theconnectionsnj.com EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 19 While river cruises have been very popular over the years, one cannot mention the explosion of interest from the American market owing to the masterpiece series, Downton Abbey. Those Viking River commercials had our offices buzzing with clients who wanted more information. And as our clients returned, many wanted to book another and bring their friends and family along. So here is a brief synopsis of the River Cruise industry. Europe, we have the Danube, Moselle, and Rhein rivers with most cruise lines offering itineraries of the storybook landscapes and villages along the routes. On my first river cruise, I chose Ama Waterways, a deluxe line, from Budapest to Vilshofen Germany, and then a 3-night post-cruise in Prague. The highlights for me were the amazing shore excursions and cuisine on board, where they offered a different wine each night from the very port we visited. I was hooked! I only wish I had booked the 14-day cruise, which ended in Amsterdam. I am scheduled to return to Europe next year for the Christmas Markets Cruise. Europe also offers the French waterways with varied itineraries, sailing both northbound and southbound from Paris and visiting the best regions of France including Bordeaux, Normandy, and Provence - An explosion of scenery, history, and the infamous French Cuisine. There is also the Douro River in Portugal. Sailing from Porto through the magical Douro Valley is a great way to see this northern region of Portugal. In North America, we have American Cruise Lines, with river cruises on the Mississippi, and Columbia and Snake Rivers in the Pacific Northwest. Asia. We have the Mekong River cruise, which highlights Cambodia and Vietnam. A pre or post itinerary to visit Siem Reap and the Angkor Wat Temple complex is a must. I was there on the Vernal Equinox which allowed me to witness the sun rise over the main temple. That and the blessing by Buddhist monks made this a highlight of my travel experiences. Africa. We have the Nile River Cruises in Egypt. Offering 3, 4, or 7-night Nile Cruises with fascinating land itineraries in the land of the Pharaohs. And the Zambesi River in Zimbabwe with a pre-set itinerary that includes a Safari. No matter your age or travel budget, there are options for all travelers. For families with children, Adventures by Disney offers an array of specifically planned shore excursions designed to delight children of all ages. And, they have cabins designed to accommodate families. I purposely left out River cruises in Russia, for obvious reasons. The choices highlighted above, and the add-on land itineraries will provide you with fantastic ways to see the world. BUT. Just when you think you have enough options, Ama Waterways begins a River Cruise in Colombia, South America beginning in 2024. You can be sure that I will be one of the first to book!! Cruise Specialists, Caribbean Packages, European Tours, Escorted as well as Independent custom tours to destinations worldwide. Call: 973-325-2345 | Email: info@AveTravelGroup.com By Tom Nero Luxury Cruises, the Rivers! TRAVEL CORNER Europe also offers the French waterways with varied itineraries, sailing both northbound and southbound from Paris and visiting the best regions of France including Bordeaux, Normandy, and Provence - An explosion of scenery, history, and the infamous French Cuisine. LIMITED-TIME 20TH ANNIVERSARY OFFER
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