Blog

Announcement of 2024 Photo Contest Winners!

We’re excited to announce the winners of our 2024 Traveler Photo Contest! A big thank you to everyone who shared their incredible memories with us this year. Your photos beautifully captured the spirit of exploration and connection that make our tours so special.

The winning entries are now live! View the stunning photos here: 2024 Traveler Photo Contest Winners.

Thank you for being part of our travel family and for inspiring us with your amazing adventures. Stay tuned for more exciting opportunities in 2025!

Our signature tour is available to book for 2025 (formerly Heart of Europe® Circle Tour).  We are currently promoting our May 1 & 13, 2025 departures at $400 Savings per Couple ($200 p.p.) if you book by 12/18/24. Watch the video below for a preview.

We’re thrilled to take you on a visual journey through some of the most unforgettable moments of our 2024 season. As we look back on a year filled with exploration, adventure, and discovery, we’re excited to share a curated selection of photos that encapsulate the spirit of what makes our tours so special at: 2024 Traveler Photo Showcase.

From the beaches of Normandy to the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps, these photos capture not only the breathtaking landscapes but also the rich cultural heritage and history of each destination. Our travelers experienced ancient cities like Rome and Prague, wandered through charming villages in the heart of Tuscany, and stood in awe of the natural wonders across Scandinavia.

Each photo tells a story—whether it’s a candid moment of joy, the quiet beauty of a serene landscape, or the lively energy of a bustling European market. These snapshots are a testament to the shared memories and connections made along the way. We’re proud to celebrate the people, places, and experiences that make traveling with us so meaningful.

But we couldn’t do it without you! These moments were captured by travelers just like you, eager to share their personal adventures and favorite memories with our travel community. Whether you’re reliving your own travels or dreaming about your next destination, we’re sure you’ll find plenty of inspiration.

As we close the chapter on 2024, we want to thank everyone who joined us on these journeys and shared their cherished memories. Your photos, your stories, and your experiences are what make every tour unforgettable. Looking ahead, we’re already planning for an exciting 2025 season filled with new adventures and new itineraries. We hope these photos spark a desire in you to be part of the story next year.

Thank you for being part of our travel family. We look forward to seeing where the road takes us together in 2025!
 

Discover the Wonders of Scandinavia and the Baltics: A Dream Vacation

If you’re dreaming of breathtaking landscapes, centuries-old history, and vibrant cities, a guided tour through Scandinavia and the Baltics may just be your perfect getaway. From the fjords of Norway to the medieval streets of Estonia, our 17-day adventure through Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania offers an unforgettable blend of cultural experiences and natural wonders. Here’s why this region should be on your travel bucket list—and why taking a guided tour ensures you won’t miss a thing!

Included Features

Traveling through seven countries in 17 days sounds ambitious—but with Image Tours, everything is made easy. You’ll enjoy the comfort of superior tourist class or first-class hotels, ensuring that your accommodations are as inviting as the stunning destinations you’ll visit. Plus, with 14 breakfasts and 9 dinners included, alongside in-flight meals, you won’t need to worry about food logistics as you journey through Scandinavia and the Baltics. On top of that, you’ll be accompanied by an experienced Tour Manager for the full duration of the trip in Europe.

Dive into Culture and History

One of the greatest joys of this tour is the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in each country's rich culture and history. In Denmark, you’ll visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum in Odense, home to one of the world’s most beloved fairytale writers. Learn about his life, from humble beginnings to the creation of classic tales like “The Ugly Duckling” and “The Little Mermaid.” In Norway, your adventure will take you to Bergen’s Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a reminder of the city’s role in the Hanseatic League. You’ll also travel through the Storebælt Fixed Link, a remarkable feat of modern engineering that consists of two bridges and a tunnel. The tour also includes a visit to the Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo, an open-air museum with over 200 sculptures that capture the complexity of the human experience. In Sweden, you’ll explore Gamla Stan—Stockholm’s enchanting Old Town, with its medieval alleys and well-preserved Gothic buildings. Take in the views of the Royal Palace and the majestic Stockholm Cathedral, offering a window into the past.

A Journey for All the Senses

Whether you’re enjoying the local cuisine, shopping for unique Baltic crafts, or taking in the scenery from your hotel window, this guided tour is designed to engage all your senses. Enjoy freshly caught seafood, hearty Scandinavian stews, and delicious pastries, like the famous Danish smørrebrød or Swedish meatballs. You’ll have opportunities to wander local markets, such as the bustling one in Helsinki, where traditional foods, handcrafted items, and souvenirs await. If you’re feeling adventurous, sample the unique Riga Black Balsam, or browse for stunning amber products in Latvia.

