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10 Simple Travel Tips

10 Simple Travel Tips

Apr 21, 2022

Here are 10 simple travel tips to make your trip amazing.   Be sure and check them out before you begin packing for your next adventure.  

  1. Be Cautious Don’t OverPack

    Bring essentials don’t overpack.  It just makes your travel more difficult especially if you have transfers or if you are not taveling to one location for the entire trip.  Pack interchangeable outfits so you have variety.  Example: 3 pairs of jeans for the week, not 7.

  2. Bring Earplugs

    Another great travel tip is to bring earplugs.  Not many think about earplugs but they can be extremely useful for a multitude of reasons.  For a long-haul plane ride, you may want to get some rest, and earplugs come in handy. (Some airlines provide them) Depending on where your room is located, such as close to the elevator or the pool, earplugs are the perfect solution for noise. Another option would be sound-canceling headphones, which help if you have loud people on your flight.

  3. Don’t Overdue Your Hair and Body Products

    Again, take just the necessities.  Many people think they have to bring all their shampoo, conditioners, lotions, and body wash. These items really take up a lot of valuable packing space in your checked bag.   They also should be packed in sealable plastic bags to protect the rest of your items in case they spill.  It’s not a date it is vacation.  Remember, if they are in your carry on you are only allowed containers of 3.4 oz. or less.  They must all fit in a quart-sized bag and you are only allowed one bag per person.   For more great tips about flying restrictions Click here. There is no real need to bring your own with you (unless you have a specific skin condition). 

  4. Carry a Small Towel 

    The hotel will supply large towels for all your needs but when sightseeing you can get wet or need to dry yourself off.  A small towel is easy to carry and perfect for your needs. You might want to carry one of the fast-drying towels.

                                            More Travel Tips

  5. Bring a First Aid Kit 

    Don’t forget a travel first aid kit.  Make sure it includes the essentials such as anti-acids, band-aids, antiseptic cream, Benadryl, and aspirin.

  6. Bring Your Backpack 

    Staying with the theme of not over-packing, make sure your backpack is lightweight.  When choosing what to take with you in the backpack don’t fill it to overflowing as your back will not be your friend after a couple of hours.  You might want to consider testing the weight of your backpack and making sure it is not overpackedMore Tips

  7. Bring a Small Journal 

    This is a huge travel tip.  This journal is a great place to document your day; what you saw and what it meant to you.  When you get back home from this amazing trip and you saw so much you will forget what day you did what and exactly where each photo was taken.

  8. Bring an Extra Memory Card

    Don’t forget an extra memory card for your camera and extra batteries.  The worst place to be is viewing something spectacular and having to take time to delete photos to make room for more.   Worse is if your batteries are not fresh and you miss that perfect photo. Plus make sure you bring a Universal Converter to be able to charge your electronics no matter where you travel.  A power bank can be a great investment if you have multiple items to charge and you aren’t in a place where you can plug your devices in.

  9. Pack A Light Jacket or Wrap 

    Don’t forget a jacket or wrap.  Even on the plane, it can be cool or temps can change quickly.  Nothing is worse than freezing and trying to enjoy a beautiful sunset or on a cruise.

  10. Create a Packing List

    Packing lists are really the only way to make sure you don’t forget anything before you leave.  You can create your own customized list or there are many on Google.

You may be considering taking a cruise, here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes.  For the best river cruise experience, you will want to contact Nancy at Unique Journeys.  She will assist you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime.   You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

WHY YOU NEED A TRAVEL AGENT

WHY YOU NEED A TRAVEL AGENT

Mar 21, 2022

 

Why do you need a travel agent?  Let’s talk about that.  That’s a question many people ask and there isn’t just one answer to that question.  However, there are some answers that everyone has in common.  I think a discussion of this is in order, so here goes.

