CHRISTMAS MARKET RIVER CRUISE

a festive JOURNEY THROUGH GERMANY, FRANCE & sWITZERLAND

DATES: DECEMBER 8 - 14, 2025

** This trip is open to any self-identifying woman 21 years and older. We reserve the right to decline any request to travel with Gals Abroad Getaways **

TRIP DESCRIPTION:

Embark on a Magical Holiday Voyage with Gals Abroad Getaways!

This festive season, light up your holidays on a dazzling river cruise through the enchanting Christmas markets of Germany, France, and Switzerland. Celebrate with the Gals on a festive 7-day journey aboard the Riverside Debussy, where Alle is the honored Godmother—ensuring special treatment and surprises for all the Gals!

Set Sail from Frankfurt: Kick off your holiday adventure in Frankfurt, a city where sleek skyscrapers mingle with historic charm. Experience the magic of the ancient Christkindlmarkt, a festive tradition that dates back to 1393!

Discover Enchanting Stops Along the Rhine: From the grand palaces of Mannheim to the quaint canals of Strasbourg’s Petite France, every stop on this trip is a postcard in the making. We’ll explore Germany, France, and Switzerland immersing ourselves in yuletide cheer at every Christmas market along the way.

Aboard the Riverside Debussy: Imagine a floating boutique hotel with panoramic views from every window - that’s our home for these 7 days. Spacious and stylish, the Debussy isn’t just our mode of transport; it’s a place to relax, mix and mingle, and enjoy delicious cuisine as we sail from one beautiful destination to the next.

All-Inclusive Luxury: Step aboard this ship knowing everything is taken care of—every gourmet meal, drink, guided excursion, and even Wi-Fi is included in your voyage. We’ve even curated a selection of bespoke excursions at certain ports that are exclusive to our group of Gals. As is standard on any Gals Abroad Getaways trip, there will be a few optional add-on tours at an additional cost for those who want a little extra adventure.

Effortless Multi-Country Touring: Travel through three countries in just seven days without the hassle of packing and repacking - making it easier than ever to explore Germany, France, and Switzerland while keeping your suitcase unpacked.

Ready to Join? Join our pre-registration list to get early access to the sign-up link, a whole day before it goes live on our newsletter on Feb. 19th.

DESTINATIONS WE’LL BE VISITING:

THE DETAILS:

• DATES: December 8 - 14, 2025

• TRIP LENGTH: 6 nights, 7 days

• TRIP STYLE: Luxury River Cruise

• ACCOMMODATION: Double Occupancy (select single cabins are available & at an additional cost)

• SIZE: 15 travelers needed for the trip to move forward

WHO THIS TRIP IS FOR:

• THE HOLIDAY ENTHUSIAST - Dive into the festive spirit as we focus on all things merry and bright, sidelining the usual tourist traps for more seasonal joy! Of course, there’s ample free time for you to explore those classic spots if you wish.

• THE WINTER WARRIOR - Time to bundle up in your chicest winter wear and embrace the cozy vibes. This trip is all about savoring the crisp air and stylish layers.

• THE SHOPAHOLIC - Pack your reusable shopping bags! We’re hitting some of the most amazing holiday markets.

• THE ACTIVE ADVENTURER - With our cruise setting the pace, we’re on the move daily. Each town is a new discovery, and we’re making the most of our time—stay ready to explore and keep up with our ship’s schedule.

• THE UNPACKER - The beauty of a River Cruise is that it allows you to unpack once and truly settle in. This lends itself to a more relaxing experience for any traveler looking to see a lot but not feel rushed bouncing from one spot to the next.

GALS ABROAD GETAWAYS CONSIDERATIONS

Our Gals Abroad Getaways have been carefully crafted for independent women, seeking a blend of immersive cultural experiences, meaningful connections, and fabulous accommodations in some of the most dazzling destinations around the world. Above all else, we value kindness, inclusion, and respect (for our fellow travelers & the destination we are guests in).

• Read the descriptions below carefully to determine if this trip sounds like it would be a fit for you:

• YOU ALWAYS PACK AN OPEN MIND - You are eager to fully immerse yourself in a new destination no matter how different it may be from your day-to-day life & home country.

