Testimonials From Our Friends
| Our painting workshop with IBT, sponsored by Springfield Museum School, Springfield Museums, wending our way through the lovely towns and countryside of the Netherlands was idyllic — truly a sublime experience. As the art instructor, I could not have imagined more wonderful scenery, an abundance of tulips, wonderful meals and a genuinely friendly and helpful crew aboard the Fiep. Our ‘traveling hotel’ made it easy and comfortable to view and paint varied amazing locations. I sincerely thank all who participated and made this trip such a most memorable and creative experience. We had so much fun!
Robert Carsten, PSA-mp, IAPS-mc
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| Finding a tour company that can provide a full sense of the rich history of Dutch, French, Belgian, or Italian art, in addition to the comforts and conveniences of easy travel at a reasonable price, promises a memorable trip. International Barging Tours (IBT) of Essex, CT is that tour company.
Patricia Sayre, Travel Coordinator |
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| Traveling by barge is a remarkable experience, and having a traveling “hotel room” seems to be a big draw for our members. Watching the world drift by while dining on a delicious meal prepared by a private chef is not bad either. One of the best things while touring with IBT is that they arrange for tours to be led by top-notch art historians and guides. Each day was an educational adventure that built on the day before.
David D. J. Rau, Director of Education & Outreach |
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| Over the last several years, it has been a distinct pleasure for me to visit Holland and northern France in conjunction with the outstanding tours arranged by Frank Behrendt and International Barging Tours. My fellow travelers have rated their experiences as among the most rewarding and pleasurable. It is for this reason that we have repeatedly organized barge trips and each adventure has provided a thorough understanding of the rich cultural heritage of some of Europe’s most fascinating countries. The guides have been outstanding. The museums, churches, palaces and gardens and other points of interest we have visited have been consistently interesting. The food on the barge has been delicious and the accommodations comfortable. By not having to change hotels repeatedly, we were at a distinct advantage and to visit one city after another without lengthy bus rides, trains or flights is a great way to maximize your time. Furthermore, it has been a pleasure to become better acquainted with fellow travelers and I have enjoyed both meal conversations and leisurely discussions during the day.In summation, I have relished these memories and look forward to other journeys with Frank and International Barging Tours.
Douglas Hyland, Director |
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| Thank you so very much for the excellent tour that you provided to Italy for the Kimbell Art Museum. Your professional team, including the phenomenal Sue Hundt, and the skilled guides throughout the journey made for a truly enjoyable experience.
Robert McAn, Manager of Membership & Special Events |
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Our barging trip to Holland at tulip time was much more than just seeing the famous Keukenhof and Aalsmeer Auctions. Arrangements were made for us to visit a rose grower in his greenhouse, an orchid farm which had a lot more we ever expected, and two amazing historical gardens. Barbara Levine |
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The Springfield Museums Travel program has had the pleasure to travel twice with International Barging Tours to the Netherlands and Italy. Our second tour was as wonderful as the first… With just the right focus on the cultural arts, museums, local and historical sites both tours exceeded the expectations of our travelers. All aspects of the tour ran smoothly and professionally – with particular appreciation for the barge, the crew, and superb local guides and experts. Jeanne Fontaine, Courses & Travel Curator |
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