Baden-Baden Germany

Bill Clinton on a recent visit to Baden-Baden said "It got its name because the town was so nice it had to be said twice." This may be the most opulent stop of the tour. Pricey shops, manicured lawns and fine dining could be found everywhere. 

Mineral Bath House for Women

Baden-Baden is a spa resort town that also boasts the most opulent casino imaginable. We had a morning tour since the casino does not open until 2:00 PM. Actress Marlene Dietrich once called it the world's most beautiful casino, and though its glory days are long gone the beauty still remains. Baden-Baden's ornate Kurhaus (casino), designed 190 years ago, still oozes style and grace. It's the oldest casino in Europe and the only casino during World War II that Hitler allowed to remain open. 

Hidden in a wooded valley on the edge of the Black Forest, Baden-Baden town was founded by the Romans as a health farm, somewhere for soldiers and citizens to unwind. They built a bathhouse here – you can still see the foundations – and although these fine buildings fell into ruins, the hot springs that fed them are still bubbling away. By the 19th century these mineral baths, rich in calcium and magnesium, had become a fashionable cure-all. And what better way to round off a treatment than with a game of chance. With the plush carpeting, and ornate furnishings with sparkling chandeliers 

it's like being in a palace rather than in a casino. The stakes must be high playing in  this swanky establishment.  

Outside was just as beautiful with a promenade called Lichtentaler Allee.  This alley starts in downtown Baden-Baden and goes along a path by small river. It leads to the Lichtental monastery a few miles away. The path runs through a picturesque park with old trees, famous hotels, old villas and palaces. 

We were treated to a delicious lunch capped off by this scrumptious dessert. 

All this wonderful food has forced me to rethink three meals a day by skipping one and  upping my exercise. 

The city of Luxembourg is in the country of Luxembourg.  Since 2 days here is an unscheduled trip being off the ship to catch another boat, arrangements have been made for all 124 of us to stay at a 5 star Sofitel Hotel. What a deal!!