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Health & Fitness

River Cruising -- Ten reasons why it's the current rage in foreign and domestic travel

Over two dozen new ships will be launched in 2014 to satisfy the demand for this very popular new travel trend.  Besides Viking River Cruises, a leader in this market, five other cruise lines are adding ships to their fleets, and more ships will hit the waterways over the next few years.  Domestically, a sternwheeler operated by the American Queen Steamboat Company will offer cruises on the Columbia and Snake Rivers in Washington state and Oregon. 

Opportunities to cruise all over the world

Most people think of France, Germany and Austria when they hear "River Cruise." Although these are among the most popular destinations, they are by no means the only ones.  Vietnam and Myanmar offer a more exotic experience, and anybody who watches Downton Abbey is sure to have seen the commericals for travel in Russia and Eastern Europe.  The Yangtze River in China has also become a popular cruise option.

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This form of travel is relaxing!

Unlike motorcoach tours where you always seem to be rushing to make your bus or packing and unpacking daily, river cruising is all about unwinding.  Day trips and tours are available for those who are interested, but you can also just recline on the open deck and watch the world go by.  And what a world!  Rice paddies and farmland, castles and busy city streets, animal and bird-watching -- every day a new experience.

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River vessels are small -- you won't feel like you're part of a cattle call!

Because river cruise ships are limited by the width and depth of the river as well as by bridges and locks, most carry 200 or fewer passengers -- some less than 50!  This gives you a chance to really connect with your shipmates and make some lasting friendships. 

You get to know the port of call by exploring on your own or with a tour group

Your ship will dock right in the middle of the town so you can enjoy an afternoon stroll through the local market and mingle with the townsfolk.  Organized tours are available to monuments and museums, but some cruisers just prefer to take a hike in the countryside or sample the local cuisine.  You set your own pace.

Superior accommodations

River cruise cabins used to be quite small, but with the newer ships being built, the accommodations have improved dramatically.  Some cabins have balconies and some suites are available.  Bathrooms are no longer the size of telephone booths, and cabins include flat screen TVs.  The beds are comparable to those in hotels -- no more bunk beds or singles.

Improved public areas and more contemporary ships

Since these vessels are necessarily smaller than ocean going vessels, current designers have come up with creative ways to make public space seem more spacious and open.  Outside dining options are popular, and lounges and libraries are tastefully furnished.  The open decks allow for sunbathing and lounging as well as great vistas for the photography buffs.

When in Rome.........

Depending on your cruise, the local specialties are served onboard ship, to give you the flavors as well as the sights of your destination.  Local artisans and entertainers are also allowed onboard to introduce their world to you.  Who wouldn't want a nice glass of beer and a bratwurst with sauerkraut when floating past a German castle?  

You won't get nickled and dimed every time you turn around

Sightseeing tours are included in the cruise fare!  Sound too good to be true? .... so is beer and wine, bottled water and specialty coffee drinks!   Some lines offer an open bar, and internet access is also complimentary.

Leave your tux at home

The dress code is casual -- just another way to help you relax!  And because your cabin is your "home away from home," you only need to unpack the day of embarkation!

Screaming kids are not an issue!

The average age of river cruisers is between 50 and 70, although 40 somethings would fit right in and probably be the life of the party!  The newer ships that are being launched are targeting younger cruisers, but are not marketing to young families.

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