posted by admin on Jul 2
Li River - Cruise in a Living Gallery
The Li River or Li Jiang is a beautiful river in Guilin, Guangxi Province, China. The Li River takes its rise in the Mao’er Mountains in Xing’an County and flows through Lingchuan, Guilin, Yangshuo and Pingle, down into the Xi Jiang River, the western branch of the Pearl River (Zhu Jiang) in Wuzhou, its reach of 437 Kilometers is flanked with stunning karst landform scenery. Along the course of the 84 kilometers between Guilin and Yangshuo is considered the quintessence of the Li River.
Cruising Help For First Time Cruisers - How to Get There and Be Sure You Are on the Ship
If you are not there on time, the ship will leave without you. Follow these few, simple rules to make sure that you do not get left behind.
Holland America Explores Europe and the Mediterranean
by Roy Witman © 2007, All Rights Reserved
Because of its history, Europe and the Mediterranean are two of the most wondrous regions to explore. From the windmills of Amsterdam to medieval castles of Norway, this curious continent delivers the stuff fairy tales are made of. Holland America calls this region home. Launching her first ship from Rotterdam in 1873, Holland America has positioned herself as the leader in premium-class cruises to Europe, the Mediterranean and other exceptional ports.
Serving up Europe as only a local can, Holland America combines popular tourist spots with out-of-the-way ports for an in-depth look at all that makes Europe grand. The Netherlands, France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Russia and others are available from two- to 108-night voyages on 46 itineraries encompassing 136 ports.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Probably most famous for hillsides full of tulips and windmills, Amsterdam is an enchanting city. You’ll find yourself face to face with classic creations from van Gogh, Rembrandt and Vermeer, as you stroll through numerous museums. Tour the canals, ramble through festivals filled with music and culture, and discover the inner workings of live windmills. Don’t forget to leave room in your suitcase, so you can bring home a pair of wooden shoes!
Paris, France
Truly the city of love, Paris, France, is a delight for all your senses. Take in the sites including world-famous monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, this structure is as beautiful as it is historically significant. The Arc stands on four support bases that commemorate the triumph, the resistance, the peace and the departure. Paris is also home to the Eiffel Tower. Absolutely breathtaking at 300 meters tall, the Tower encases 1652 steps from bottom to top. And you must partake of the food while in Paris. From sidewalk bistros with champagne brunches to mouthwatering bakeries filled with warm breads and luscious pastries, you haven’t experienced Paris until you’ve dined here.
Tallinn, Estonia
This little-known gem is quite a find by those who travel on Holland America. Wedged between Russia and Latvia, Tallinn is across the sea from Finland and Sweden. Red-tiled rooftops are significant of Tallinn as are water and cobblestone streets. This ancient city offers some truly unique excursions, which can be booked during your Holland America cruise. Castles, sculptures and vodka are the cornerstones of one walking tour that unfolds interesting sites in this medieval city. Spend the day discovering the most romantic aspects of this charming town or take in the local shops and boutiques while surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
St. Petersburg, Russia
With its rich imperial past, St. Petersburg has some of the most awe-inspiring architecture in the world. Catherine’s Palace, with its grandiose design of blue, white and gold, is a must-see while in St. Petersburg. Museums are also worthy excursions if you have a love for art. A truly regal city, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back into the days of royalty.
Cairo, Egypt
The Mediterranean is also an exciting and intriguing port of exploration. Amid the wonders you’ll find in and around Cairo are the pyramids, the Sphinx and the Nile River. As the sole survivor of the Seven Wonders of the World, these pyramids are something everyone who visits Egypt should see. Cross the desert and discover exotic wildlife or fill the shoes of Cleopatra, as you take a riverboat tour of the Nile. It truly is a unique experience that won’t be quickly forgotten.
If touring Europe and the Mediterranean in style is your idea of a grand vacation, Holland America has the ships and itineraries to make it happen. Discover the best these destinations have to offer when it’s time for your next getaway.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> offering the best deals including <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/european_cruises.htm"> European cruises</a> and <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/alaska_cruises.htm">Alaska cruises</a>.
