Experience the European Christmas Markets with New Friends!
Three incredible cities, countless Christmas markets, and nine days filled with experiences you’ll be talking about long after you return home. Journey from Munich to Salzburg to Vienna, discovering each city at its most festive while experiencing so much more along the way. Explore royal palaces, bake Austrian strudel, dine and listen to classical music high above Salzburg, visit the famous Lipizzaner stallions, and wander Christmas markets with plenty of time to find that perfect treasure. Come for Christmas in Europe—and leave with new friends to share the memories with.
Overall Trip Highlights
- Christmas Markets Across Three Storybook Cities: Experience Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna glowing with festive lights, old-world markets, handcrafted treasures, and holiday treats.
- Munich’s Royal & Bavarian Side: Explore the magnificent Munich Residenz, taste Bavarian favorites, experience Hofbräuhaus, and see Marienplatz from above.
- Salzburg from the Streets to the Fortress: Discover Mozart’s beautiful hometown before a VIP dinner and classical concert high inside Hohensalzburg Fortress.
- Imperial Vienna at Christmastime: Experience Schönbrunn Palace, the Spanish Riding School, grand Christmas markets, and Vienna’s elegant historic center.
- Bake Like an Austrian: Make apple strudel and Christmas cookies during a hands-on cooking lesson followed by lunch.
- The Spectacular Melk Abbey: Step inside a Baroque masterpiece filled with gilded halls, incredible frescoes, and a magnificent historic library.
- Light of Creation: Watch Vienna’s soaring Votivkirche come alive with music, color, and immersive projections.
- Christmas Shopping Without the Rush: Enjoy dedicated time to browse ornaments, handmade gifts, local specialties, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
- Memorable Dining Experiences: From historic St. Peter Stiftskulinarium to Bavarian favorites and festive group dinners, the food is part of the adventure.
- Thoughtfully Paced & Made for Connection: Private tours, relaxed mornings, time to explore, and plenty of opportunities to laugh, connect, and make new friends.
December 3-11, 2026
9 Days/8 Nights
3 Days in Munich
2 Days in Salzburg
3 Days in Vienna
Group Size: 12 Guests and 2 Merry BB Hosts
Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.
| Single Occupancy | Double Occupancy |
| $7,980 | $6,940 |
| Private Room with Private Bath | Shared Room, Separate Beds, Shared Bath |
| Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International |
Deposit Due at Time of Booking: $250 for Domestic/$500 for International |
| Single Occupancy – Sold Out Click for Waitlist |
Double Occupancy – Sold Out Click for Waitlist |
Beatrice Bradley Experiences are All Inclusive. What does that mean?
- Airport Group Transfers: Seamless airport pickups and drop-offs by our friendly hostesses, ensuring a smooth start and end to your adventure.
- Dedicated BB Hostess: Travel with peace of mind knowing a dedicated Beatrice Bradley hostess will be with you throughout the trip, ensuring every aspect of your journey is unforgettable.
- Full Dining: Enjoy 2-3 daily meals carefully selected to reflect the local cuisine, inclusive of all tips. Whether it’s a quick breakfast or a sumptuous dinner, we’ve got it all covered.
- Unique Accommodations: Stay in boutique hotels or unique properties that are handpicked for their charm and comfort, providing an authentic and intimate experience.
- Curated Activities: We find the BEST of the best tours. Making the absolute most out of our time.
- Included Gratuities: Tips for tour guides, meals, and transportation are all taken care of. We ensure that those who make your trip special are rewarded, without you needing to worry about the details.
- Transportation: All transportation is included throughout the experience, from airport pickup to your final drop-off.
- You won’t see “Free Days” on our itineraries: Our trips are made for a balanced experience. We carve out time to bond, laugh, shop and explore but we will never just send you out on your own and say “good luck” we do everything together or smaller group breakouts.
With Beatrice Bradley, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure you have a memorable and carefree travel experience. Join us and discover the joy of true hassle-free travel!
We Offer Flex-Pay! What is that?
Flexible Payments at Your Fingertips: You can use your invoice to pay any amount you choose, as frequently as you wish, until the full payment deadline.
