Cruising the Rivers of Europe

I thought I would share some information about river cruising this week... as cruising rivers can have a magical quality!

Unlike oceans, they are intimate, closely tied to the life of the thousands of villages and cities what grew up along their banks. And in the morning, when the river mists lift, the surroundings that are revealed are often breathtaking - from the rock where the legendary Lorelei leaped to her death to ancient Egyptian tombs.

In addition, fertile soil lines each river's banks, producing some of the finest regional food and drink in the world with festivals built around them.

Cruise lines are increasingly offering extensive overnights with the vessel serving as a floating hotel - often docked in the heart of a major city. It's a tremendous value, particularly in European capitals where hotel and dining prices can be downright shocking!

Here's a look at what types of experiences you might find along some of the world's most popular waterways. I'll start with one river today... and the rest will follow!

The Danube

The Danube is the longest river in the European Union and second only to the Volga in all of Europe. From Strauss' "Blue Danube" to the Bulgarian national anthem, its praises have been sung through the centuries. Since the opening of the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal, the river connects the Black Sea with the industrial centers of Western Europe.

For Americans, the Danube is more exotic than the Rhine, leading to Central and Eastern Europe's lesser-known destinations. Flanked by the Austrian Alps and crowned with forts, castles and vineyards, the river carries travelers to cultural centers like Vienna and Budapest from its origin in the Black Forest to the Black Sea.

The Danube connects Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova and Ukraine. Along the route are areas of great scenic beauty and natural attractions.

The Danube courses through Austria's wine-bearing Wachau Valley between Melk and Krems, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Wachau is particularly well known for its apricots and unbelievably good apricot liquor, jams and cakes.

Best Suited For: History lovers and experienced travelers who want to really see Central European countries and their cultures. Music flourishes along the Danube, and those who appreciate a mixture of beautiful nature and great cities will be very happy with this area too!

Call us today to discuss the many river cruising oppurtunities down the Danube!