“The Czar of Christmas Present” - the New York Times

“The Ralph Lauren of Christmas” - the Los Angeles Times

“America’s Holiday Expert” - the Huffington Post

a “Christmas Guru” – Oprah

CHRISTMAS EXTRAODINAIRE CHRISTOPHER RADKO TO HOST

"Magic and Memories of Christmas 

with Christopher Radko”

A 12 DAY AUTHENTIC AND QUENTESSNTIAL CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE IN THE MAJESTIC BAVARIAN ALPS

(New York, NY) – Christopher Radko, dubbed “The czar of Christmas present” by the New York Times, has announced that he will host the first “MAGIC AND MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS” tour, a magical 12 day tour of Bavaria and Austria, the lands of enchantment from where our many Christmas dreams come from. It’s a quintessential Christmas experience filled with world holiday traditions, history, culture, and hospitality. Presented by Craft Tours, the tour will take place December 9 – 20, and a free trip is given for every ten people who sign up.  http://www.craftours.com/trips/?page=germany_radko_1215

You deserve the Merriest Christmas EVER!   And now, you can actually have it with America’s Christmas Ambassador, Christopher Radko.  Stressed Americans, fed up by endless pre-dawn doorbuster sales, crowded department stores and artificial trees  can trade it all in and experience Christmas as it should be, right in the heart of the regions that gave birth to our most cherished holiday customs – Austria and Bavaria with Radko as your personal guide. It’s enough to turn any bah-humbug into a post Clarence the Angel George Bailey.

Holiday Merriment abounds as you wander the Christmas decorated streets of charming medieval towns nestled in the majestic Bavarian Alps. Behold the culinary delights, toy making, choirs, castles and music filled Christmas markets, as the aroma of fresh pine, holiday spices, and gingerbread fill the air. It’s a fantasy come true. 

“These are my favorite places in Europe, says Radko. “I’ll personally show you where our American Christmas traditions hail from, engage in our own pre-Christmas revels, take in the well decked winter sights, sounds and delicious regional holiday foods!  We’ll be making the most marvelous memories ever!”

There’s no one on earth who know’s Christmas better. Guests create entertaining new memories right alongside Christopher in the ancient imperial German city of NUREMBERG, the fantastically romantic and iconic NEUCHWANSTEIN CASTLE, quintessentially Bavarian spa village of RUHPOLDING and the charming 15th Century town of OBERAMMERGAU, the grounds of neoclassical HERRENCHIEMSEE PALACE, the fantastically romantic and iconic NEUCHWANSTEIN CASTLE, INNSBRUCK, an alpine paradise, long famous for its winter sports and finally, one of the most evocatively charming Christmas towns in Europe – the historic and fabulous birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, SALZBURG.

The tour includes: Round trip airfare from New York City, most meals, accommodations in a family owned lodge in Bavaria and first class hotel accommodations in Munich, private motor

coach and driver, special quilting workshop, holiday shopping opportunities in the Christmas markets in Salzburg, Austria and Munich, a boat ride on Lake Chiemsee, visiting special Sound of Music movie locations, and much more!

For pricing and more information or to book a spot visit: http://www.craftours.com/trips/?page=germany_radko_1215

About Christopher Radko - The sparkling heirlooms produced by Christopher Radko have brought joy and happiness to millions of homes over the years. Christopher Radko ornaments have graced the homes of 6 presidents, adorned the Kennedy Center, and have been included in the personal collections of celebrities from Brad Pitt, Elton John, Johnny Depp, Oprah Winfrey,  Barbara Streisand,  Robert DeNiro, Madonna, and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth,  to Hugh Jackman, Colin Farrell, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry,   Christopher has been profiled on CBS Sunday Morning, featured on Oprah, and has shared his holiday expertise on the Today Show and Good Morning America.  He’s been written about in Biography, People, Elle,  House & Garden, Good Housekeeping,  Lady’s Home Journal, USA Today, and Time. Christopher has been named the “Czar of Christmas Present” by the New York Times,  the “Ralph Lauren of Christmas” by the LA Times, and “America’s Holiday Expert” by the Huffington Post.   Virtually every major paper and magazine and network has covered Christopher’s holiday career, making his name a holiday staple for all that is the very best in Christmas. 

After a quarter of a century,  Christopher sold his ornament company, to pursue his other passion:  organic gardening. As a kid growing up in the Bronx,  he recalls him mother taking him to the New York Botanical garden, and introducing him to the colors and language of flowers.  His favorite was lavender, so today, he grows over 25 acres of heirloom lavender, from which he creates a luxe collection of home fragrance and personal care lavender creations. “I love being outdoors for half the year, and being an organic lavender farmer keeps me relaxed,  refreshed, and rejuvenated!”  