Honeymoon Cruises
Cruises come in as many varieties as there are honeymooners. A good place to start is with a travel agent who specializes in cruises. If you want to explore different places during your trip, taking a cruise is a great way to do it.
NCL Freestyle's Newest Ship - Norwegian Pearl
by Roy Witman © 2006
The youngest fleet at sea. That’s the goal of NCL Freestyle, and they are continuing in their efforts with the call to service of Norwegian Pearl. Purpose-built to deliver Freestyle Cruising, Pearl is currently sailing through the Inside Passage of Alaska and to the southern and western Caribbean.
Shipboard Amenities
Several features set Pearl apart from other ships including her 14 bars and lounges, more than any other cruise line. Making use of an innovative Bar Central concept, Pearl offers a martini bar, champagne and wine bar, and a beer and whiskey pub all connected.
Exclusive to NCL Freestyle Cruising are Garden Villas. With shared access to a private pool, hot tub, sun deck and workout facility, families that opt for the Garden Villas can take advantage of a private staff of five butlers who are at your beck and call.
Families choosing NCL Freestyle Cruising have more options than the Garden Villas. Connecting rooms in almost every class make for family-friendly vacations regardless of budget. For those cruising as couples, other accommodations are available including value-minded inside staterooms that allow you to make the most of your vacation dollars. Each cabin includes TV, refrigerator, safe, duvet and hair dryer.
Another unique aspect of Pearl is her rock-climbing wall - a first on a NCL Freestyle cruise ship. Positioned high atop Deck 14, you can see for miles once you reach the top of the wall. But, the most innovative feature by far is her bowling alley at sea - a first on any cruise ship! Included within an entertainment complex called Bliss, passengers will be able to use the four-lane, 10-pin bowling alley during the day. This sports bar will also feature sporting events via television, air hockey, foosball and other arcade games. At night, however, Bliss will be transformed into a high-energy lounge with videos and music.
Destinations
Pearl is making her way through the frigid waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Sailing from Seattle, Pearl calls on ports including Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska, plus Victoria, British Columbia.
While in the 49th US state, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to participate in excursions, including dogsled adventures, rainforest canopy and zip line exploits, whale encounters and wilderness kayaking.
If warm and sunny sounds more appealing to you than cold and frosty, then board Pearl in Miami for a southern or western Caribbean tour. Spending nine days flirting with the sun in balmy Barbados, Antigua or St. John is the perfect way to de-stress. Five-day cruises to Cozumel or Belize are also available.
Kid-Friendly Vacation
Of course, Pearl has plenty for the kids to do. With numerous age-appropriate group activities, kids of all ages can have a blast while at sea. The Kid’s Crew program provides a t-shirt (for painting), mom and dad’s night out, a chef’s hat (for cooking class), Crew News and more. Junior Sailors (ages 2-5), First Mates (ages 6-9) and Navigators (ages 10-12) all have special, supervised games and activities. Children under 12 are not allowed to leave the area unless picked up by a parent.
Teens also get special treatment onboard Pearl. With their own disco, movie events and teen parties, they’ll have a wonderful time meeting kids their own age.
NCL Freestyle Cruising allows you to choose how you dress, when you dine, who you dine with and what you do. This new freedom in cruising is only expanded with the addition of Pearl to the fleet of the youngest ships at sea.
Roy Witman is Vice-President of <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">Cruise Vacation Center</a>. Visit them online today at <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com">http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com</a> for the best deals including <a href="http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com/alaska_cruises.htm"> Alaska cruises</a>.
Cruise Ship Dining Explained
There are many cruise ships now that have Freestyle Dining (Norwegian Cruises) or Choice Dining (Prince Cruise line) available. Or on Disney Cruise Lines they have what is called Rotational Dining . They have you and your table mates rotate through the three restaurants each evening.
CRUISE TIPS: There is usually open seating for breakfast and lunch in the main dining room. Be adventurous with the menu because if you don t like something you can send it back for a replacement. And if they have two things on the menu that you like ask for both of them. My husband, John, always orders the Filet Mignon and the Lobster Tail when they are served on the same night. Many times he tells the waiter to bring what the waiter recommends for that evening.
