Is River Cruising Right  For You?

Wednesday, March 1, 2006

Is River Cruising Right For You? (NAPSA)—River cruising continues to be a popular trend among American travelers vacationing to top destinations such as Europe, China and Egypt, butis it right for you? If cruising along a waterway, taking in beautiful landscapes and docking at multiple ports to explore exciting destinations sounds appealing, a river cruise may be the perfect fit for you. Travel experts suggest you ask the following questions to help determine whether a river cruise is the best choice for your next vacation: Doyou like the ideaof traveling to several destinations without the hassle of living out of your suitcase? Imagine traveling to Austria, Germany and France, only packing and unpacking once. River cruises let you visit multiple countries without the trouble of transferring luggage from one location to another. Once you have settled into your floating hotel room, you are at homefor the duration of your vacation. Whenoff the ship, you can focus on your journey, delving into the history and culture at each stop. Are you looking for easy access to “must-see” sights and off-the-beaten-path destinations? River cruise vessels are smaller than most ocean liners, allowing for docking in the heart of small towns and villages. This conve- nience gives passengers additional time on land, exploring romantic castles and historic monuments, visiting local shops or enjoying favorite beverages at outdoor cafs. Between land excursions, you'll have plenty of time to relax, indulge in fine dining or participate in various onboard activities, such as local entertainment. Do you like to travel in world-class accommodations? River cruise ships’ amenities and the intimate experience they afford rival world-class boutique hotels. According to Patrick Clark, managing director of Avalon Waterways, of the Globus family of brands, “Guests traveling with us enjoy state-of-the-art technology and spacious accommodations. In addition, we provide our passengers nightly piano music, wine at dinner, turn-down service each evening, nonsmoking interiors, light reading materials, games and puzzles in each ship library, English-speaking staff and so much more, ensuring a pleasurable onboard experience.” Do you enjoyall-inclusive offerings and travel plans handled for you? As you travel from city to city and country to country on most river cruises, you won't have to worry about paying as you go. River cruises feature all-inclusive offerings—air, hotel, cruise, land tours and meals—that help eliminate the stress and extensive planning involved with international travel. With all of the details planned for you in advance, you'll have more free time to relax and enjoy yourvacation. For more information about river cruises, call (877) 380-1535 toll-free or visit www.avalon waterways.com.