Letter From Othmar Grueninger
Spring 2008

From gas pumps to home sales, there’s little doubt that the economy is weakening. The real question is what do we do about it personally?

The answer obviously varies, but one constant is to keep a balance in your life and vacations are absolutely essential for a happy long life. Nothing counters stress as well as a break. We can all learn from the Finns … Although it’s shocking to us, the Finns — and most Europeans — have, at a minimum, four full weeks of vacation every summer and one full week in the winter. In fact, the Finnish government supports the “holidays,” (as they call it) and insurance companies even pay for many of these vacations. In return, the Finns are remarkably healthy and prosperous.

Since Governor Daniels can’t send us on vacation, we’ll have to do it ourselves. There’s a vacation available for everyone, whether it is a day trip to Chicago or a week in Branson. We are so lucky to have places in the United States that are perennially 75° to 80°. Compare this with most of the European countries where folks have to fly to Spain’s Costa del Sol just to find 60° in the spring. On the other hand, winter in the U.S. offers the Rose Parade in Los Angeles, skiing in Colorado, golf tournaments in the South as well as outdoor activities in Florida.
Don’t assume the high exchange rate between the euro and the dollar means you shouldn’t travel to Europe this year. You can still go to Europe by following our advice. We are offering all-inclusive river boat cruises — your meals, transportation, rooms and even the daily sightseeing and evening entertainment are included, so you pay in U.S. dollars before you leave, and the best part is you only unpack once! For example, you can choose Paris and the beaches of Normandy or a longer inclusive cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest without spending euros for hotels and meals. Also, many meals, sightseeing and hotels are prepaid in U.S. dollars on the European motorcoach tours we offer. Another great trip in Europe is cruising the Mediterranean or the Baltic on Holland America Line. You pay in U.S. dollars for your cruise and any onboard purchases like shore excursions.

We are looking to hear from you soon!