This is a hot topic - with so many trips to choose from - it works for every age group. You can link this more intimate form of cruising with fine dining, historical tours, biking cross country or international shopping excursions.
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River Cruising is the top of many bucket lists because it offers such a diverse experience. |
Can you imagine - drifting through
picturesque villages, floating by resplendent castles and awe-inspiring
cathedrals? That’s what you get with European river cruises. They’re
multi-generational, safe, no fuss and filled with beauty.
Aline Lamere has worked in tourism all her life and traveled
the world from Thailand to Mexico, from The Caribbean to Bali, Hong Kong
and Japan. As someone who’s worked for a Greek cruise line and taken
many European River Cruises, Aline will shared her knowledge of travel
and cruising with us on Nov 21.
All the benefits of a large ocean cruise, in a more private intimate setting ...
1. Unpack just once
Forget about lugging bags from one lobby to the next – river
cruises allow you to really get comfortable. Unpack just once and keep
your home comforts close by in your private cabin
2. A new destination every day
Rivers were the first highways, river crossings the beginning of cities. Greet each
new day in a new city, stopping at each port for several hours at a time. Tick off a few
bucket-list destinations at once, like France, Spain and Portugal, or maybe about Moscow and St.Petersburg, visit Vietnam, China and Cambodia without worrying about language challenges.
3. On-shore activities for active or passive people
Depending on your
cruise itinerary, you will have the opportunity to explore several ports
either independently or on a pre-arranged guided tour. Often partnering with local guides to customize intimate adventures
ashore, from tours of ancient castles to bustling markets and other
cultural hubs.
4. Indulgent wining, dining & VIP service
On board you can expect fine
dining matched with premium beer and wine. Some meals are matched to the countryside, so you can glide through
Bordeaux with a full-bodied red or bask in Bavarian fare in
southern Germany. Add the indulgence of Concierge services to take care
of an extra blanket or to plan activities for your
next docking.
Modern ships are also full of amenities, such as
fitness centres, spas, bars and pools.
5. Inclusive extras
Be sure to ask what is included, and which costs are extra when booking. There are added extras already worked into the cost,
making it much more budget-friendly than you might imagine. Your meals
and beverages on board are almost always complimentary, with more
all-inclusive cruises taking care of airport transfers, gratuities and
even on-shore tours. Others will let you opt in to only the excursions that interest you the most, and schedule free days in between.
What's on your bucket list?