Want to make a payment? Click “Review and Pay” on your invoice whenever you’re ready.
Pay Your Way: You can adjust the payment amount by selecting “Edit Amount,” allowing you to manage your budget flexibly.
Final Countdown: Ensure everything is paid up 60 days prior to your trip for domestic and 90 days prior for international. Don’t worry, we’ll send you reminders! If there’s any remaining balance, we’ll automatically process it, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure!
| Arrival Information | Departing Information |
| Flying in and out of different airports Fly into Munich (MUC) and out of Vienna (VIE) | Flying in and out of different airports Fly into Munich (MUC) and out of Vienna (VIE) |
| December 3, 2026 (Book flights on 12/2 to arrive 12/3) | December 11, 2026 |
| Must arrive before 3:00 PM | Shuttles offered starting at 7:00 AM |
This journey is thoughtfully designed for adventurous women over 50 who love cultural exploration and festive traditions at a comfortable pace. The itinerary includes scenic train travel, guided walking tours, and visits to historic sites balanced with time to relax and enjoy the season.
Walking & Terrain: Expect daily walking on cobblestone streets, through lively Christmas markets, and inside historic sites. Some locations include stairs, uneven surfaces, and standing for extended periods during guided tours or performances.
Market Exploration: Visiting Europe’s famed Christmas markets involves leisurely strolling through outdoor squares and pedestrian zones, often in cool winter weather. Comfortable, supportive footwear and layered clothing are essential.
Pace & Comfort: This itinerary balances structured activities with time to rest, sip coffee in cozy cafés, or explore at your leisure. All experiences are optional—you can participate as much or as little as you’d like while still soaking in the magic of the season.
From the moment you arrive until we bid you farewell, we’ll be right by your side. We meticulously handle all the details and manage the logistics seamlessly behind the scenes, ensuring your journey is truly unique and worry-free. While we aren’t local experts or tour guides, we work with a network of local professionals carefully selected for each location to enrich your experience.
Read more about our Hostesses Here
Thinking about joining us?
If you’re on the fence or have any questions, we’re here to help. Simply fill out this form to get in touch. We can’t wait to assist you in planning an unforgettable adventure!
If you have any immediate questions, please feel free to get in touch: 763-784-8291 | Lindsay@bbgage.com
Ready to book? We’re happy to have you!
Every Beatrice Bradley trip is crafted to maximize the experiences had during the trip.
The itineraries are specially made to allow time for engaging in conversation and having belly laughs with a new friend. We hope that the activities and experiences may allow you to come out of your comfort zone and to try new or unique things.
These trips are made to replicate a ‘friends get-away trip’.
trip summary – Day by Day
Day Two: Munich
Day Three: Munich
Day Four: TRANSFER DAY Munich to Salzburg
Day Five: Salzburg
Day Six: TRANSFER DAY Salzburg to Vienna
Day Seven: Vienna
Day Eight: Vienna
Day Nine: Departure from Vienna
Day One: Willkommen in München!
Your European Christmas adventure begins in Munich, where centuries-old architecture, twinkling lights, and festive traditions create an unforgettable introduction to the season. Settle into your centrally located hotel before stepping out to experience your first glimpse of Munich dressed for Christmas. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a warm Welcome Dinner, raising a glass to new friendships and the magical journey ahead.
Highlights
- Arrive in Munich: Receive a warm welcome and settle into your centrally located hotel.
- A First Taste of Christmas: Take in the lights, decorated streets, and festive atmosphere of Munich during the most magical time of year.
- Welcome Dinner: Gather around the table for Bavarian flavors, new friendships, and a toast to the adventure ahead!
Fun Fact: Munich’s Christkindlmarkt has roots stretching all the way back to the 14th century, making it the city’s oldest Christmas market tradition. Today, more than 100 festive stalls fill Marienplatz beneath a Christmas tree illuminated by thousands of lights.
Day Two: Munich Traditions & Twinkling Lights
After breakfast, set out with a private guide to discover the heart of historic Munich, where grand architecture, centuries-old landmarks, and festive streets set the scene for your first full day in Bavaria. Along the way, stop at the beloved Viktualienmarkt to sample local favorites like warm pretzels, savory sausages, and other Bavarian specialties.
