European Cycling Adventure

As if river cruises in Europe, with their quaint bank-side villages, marvelous hotel stays and intimate settings weren't already one of the most enjoyable leisure vacations available, there's a new breed of river cruise appearing that caters to those who want to get a more intimate view of the land these scenic rivers navigate.

Peter Deilmann Cruises has announced the creation of a countryside cycling program for some of its river cruises along the Seine, the Rhone, the Elbe and the Danube rivers this summer.

From June to September, the cruise line's cycling-themed river excursions will include the chance for adventurous but introspective bicycle rides through some of the most intriguing areas of France and Germany. Some of the cycle tours include backwoods paths, monasteries, castles, orchards, nature reserves, wine-tastings, picnics, and hotel stays overnight. This type of slow travel will allow visitors to take in the essence of cities like Lyon, Dresden, Paris, Vienna, Budapest and Hamburg from a totally different perspective than the average escorted tour or cruise.

~ note ~
contact us for more information if you'd like for us to help you plan a European River cruise for you.

Ten Reasons to Visit Norway

The Vikings influenced most of Europe, and even part of North America, but a quick view through any Nordic travel guide will have you wondering... why were they in such a hurry to go somewhere else?

Here are the top ten reasons for the globe-trotting family to book a cruise to Norway:

• Sites of historical and cultural significance
  Norwegian cruises offer a vast selection of shore excursions where visitors can disembark to experience the country’s rich culture and heritage—from architecture, museums, and literature to festivals, concerts, and other great performing arts.
• An extremely safe destination
  Norway is an economically stable and high-tech country situated in a calm corner of the world.
• Lots of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages (family friendly)
  Nature lovers experience mountain walks, camping, fishing, golf, polar expeditions, and so much more—all appropriate for different ages and fitness levels.
• Amazing landscapes
  From waterfalls to fjords to parks, the Norwegian coastline includes more than 67.000 enticing islands, enabling cruise ships to sail in beautiful sheltered waters.
• Easily accessible air travel
  Travel from the US and other destinations in Europe is easy, with as many as nine airlines serving travelers.
• Family-friendly hotels
  You will even find a collection of hostels who cater to backpackers, providing inexpensive lodging for the adventurous.
• Modern lifestyle and cosmopolitan cities
  The combination of big city life, a diverse array of cultural activities and easy access to untouched natural surroundings have made Oslo an increasingly attractive destination for travellers from all over the world.
• Warmer than many nordic destinations thanks to the Gulf Stream
  While winters can still be cold enough to warrant a large coat and scarf, often simple layered clothing is enough to keep travelers comfortable the rest of the year.
• Easy entry
  Upon entering Norway you must present a valid passport and/or document proving your nationality, but Americans staying less than 90 days are not required to have a visa.
• Friendly English-speaking population
  Many tourists look upon Norway as a safe destination and discover how warm, engaging, and welcoming Norwegians are. A large portion of the population is proficient in English as a second language and can converse easily with travelers from the US.

Additionally, Norway claims one of the premiere Heritage sites in the world. You will find two of the world’s three longest fjords in Norway. UNESCO has included Norwegian fjords on its World Heritage List, and National Geographic has ranked Norwegian fjords the most popular of all World Heritage sites.

Norway also boasts one of the most highly rated train rides in the world - the trip between Oslo and Bergen, hitting heights of more than 1200 meters above sea level!

Currently about 18 different cruise lines makes ports of call in Norway. Maybe you should see what all the excitement is about?

http://www.visitnorway.com