Today I’d go … on a cruise to Eastern Europe

Every Thursday I write about a place that I would love to go. 

Today, I’d love to go on a cruise to Eastern Europe aboard Emerald Waterways. It even comes with a deal, book by Oct. 31 and save $250. 

The “Enchantment of Eastern Europe”  is a 10-day voyage from Budapest to Bucharest along the Danube, passing through Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania.

From the email:

Travelers can experience a different kind of beauty in Eastern Europe than they would expect to find on a more typical river cruise through the continent. Here, shadows of the past tell tales of strength and resolution in war-torn villages, towns and cities alike, and travelers gain a deeper understanding of a time before the peace and beauty that now shines through the region’s most popular destinations. Departures on July 23, 2015 travel from Budapest to Bucharest, while departures on April 23 and July 28 reverse direction. Prices range from $3,335 to $5,730 per person, double – booking by October 31 reduces those fares by $250.

The voyage includes seven nights aboard one of Emerald’s “Star-Ships” and two nights lodging in Bucharest and encompasses some of Eastern Europe’s most historic and enchanting towns. Panoramic views of the cosmopolitan city of Budapest seen from onboard provide an epic start to the journey. In the historic Hungarian city of Kalocsa, a visit to a horse farm showcases the exceptional riding skills of the local Maygar horsemen. Travelers looking for authentic experiences will enjoy a home-hosted lunch with a local family in Vukovar, Serbia, a city that suffered heavy damage during the Croatian War of Independence. A tour of the Serbian capital of Belgrade uncovers a turbulent history to this culturally rich city. Journeying through the Iron Gate—the narrow gorge between the European Alps and Carpathian Mountains, which also forms the Serbia-Romania border—and touring the historic Bulgarian towns of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi provide the opportunity to view spectacular scenery. A guided tour of ancient Silistra in Romania takes travelers to a Roman tomb, an Ottoman fort and a medieval fortress, and two days in Bucharest give guests plenty of time to explore the city’s many historic and cultural landmarks.

Emerald Waterway’s inclusive pricing plan means guests don’t have to worry about daily budget or mounting costs. The Enchantment of Eastern Europe sailing includes two nights at the Novotel Bucharest or similar hotel; seven nights in a stateroom or suite, all with a river view; two shore excursions either by foot or first-class coach; two EmeraldPLUS experiences, including lunch in the home of a local family; 22 meals, including nine breakfasts, five lunches, one special lunch, five dinners and two highlight dinners; complimentary tea and coffee available onboard at all times; complimentary bottled water in suites and staterooms, restocked daily; a variety of onboard evening entertainment; first-class service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides; complimentary WiFi onboard; and all port charges and airport transfers within Europe.

For more info, go here.