Then, the Christmas magic truly begins! Arrive at Marienplatz, where Munich’s famous Christkindlmarkt fills the historic square with twinkling lights, handcrafted ornaments, decorated stalls, and the irresistible scents of roasted nuts, gingerbread, and mulled wine. Enjoy time to wander, shop, and soak in the festive atmosphere surrounding the magnificent Neues Rathaus and its famous Glockenspiel.
This evening, experience another Munich tradition with dinner at the legendary Hofbräuhaus, where Bavarian dishes, music, and a lively atmosphere make for a quintessential night in Munich. After dinner, ascend to the observation deck of Munich’s New Town Hall, rising above Marienplatz for panoramic views across the historic rooftops and the glowing Christmas market below—a magical way to see Munich dressed for the season.
Highlights
- Private Munich Walking Tour: Discover the stories, landmarks, and beautiful architecture of historic Munich with a local guide.
- Viktualienmarkt Tastings: Sample Bavarian favorites while exploring Munich’s beloved food market.
- Munich Christkindlmarkt: Wander beneath the lights of Marienplatz with time to shop for ornaments, gifts, and Christmas treasures.
- Famous Glockenspiel: See one of Munich’s most beloved landmarks in the heart of the Old Town.
- Dinner at Hofbräuhaus: Enjoy traditional Bavarian food and the lively atmosphere of Munich’s legendary beer hall.
- New Town Hall Observation Deck: Ascend above Marienplatz for panoramic views of Munich’s historic rooftops and the Christmas market glowing below
Fun Fact: Beer once helped save Munich! When Swedish troops occupied the city during the Thirty Years’ War in 1632, thousands of liters of Hofbräu beer were included in the tribute given to spare Munich from further destruction. Tonight, you’ll dine at the very Hofbräuhaus behind that legendary brew!
Day Three: Palaces, Pretzels & a Step Back in Time
Step inside the grandeur of the Munich Residenz, the former royal palace of Bavaria’s Wittelsbach rulers. Wander through magnificent halls, lavishly decorated chambers, and rooms filled with centuries of royal treasures, including the breathtaking Antiquarium—one of the most impressive Renaissance halls in Europe.
Just outside the palace, Christmas awaits! Explore the charming Residenz Christmas Village, tucked into a palace courtyard and filled with decorated wooden chalets, traditional treats, handcrafted gifts, and festive displays inspired by Bavarian folklore.
Then, trade royal splendor for a journey back in time at Munich’s Medieval Christmas Market. Costumed merchants, flickering torches, handcrafted wares, and hearty foods prepared over open flames create an atmosphere unlike any other Christmas market on the journey. Afterward, return to the hotel with time to rest, shop, or enjoy Munich at your own pace.
This evening, gather for a relaxed dinner at the hotel, sharing delicious pinsas and cocktails as you toast to another wonderful day in Bavaria.
Highlights
- Munich Residenz: Step inside the former royal palace of Bavaria and discover magnificent rooms, artwork, and centuries of royal history.
- Residenz Christmas Village: Browse a charming Christmas market nestled within the walls of a former royal palace.
- Medieval Christmas Market: Step back in time among costumed merchants, torchlight, handmade treasures, and foods cooked over open flames.
- A Relaxed Evening Together: Unwind over pinsas and cocktails without having to venture back out into the winter night.
Fun Fact: The Munich Residenz began as a small castle in 1385 and grew over the centuries into an enormous royal complex with around 130 rooms, reflecting the changing tastes and ambitions of generations of Bavarian rulers.
Day Four: Salzburg from the Streets to the Stars
After breakfast, say farewell to Munich and travel through the beautiful Bavarian countryside toward Salzburg, Austria, where snow-dusted rooftops, church spires, and the surrounding Alps create a storybook setting for the next chapter of your Christmas journey.
After settling into the hotel, join a private guide for an introduction to Salzburg’s historic Old Town. Wander through elegant squares and charming lanes while discovering the stories, landmarks, and musical heritage that have made this UNESCO-listed city so beloved.