Love of Travel:

As a consumer, you want someone who enjoys their job and wants you to enjoy your trip.  They say if you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.  I believe that’s especially true with travel agents.  I love to travel.  But, more importantly, I love to experience travel through my clients’ adventures.  Travel with family and friends creates memories that are more important than the trip itself.  A love of travel leads me to my next reason to hire a travel agent:

Knowledge and Experience:

The fact is that with every trip I book for clients and every trip I take myself I gain a little more knowledge.   It might be experiencing a new restaurant, learning a new phrase in a foreign language or seeing a site for the first time.  While no one has been everywhere, my experiences and those of my clients enrich my ability to help my clients.

Stewards of your money:

You can be assured that I will do everything to get you the best “Bang for their Buck”, while also giving you the best experience possible.  Whether it’s finding just the right cruise, giving you suggestions on the best tour and tour guides to enhance your experience or any of the other small details involved in taking a trip.   My job is to see that you do get the experience you want.

In short, as a travel agent, I will treat your money as if it’s my own.

Contacts:

How many times have you heard the saying IT’S WHO YOU KNOW.  In the case of your travel agent, it’s especially important.  Want tickets to a concert?  I can help with that.  Need to set up a special surprise for someone?  Consider it done.  Over time I have built up a working relationship with all manner of professionals such as hotel managers, cruise representatives and tour managers.  Not to mention the concierge at a great many hotels, who are a great asset.  These contacts help me provide that extra service that sets your trip apart.  It gives you the inside track.

Money-Saving: (Time is Money)

You don’t want to spend your spare time researching your trips when you can have me as your travel agent do the research for you.  For a small fee, I will provide you with the best options and information which saves you money in the long run by avoiding costly errors.

Security:

Social media is alive with horror stories about travel scams.   You have seen or heard them about people who have booked accommodations and when they get there to find out they are non-existent or the rooms they end up with don’t look anything like the pictures on the websites.  With me as your advisor, you can be assured you get exactly what you have booked.   I deal with reputable suppliers, so you can relax and enjoy your trip.

Taking care of the details:

When you plan a trip, whether a cruise, tour, or just flights and hotels, there are deadlines to be met.  Missing them can mean you lose not only your space but the funds you have put down for your deposit.  When you have a travel agent looking out for your booking(s) you can relax knowing everything will be taken care of at the appropriate time.

Keeping up With Current Conditions:

Not only do travel agents keep up with current weather and other trends, but in these days of Covid-19, they keep up to date on the requirements put out by the CDC..  They have a great website and we can help you navigate the regulations for each destination.  These vary from country to country and even on a daily basis.  I can make sure you have the information needed to make your travel run smoothly.  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html

Advocacy:

Lastly, no one wants to think that anything will go wrong on their trip, but at some point, there are going to be circumstances that will create a problem.  No one can control or fix everything, but once a problem arises, your travel agent is your best friend.  I will intercede on your behalf and get the best resolution possible for you.

While there are some things a travel agent can’t fix: weather, strikes, health issues, we are there to help you in the event you need assistance with a problem.

Your trip represents your dreams for a great time with your friends and family.  It may be something you are planning for the future.  Everyone has a bucket list.  Once we have established a relationship and know what your future plans are, I can help you with your long-range planning.

WHEN YOU HAVE A TRAVEL AGENT YOU HAVE A TRUSTED COMPANION.

We are in a different world today than we have ever been and for this reason, it is more important than ever to depend on the knowledge and expertise of a travel agent.  I am committed to making sure you have the most up-to-date information available to make your vacation what you have dreamed it would be.

We have all waited to be able to travel and now is the time to savor the joy of travel with friends and family.  To that end, I have created several articles with tips to help you with the decision-making process.  Being prepared for long flights will save you time and energy when you arrive at your destination https://unique-journeys.com/biggest-mistakes-to-avoid-when-flying-long-haul/.

 

 

 

“I just wanted to thank you for your hard work and dedication for booking my family’s trips year after year. You make sure that we get the air flights that we want and the times that work best for us, thank you. You search for our lodging until we are satisfied, and they have been beautiful, thank you. Thanks again for all your hard work. We look forward to booking more trip with you.”