Seamless Travel Across Seven Countries

One of the best parts of a guided tour is how stress-free it makes traveling between countries. From scenic rail journeys on the Flåm Railway to overnight cruises between Denmark and Norway, and from ferry rides across the Gulf of Finland, your transportation is handled with ease and efficiency. Sit back and enjoy the ride, as you journey through the mountains of Norway, the serene forests of Sweden, and the vibrant cities of the Baltics.

Why Wait?

With a seamless itinerary that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation, a guided tour through Scandinavia and the Baltics offers an unparalleled way to experience these magical regions. Whether you’re admiring centuries-old architecture, sailing through picturesque fjords, or tasting local delicacies, each day promises to be filled with wonder. Let Image Tours take care of the details so you can focus on soaking in the beauty, history, and culture of Scandinavia and the Baltics. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

For more details and a full itinerary of the 17-day Scandinavia & Baltic Highlights Tour, visit the official tour page and start planning your dream vacation today.

When thinking about travel to Europe, it can be daunting to consider all of the details such as places to stay, things to do, foods to try, and what’s most important to see. While there are many ways to approach planning a trip to Europe, escorted tours offer a great balance of having a wide variety of experiences, allowing the traveler to benefit from the expertise of the tour company that planned the itinerary, and being supported by a guide who will accompany the travelers throughout their trip. In addition to being a fun and low stress way to travel to Europe, an escorted tour of Europe offers numerous other advantages too, making it a compelling option for many travelers with five of the top benefits as follows:

1) CONVENIENCE. Escorted tours take care of essential logistics such as transportation, accommodation, and daily itineraries, allowing travelers to focus on experiencing their destinations rather than managing the complexities of travel arrangements. This streamlined approach eliminates the stress of booking multiple services and navigating public transport systems in foreign countries.

2) EXPERTISE OF LOCAL GUIDES. These professionals offer valuable insights into the history, culture, and hidden treasures of each destination. Their knowledge enhances the travel experience by providing context that goes beyond what’s available in standard travel guides. For instance, a local guide might share fascinating anecdotes about a historical site or lead you to lesser known but equally impressive attractions that you might not discover on your own.

3) WELL-PLANNED ITINERARY. A good itinerary will balance major landmarks with unique experiences. This thoughtful planning ensures that travelers can enjoy a diverse range of activities, from visiting iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Colosseum in Rome to exploring charming, off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods and small mountain villages in Austria or Switzerland. The structured schedule helps maximize the value of your trip, ensuring you see and do as much as possible within a set time frame.

4) SAFETY & SUPPORT. In unfamiliar environments, having a guide can provide reassurance and practical assistance. Guides are familiar with local customs, potential hazards, and emergency procedures, adding an extra layer of security. They can also assist with language barriers and other challenges that might arise during your travels, ensuring a smoother experience.

5) MAKE NEW FRIENDS. Escorted tours often facilitate social interaction among travelers. Being part of a group with shared interests can lead to new friendships and enhance the overall enjoyment of the trip. Group activities and shared experiences create a sense of camaraderie and can make the journey more enjoyable and memorable.

In summary, an escorted tour of Europe provides a blend of convenience, expert knowledge, structured itineraries, safety, and social opportunities. This combination enhances the overall travel experience, making it a highly appealing option for many explorers seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable European adventure.
 

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Grand Rapids, Michigan     December 4, 2023

IMAGE TOURS TRANSITIONING TO NEW LEADERSHIP

Over the next two years, Patrick and Beth McIntyre are acquiring Image Tours from Monique and Mike Kasmauskis. The purchase was initiated on December 1, 2023.

Founded in the Netherlands in 1939, Grand Rapids, MI based Image Tours offers escorted European tours with a dedication to providing Superior Value with a Personal Touch. “This has been a family company since its founding, and while we are not part of the founding family, we are excited to continue running Image Tours as a family owned and operated business”, said Patrick McIntyre who is transitioning into the President and General Manager roles for the company.

Monique Kasmauskis wishes to convey, “Mike and I feel confident passing the torch onto Patrick and Beth McIntyre to provide leadership and strategic implementations which will preserve the quality and authenticity of the product while also making improvements throughout the operation.”

Monique and Mike will remain involved in the operations of the business as the sale process will be completed in November of 2025 ensuring a smooth and effective transition to the McIntyres. Beth’s career focus has been in advertising and marketing at an advertising agency in Chicago and as owner of a retail business in Traverse City. Patrick has an extensive background in the travel industry as he grew up in the family that founded, owned, and operated Passageways Travel in Traverse City, MI, and then worked at the travel agency from 2005 through April of 2012 in a variety of leadership roles. Since 2012 Patrick has owned and operated Management Reporting Services, a consulting and data management company that operates in the travel industry.

“Beth and I are committed to living up to the standards set by Monique, Mike, and everyone that’s part of the Image Tours team both now and into the future”, stated Patrick McIntyre. The business plans to continue operations in its current location with the same team of staff as it enters this next phase of leadership.