MAGIC AND MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS ITINNERARY:

Wednesday, December 9th

GET EXCITED — because the most wonderful days of the year are ahead of you! "Magic and Memories of Christmas tour with Christopher Radko" begins with an overnight flight from NEW YORK to MUNICH.

Thursday, December 10th

This morning, we will arrive at the airport of Bavarian capital - MUNICH, collect our luggage, pass through customs, and meet our escort and travel expert, Jim West, with our coach driver who will take us on a breathtaking PANORAMIC TOUR of Munich.

Our motor tour will highlight some of the most historic sites in the city, including the picturesque and colorful St. Nicholaus Market in Marienplatz, which legend has it dates back the the 14th Century. Following the tour, we will check into our first class hotel where we will have an opportunity to check in and relax.

This evening we will enjoy a scrumptious "welcome dinner" at the hotel where we will be introduced to our Ambassador of Christmas and holiday expert Christopher Radko. There will also be a relaxing opportunity to meet everyone who is participating on our tour and learn more about the magical, memorable Christmas experiences that we have planned. (Dinner)

Friday, December 11th

This morning, following a delicious breakfast, we will drive to the ancient imperial German city of NUREMBERG for an opportunity to see a world class Christkindlesmarkt in the medieval Hauptmarket Square. This is considered to be one of the largest Christmas Markets in all of Germany and is unrivaled in its beauty, traditions, and atmosphere. We will have the entire day to enjoy the holiday merriment and distinctive regional character of Nuremberg, including an abundance of wonderful gift and boutique shopping. The scent of cinnamon, cloves, mulled wine and roast Nuremberg sausages permeate the air, as we sample the culinary delights and bakery sweets of the enticing food stands. History buffs can enjoy the possibility of visiting famous Renaissance painter Albrecht Durer’s house; St. Lorenz Church with its altar to the patron Saint of Christmas, St. Nicholas; the Nuremberg Toy Museum which celebrates over 600 years of ingenious Bavarian toy making; or the reverently displayed creche exhibit in the 12th Century Church of St. Egidien. We will return to our hotel later in the day where we will have free time before enjoying our savory Bavarian dinner. Following dinner Christopher will share the first of his “Finding the Heart of Christmas” talks. (Breakfast & Dinner)

Saturday, December 12th

This morning, following an early breakfast, we will travel to the fantastically romantic and iconic NEUCHWANSTEIN CASTLE, once the residence of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Resting high on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen, this dramatic 19th century Romanesque Revival palace has appeared prominently in many movies and was the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland. Neuschwanstein served as a retreat for the reclusive king, but was opened to the public immediately after his death in 1886. There will be time for lunch and holiday shopping on our own after the tour, and then we will return to our hotel where the remainder of the day is at our leisure. (Breakfast)

Sunday, December 13th

Following a hearty Bavarian breakfast, we will check out of our hotel and drive to our new home in the small quintessentially Bavarian spa village of RUHPOLDING, nestled in the majestic Bavarian Alps. Along the way, we will stop in the charming 15th Century town of OBERAMMERGAU, famous for its artful woodcarvers and the world famous Passion Play which takes place once every ten years. There will be plenty of time to shop at the artisan wood carving shops, photograph the renowned hand-painted frescoes on the buildings and homes, enjoy a tasty lunch in one of the local cafés, and stroll through the Christmas decorated streets while enjoying local Bavarian hospitality.

In the afternoon we will continue on to RUHPOLDING and check into our cozy family owned Bavarian style hotel. Once we settle in, Jim will lead us on a leisurely stroll through this Hansel and Gretel-like village as we become acquainted with our local surroundings. This evening we will all gather for a delectable homemade dinner at our charming hotel. (Breakfast & Dinner) 

Monday, December 14th

This morning, following breakfast, we board our motorcoach and drive to the Lake Chiemsee area. A waiting boat will ferry us across the lake to the grounds of neoclassical HERRENCHIEMSEE PALACE. This landmark was built by King Ludwig II, hoping to duplicate the baroque Palace of Versailles in France. Unfortunately, time and funds ran out for this fantasy creation, but he did manage to build the central portion of this Royal residence, which in some ways, even surpassed Versailles! We will participate in a guided tour of this “Bavarian Vesailles” which (in today’s value) cost a staggering quarter of one billion dollars to build. Following the palace tour and lunch on our own, we will return for a leisurely drive back to our hotel. Tonight before dinner, we will meet with Christopher for a talk on international holiday customs, and helpful ways to avoid holiday burn-out while enjoying a stress free Christmas. (Breakfast & Dinner)

