In A Boat, On A Train
Revisiting Luxemburg with the Boys
The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, a small European country known for its rich history and vibrant culture, has long been a popular tourist destination. This summer, I wanted to show the history of the Grand Duchy to my grandsons, as a great educational experience.
The interconnectedness of Tourism within the hospitality industry significantly impacts traveler satisfaction. Each area, whether it be Food & Beverage, Travel & Tourism, Lodging, and Recreation contributes to making an expedition not just about the destination, but about the experiences and connections made along the way.
Whether it is a meal at a local restaurant or exploring a new city through a guided tour, a well-rounded hospitality approach ensures unforgettable memories for travelers.
And this was especially true during our summertime tours with the ‘boys’ in Luxembourg!
In A Boat
The boys’ odyssey began in the morning as they set sail on a cruise along the mystical River Moselle which was sun painted with shimmering gold, and the gentle hum of the boat filled the air. Unable to contain their excitement of discovery, the boys would lean over the railing watching the world glide by.
We knew they had spotted something new every time we heard a chorus of “Look over there!”
The boys took turns pointing out their findings, buzzing with energy as their imaginations raced with stories hidden in the quaint villages, the castles we passed, the captain steering the vessel, and the clear waters below.
Their excitement was palpable, and they were eager to embrace the quest that lay ahead.
One of the many lessons for the boys to take home was the terms commonly used in nautical terminology to specify different parts of a vessel.
Stern: The back of the boat. Bow: The front of the boat.
The Moselle River region is legendary for its exceptional vineyards and wine production. We started at Remich, a charming town, and passed by several notable regions. As we meandered along the Moselle, I shared my findings about one of the wineries with my daughter.
As some readers may recall, my top pick is Domaine Alice Hartman, known for its high-quality wines and verdant setting, benefitting from the region’s favorable microclimate for grape cultivation. The winery emphasizes eco-friendly practices, promoting sustainability in viticulture, including careful vineyard management and minimal intervention during the wine -making process.
Crémant refers to a group of sparkling wines produced using the same techniques as Champagne, but from outside its region. The process involves a second fermentation, which is what brings complexity and finesse to the wine.
The concept of boat locks which are electrically operated and controlled by lights was indeed a treasure for the boys, they were mesmerized watching the operations and crossing of the boats patiently.
A lock usually consists of a watertight basin known as a lock chamber, which is used to raise or lower the water level as required. Boats are raised or lowered by filling or emptying the lock chamber. Gates at each end of the lock chamber allow the boats to enter and leave.
After our adventures on water, we met some old and some new friends for dinner at L’hêtre Beim Musée, a French gastropub that offers lovely views of the Grund from its elegant terrace. The menu was sophisticated, and the atmosphere was lively, complemented by a selection of fine wines.
After a long day, the boys were great sports staying awake, alert and engaged throughout the evening!
On A Train
The boys woke up full of energy, chanting, “Yes! We ‘re going on another super-duper treasure hunt!”
With earplugs in, volume turned up, and notebooks on their laps, we set off on our adventure of the old Luxembourg Ville.
A journey through the Old Town of Luxembourg: We enjoyed playing hide and seek in the old Fish Market!
The train departed from Montée de Clausen near the entrance to the Bock Casemates (recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.)
I was eager to capture the boys’ reactions to the views through the train windows, as well as their understanding of the historical significance of the Bock Casemates.
I will discover later, to my delight how the train ride around the casemates became more than just a journey, it transformed into an engaging history lesson. The boys left with newfound excitement about exploring historical sites in Luxembourg, eager to impart some of the notable battles, highlighting their strategic importance throughout Luxembourg’s military history.
The Key Battles: Seige of Luxembourg (1684-1685), Battle of the Bulge (1944-1945), Siege of Luxembourg (1794)
The boys learned that the Bock Casemates not only served as physical defenses but also symbolized resilience of Luxembourg through various conflicts. Each battle influenced the evolution of the casemates and the city itself, making them an integral part of Luxembourg’s history.
Rives de Clausen: A district of restaurants appealing to a wide variety of tastes, attracting a cosmopolitan public.
Rham Plateau: which proudly overlooks three sides of the Alzette Valley, an integral part of Luxembourg’s fortifications since the fifteenth century.
The two tours offered the boys an engaging way to discover Luxembourg’s culture and history, blending adventure with learning through the beautiful landscapes and historic sites.
The interactive nature of the tours sparked friendly debates amongst the boys about their favorite modes of transportation, a bucket list of travels in the making, where they want to live when they are all grown up and which stories they will share upon their return.
Appreciation: They felt connected to the history, culture and traditions that shape Luxembourg.
Curiosity: Flowing questions on how climate effects wine flavor, different grape varieties.
Excitement: taking notes, drawing pictures and posing for the camera at each scenic passing.
We stopped for lunch at Ennert de Steiler, the oldest town pub in Luxembourg Ville. It was time to refuel. We enjoyed a variety of dishes
Before the day was done, I took the boys to the old fish market, which is now closed, where we enjoyed playing hide and seek on the forecourt of the castles of the Dukes, in the historical Centre of the Old Town.
Reflecting on my time with my grandsons, I realize how youth can help to amplify one’s surroundings. Each time they visit, I learn more about my own city and its history. And their playfulness and vitality opens my eyes to how amazing Luxembourg really is.
Much gratitude and appreciation is deserved for the Luxembourg City Tourist Office that takes great pride on providing a warm and welcoming experience for all visitors, especially including children.
Sounds like the boys had a great time!