Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Different Places One Can Visit on Romantic Nile Cruises - Part II

One doesn't have to go for a tour of the entire Egypt to appreciate its diverse and rich culture and structures. The Romantic Nile cruises offer a much more luxurious and comfortable way to enjoy all the major temples and structures as all the Egyptian pharaohs were attracted towards the then mystical properties of the fertile Nile. These cruises usually start at the Luxor port which is famous for the largest temple complex in Egypt- the Karnak temples, Queen Hatshepsut's temple and also the traditional Nile boats - Feluccas.

The cruise moves on with the valley of kings which is famous for being the resting spot for sixty major pharaohs. The Edfu city is famous for the temple of Horus which was built in the first century and is the second largest temple complex. Then, the Romantic Nile cruises visit the Kom Ombo which is situated at the river bend about forty kilometres north of Aswan. It is famous for the mysterious double temple built during the roman and Ptolemaic period.

This double temple is devoted to two gods - Sobek (crocodile headed) and Horus (falcon headed). The temple has everything in two (maybe to accommodate the egos of both the gods!). The most surprising thing is that the reliefs placed on the walls contain details of ancient medical devices and instruments. Although, this temple was very badly damaged by earthquake and the river, it is still a very beautiful place and is a must visit for every Egyptian tourist. If the cruises approach at the time of the sunset, then one can see the sight of changing colours on the stonework of the temple.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Luxury River Cruises in Asia

Take a journey back in time and discover the natural beauty of Asia with a luxury river cruise. Journey along the mysterious heart of China, the mighty Yangtze River. See ancient sites and remote villages, and get an up-close look at the Three Gorges Dam. Enjoy the extraordinary scenery along the Mekong Delta, with its mist-enshrouded peaks and dense pines.

The Yangtze River

The Yangtze River, or Chang Jiang, is the longest river in China and Asia, and the third-longest in the world. The river is about 6,380 km long and flows eastwards from its source in Qinghai Province into the East China Sea at Shanghai. As the largest river in the region, the Yangtze is historically, culturally, and economically important to China.

The majority of luxury river cruises either start or end in Shanghai. Shanghai is an exciting and dynamic metropolis located at the mouth of the Yangtze River. Since 1842, the city has grown into a massive international port, attracting people from around the globe.

Bustling urban streets, an emerging fashion district, modern skyscrapers and a pulsating nightlife all give Shanghai a delightfully modern feel.

The Three Gorges is the most spectacular section of the Yangtze River and draws thousands of visitors each year. Located in Sichuan and Hubei Province, the Three Gorges is composed of Qutang Gorge, Wuxia Gorge and Xiling Gorge.

Qutang Gorge is about 8 kilometres long, with 100-metre high walls, stretching from Baidi in the west, to Wushan County in the east, creating a colossal gateway over the Yangtze River.

Wuxia Gorge is said to be the most beautiful of the three. Wuxia is about 40 kilometres long, while Xiling Gorge is the longest of the three, stretching from the Xiangxi stream in Zigui County to the Nanjin Pass in Yichang, running a total of 76 kilometres.

Fengdu is another essential stop on any Yangtze River cruise. Located at the foothill of the mountains, Fengdu is the only ghost city in China. Temples are situated all over Ming Mountain, in which a series of super beings are supposed to dwell.

Legend states that Ming Mountain is one of the 72 graveyards for Taoism. Tao believes that when people die, their spirits will gather at these locations. From March 3 to 15 of the lunar month, Fengdu people hold temple fair days. During the days, "spirit shows" are held in the streets, attracting many believers. Fengdu is a mystical and terrible place of spirits in the minds of the Chinese people.

Another stop on the river cruise itinerary is the city of Wuhan, to see the Hubei Provincial Museum. Founded in 1993, the entire museum covers an area of 51,000 square metres. The museum houses 140,000 archaeological cultural relics dating from the Stone Age to modern day. More than 600 of these are listed as national class exhibit items.

Mekong River

The Mekong River is one of the world?s major rivers and thus a major cruise destination. Deep in history and rich in culture, it's one of the last travel frontiers, with its stunning natural beauty and biodiversity. Some of its attractions include ancient monuments, royal capitals and UNESCO World Heritage sites like Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Luang Prabang in Laos; depicting an illustrious past.

Every cruise itinerary must include a stop at stunning Angkor Wat, a temple complex at Angkor, Cambodia, built for the king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century. The modern name, Angkor Wat means "City Temple."

The temple is the epitome of Khmer architecture. It has become the symbol of Cambodia and is the country's central tourist attraction. The temple is admired for the grandeur of the architecture, its extensive bas-reliefs and for the numerous devatas (guardian spirits) adorning its walls.

