yellows and oranges of the town.

The Rainbow Island or Burano

Oh, and I also ate the best pizza I have had in my whole life! Cheese, mushroom, artichoke and prosciutto – delish!

Simply the Best Pizza Ever!

Venetians are a lovely people – very friendly and helpful.

Despite the extraordinary lack of Italian language skills in our group we managed to get by.

As long as you can point and say hello, please and thank you you’ll be fine in this largely English speaking (or at least understanding) place.

Our final day was spent catching up on all the little things we had missed – a last stop here, a last stop there.

St Mark’s Basilica was one such destination and there in the July sun we joined a surprisingly fast moving queue to enter the 11^th century church.

St Mark's Basilica

Many European churches still enforce a traditional dress code meaning men and women must cover their shoulders & knees.

I specially brought a church-suitable dress with me, but if you forget to wear appropriate attire it isn’t such a big deal as the staff will provide you with lovely papery shawls to wrap around you.

Be careful of the men on the door though – they are more like nightclub bouncers than church ushers grabbing visitors showing too much skin as they walk passed.

While it lacks the grandeur and quiet spiritual aura of St Peter’s in Rome, the interior and exterior are stunning nonetheless.

So how do you put the perfect finishing touch on a perfect holiday in Venice? With a gondola ride of course!

That's Amore - Gondola Time

Lying back in our luxury boat it was hard not to feel like royalty gliding through the narrow canals the vaporetti can’t reach, our gondolier filling us in with bits and pieces of local history.

And that was it - what more can I say? We ate, drank and sweated our way through this magnificent island, cameras always at the ready.

Bellini, gelato, pizza and spaghetti. Fireworks, bridges, canals and history. The list goes on!

Venice, you surprised me. I didn’t expect to love you this much!

Arrivederci Venezia!

Want to see Venice for yourself? Here are a few of the Topdeck trips that take in this amazing city!

Venice Carnival

Pronto Italia 2011

Gondolas Go North 2011

Eastern Express 2011

Topdeck Travel’s festival manager, Amelia Lawrence, gets all Indiana Jones in Jordan’s famous historical city of Petra.

When visiting the archaeological wonder of Petra, right in the heart of Jordan, it is impossible to not feel a bit like Indiana Jones. In fact, even before going through the entrance gates, I was tempted to buy a “genuine” Indiana hat from the Indiana Jones Gift Shop, right on Petra’s doorstep! Don’t call me Junior indeed!

To get into Petra requires a walk through a long, narrow gorge called al-Siq, which just adds to the drama of the approach. The gaping pink hued chasm looms over visitors, emphasising the natural beauty of this area. As you get closer to the end of the one kilometre gorge the excitement builds all around; some tourists walk slowly to eke out the process, other break into a run to reach their final destination. And that destination is the Treasury, or Al Khazneh.

Al Khazneh

The Treasury is Petra’s most famous, and most impressive, building. Carved directly into the sandstone rock face it is truly an archaeological and architectural wonder. Even the most blasé travellers would find it hard to remain unimpressed by this phenomenal building. And its location at the very end of al-Siq means that the beauty of the building is only increased by the dramatic first glimpse you catch of it, through a dark split in the sandstone, just like Indiana himself!

However, there is so much more on offer in Petra. The city gradually unfolds, boasting more and more amazing buildings, tombs and temples built into the sheet sandstone rock faces.

A climb of (only) 600 or so steps takes visitors up to the Monastery, or Ad Deir, a monumental building measuring 50 metres wide by 45 metres high, which is open for tourist to climb in, on and around at their leisure. Lookout points nearby give stunning views over the valleys and cliffs which make up this historical marvel. There are tombs upon tombs, towers and temples, and several sacrificial altars with breathtaking views of the city.

At the end of a long day, we headed back to al-Siq to make our way out of Petra, still wishing we had more time to see the rest of what this amazing city had to offer.

It was as the archaeological site was closing down that we experienced the biggest rush of the day: a chance to take our photos at the Treasury with absolutely no other tourists around. Just us, this amazing building and a lone tourist humming the Indiana Jones theme song.

For more information about Topdeck’s trips to Jordan, visit www.topdeck.travel/middle-east

Guest travel blogger Emma Flynn shares her recent journey to Egypt with Topdeck.

I’ve been so excited about visiting Egypt for a very long time. In fact its been about 11 years or so of dreaming! Finally, At the beginning of May, after three false starts over the past 11 years, I finally realised my dreams and travelled to this amazing country.

We’ve all seen the news reports on Egypt and the revolution. I had followed the news intently, praying everything would settle down so I could travel. It did and at the beginning of April, Topdeck started operating in Egypt again after a 2 month break. I was so happy. I figured that if Topdeck were operating their trips, it was safe to travel again.