Tuesday, December 15th

Today, following a traditional Bavarian breakfast, we will visit the medieval Austrian town of INNSBRUCK, capitol of Austria’s western state of Tyrol. Stunningly situated at the foot of the Karwendel Alps, this Alpine paradise has long been famous for its winter sports. We will have a full day to experience the glistening Christmas market and imperial architecture, savor regional specialties such as their “kiachln” (piping hot doughnuts), be dazzled by the boutiques and spectacle of the Maria-Theresien Strasse, and for those who wish, even visit the Tyrollean Folk Art Museum for a journey into Austria’s folkart past, with displays of Tyrollean creches. Innsbruck is filled with all sorts of jubilant Christmas displays, so be sure to bring your cameras! We will drive back to our hotel and enjoy some free time to stroll through the fanciful streets of Ruhpolding before we meet for a pleasurable dinner and reminisce about our spectacular day. (Breakfast & Dinner) 

Wednesday, December 16th

Today, we have the entire day to explore and enjoy Ruhpolding, on your own. You may want to take the nearby gondola ride up the Alpine mountain of Rauschberg, or an exhilarating open chair ski lift up the Unternberg. In both places you can enjoy a refreshing lunch, and thrill to the postcard perfect scenery of the wintry wonderland below. Or you might want to shop in some of the quaint stores for holiday gifts, visit a century old cafe for mouthwatering pastries and delectable “lebkuchen" or even enjoy a moment of reflection and meditation in the 18th century hilltop Parish Church of St. George, while admiring the Baroque artistry of their extraordinary wood carvings and altar. Whatever you decide to do, relax in this magical Alpine jewel-like setting for the entire day! (Breakfast) 

Thursday, December 17th

Following a freshly made breakfast this morning, we bid "auf wiedersehen” to Bavaria, and “guten tag” to Austria as we drive to one of the most evocatively charming Christmas towns in Europe – the historic and fabulous birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, SALZBURG. We will be met by our local guide who will take us on an engaging tour of the center of Salzburg, including some familiar locations from the beloved film "The Sound of Music." We will stroll through the romantic streets into Mozart Square, as our guide shares fascinating stories from the life of this famous composer. We continue our tour into the city center, beckoned by two sparkly and festive Christmas markets, as the aroma of fresh pine, holiday spices, and gingerbread fill the air.

There will be time for holiday and gift shopping, and enjoying more of the afternoon on our own, before we check into our next first class hotel and get settled in. Mozart’s birthplace is alive with music, and there are many Advent, Classical, and Christmas recitals, choirs, and evening concerts to choose from based on your interests. This evening, we have a very special dinner concert for you. This presentation is located in the very same historic 16th century brewery Mozart himself frequented, and will feature live works of Mozart and also songs from The Sound of Music, plus traditional Salzburg operettas. In addition the entertaining performance, you will be treated to the delights of a 3-course Candlelight Austrian dinner. (Breakfast and Dinner)

Friday, December 18th

Following a local-style Austrian breakfast this morning, we will have an opportunity to participate in an Austrian cooking lesson and learn how to make our own homemade apple strudel, “with a twist.” If you decide not to join us, you have the entire day to shop in the jovial music filled Christmas Markets, and visit around town at your leisure. The magical and intimate city of Salzburg offers so much, including the Hohensalzburg Castle with the Prince’s medieval Apartments, and also home of the Archbishops of Salzburg; the Rococo Palace of Schloss Leopoldskron- home of noted theater producer Max Reinhardt, the founder of the Salzburg Music festival; the actual Villa of the family Von Trapp, Mozart’s House (yes Mozart really did sleep here!); and the famous ancient Salzburg Salt mines. This evening with Christopher, we have a heartwarming Christmas surprise in store for you that you are sure to remember! (Breakfast)

Saturday, December 19th

Following an energizing breakfast, we will have one final full day to enjoy the glories of Salzburg. Visit the wonderful Christmas market in Cathedral Square or the enchanting Hellbrunner Adventzauber Market at Hellbrunn Palace. Witness the many nativity displays, crafts, culture, live music, and endearing cafes that Salzburg has to offer. Tonight we will gather for a convivial epicurean "farewell dinner" at Europe’s oldest restaurant, the 1,200 year old St. Peter’s Stiftskeller restaurant, as we bring our "Magic and Memories of Christmas tour with Christopher Radko" to a beautiful close. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Sunday, December 20th

After our last shared breakfast, we will pack our luggage and bid a fond goodbye to Salzburg. Those who are departing from Salzburg will be driven to the Salzburg Airport, while those flying from Munich will be driven to the Munich Airport. (Breakfast)

Note: This awesome tour is created to offer you a memorable and entertaining experience with old world Christmas traditions, history, culture, and hospitality. This is not an ornament or decorations tour, and Christopher will not be signing ornaments. Unless otherwise announced, Christopher is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, any products and services of any vendors at locations visited during this tour. Christopher is very excited to share his enthusiasm for Christmas, and his extensive historical and cultural knowledge with you in person.