And we’re most pleased to have the number of repeat travelers that we do — it tells us we’re doing at least a few things right.

It’s been suggested for years that we post some trip pictures and comments from our travelers. So herewith are a few, with most of the writing coming from people who have been out with us at least twice.

We hope you’ll consider joining us as we explore horse racing around the world.

On the way into Epsom (Two Derbys 2006) Click for large view The Boys at Chantilly (Ascot & Arc 2006) Click for large view Sea the Stars going out for the Arc (Arc 2009) Click for large view Sydney Harbour Cruise (Australia 2008) Click for large view Tea at Coolmore (Ireland 2008) Click for large view The Usual Suspects (Ireland 2009) Click for large view With Trainer John Hammond at Chantilly (Two Derbys 2007) Click for large view A Private Farm Visit (Ireland 2009) Click for large view In the stands at Epsom (Two Derbys 2007) Click for large view At Lunch in Normandy (Deauville 2007) Click for large view With 3-time Melbourne Cup winner Makybe Diva (Australia 2008) Click for large view With Trainer John Oxx at The Curragh (Ireland 2008) Click for large view The Ladies Presenting a Trophy (Ireland 2009) Click for large view Between races at Longchamp (Arc 2009) Click for large view

I’ve been on three Racing-Europe trips and have found each of them to be entertaining, informative and a great introduction to racing and breeding in various sections of the world outside the U.S. The host is committed to providing first-rate experiences at the racetracks and the breeding/racing operations we visit. I would highly recommend Racing-Europe to anyone who has an interest in racing outside the US.

Our two trips have been wonderful experiences, with a nice blend and combination of horse-related activities and opportunities to see nearby locales and attractions. Doug Thomson does an outstanding job of preparation and organization.

Ask anyone who has traveled with Doug Thomson and Racing-Europe and you will repeatedly hear the tour was well thought out, well researched, well organized, and awesomely conducted. Everything promised in the promotional material is realized and much, much more. The trips are educational, entertaining, inspiring and just plain exciting.

My friends and I have taken two tours with Racing-Europe and we felt they were incredibly informative as well as being so much fun. Other friends have taken more of his trips and feel fortunate to have enjoyed Thoroughbred racing in so many other parts of the world. Today with the world being "flat" due to the ongoing technological revolutions, it’s necessary to know how one’s work is being conducted in other parts of the world.

No matter where you are visiting, you feel like Doug has walked the walk of the people who are involved in the industry in that particular place. Not only does he really know the places which he takes you to, but you get that he has a distinct love for each place and wants to share the feeling with you.

I recommend without any reservation the tours conducted by Racing Europe. They are well worth taking the time to consider and participate in. I look forward to having the opportunity to be involved in another one in the future.

When I first saw the ad for Racing Europe in the TOBA newsletter, I immediately thought, "what a great idea"! And now after traveling with them on two different occasions, I can actually testify to their splendid organization, the excellent choice of racing venues, and wonderful groups of traveling companions.

My husband and I have been to England, France, and Ireland with Doug Thomson leading us to some of the most exciting and picturesque racetracks and private farms imaginable. If you are considering a trip abroad, I highly recommend joining Racing-Europe for a unique travel and racing experience.

Two Derbys, a Week in Deauville, Australia, Ireland – and we keep going. The groups are small, fun and friendly. The trips are extremely well organized with special seating at the tracks, access into private racing clubs, great hotels, time for sightseeing and relaxing, visits with trainers and breeders at the big farms. What’s not to like? We’re already signed up for another one.

I had a wonderful time being part of the Melbourne Cup Trip to Australia in 2008. From start to finish it was exciting... and being part of the Australian racing and breeding scene was a thrilling experience. The accommodations and arrangements were perfect, and our group thoroughly enjoyed each other.

I’ve had two great trips with Racing-Europe. Both my wife and I have enjoyed the fellow travelers as well as the excellent hotels and of course the great racetrack experiences. The included visits have been to the very best of trainers and farms and the small size of the groups is a real plus. Doug also pays wonderful attention to detail and is flexible if a partner wants to skip a race day to shop or sightsee.

Racing-Europe has given me many wonderful memories over the last few years, on trips to England, Ireland, and France. Along with the great racing, the best thing for me has been being able to get close to so many wonderful horses. Stallions like Montjeu, Cape Cross, Dalakhani, and the legendary Sadler's Wells on the farm visits, and the active racers like New Approach and Sea the Stars at the training yards. When Sea the Stars won everything in 2009 it was like watching an old friend do well at the very highest level, as we'd seen him at home as a 2-year-old and then again just before the Derby.

The "Two Derbys" trip was a memorable experience from beginning to end. It was smoothly run, the seating and hotel accommodations were first class, the side trips interesting, and the group members most congenial. And ... we walked the Derby course at Epsom. The “Arc” trip was every bit as good.

Doug does a wonderful job of organizing his programs. My wife and I have been happy with his hotel selections and the in-trip transportation is always reliably on-schedule. Most important, his ability to arrange visits to leading farms and training yards has provided great experiences for us. He also secures great seating at the racecourses. The combination of group meals and free evenings has allowed us the chance to make some independent choices which also appeals to us.

I’m proud to be one of the earliest Racing-Europe "alumni", a vet of the maiden "Two Derby's" trip. Not only were the racing, the Draycott Hotel in London, and the dining awesome, I saw so many things I’d never seen before.

A visit to the Royal Mews on Coronation Day to see the Queen's horses and carriages go out to pick up visiting dignitaries. ... meeting trainer John Hammond (of Montjeu fame and whose Walk in the Park had just run second in the Derby) on the flight to France following Epsom ... going to the yards of Criquette Head and Richard Gibson at Chantilly, and seeing the training in the woods and on Les Aigles ...

After that first trip I’ve continued my association with Racing-Europe regularly. Many trips later I’ve been to the Aga Khan's farm, been to Coolmore to meet Sadler's Wells (among so many others), the list goes on forever. The day trips to historic places such as in Normandy are great for less horsey spouses and family members.

These trips have totally spoiled me. Racing-Europe is like a Five Star hotel: highly recommended.

Anyone who loves horses and luxury travel should treat themselves to a Racing-Europe vacation. Doug Thomson has mastered the art of designing and hosting racing excursions that would impress even the most seasoned travelers. He combines the best hotels, the most fabulous restaurants, gets you about seamlessly, then tops it off with exclusive treats such as finish line seats at the Melbourne Cup and a private visit with Champion Makybe Diva. (I could go on and on!) My husband and I have been on two trips and are planning on another.

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