We arrived a couple of days before our tour started, and on our first day we ventured out into Cairo by ourselves. It was certainly a culture shock. Jumping into a taxi and out into the Cairo rush hour traffic was an eye opening (or tightly closed!) experience in itself. As we wandered around in the controlled chaos of Cairo, nervousness and apprehension soon melted away as we came across numerous friendly people in the street, and even walked through Tahrir Square (the scene of the January revolution), which was full of people going about their daily lives.

Our next day we were up early (the first of what would become a recurring theme!) to take the Topdeck optional excursion to Alexandria. On arrival we met our passionately Egyptian guide, Jimmy, who showed us the key sites, including the site of the famous lighthouse, the catacombs, and the new library.

Having met our trip leader the night before after returning from Alexandria, the tour began. The Egyptian museum in Cairo gave us our first taste of the ancient civilization. Most of the relics found in King Tutankhamun’s tomb are now here in the museum. It was amazing to see the jewels and possessions of the boy king. Things range from his leather shoes, jewellery, beds, under ware and even and ancient form of contraception so only his royal wife would bare him a child! The other highlight was the mummy room. In my opinion, it was well worth the additional 100 LE just to see 3000 year old people still with hair, teeth, eyelashes and fingernails!

After the museum we headed out to the last remaining wonder of the Ancient world, the Giza pyramids. We were lucky enough to be able to go inside the small pyramid. This experience alone was worth going to Egypt for!

From Cairo we headed south to Aswan to meet our boat to cruise to Luxor.

Egypt wasn’t all about the tombs and temples however. In Aswan we did get to relax by taking a felucca down the Nile, sailing past Elephantine and Kitchener islands on our way to a Nubian Village, including a stop for a dip in the Nile! We didn’t sail straight to the village, but stopped about 20-30 minutes away to climb on to a camel to take us in the rest of the way. Being on the Nile was so peaceful and relaxing, and we got to spend 3 nights aboard a 4-star cruiser. So in between all the sites we could take a dip in the pool on the sun deck, or if we were still feeling energetic, a game of ping pong.

There were a few early mornings… We were up early to visit Abu Simbel, up early to take a hot air balloon over the Valley of the Kings, up early to miss the heat of the sun! So many early mornings, but so very worth it!

My favourite day was probably also the busiest day! We visited the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple, Karnak and Luxor temples. We were very lucky to have visited at a time when there were not many other tourists around. It felt sometimes like we were the only people in the temple. Our Egyptologist for the day was a local called Sam. Sam seemed to have an undying love for the Ancient Egyptians. While most of us melted in the 40 something degree heat, Sam scribbled away on his clip board explaining to us the meaning of the Heiroglyphs we were looking at and drawing us a family tree of the Pharaoh’s, so we knew who’s tombs we were looking at.

Egypt was mind blowing. Never had I been on a holiday where everything was bigger and better than I had imagined. We visited (almost) every major tomb and temple across the country, but for me there were some places that stood out more than others, however the experiences will stay with me forever.

Croatia Sailing - A day in the life of a Topdeck passenger.

By Liana Szwajlyk

Let me set the scene; waves subtly lapping against the boat, the sun high in the sky with that warm touch on your skin for ultimate relaxation, and you – lounging on deck with your new mates, followed by a dip in the sea, then onto explore a new island. Yes, I am talking about Croatia Sailing with Topdeck.

This could be your day….

9:00AM

The smell of fresh sea air, the sound of water gently lapping against the boat, the Adriatic gleaming under the waking sun.

9:30AM

Check out that water...WOW! Now time for a delicious brekkie prepared by your on board crew!

11:00AM

A morning full of card playing with new friends, followed by a refreshing dip in the sea and sunbaking on deck. This afternoon’s destination: UNESCO World Heritage City, Dubrovnik.

3:00PM

The sun painting the water a deep jade, time to dock in Dubrovnik.

3:30PM

Ancient fortress walls surround the Old Town, inside which, gleaming marble streets are lined with Baroque style buildings. Head for the 'Place', or main square.

4:00PM

With plenty of free time to soak up the atmosphere of this stunning city, why not explore Dubrovnik's back streets and alleyways, which offer countless surprises. Or savour an espresso in one of the many cafes?

5:00PM

Dubrovnik's walls were built over hundreds of years at the end of the Middle Ages and measure more than 2km in length....time for some exercise!

5:30PM

Scale these famed walls for superb views over both the city and surrounding scenery and coastline. Not to be missed!

6:00PM

Followed the signs that point to cold water, along the walls of Dubrovnik. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you come across a small hole in the castle walls. Through the hole leads you to cool cliffside hangout - a secret little bar!

6:30PM

Take a plunge in the crystal clear waters below, kick back with a cocktail & nibbles or perch atop the rocks to watch the ships dreamily pass by at sunset. Truly blissful!

8:00PM

The Old Town at night is certainly as beautiful as it is during the day. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a glass of local wine & incredible view!

9:00PM

Venture off the worn cobblestone path and check out the small local seafood restaurants for dinner. Dalmation squid ink risotto – highly recommended!

11:00PM

A few ‘bucket’ style cocktails in a funky alleyway bar, anyone?

