River Cruising is one of the most convenient ways to see the world at a slow and relaxing pace. On a river cruise you will find cruising with a personal touch on an intimate ship. They are small in scale, with usually just under 200 guests. Many ships are newly built and designed for comfortable travel, with amenities like hotel-style beds, restaurants with panoramic views, spacious public areas, open air promenade deck, floor to ceiling window and verandas. These are just a few of the reasons why river cruising is truly the most relaxing way to travel.
In the last decade, river cruising’s popularity has grown dramatically, and more than 500,000 people now take a river cruise each year. The most popular destinations are Europe and Asia. In Europe, you will find 6 rivers that most ships cruise on. The Danube is Europe's second-longest river and the only major European river to flow from west to east. The Rhine Flows from the Swiss Alps to Holland's North Sea, and is most famous for its medieval castles that line its banks. The Rhone River was an important inland trade and transportation route since Greek times and flows south to the Mediterranean. The Main River travels through some of the most stunning areas, past hilltop castles and storybook villages of Germany. The Seine River is northwest of Dijon and flows through Paris before emptying into the English Channel at Le Havre. It's one of Europe's great historic rivers and, since the early Middle Ages, has been considered the River of Paris. The Moselle River flows through France, Luxembourg and Germany and, known for the excellent wine it produces, along its banks as well as for its picturesque medieval castles. Any of these journeys are an incredible experience; my favourites are the Moselle and the Rhine.
The rivers of Asia are also starting to gain popularity. Here, you will find 3 major rivers. The Yangtze is the most important river in the history, culture, and economy of China. It is the longest river in Asia and the third-longest in the world, flowing for a total of 3,900 miles. The Mekong River runs for over 3,000 miles through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, providing a lifeline for millions of people. By spending time on the Mekong, you will have a better understanding of life along the river and the friendly people who depend on it. The Irrawaddy River travels more than 1,300 miles through central Myanmar. From its glacial origins in the Himalayas, it courses through the highlands and plains to the Andaman Sea. My top bucket list river in Asia is the Yangtze combined with a land tour from Shanghai to Beijing.
It’s truly a unique experience, no matter which river you choose.
Author: Anita
Kaleidoscope Travel & Cruise
Comments