As evening falls, ascend by funicular to the magnificent Hohensalzburg Fortress, perched high above the city. Tonight is something truly special: enjoy a VIP dinner inside the historic fortress, followed by an intimate classical concert in one of Salzburg’s most extraordinary settings. With the lights of Salzburg twinkling below and music filling the centuries-old fortress, it’s an unforgettable ending to your first day in Austria.
Highlights
- Journey to Salzburg: Travel from Munich into Austria with beautiful Bavarian and Alpine scenery along the way.
- Private Salzburg Walking Tour: Discover the cobblestone streets, historic squares, architecture, and musical heritage of Salzburg’s Old Town.
- Hohensalzburg Fortress: Ride the funicular high above the city to one of Europe’s most impressive medieval fortresses.
- VIP Fortress Dinner: Enjoy a special evening meal surrounded by centuries of Salzburg history.
- Classical Concert at the Fortress: End the evening with beautiful music and a spectacular setting overlooking Salzburg.
Fun Fact: Hohensalzburg Fortress dates back to 1077 and grew over centuries into one of Europe’s largest fully preserved medieval castle complexes. Its hilltop location has watched over Salzburg for nearly 1,000 years.
Day Five: Bake, Browse & Be Merry!
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Salzburg with time to sleep in, linger over breakfast, or take an optional stroll to the charming Mirabell Christmas Market. Browse the festive stalls, sip something warm, or simply enjoy a slower start before coming together for a delicious hands-on experience.
Late this morning, step into the kitchen for an Apple Strudel & Christmas Cookies Cooking Lesson. Learn the secrets behind two beloved Austrian holiday treats before sitting down to enjoy lunch together—including your freshly baked creations!
This afternoon is yours to experience the festive heart of Salzburg. Wander through the Christmas market at Residenzplatz, browse the beautiful shops and traditional wrought-iron signs along Getreidegasse, and enjoy plenty of time to search for ornaments, gifts, and special treasures to bring home.
As evening falls, gather for dinner at the legendary St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, nestled within the historic St. Peter’s Abbey complex. With a history stretching back more than a thousand years, this remarkable setting provides a memorable finale to a day filled with Austrian flavors, Christmas traditions, and time to simply enjoy Salzburg.
Highlights
- Apple Strudel & Christmas Cookies Cooking Lesson: Get hands-on in the kitchen while learning to make two Austrian favorites, followed by lunch together.
- Salzburg Christmas Market: Enjoy plenty of time to browse the festive stalls surrounding historic Residenzplatz.
- Shopping on Getreidegasse: Explore one of Salzburg’s most beautiful streets with time to browse its shops and search for something special.
- Dinner at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium: End the day with dinner in one of Salzburg’s most historic and atmospheric settings.
Fun Fact: Traditional Austrian apple strudel dough is famously stretched until it’s thin enough to see through! According to tradition, a properly prepared sheet of strudel dough should be so delicate that you could read a love letter through it.
Day Six: From Abbey Heights to Vienna Nights
After breakfast, say farewell to Salzburg and set off by private transfer toward Vienna. Along the way, stop in the charming town of Melk, home to one of Austria’s most magnificent landmarks.
Perched high above the Danube River, Melk Abbey is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Step inside with a guide to discover its magnificent interiors, ornate church, grand halls, and breathtaking library while learning about the Benedictine monks who have called this remarkable hilltop setting home for centuries.
After the tour, continue through the Austrian countryside toward Vienna. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy time to unpack and unwind after the journey.
This evening, gather around the table for your first dinner together in Vienna—a relaxed introduction to Austria’s elegant capital and the perfect beginning to the final chapter of your Christmas adventure.
Highlights
- Private Journey to Vienna: Travel comfortably from Salzburg toward Austria’s magnificent capital.
- Melk Abbey: Break up the journey with a guided visit to one of Austria’s most spectacular Baroque landmarks.
- Arrive in Vienna: Check into your hotel with time to settle in and relax before the evening.
- Dinner Together in Vienna: Gather for a welcoming first evening in the city before the adventures ahead.