• YOU LEAD WITH KINDNESS AND RESPECT - We expect our gals to support an atmosphere of mutual respect and inclusion. You strive to always stay positive and prefer to look at life with a glass-half-full mindset.

• FLEXIBILITY IS YOUR MIDDLE NAME - You understand that travel, no matter how perfectly planned and curated, comes with its own set of hiccups and are ready to roll with the punches.

• YOU HAVE TAKEN THE TIME TO FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE DESTINATION PRIOR TO TRAVEL - We believe that a bit of preparation and understanding of the destination you are visiting will make any trip 10x more meaningful and help set realistic expectations for the country you’re about to visit.

• YOU’RE EXCITED TO MAKE SOME NEW GAL PALS - Whether you’re joining us solo or coming with a gal pal, you’re ready to mix and mingle and make new travel-loving friends on this journey.

• YOU LIKE A BIT OF GUIDANCE BUT DO NOT NEED HAND HOLDING - We pride ourselves on maintaining a high level of customer service from the minute we launch a new trip to the time you return home. That said we empower our gals to be self-sufficient & lean into their adventurous side. Where possible, we will provide some free time so you have the flexibility to explore the city or kick back and relax because we understand that everyone has a different travel style. But we will ALWAYS be there to assist with suggestions & recommendations.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS for this getaway:

• YOU DON’T MIND CROWDS - While we won’t be in huge cities for most of this trip, the holiday markets can get very busy this time of year and attract large crowds. Make sure you are comfortable navigating in larger crowds.

• YOU CAN WALK ON UNEVEN SURFACES - Like many cities in Europe, there will be uneven surfaces and cobblestone streets when we are off the ship. Make sure you are comfortable navigating on uneven surfaces and bring a good pair of walking shoes.

• YOU ARE PUNCTUAL - As with any cruise, we are locked into their departure times in each city, and the boat won’t wait for late passengers! When you leave the boat to explore a new city, make sure you know when you need to be back onboard before the cruise leaves port.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE GALS ABROAD GETAWAYS CODE OF CONDUCT AS YOU WILL BE ASKED TO UPHOLD THIS IF YOU WILL BE TRAVELING WITH US.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ABOVE-MENTIONED CONSIDERATIONS PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHOOT US AN EMAIL: galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com

** This trip is open to any self-identifying woman 21 years and older. We reserve the right to decline any request to travel with Gals Abroad Getaways**

WHAT WE’RE DOING:

Our 2025 Christmas Market River Cruise is crafted for women who seek festive charm, connection, in a truly relaxed environment. It's the perfect escape for anyone eager to experience the Christmas magic of Germany, France, and Switzerland, all while enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded women you've come to expect from Gals Abroad Getaways.

Linda and I spent last Christmas aboard the Debussy researching for this trip and could not stop talking about how charming the experience was. From the spacious cabins to the incredibly kind crew, we know all of our Gals will be treated like Queens on this adventure.

The best part about any river cruise is that you are able to see SO many different destinations without the hassle of having to pack and unpack to get from one destination to the next.

SOME OF THE TRIP HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Gals Abroad Getaways Welcome reception aboard the Riverside Debussy

• Exploring the Christmas markets in Frankfurt, Mannheim, Speyer, Strasbourg, Basel & Heidelberg

• Gals Abroad Getaways Exclusive: Private Christmas Market Food Tour in Speyer

• Gals Abroad Getaways Exclusive: Private Strasbourg Christmas Market Tour

• Gals Abroad Getaways Exclusive: Private Heidelberg Castle, City & Christmas Market Tour

• Your Choice of Optional Riverside Excursions (included in the price of your trip)

• Delicious meals onboard (included in the price of your trip)

• PLENTY OF GALS ABROAD GETAWAYS SURPRISES

We’ve created optional activities for those looking to soak up ALL that the destination has to offer, but we’ve also given you time to do as you please and not feel like the schedule has you going non-stop.

about the riverside debussy

Think of the Debussy as our floating boutique hotel, with sleek, spacious cabins, plenty of common spaces and a crew that will feel like family by the end of the trip.

Dining aboard the Debussy is a highlight, celebrated for its exceptional culinary program that has earned "Best Dining on the Rivers" for two consecutive years. It’s not just a meal; it’s a gastronomic event that makes every dinner a special occasion for everyone onboard.