Anthony, Gena and Chance

 

 

 

 

 

EXPERIENCE THE WINES OF BORDEAUX

EXPERIENCE THE WINES OF BORDEAUX

Feb 22, 2021

Experience the wines of Bordeaux  on a Taste of Bordeaux cruise with AMA Waterways. You can start your journey by flying in Bilbao, Spain and ending in Paris or the reverse.  Doing the pre and post-cruise extensions is a great way to extend your cruise, but if you are short on time, you can fly into and out of Bordeaux for your 7-night cruise.  In either event, you will find that AMA Waterways has planned terrific stops along the way so that you can experience the full range of vineyards, wineries and other significant places of interest.

Tasete of Bordeaux Itinerary

What an awesome itinerary through the different wine regions of Bordeaux

Cadillac

While touring the vineyards and learning about terroir, you will also learn about the “noble rot”.  It may not sound appetizing, but it creates a great Sauterne, which you will be able to taste for yourself.
You may also have the opportunity to experience the great European tradition of the weekly farmers market.  Why not pick up some bread and cheese to take back to the ship to share with your new friends.   You will also find a French specialty known as Canele.  Impossible to eat just one.
Experience the wines of Bordeaux

Experience local markets on your Taste of Bordeaux Cruise

You will also have the chance to visit a castle that has been in the same family for 700 years.  Roquetataillade is a masterpiece of medieval military architecture.   As spectacular as the castle is, you will marvel at the chapel with its Moorish influence.

Pauillac

 On your cruise to Experience the Wines of Bordeaux, you are now entering the the Medoc Region.  Pauillac is the gateway to this region which is home to some of the most beautiful and famous wine estates.  This is your chance to experience a wine tasting of Grand Cru wines and to learn about the history associated with Grand Cru.  There are several choices for your shore excursions, but they all end up with you tasting some great wines.

Bourg/Blaye

Once in Blaye you can see the UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE of the 17th century citadel.  You say you want a little more action?  How about biking around the town!
You can either bike from Blaye to Bourg or enjoy the comfort of the ship as it sails there.  AMA Waterways has arranged for an exclusive wine festival in Bourg.  Here you can meet and mingle with the local wine growers while sipping on their local wines and enjoying live music and perhaps some dancing.

Libourne

Just when you thought you have seen the best,  you will arrive in Libourne and a visit to Saint-Emilion.  Perched on a hill, it has great views, great wine and an underground church.  You will visit the monolithic church which was carved out of a single piece of limestone and the venture under the Church to explore the catacombs and caves.     Now it’s time for another wine tasting since this region has their own brand of wine based on the distinctive terroir.  Some of the production of wineries in the region is so small that they don’t export any of their wines.  This is a great opportunity for the wine connoisseurs to take home a great wine that no one else is able to get.  You can also bring back stories of your experience of getting up close and personal with the people who have created this great wine.  What great bragging rights.

 

NOW IS NOT TOO SOON to begin taking steps to find your next exciting river cruise.  Unique Journeys is a valuable asset to make certain you get the right cruise at the right time and for the right price.   Don’t go it alone and risk not having the best experience possible.   Contact me and together we will give you the vacation you deserve.

Now that you are perusing river cruises to make the perfect choice, here is a must read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes.  For the best river cruise experience you will want to contact expert Nancy at Unique Journeys.  She will assistance you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime.   You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

 

AMA WATERWAYS = LUXURY ON THE RIVERS

AMA WATERWAYS = LUXURY ON THE RIVERS

Dec 8, 2020

AMA Waterways = Luxury on the Rivers?   AMA means love.  Having cruised with them on four separate occasions and sent many clients on their journey of a lifetime, I can say that AMA personifies that.  From the moment you decide on your dream cruise, you will experience the values that have made them the river cruise experts.

