“Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind.” – Seneca
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Intro. to River Cruising - You'll love it
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Each year significantly more and more travelers experience a river cruise. Heavily promoted on mass media and by word of mouth, River cruises have expanded beyond all expectations over the past decade. At one time there was Viking River cruises and a number of smaller unknown European operators; now Viking has formidable competitors such as Avalan Waterways, AMA Waterways, UniWorld and Emerald Waterways. Even luxury level Crystal and Tauch have entered the river cruise market along with Disney! Additionally within the U.S. American river cruise lines are sailing the Mississippi, Ohio, and Columbia Rivers once again on voyages lasting in some cases weeks! Lin Mar is a preferred partner with American Cruise lines and American Queen Cruise line. (see below for video) Why the interest in River Cruises? Simply state they offer convenience; once on board you can relax and be taken in comfort to cities and destinations of interest. Excursions are included in most instances, as well as meals with adult beverages and nightly entertainment. Frequently the cruise ship will sail late at night allowing you to revisited the a town or city after your evening meal to experience sites or shops that you were unable during the day. You see more,. learn more and experience more. |
There were two river cruises that are especially memorable for us. We thoroughly enjoyed our Prague to Budapest sailing aboard Avalon Waterways. It is simply amazing to enjoy the sites and sounds of Old Europe as gently cruise past medieval castles positioned close to the river, or view well tended vineyards on the mountainside, or embark to tour a very historic and beautiful World Heritage site. Avalon simply does it right.
We were also most fortunate to sail the Yangtze river traveling up to China's famous three Gorges Dam and then actually take smaller vessels into the breathtaking Qutang and Wu Gorges. Of course we stopped to see the Pandas at Chongquing as well as visit several exotic Buddha, Shinto, and Hindu temples. Not to be missed are the Terra Cotta Warriors in Xi'An!
We were also most fortunate to sail the Yangtze river traveling up to China's famous three Gorges Dam and then actually take smaller vessels into the breathtaking Qutang and Wu Gorges. Of course we stopped to see the Pandas at Chongquing as well as visit several exotic Buddha, Shinto, and Hindu temples. Not to be missed are the Terra Cotta Warriors in Xi'An!
Avalon Cruises - Discovery |
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