Each suite comes with butler service (yes, really!), so whether you feel like enjoying breakfast in bed, need an extra pillow or a hand organizing your market finds, help is just a WhatsApp message away.

Due to the smaller size of river ships (only space for 110 passengers), a river cruise with Riverside will feel like our own private getaway. There’s plenty of room to lounge, laugh, and unwind in the ship’s common spaces.

It’s laid-back, it's luxe, and it’s a lot of fun—exactly how a holiday with the Gals should be.

OCCUPANCY & CABIN UPGRADES

We are offering a variety of suite options on our sailing. We have a limited number in each category which means the sooner you sign up, the greater your chances of having the suite type you prefer (room preference will be given in order of sign-up). Scroll down to see the differences in suites & their unique specs to decide which suits you best.

As always you have the option to join us in a single occupancy suite. The only two categories of suites we are offering single occupancy are Symphony & Seahorse Suites. If you would like to book a double occupancy room but aren’t traveling with a roommate, we will pair you with another solo traveler.

SEAHORSE & RIVERSIDE SUITES

Seahorse Suite Details

• 237 - 258 sq ft

• Located on Deck level 2

• Group Airport Transfer

• Double or Single Occupancy

Riverside Suite Details

• 258 sq ft

• Located on Deck level 3

• Private Airport Transfer

• Double Occupancy Only

SYMPHONY SUITE (SINGLE OCCUPANCY ONLY)

Symphony Suite Details

• 194 sq ft

• Located on Deck level 2 & 3

• Group Airport Transfer

• Single Occupancy Only

DEBUSSY SUITE

Debussy Suite Details

• 506 sq ft

• Located on Deck level 3

• Private Airport Transfer

• Double Occupancy Only

• Complimentary Laundry & Ironing Service

holiday river cruise Pricing & Inclusions

PRICE PER PERSON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY CABINS:

• SEAHORSE SUITE (Double Occupancy): $6,925

• RIVERSIDE SUITE (Double Occupancy): $7,625

• SOLD OUT: DEBUSSY SUITE (Double Occupancy): $13,865

PRICE PER PERSON SINGLE OCCUPANCY CABINS:

• SOLD OUT: SYMPHONY SUITE (Single Occupancy Only): $10,630

• SEAHORSE SUITE (Single Occupancy): $12,095
  
  DUE AT REGISTRATION: 30% NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT
  THE REMAINING BALANCE IS DUE AUGUST 25, 2025

**Trip pricing based on a 15 person minimum & all prices are listed as USD**

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Six nights onboard the luxury Riverside Debussy

• 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners

• Complimentary wine, beer, cocktails, soft drinks, tea, and coffee while on our cruise

• All Riverside guided excursions at each port

• 3 Gals Abroad Getaways Exclusive excursions

• Bulter Service

• Gratuities for onboard and onshore personnel (ship staff, crew, local experts, drivers) - however Gals Abroad Getaways always recommends additional gratuities for exceptional service

• Complimentary WiFi

• Transfers to and from the ship from the Airport or hotel on the day of embarkation & disembarkation

• Top Secret Gals Abroad Surprises & gifts! 

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

• International Flights

  • Gals Abroad Getaways can make flight recommendations based on your arrival & departure

• Travel Insurance (required)

  • **Gals Abroad Getaways can help you secure a policy**

• Meals & alcohol off the ship during your free time

• Certain premium wines & spirits on the ship

• Taxis/Transportation for Personal Leisure

• 2 Gals Abroad Getaways add-on tours

• Souvenirs

MEET YOUR HOSTS

3 REASONS TO TRAVEL WITH LINDA AND ALLE

Alle and Linda are the eccentric, overpacking, adventure-loving mother-daughter duo at the center of the Gals Abroad Getaways brand. 

INSIDER ACCESS:  We leverage our network of global connections to ensure you get the total VIP treatment. We’ve spent YEARS building strong relationships with hotel partners, guides, and destination specialists across the globe so you are 100% taken care of. From complimentary room upgrades, early check-in & daily breakfast to private behind-the-scenes tours at iconic landmarks, and tons of surprises and treats along the way - these are just a few of the perks you can expect as our guest.