Fun Fact: Melk Abbey’s spectacular library contains around 100,000 volumes, including centuries-old manuscripts, and its magnificent ceiling fresco was designed to make the flat ceiling appear dramatically higher than it really is.
Day Seven: Imperial Vienna & Christmas Wonder
Set out this morning with a private guide to discover the heart of Vienna, where imperial grandeur, elegant boulevards, magnificent architecture, and centuries of history unfold around every corner. Explore the historic center and some of the city’s most celebrated landmarks, from the legacy of the Habsburgs to the soaring spire of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, while getting a true feel for Austria’s elegant capital.
After the tour, enjoy time for lunch and a leisurely afternoon to explore at your own pace. Browse the shops, stop for a slice of Viennese cake and coffee, or simply return to the hotel to relax before a festive evening ahead.
As darkness falls, experience one of Vienna’s most iconic holiday traditions at the Rathausplatz Christmas Market. Beneath the illuminated façade of Vienna City Hall, wander among glowing stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, ornaments, seasonal treats, and steaming mugs of punch.
Then, step inside the magnificent Votivkirche for Light of Creation. Brilliant projections, music, and color transform the soaring neo-Gothic interior into an immersive light and sound experience—a spectacular finale to an evening filled with Christmas lights in Vienna.
Highlights
- Private Vienna Walking Tour: Discover the history, architecture, and imperial landmarks of Vienna’s historic center with a local guide.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral: See one of Vienna’s most recognizable landmarks in the heart of the Old Town.
- A Leisurely Afternoon: Enjoy time for lunch, shopping, Viennese coffee, or a little well-earned relaxation.
- Rathausplatz Christmas Market: Experience Vienna’s grandest Christmas market beneath the illuminated City Hall.
- Votivkirche – Light of Creation: Watch one of Vienna’s magnificent churches come alive through an immersive display of light, color, and music.
Fun Fact: Vienna’s Rathausplatz has hosted its famous Christmas market in front of City Hall since 1975, but Vienna’s Christmas-market tradition stretches back centuries—the city granted traders permission to hold a December market as early as 1298.
Day Eight: One Last Waltz Through Vienna
Your final full day in Vienna begins with one of the city’s most treasured traditions at the Spanish Riding School. Watch the magnificent Lipizzaner stallions and their riders during a morning training session, offering a fascinating glimpse into the centuries-old art of classical horsemanship.
Next, travel to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Step inside its opulent rooms on a guided tour and discover the stories of emperors and empresses who once called this extraordinary palace home.
Outside, one final Christmas market awaits! Set against the grand façade of Schönbrunn Palace, browse beautifully decorated stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, Austrian specialties, ornaments, and seasonal treats. Take your time soaking in the festive atmosphere and perhaps enjoy one last mug of something warm as you say goodbye to the Christmas markets of Europe.
Afterward, the afternoon is yours to enjoy Vienna however you wish. Return to the hotel for a little rest, linger over coffee and cake at a Viennese café, finish your Christmas shopping, or simply savor your final hours in this beautiful city.
This evening, come together for a special Farewell Dinner, sharing favorite memories, plenty of laughter, and a toast to the friendships and unforgettable moments that made this Christmas journey so special.
Highlights
- Spanish Riding School: Watch Vienna’s famous Lipizzaner stallions during a morning training session at this centuries-old institution.
- Schönbrunn Palace: Explore the magnificent former summer residence of the Habsburg imperial family.
- One Last Christmas Market: Enjoy a final festive stroll through the beautiful Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace.
- An Afternoon Your Way: Relax, shop, visit a Viennese café, or enjoy a little more of the city at your own pace.
- Farewell Dinner: Raise a glass to an unforgettable journey through Germany and Austria and the new friendships made along the way.
Fun Fact: The Lipizzaner horses of the Spanish Riding School are born with dark coats and gradually become the famous white horses most people recognize as they mature. A small number remain dark throughout their lives and are traditionally considered good luck for the school.
Day Nine: Auf Wiedersehen, Vienna!
