Trafalgar Sound of Music Tour – Oct 8 – 17 & questions from a travel newbie

My wife and I are taking our first trip to Europe this October to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary. We don’t have a clue what to expect. So, could all you seasoned travelers take pity on the “Excursionlly Challenged” and give us some guidance. A few questions pop into my head, but you all may think of some things that I fail to. Feel free to wax profound. That said, anyone had experience suggestions, etc on the following:

The tour itself.
The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Vienna, Europa in Salzberg, Grauer Bar in Innsbruck, and the Hilton City in Munich.
Suggestions on getting Euro Travelers Checks before departing.
Optional tour recommendations - any must sees.
Ease of communicating in Austria and Germany for non-German speakers.
Free time suggestions.
Travel tips for a long flight.
How to dress in October.
How to get 10 days of clothes in 1 suitcase and 1 carry on.
Any idea of the age of fellow travelers. Do people keep in contact with people they meet on the tours after they return.

Thanks in advance for any words of wisdom you might be able to share.

Oldieonekenobe