A large ensemble cast including Suzanne Pleshette, Ian McShane (as tour guide Charlie Cartwright), Norman Fell, Peggy Cass, Mildred Natwick, Murry Hamilton, Sandy Baron, Michael Constantine, Marty Ingels, and others star in this funny film about Americans on a quickie tour (18 days) of Europe. Filmed on location, it gives a humorous look at post-war travel to the continent.
Starting in London, the group proceeds to see (sometimes by just driving by) well-known tourist destinations. Then there off to Belgium, Holland, Rome, Venice, West Germany, Bastogne, Switzerland, Luxemburg, and Liechtenstein. Charlie the tour guide has a girl in every stop on the way, but problems with the tour group keep getting in the way. He soon is attracted to Samantha Perkins (Pleshette), but she keeps putting him off. Other complications include one of the group getting on the wrong tour bus and going on a tour of Japanese tourists, complaints about the food, the early rising time, the fast pace of the tour (the tour company is named 'Whirlwind Tours') and homesickness.
The funny premise and the great locations throughout Europe are the main attractions here. There are a few out-and-out laughs, and a lot of smiles throughout the film. Since it was made over 40 years ago, the film is a bit dated, but the plot and the great photography on location redeem the film. The dresses are short, the look is mod, and the word 'groovy' is tossed about on occasion. Singer Donovan makes an appearance here signing a forgettable song.
Rated G
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