While the ships themselves are elegant and tastefully appointed, it is the crew that really makes your cruise magical.  They go beyond service to make you feel as if you are a valued member of their family.  They see it as their mission to make this the best experience you can have.  I have experienced this myself.  A waiter remembering I like hot tea with breakfast rather than coffee; a crew member walking with a passenger to make certain they can navigate cobblestones; the hotel manager going ashore at a market town to buy local treats for the entire ship.  These are just some of the examples of why AMA Waterways = Luxury on the Rivers.  You will find your own reasons when you step onboard an AMA Waterways ship and experience that special love.

So, let’s discover all the ways AMA Waterways defines luxury on the rivers!

RUDI SCHREINER IS THE HISTORY OF AMA WATERWAYS :   Sometimes an idea comes to you from somewhere you least expect it.  A journalism assignment had Rudi designing and building his first ship, which was a raft he then sailed on the Amazon River.  From there he decided to go into travel.  In 1992 the Rhine-Main-Canal was completed and the AMA story begins.  Rudi Schreiner, who has been dubbed “The Godfather of river cruising” is the architect for creating this innovative luxury river cruise company.   He teamed up with Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy to make his dream come true.  While Jimmy Murphy has passed away, the company is lucky to have his son Gary on board as one of its leaders.

AMA Waterways Luxury River Cruise Co-Owners

Meet the Architects of AMA Waterways Luxury River Cruises

THE SHIPS:  There are 17 ships in the AMA Waterways fleet at this time and each one has been designed and created for the rivers and itineraries they will sail on.  In addition to their regular fleet, you will see that Rudi is always innovating and introducing new concepts to river cruising.

Some of the elements common to most of the fleet are:

    • Panoramic Lounge with bar
    • Piano and dance floor
    • Walking track
    • Whirlpool, fitness room and bicycles for exploration
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi
    • Hair salon and massage services (Additional costs apply)
    • The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant with glass-enclosed kitchen and tasting menu
    • Breakfast and lunch featuring regional cuisine
    • Exquisite multi-course dinners made with fresh local ingredients
    • Hand-selected wine, beer and soft drinks with meals—plus a Sip & Sail cocktail hour
    • All-day tapas menu and afternoon tea, 24-hour coffee station
    • Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs
    • Dinner, Captain’s Cocktail and Gala Dinner

AMA Magna-

With AMA Magna Rudi realized another of his dreams: to build a larger river cruise ship.  She is twice the width of traditional European river ships and offers more personal space, more unique dining venues, and more leisure opportunities.  She is redefining the river cruise experience! Most accommodations are spacious suites measuring 355 to 710 sq. ft. with full balconies. In addition to the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table,  AMA Magna introduces two enticing new dining venues: Jimmy’s, a family-style restaurant named for AMA Waterways’ late Co-Owner Jimmy Murphy, and the Al Fresco Restaurant, with retractable windows and outdoor seating.

Both a sun-deck pool and whirlpool invite guests to refresh and enjoy the views.  AMA Magna’s Zen Wellness Studio is an expansive space with a fitness center, two massage rooms, and a refreshing juice bar.

Golf Anyone?  Imagine if there was a way to combine luxury river cruising on the iconic Danube with the opportunity to indulge your passion and play golf.   AMA Waterways has created the perfect package to enable you to do just that.  On the AMA Magna you can take advantage of  the Exclusive Concierge Golf Program.   Not only will you have a choice of excursions in every port, you will have the opportunity to play up to 5 rounds of golf at some of the leading championship courses on the continent.

AMA Waterways’ Exclusive Concierge Golf Program is available on select Romantic Danube and Melodies of the Danube cruises sailing aboard the AMA Magna.

AMA Dahlia-

Next year will see the return of AMA Waterways to Egypt with the introduction of the AMA Dahlia.  The stunning AMA Dahlia is an inviting 68-passenger ship offering 18 standard staterooms and 16 magnificent suites. There are also a wealth of amenities that will surprise and delight you, including a heated sun-deck swimming pool and bar.  These are in addition to the standard amenities throughout the fleet.

Marvel at scenic Nile River views in luxury, enjoy regionally inspired entertainment, and savor the flavors of both local and Western cuisine on board.