Luang Prabang is a city located in north central Laos, on the Mekong River, about 425 kilometres north of Vientiane. The city was formerly the capital of a kingdom of the same name. Until the communist takeover in 1975, it was the royal capital and seat of government of the Kingdom of Laos. The city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Luang Prabang has both natural and historical sites. Among the natural tourism sites, there are the Kuang Si Falls and Pak Ou Caves. The Haw Kham Royal Palace Museum and the Wat Xieng Thong temple are essential viewing for archaeology enthusiasts.

Luxury river cruises provide a window to the past and an effortless means to see some of the best Asia has to offer.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

European Cruise Advice

European cruises are fantastic travel experiences; they offer history, beautiful landscapes and the unique flavour of European culture. If you want to visit the heart of Europe as well, don't hesitate to take one of the many European river cruises which are available; the experience is certainly worth any amount of money. European cruises offer so much to take in and so many excellent opportunities to create wonderful memories.

European cruises offer so much to the traveller as well. Your destinations include port cities of Barcelona, Berlin and Cannes as well as plenty of other European ports. Travel by train through breathtaking scenery in Norway, kayak along Geiranger Fjords steep mountain walls, or go on an adventurous glacier hike. Travel to the old world charm of a Scandinavian & Russian cruise. See sparkling palaces and dramatic peaks. Travel via European tours and cruises and you'll experience a little taste of everything.

European cruising allows you to experience all these treasures together. European city ports are closely situated and this makes sailing around the cities in the cruises convenient and fast. European Cruise Advice offers well organized advice to the must visit European sites. European cruise fares are still very cheap, but once they start to fill up the prices will also go higher. You heard it here first, but soon the news about cheap cruise fares, cheap airfare, the Dollar now being much stronger and the weak European economy will sink in.

Cruising in Europe isn't the same as cruising anywhere else in the world! This guide offers everything a traveller needs to know in order to plan the ideal European cruise. The family-friendly vacation package that has gained the most steam in the past five years is cruising. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, ships have seen a record number of passengers-close to 12.5 million-in 2009, up from 8.65 million in 2005.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

European River Cruises - Seine River Cruise

Paris is the city of love and often with good reason. The fairy lights, which have presented with a romantic ambience and good restaurants and bars, is a paradise for lovers. Stroll along the streets of the French capital may, in its own way special prize, but records that fatigue at the end of the day. If you give up more tired and wants to look at the real measure is how the city maximize delicious, you should seriously considera Seine River Cruise.

The Seine River cuts through the heart of Paris and there are so many things that you will be guaranteed of seeing. From your cruise ship, you can be able to appreciate the beauty of the numerous vineyards and orchards that are spread all over some parts of the city. A touch of history is preserved since you will be able to see some medieval towns, architecture and general lifestyle though modernity has affected this but not to a great extent.

If you want to truly embrace the city of Paris in all its glamour, you need to make a personal trip down to the Eiffel tower and be amazed at the city's most prized landmark. Try visiting some of the museums so you can appreciate some of the fine art. If you have the time, visit the Notre Dame as well. You just have to try the French Cuisine above everything else since that will be one reminiscent part of your cruise. Nothing beats a good French made meal, especially when made in France itself.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Going on Nile River Cruises - Why Should I?

You have not truly enjoyed Egypt if you haven't gone for the Nile river cruises. Though Egypt is a wonderful place to be, the best way to really enjoy your stay there and really make it memorable is to go on a cruise. You are sure to find one that is best suited for your budget with the many offers that are given.

Why should I go on Nile river cruises? This is one of the many questions that people ask themselves when they think of these cruises means that you never have to worry about stops as your hotel is not only your place to relax but also your transport.

Another great thing about these cruises is their flexibility. You can either choose to go for the many on board offers if you are not into exploring the country, or you could make an arrangement to stop at every port if you want to learn more about Egypt and its culture.

The mood in the cruise ships is friendly as they are small compared to other big ships that go across the ocean. This however doesn't mean that you don't get to enjoy amenities like you would in the other big ships. Though they are small, they are large enough to offer all that you need to make your cruise great.