5:00AM

Back to the boat in time to catch the first sunrise views - tomorrow, Mljet and new horizons. That's what travelling is all about!

Topdeck Croatia Sailing - Sale on now, save up to 20%

Topdeck’s travel blogger, Liana Szwajlyk, relives her first-ever (and only!) Pamplona experience.

Singing erupts from a sea of white and red. Viva San Fermin!! It’s 8.00am. The first rocket focuses my attention, a second signals the bulls are on their way. The sea is now moving. Slow at first but running, turning, now faster as the hooves descend.

“Why am I here?” This was the thought going through my mind as I prepared for the enierro, the famous Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain. The night before, I’d been cruising Pamplona’s bars, fuelled with Sangria induced bravado. “I’m a pretty fast runner” I thought. I could outrun a bull or two. “What the hell, I’ll give it a go.”

A few sleepless hours later, there I was standing – knees shaking – on Santo Domingo Road for what could have very well been the last day of my life. Waiting impatiently with a few hundred adrenaline seekers, my stomach churns and I now realise what actual fear feels like.

8.00 am: The sharp shot of the first cannon sounds. Some run already. Having absorbed the advice of every ‘expert’ I’ve talked to, I hold firm - until the second cannon. The crowd’s nervous tension is released as they take off.

People are yelling and hollering; it seems I’m one of them. As I start into a full-out sprint, I have a horrifying realisation: I can run only as fast as the people in front of me. At this moment, self-preservation takes over, and I switch from a running-in-sheer-terror tactic to a run-push, run-push strategy – focussing on nothing but the next step in front of me.

The roar of the crowd grows louder and the ground shakes as the bulls hurtle along the course. They’re coming. People manically scramble to save their skins. As I look to my left I realise I’m now running with the bulls, rather than away from them…

The next five minutes are a blur until the third rocket sounds.

The enceirro is over!

Happy to be alive and happy to be alive…did I say that twice?

As the bulls continued course (and are way out of sight), I decide that I’ve had enough adventure for one day and leave to share my war stories over many more glasses….well perhaps jugs, of Sangria!

Relief and celebration!!

Check out Topdeck’s 4 Day Pamplona Hotel trip and 7 Day Picador package.

Oktoberfest fun

Topdeck Travel’s Festival Manager Amelia Lawrence talks Oktoberfest

It seems the world today is all about opening ceremonies. Whether it’s fighting tooth and nail to get tickets for the Olympics opening ceremonies, spraying sangria everywhere at the San Fermin opening ceremony in Pamplona, or even just trying to get the best bargains when a new Primark store has an opening sale – everyone loves an opening ceremony.

But what about for Oktoberfest?

Enjoy the middle or closing weekend at Munich Beerfest

Every year more Australian travellers flock to Munich to experience Oktoberfest’s opening weekend. So much so that it has become commonplace to hear an antipodean accent before a local one. The beers don’t start flowing on the first day of Oktoberfest until after the Mayor of Munich has tapped the first keg at the Schottenhamel beer tent. And considering that to get a seat most people get to the tents between 9 and 10am, this means several hours sitting, watching and waiting for the first taste of a delicious Bavarian beer.

So what about the other weekends? Traditionally, the middle weekend of Oktoberfest see lots of Europeans head to Munich from all over the continent to experience this amazing festival. The halls are full of a mix of Germans, Italians, Dutchies, as well as a smattering of Aussies in the mix. It’s the perfect time to meet people from all over Europe – and perhaps make new friends to doss with on future European adventures!

The closing weekend of Oktoberfest has a distinct local feel, as the halls start heaving with people from all over Southern Germany. The mood is relaxed, as everyone knows Oktoberfest is drawing to a close for another year. Locals are aware the busiest times are over, and are quick to share a joke and a beer with international visitors who have made it this far! Not to mention that stalls start discounting their Oktoberfest souvenirs, so you can try and grab a bargain!

The largest upside of the middle and closing weekends is the atmosphere. With less Australian travellers around, you’re more likely to meet some real Germans – and who better to learn the German version of “99 Luftballons” from than a local!

For more information about Topdeck’s range of trips to Munich for Oktoberfest Tours.

2009 was a great year for Topdeck, lets have a look at some of the highlights of the year…

• We celebrated 30 years of ANZAC trips and released a new Anzac Trips mini site to mark the occasion!
• Our Facebook page got a fancy new application, check it out here and don’t forget to become a fan!
• We’re now on Twitter! and YouTube!
• We setup lots of new Flickr accounts so you can see exactly what our tours are like!
• We had lots of fun Sailing in Croatia!
• We created the perfect mini site for all the ‘Gappies‘ out there looking for a great Gap Year deal!
• Our Don’t Waste Winter Campaign launched in record time in September and received an Award for ‘Most Innovative Marketing‘!

If you still want more, check out TopdeckTravel.eu for all Topdeck’s mini sites, there’s something for everyone…