THE UNIQUE ITINERARY

AMA has put together an unparalleled 11-night Nile River cruise and land experience that includes exquisite cuisine, authentic experiences, and the extraordinary service for which AMA Waterways is renowned.

On the luxurious, newly designed AMA Dahlia you explore ancient wonders, such as the beguiling Temple of Luxor and the mystifying Valley of the Kings and Queens. Plus, come face-to-face with the last survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Sphinx and the three Pyramids of Giza. This unforgettable itinerary includes exclusive experiences, such as a private tour of the tomb of Queen Nefertari and a private lunch at the Abdeen Presidential Palace. Uncover the many mysteries and secrets that have shaped Egypt’s past and continue to influence the future of this remarkable land.

AMA Dahlia defines luxury on the rivers with AMA Waterways

Sail the Nile on the Luxurious AMA Dahlia

THERE’S MORE:  AMA Waterways has put together several pre- and post-cruise packages to destinations in the region.  If you have always wanted to see Dubai and the world’s tallest building, you can spend 3 nights there before the cruise.  You can also do this and have a post-cruise 4-night stay in Israel.

Another choice is to have  4 nights in Israel with the 3 nights pre-cruise extension in Jordan.

What an extraordinary opportunity to see more of this ancient and historical part of the world.

See Jordan and it's ancient wonders

An extraordinary visit to Petra is yours on the extension of your Nile Cruise with AMA Waterways

 

Zambezi Queen-

This ship was designed and created in 2009 to sail exclusively on the Chobe River.  It’s small size, accommodating only 28 passengers, ensures unobstructed views of the wildlife from anywhere on the ship.

Wildlife on the Chobe

Imagine the photos you can take on your Chobe River cruise.

With AMA Waterways, there are five unique itineraries that include the 4-night cruise on the Chobe.  With the Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruise, you can spend time in Cape Town and experience the world renown Victoria Falls on your 10-night adventure.

If you have always wanted to take a luxury rail trip, the Rivers & Rails of  Africa tour will start in Cape Town, include your cruise and Victoria Falls and transport you to Johannesburg on the elegant Rovos Rail in an upgraded deluxe suite.  You will have 13 nights of exquisite luxury on land, on your cruise and on the wonderful Rovos Rail.

Want to experience life in the bush?  You should consider the 13-night Wildlife & The Falls itinerary.  It combines Johannesburg, Victoria Falls and 3 nights in Kruger National Park.  You will have morning and afternoon game drives, with only 6 guests in each vehicle to guarantee an opportunity for once in a lifetime sightings of the animals in their natural habitat.

If you want to savor this trip for longer, I suggest either the 15-night Stars of South Africa or the 17-night Golden Trails of East Africa.

Whichever option works best for you, this is the trip of a lifetime and now is the time for you to check it off your bucket list.

AMA Douro-

In 2019 Rudi and his team launched the AMA Douro to sail exclusively on The Douro river and explore Portugal and Spain.  While she only has 51 staterooms, she exemplifies the same standards of luxury and service as others in the fleet.

There are two exciting 7-night itineraries: one exclusively in Portugal and another that includes the country of Spain.  On both cruises you will experience the Port wine tastings, historic places that have been the destinations of pilgrims for hundreds of years and the wonderful tradition of Flamenco.

AMA Dara-

Envision Vietnam and Cambodia and you think of the exotic Mekong river, ancient temples and a culture very different from our own.  You will experience all these and more with an AMA Waterways cruise.  I will always remember when Jacqueline Kennedy visited Angkor Wat to fulfill one of her “lifelong dreams”.  At that time, it was not something you or I could do.  Rudi Schreiner and AMA Waterways have now made it possible for us to make this journey on the intimate 124-passenger AMA Dara.

You will visit rural villages, colorful markets, and a monastery, where you will receive a special Buddhist blessing. Delve into the peaks and valleys of Cambodia’s history in the Royal Palace and National Museums of its beautiful capital, Phnom Penh. Witness skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies, and be treated to authentic experiences, including rides via oxcart, tut tut and trishaw. On this transformative journey, the Mekong truly reveals a vibrant world along its shores.

