to Mike Schields, managing director of Avalon Waterways, “When guests travel with us, they’re aboard the most spacious and newest ships in Europe. Ours are (NAPSA)—Europe continues to be among American travelers’ topranked destinations, according to the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA). This status is likely due to the fact that European countries not only boast a rich cultural history but house some of the most revered landmarks in the world—those attractions that hit the “must see”list, time and time again. With leisure time dwindling for most American travelers, however, the question many ask themselves when planning a European getawayis, “How can I see all I want to, with limited vacation time?” One solution, thanks to a growing trend among American travelers, is to take a river cruise. In fact, in 2008, more than 100,000 Americans took to Europe’s rivers to experience some of the region’s most highly regardedcities. According to Avalon Waterways, one of the Globus family of brands, there are several reasons to consider a river cruise for your first— or next—Europeanvacation: Unpack Once and Make Yourself At Home Manyriver cruisers offer packages that include port stops in several countries. Although this kind of itinerary may sound exhausting, the difference when part of a new generation of river bee eee eae ee traveling by a river cruise is that you unpack upon arrival and travel from city to city, village to village or country to country while you're sleeping, helping you savor your days in each destination without worrying about getting your luggage from one location to the next. Experience Off-the-BeatenPath Destinations River cruise ships are smaller than most ocean liners you see today, allowing them to port in smaller cities and villages along your route—destinations you would probably never get to experience if traveling through Europe on your own. Land excursions often include tours through Europe’s castles, cathedrals and picturesque villages. Travel Comfortably On StateOf-The-Art Ships Although river cruisers are smaller to fit Europe’s rivers, their amenities are not. According cruisers, built specially for the North American market, with nonsmokinginteriors, an Englishspeaking crew and continental cuisine. Avalon ships offer from 73 to 87 staterooms or guestrooms, creating an intimate group travel experience.” All-Inclusive Offerings Provide Unbeatable Value River cruise travelers get to experience several cities, villages or countries at a time but don’t have to pay for each individually. In fact, these vacations along Europe’s rivers are often all-inclusive—air, hotel, cruise, land tours and meals. Travelers taking time off the ship to experience each destination can still make a quick stop back to the cruiser for a bite to eat, before venturing out again. All-inclusive offerings take the financial stress and guesswork out of an international trip, allowing travelers the opportunity to focus on what matters—timeoff in amazing destinations. For more information on Euro- pean river cruises, call toll-free 877.380.1535 or visit www.avalon waterways.com.