EXPERT KNOWLEDGE: Between the two, they have visited more than 100 countries & worked in the travel industry for 15+ years. Our partner travel agency, Scorby Travel and Cruise, has been crafting luxury trips for clients for 50+ years. We know what it takes to execute a dynamic, well-thought-out travel experience for our clients (YOU!). 

A FRIENDLY FACE: when you join one of our group trips, Linda and I will be with you (quite literally) every step of the way. From the time of booking to when you’re unpacked and back at home, joining one of our getaways will give you the peace of mind you need to navigate this ever-changing travel landscape in style.

WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?

Cancellations need to be reviewed on an individualized basis as described within your mandatory travel insurance policy provisions (which Gals Abroad Getaways can assist you in purchasing). For any other cancellations, the Gals Abroad Getaways standard cancellation policy can be reviewed HERE. Any Gals who would like the option to cancel for any reason are advised to purchase additional travel insurance.

QUESTIONS?

• Can I come solo?

  • YES OF COURSE (that’s what most of our gals do)! Please make a note of this on your registration & we will always work to pair you with a fellow solo traveler. If we cannot find you a roommate, you would have the option to join & pay a single supplement fee or opt to join us at a later date. However, we will never take your deposit without first letting you know where you stand with a roommate. Email to galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com if you have any questions!

• How much free time will we have?

  • This destination is very much a choose-your-adventure travel experience. Included in the price of your trip you will have 3 Gals Abroad Getaways Exclusive excursions in the ports we are visiting as well as the opportunity to choose to join any of the included Riverside excursions. If you’d prefer to not join in on an excursion one day and just visit the port on your own - that’s totally cool too! Many of the destinations we are visiting are perfect for solo exploration if that’s more your speed.

  • On the ship, all of our meals are included & you will be able to dine at your leisure.

  • If you feel like you would like to have some time to explore this region deeper we are more than happy to chat with you about arriving early or staying late & can help you with your pre/post travel plans.

• Can I come early or stay late?

  • Of course! When requesting to register we are taking a head count of all the gals who want to arrive early or stay late. As always, we’re more than happy to assist with booking hotels & activities for any Gals arriving early or extending their stay. Have more questions - shoot us an email galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com

• What is the activity level?

  • As with most of our Getaways, if you join in on our excursions, we will be doing a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces, some confined spaces, and getting on and off the ship. You should be able to comfortably walk for about 3 hours. If you opt to explore the ports on your own, then you get to set the pace for your exploration.

• Is there an age requirement/limit for this trip?

  • You must be 21 years of age or older to join any Gals Abroad Getaway. While we do not have an age limit we do suggest that anyone joining this trip be comfortable with walking for up to 3 hours.

• What should I pack?

  • Don’t you worry, we will send out a packing list well in advance to those attending so that you have PLENTY of time to shop and plan so you can feel your most fabulous self once you arrive. But keep in mind we are visiting during winter so temps can get chilly - but that just means you get to wear fun and fabulous winter outfits & accessories!

• How can I get to know the other gals on this trip?

  • Prior to this trip, we will be sending out a Gals Abroad Getaways “Get to Know the Gals” document + some exciting virtual, IRL opportunities to get to know one another before the trip kicks off.

• Do I need to purchase travel insurance?

  • Yes, everyone will be required to purchase travel insurance for this trip. In order for pre-existing conditions to be covered, this insurance must be purchased no later than 7 days from the date of initial deposit. When you are confirmed for the trip, we will follow up with insurance options and costs. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement for your trip costs if your plans change for unforeseeable reasons or if you need medical help/emergency transport or experience theft, loss or damage of items while traveling. 

• Is there a minimum number of participants required to run the trip?

  • Yes. We require a minimum of 15 travelers to run this trip. If we do not meet the minimum, the per-person cost is subject to increase by a nominal amount. If this occurs, we will reach out to each traveler to inform them of the additional cost.

• What happens if the tour is postponed?

  • If this trip needs to be canceled for any COVID-19 reasons, we will reschedule this itinerary to a future date.

• Is there a waiting list?

  • There will be a waiting list that will run on a first-come, first-serve basis in the event of a space opening up. If this particular trip is full, and you’re still interested in coming, please send an email to galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com to be added to the waiting list

• Still, have questions? No worries!

  • Send us an email galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com and we’d be more than happy to help!