 

NOW IS NOT TOO SOON to begin taking steps to find your next exciting river cruise.  Unique Journeys is a valuable asset to make certain you get the right cruise at the right time and for the right price.   Don’t go it alone and risk not having the best experience possible.   Together we will give you the vacation you deserve.

Now that you are perusing river cruises to make the perfect choice, here is a must read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes.  For the best river cruise experience you will want to contact expert Nancy at Unique Journeys.  She will assistance you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime.   You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

AVOIDING RIVER CRUISE BOOKING MISTAKES

AVOIDING RIVER CRUISE BOOKING MISTAKES

Oct 14, 2020

Avoiding river cruise booking mistakes sounds complicated, but with the help of an experienced travel counselor to help make decisions, will not be.   Don’t be afraid to ask questions.   Every trip is different, but this should help you get started on having a truly remarkable river cruise experience.

Avoiding River Cruise Booking Mistakes will guarantee a better river cruise experience

Docking in the city center

Ignoring the Destinations

If you have been on one of the larger ocean cruise ships, you know that there are so many venues on the ship, that going ashore sometimes seems unnecessary.  On a river cruise ship, the destinations are the main focus.  River ships don’t have casinos and grand stage shows.  They focus on the towns and cities that have grown up on the river with their history, regional cuisines and culture.  They dock mostly in the heart of the town, so you are only a gangplank away from seeing the sites.

Therefore to ensure you’ll enjoy the stops, take some time to read through the itineraries offered. Then select one that lines up with your interests and hobbies.  Whether you want to take a themed cruise such as wine, golf, history and art, there is a cruise out just made for you.

Even though there are plenty of things to see and do, just relaxing on the ship can be one of the highlights of your trip.  You will not be bored, but can pick and choose activities and leisure time.

Skipping an Extension

Many river cruises start and end at spectacular cities, such as Budapest, Vienna, Amsterdam or Paris.  To make the most of your trip to Europe, consider arriving a few days early to the port city where your cruise begins — or stay longer at the place where your trip ends.  This will give you some unstructured time to explore on your own.

All river cruise companies offer pre- or post-trips that you can easily connect to your cruise (many of these also include transfers to the ship). You can also arrange an extended stay on your own before sailing.

An added bonus: If you arrive a day or two early, you’ll have a built-in safeguard. If your initial flight to Europe is delayed and you arrive late, you won’t miss the cruise departure.

Avoid Over Packing and Packing the Wrong Gear

To pack the perfect suitcase, start by checking the average temperature for the places where you’ll travel. On many cruises, you’ll need a sweater or light jacket even during the summer months, as an evening breeze could create a chill on the boat.

River cruises are mostly casual with only one night that might require you to dress up and that’s the last night with the Captain’s farewell.

Keep in mind that all river cruise ships also have laundries so you can have a clean change of clothes overnight and this will save room in your suitcase for items you will surely bring home.

Since you’re likely to get in thousands of steps during the excursions, bring comfortable shoes that you can wear all day. Also pack a raincoat and compact umbrella so unexpected rain showers don’t catch you off guard.

As you fill up your suitcase, remind yourself that your cabin will likely be smaller than what you’d find on an ocean cruise ship. The less you bring, the less you’ll have to unpack in your space.  Picking a main color will also help, since you can mix and match outfits.

To make the most of your clothing, think in layers: You might be able to dress up an outfit with a simple scarf or coat.

Power adapters are a necessity in the electronic age and you can easily find them at most stores such as Target, Walmart and Best Buy.  Some even have multiple ports so that you can charge more than one device at a time.  Extra batteries are also a great idea.  Even if you don’t need them, I bet someone on the cruise will and you can save the day.