After an unforgettable journey through the Christmas markets, historic cities, and holiday traditions of Germany and Austria, it’s time to begin the journey home. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and transferring to Vienna International Airport for your flight home.
Depart with suitcases filled with Christmas treasures and memories of glowing market stalls, grand palaces, Austrian strudel, classical music, and—most importantly—the friendships and laughter shared along the way.
Until our next adventure together… Auf Wiedersehen!
Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.
You Might Be Wondering…
Read through our frequently asked questions.
I've never traveled solo; Is this travel group for me?
Yes! In fact, many of our guests are first-time solo travelers. Beatrice Bradley is designed exactly for women like you. Those ready to explore but not alone. From the moment you arrive, you'll be welcomed into a fun, supportive group of like-minded women. We take care of the details so you can relax, make fast friends, and enjoy the adventure. You may come solo, but you’ll never feel alone.
Beatrice Bradley Experiences are All Inclusive. What does that mean?
Included:
- Accommodations: Stay in boutique hotels or unique properties that are handpicked for their charm and comfort, providing an authentic and intimate experience.
- Tours / Activities: We curate only the best of the best experiences to make the most of our time together. Please note that tours and activities listed on the website are subject to change based on availability, group size, and weather. If adjustments are needed, we’ll always replace them with something equally special
- Food / Beverages: Meals eaten with the group are fully covered by Beatrice Bradley. Typically this includes 2 meals a day.
- Transportation: All transportation is included throughout the experience, from airport pickup to your final drop-off.
- Airport Group Transfers: Seamless airport pickups and drop-offs by our friendly hostesses, ensuring a smooth start and end to your adventure.
- Dedicated BB Hostess: Travel with peace of mind knowing a dedicated Beatrice Bradley hostess will be with you throughout the trip, ensuring every aspect of your journey is unforgettable. Please remember Your BB Host is not your tour guide.
- Included Gratuities: Tips for local tour guides, meals, and transportation are all taken care of.
not included:
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Airfare to and from the destination – You’ll arrange your own flights based on our suggested arrival and departure times.
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Hotel incidentals and personal expenses – Things like room service, minibar items, or personal shopping aren’t included.
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Meals eaten outside the group – If you choose to skip a group meal or explore on your own, those meals are at your own expense.
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Activities done outside the group itinerary – Any optional excursions, spa treatments, or activities not part of the planned group experience will be at your discretion and cost.
- Tips for your Beatrice Bradley Host
We keep things simple and transparent—so you can focus on enjoying every moment.
Are the deposits refundable / What is the cancellation policy.
What if i want to skip an activity? - How important is it to be on time?
You are never required to do all activities! Sometimes you need a little downtime, and you’re welcome to skip an activity if you'd prefer to rest or recharge. Just keep our hosts in the loop.
Being on time is also very important. We run a thoughtful schedule to make sure everyone gets the most out of each day. Out of respect for your fellow travelers and our guides, we ask that you arrive on time and ready to roll so we can keep the adventure smooth and stress-free for all!
What can I expect from a Beatrice Bradley Host?
Our Beatrice Bradley hosts are the glue that holds each trip together. They understand how intimidating solo travel can feel, and they’re dedicated to making your experience warm, welcoming, and full of laughter. From the moment you arrive, they’ll be there with a smile—helping you settle in, making introductions, and setting the tone for a fun and connected adventure.
Our hosts aren’t just handling logistics—they’re the heart of the journey. They create a sense of community, offer support, and help every woman feel seen, included, and valued.
Please note: our hosts are not local tour guides—we hire local experts for that. In some cases, it may even be their first time in the destination, just like you! While they’re often going above and beyond to ensure everything runs smoothly, we kindly ask that you treat them with respect. They are not personal assistants or luggage porters—they are your fellow travelers, dedicated to making this trip unforgettable for everyone.
How does tipping work?
We take care of all standard tips for included meals, local guides, and drivers—so you don’t need to worry about those details.
If you’d like to show appreciation to your Beatrice Bradley host, gratuities are always welcome but never expected. A general guideline is $5–$10 per day, per host, depending on your experience. Most guests find it a meaningful way to say thank you for the care, energy, and fun our hosts bring to each trip!
