Exploring The World’s Secrets From Its Rivers (NAPSA)—Anincreasing number of vacationers are discovering a hands-on way to experience the true culture, cuisine and history of a region—on a river cruise. Passengers travel along historic river routes right into the heart of major cities and traditional towns that originated during a time when water was the main means of transportation. From the Danube and Rhne in Europe to the Yangtze in China, river cruises allow passengers to relax and explore at their own leisure instead of being confined to a bus seat. River cruising is popular among experienced travelers looking for enriching ways to become immersed in the traditions of diverse lands. Groups are small, typically around 150 passengers, and ships generally visit at least one port a day, docking right in the heart of town, providing travelers with time for in-depth exploration both with the group and on their own. For instance, Viking River Cruises offers cruise tours along the rivers of Europe, Russia and China, where passengers take daily shore excursions led by Englishspeaking guides. Travelers not only learn about the history of a town or architecture of a building, they also gain first hand experience by interacting with the locals and gaining insight to their culture, cuisine, pastimes and craftsmanship. While cruising from city to city, river travelers can enjoy the ever-changing landscape and trade stories about their day’s adventure with other passengers. The cruise line offers 23 deluxe river cruise vessels, each with all outside cabins and a restaurant, Great Getaway—A river cruise can be a wonderful way to explore a different country. bar, lounge, sundeck and more. Passengers dine in an open-seating dining room with panoramic windows, where both regional specialties and Western-style food are served. In Europe, passengers can watch Dutch clogs being made, meet traditional glassblowers, taste fresh Edam cheese after learning how it was made, even make a print with the Gutenberg press. China expeditions include both land tours of the country’s key attractions, such as the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, and Xian’s Terra Cotta Army, as well as a Yangtze River cruise. River cruising shows passengers the best of big cities as well as quaint villages andoffers travelers a relaxing, comfortable, affordable and scenic mode of transportation—and, perhaps best of all, you only have to unpack once. For more information, visit www.sailviking.com or call 1-866- SAIL-VIKING (1-866-724-5845).