Not Double-checking Documents

To travel outside the United States you must have a valid passport.  Most countries require a passport to be valid for at least six (6) months from the day you depart their country.   Also, passports must be in good condition with no rips, tears or other issues.  Make copies of your passport and keep them in separate places while you travel, so that if your passport is lost or stolen, it can be easily replaced.  You should also leave a copy at home with a relative or friend.

You’ll want to make sure you have all your cruise documents in place before heading out.  If you have booked your travel with a travel agent, they will have gone over them, but it never hurts to check them yourself.

Bring your driver’s license if you plan to rent a car during part of your time in Europe. Also take medical insurance cards, a copy of your prescriptions and a list of the medicines you’re taking.

A good idea is to print out an extra copy of your itinerary to leave at home so that if someone needs to contact you, they will have the information to do so.   River cruise lines typically print a list of contact points with the documents you receive.

Erring On the Season

The peak cruising season for European rivers generally runs from April through October, but there are cruises on the Danube and Rhine through December for the Christmas Market cruise season.

The shoulder season months can give you the best bargains, but the weather can also be chilly. If you’re cruising Europe in April and May or October and November, make sure you pack plenty of warm layers and a rain jacket. Outdoor activities might be less fun than museum visits, so if you’re set on biking your way along the Rhine, take your cruise in the summer when you are more likely to have better weather.

Water levels can also fluctuate depending on the time of year. If you’re concerned about high water levels which can make it difficult for boats to pass through certain areas, avoid cruising in the springtime. Very low levels can happen in the heat of the summer, in August or September.

Planning for Quiet Days

As noted, river cruise ships dock for the most part in the center of the town or city you will be visiting.  This gives you an opportunity to explore on your own.  You can take part in a walking tour and then stay in town if you wish to do a little exploring on your own.

Also, most ships have shore excursions of varying activity levels, so you might choose a “gentle walker” shore excursion for the morning and maybe a more active one in the afternoon.

Most ships also carry bicycles so that you can ride around the area if you like.  They also have bike tours led by members of the crew if you want company.

If you choose to stay one the ship, there is a library with books and games and you can relax in the lounge or the sun deck.  If the weather is warm enough you can also take a dip in the pool or sit in the whirlpool.  All the comforts of home.

Overlooking the Fine Print

Just like other cruises, you’ll want to read through the details before booking a river cruise.

While most cruise lines offer all-inclusive packages, it’s best to find out exactly what is covered — and what is not — in these deals.

Check to see if shore excursions, dinners and drinks, such as wine and beer are included, or if they come a la carte.

To properly plan your trip and budget, look carefully at all costs listed. Make sure the cruise offers features that appeal to you and sights you are longing to see.

After doing your homework, you’ll be ready for one of the most engaging ways to tour Europe.

INSURANCE

One of the biggest river cruise booking mistakes, and potentially the most costly is not taking out insurance on your trip.  There are several ways to protect your trip; the cruise lines have insurance plans that cover all elements you have booked with them.  However, if you book a pre-cruise hotel, your own air, etc. those would not be covered.

If you choose a third-party insurance, your pricing will depend on several factors, your age, the cost of your trip and the state you live in.  Your travel agent will be able to research this and give you a price.

In these uncertain times it isn’t prudent to not have insurance to protect this major investment.

NOW IS NOT TOO SOON to begin taking steps to find your next exciting river cruise.  Unique Journeys is a valuable asset to make certain you get the right cruise at the right time and for the right price.   Don’t go it alone and risk not having the best experience possible.  Contact me at Unique Journeys  so you can start planning to give you the vacation you deserve.

 

 

 

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  • Nancy Luechtefeld
  • Unique Journeys, LLC
  • (314) 644-8691
  • nancy@unique-journeys.com

Terms & Conditions

Nancy is Proud to be a:

Certified by The Travel Institute
ARC Member
Collette Tours Expert
AMA Waterways Expert
Holland America Expert – Platinum Status
Viking River Cruise Specialist
Scenic Cruise Specialist

Destination Specialist For:

North America
Caribbean
Europe
and other locations.

Nancy is also a:

BritAgent
ScotsMaster

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