Friday, December 10, 2010

Top 3 Must-See Highlights on Any Danube River Cruises

Danube river cruises are quickly becoming one of the most popular European vacation alternatives. Many travelers have discovered that the best way to experience the wonderful world located across the pond is not by climbing aboard a massive ocean cruise ship but by booking a few days to sail the river. Designed to show each visitor some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe Danube river cruises are as much an adventure as they are a relaxing retreat. While aboard passengers can see some of the most historical relevant landmarks in the world as well as small quaint and untouched villages. And for those who are looking for excitement there are countless cities all of which are full of nightlife and entertainment. For those who are searching for culture and natural wonders, here are three must-see locations for Danube river cruises;

Vienna Opera house:
The first opera house built in Vienna, this perfect example of neo-renaissance architecture is a must-see for anyone who is interested in both the arts and world history. This strong and beautiful structure survived World War 2 even though it was set on fire in 1945 by an American bombardment. The front section which still stands today is original to the structure and includes many frescoes by Moritz von Schwind. The Vienna Opera house is one of the busiest in the world with more than 200 performances a year. It is quite common for the house to perform a different opera on each day of the week.

The Iron Gates:
Considered to be one of the most fascinating cliffs in the world, the Iron Gates is a narrow passage way formed by both the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. It is also an unmarked border between Serbia and Romania. The gorge meets the Danube River and is 3.2 km long and only 170m wide. The water is incredibly rough while passing through the rock as the river narrows quite a bit and the water moves at a swift pace, making it an exciting addition to all Danube river cruises. The Iron Gates are also the location for one of Europe's largest hydroelectric power dames.

Palace of Justice:
For any history buff this building is simply a once in a lifetime experience. This historic building is in Bavaria Germany and was the location for the now famous Nuremberg trials where after the Second World War many of Hitler's henchmen were found guilty of unthinkable war crimes. The courtroom and prison are open during the week for tourists and is being renovated for the opening of Memorial Nuremberg Trials hosted by the Nuremberg Municipal Museums scheduled for 2010. This is an important stop for all Danube river cruises and is considered one of the world's most significant historical sights.

Fabulous Lueftner-Cruises - Amadeus Rhapsody Sightseeing

A Relaxing European River Cruise That Will Make Great Memories

If you want to make your cruise relaxing and memorable, then you should consider getting onboard the world renowned Amadeus Rhapsody cruises, which will provide you with the greatest service and the most amazing destinations on your itinerary.  Cruising with such an experienced and elegant cruise company is important for you to make the most memorable experiences during your cruise.

Belonging to the Lueftner-Cruises Company, Amadeus Rhapsody offers fabulous cruises on a 120 passenger, modern luxury ship which was launched in 1998.  For those who are stressed out from the pressures of daily life, those European cruise holidays can be a great means of getting away or even for those who just enjoy traveling.

Undoubtedly Amadeus providing perfect options when it comes to river cruises. Their sightseeing offer you everything that you desire from a smooth cruise, with 70 spacious cabins with en suite bathrooms, stylishly designed interior and state of the art technology.  Your cabins are equipped with thermostats that can be individually controlled, audio systems and TVs to provide you entertainment when you're enjoying the calm privacy of your cabin.

Facilitates includes further a lounge/bar that will help you have a quality time while you can also use the well equipped and spacious library and get the services of the onboard hairdresser as well.  There is also a well stored gift shop on this cruiser that will enable you to buy gifts for your loved ones back at home or small eye candy gifts to remember the memorable journey you had on this brilliant cruise.

With that comfort, you can go sightseeing on the rivers all day long with your friends or partner or if you're a single traveler, the impressive Vessel would be a great platform for you to make new friends who share the same interests as you do.

The panorama dining room will provide you with breath-taking views while you enjoy your meals prepared by well experienced and acknowledged chefs.  The spacious decks will ensure that you can get plenty of fresh air and space to hang around in the company of your companions during your cruise travel.  With the plush swimming pool you can have a small dip in the cool water in case you'd like to enjoy a quick swim before you join a shore excursion or so. 

The well planned itinerary that Amadeus Rhapsody cruises offer ensures that single travelers as well as couples and families onboard will also enjoy their cruise holidays. You can be guaranteed of a safe and secure environment which is ideal to meet new people and make new friends.

There are many activities that cater to all the levels of passengers that travel together. On the other hand, if you prefer some tranquility and peace, there are many quiet hang-out areas where you can enjoy some privacy. 

At a full capacity with all passengers the staff ratio is 4:1 and you can expect them to be as helpful and adroit as much as possible.  Overall, you can expect Lueftner-Cruises [http://www.europeanrivercruisetravel.com/amadeus-brand-lueftner-cruises.html] Vessels to leave you with all the conveniences of a five star hotel while providing you with a smooth and safe journey to all the amazing destinations you've always wanted to enjoy.

Without doubt, Amadeus cruises belong to one of the leading European cruise lines.