THE FASTEST GROWING SEGMENT OF VACATION TRAVEL?

RIVER CRUISES – especially the rivers of Europe, is the fastest growing segment of vacation travel and by far the most relaxing way to see the ”real Europe” by exploring the nooks and crannies and experience total cultural immersion. Then returning to your ship to enjoy the ultimate in service and pampering as Europe floats past your stateroom suite. 

The growth of River Cruises has exploded with the baby boomer generation, who want to explore Europe and cruise in style with an array of possibilities.  The last of the baby boomers, 77 million strong, reach 50 years old in 2014 and today are the most powerful consumers in the market place.  

Once the traveler experiences a European River Cruise, they return for another, whether it is Vietnam, Cambodia, China or the Amazon, because they know, when they return to their ship, the crew is waiting for them, proving excellent service as well as a fabulous meal at the end of the day.

**Best River Cruise Line

Since Avalon Waterways, (part of the Globus Family of Brands) launched their very first ship in 2004; they have received tons of awards.  Now with their 17th ship soon to sail, Avalon Waterways offers an incomparable river cruise experience, including one-of-kind Panorama Suites with innovated Open Air Balconies and beds facing the river, one the industry’s only “Suite Ships” featuring 200- and 300-square-foot suites with only 126 to 166 ships passengers.

Avalon’s oldest ship was built in 2012 making their fleet one of the youngest afloat with the largest spacious outside staterooms with plenty of room to relax. And special touches like regional wines and beer at every on-board lunch and dinner, all included in the price of your river cruise as well as complimentary Wi-Fi. Many shore excursions and included and are led by certified local guides including VIP entrance into must sees sites.  

Avalon’s Great Rivers of Europe Sailings

Danube River: Germany, Slovakia, Croatia, Romania, Austria, Hungary, Serbia and Bulgaria.

Rhone: France Switzerland

Saone Seine: France

Moselle: France, German

Rhine: Holland, Germany, France, Belgium, Switzerland

Main: Germany

Active Discovery and World of Possibilities Cruises

Avalon’s itineraries on the Rhine, Danube and Rhone Rivers, one can check out a bike for a scenic ride through town, or grab a Nordic walking stick and hike to a hillside vineyard or castle. Or perhaps kayak on these legendary rivers? They can immerse themselves in a history and culture tour, painting class and even a chance to dress up in real Roman attire at a Roman clothes workshop and re-enactment of the Roman Games. You can tour an extinct volcano and coal mine, a chocolate museum, take archery lessons or help a farmer with his apricot orchard. Even conduct an orchestra or compose your own waltz. Every port gives you a world of possibilities to interact with the locals and choose the dynamic, interaction activities that appeal the most

Theme Cruises

Avalon also offers popular themed cruise itineraries, which include Wine Lovers, Culinary Experience, Beer tasting, Jazz, Music Art, World War II History, Music Opera, Art and Impressionist, History, Festive Time, Golf, Author, Garden and Nature and a Jewish Heritage Cruise.

Packing Tips

One of the greatest advantages in river cruising is the ability to unpack once and store your empty suitcase under your bed instead of towing it from hotel to hotel. It doesn’t mean to pack your entire closest either. When packing for your river cruise, choose shirts, pants, shorts and skirts that can be worn for multiple outfit combinations. The easiest way is to search for clothes with a simple color scheme, white, neutrals and pastels. A rule of thumb is for each week you will be traveling, pack five to seven tops and complement three different bottoms.  Also, keep mind, comfort and wrinkle resistant, easy care clothing will help you feel even more relaxed.  

Don’t expect to get all decked out for dinner on a river cruise. But for some cruisers liked to spruce up their attire for the evening. Using some fun pieces like scarves, shawls, jewelry and stylish shoes. Also pack a light sweater, sweat shirt and a windbreaker. Umbrellas are provided on the ship for the occasional drizzle.  

Avalon Waterways will navigate with both elegance and deliver the “just right” experience, one that transports you at the right pace, with just the right amenities and just the right views along the legendary waterways of Europe.

**Best Cruise Line Award by Cruise Critic, Travel Gold and Travel Weekly publications

This content is provided by Avalon Waterways

Arlene Goldberg is president and owner of Action Travel Center in Solon. You can watch her on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to noon on WKYC’s “Live on Lakeside” with the “Hot Travel Deal.”