This means you don t have to choose first or second seating. (First seating is 6:00 to 6:30 and Second seating is usually 8:00-8:30). There can be more than one restaurant where you just walk in when you are ready to dine. Every ship will ask for your dining preference when you book your cruise. You can indicate first, second or flexible dining, whichever will make you more comfortable. The newer ships have a 24 hour dining spot which is always casual so if you don t want to do the formal nights you don t have to, although I find dressing up to be quite fun.
You will have many options for each meal. You may have any meal delivered to your room, taken in the buffet restaurant or in the dining room. There is usually outdoor dining around the pool with hot dogs and hamburgers, pizza, salads, even Tacos.
There are also alternative dining rooms available on some ships that require an additional fee but the service and food are generally 4 to 5 star and worth it if you want to splurge.
In my experience families with young children and people who go to bed early usually dine in first seating. But if you don t want to be on a schedule or want to meet new people every night, go for the alternative dining option. Of course you can always ask for a table for two, but be aware that there are only a few of them.
If you make a special request one night, John always asks for blue cheese, your waiter will bring it every night. They pride themselves on remembering your tastes. (This only happens when you choose traditional dining). On one cruise we asked for Melba toast, and you bet, every night we had Melba toast. There is one thing I always make clear to the waiter. I am not a big eater but I like to taste everything. I tell this to them the first night so they don t think I am unhappy with the food. It is their job to keep you happy and they take it very seriously.
If you don t want to eat in the main dining room almost all ships have a Lido caf © where it is casual but you order from a menu and are served by a waiter. It s one of the many choices if you don t want to participate in a formal night or if you just want to eat by yourselves. On Carnivals single cruises they encourage this style of dining so the singles can meet more people. There are exceptions to this but not many. On some of the newer ships the Lido is open 24 hours a day.
On most of the cruise lines they offer the food of the region that you are visiting. While on Hawaiian cruises expect to be served Hawaiian food. When on an Alaskan cruise you will be given the choices of salmon and Alaskan king crab legs. It makes more fun to dine on the local cuisine.
All of the cruise lines offer healthy alternative menus or what they call spa menus. So if you want low-fat, low-salt, low cholesterol, vegetarian or any other type of diet, they are available. It is best however to inform your travel agent of any special needs so they can notify the cruise line ahead of time. If you have special dietary needs make sure the cruise lines knows before hand. For example, Royal Caribbean cruises cater to food allergy, Kosher, Indian, Vegetarian and Gluten Free Diets.
To be really safe read all of the cruise reviews and cruise critics sites for each ships food and service ratings.
Happy Cruising, enjoy it, we do!
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
Mary Hanna has traveled the world by Air and Ship while writing eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles on Internet Marketing, Cruising, Gardening and Cooking. Visit her websites at: http://www.CruiseGold.com http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.CruisingTips.com
Reviews Cruise your cruise experience
Informative Cruise Review website guides you to the best of ordinary people s views Ever wanted to know what its like to view cruises realistically With so many cruise destinations to choose from: Alaska, Amazon, Asia, Baltic s, Canary s, Caribbean, Greenland, Mediterranean, North America, South America, Norway s fjords lets just say the World. Which would be the best cruise destinations? Cruising holidays have become very competitive with millions of people choosing to spend their holidays on board the luxurious cruise liners every year. The Review a Cruise website will become a collection of information to help you find the right cruise with the best amenities and services, for that once in a lifetime holiday. Together we will look at your best ports of call and many destinations around the world, you re most desirable and exciting experiences, and explore the most interesting cultures on the planet. The good, the bad and the ugly of places to go, we would like to know! What you recommend and why? We will look at the best ports or areas of the world, what were your experiences of different countries, and cultures the good bad or ugly of the places to go, The cruise ship review will give you an on board experience of ordinary people who have cruised before. Passenger comments will cover every single aspect of what to expect when you first board the cruise liner. Where you made to feel welcome? Was the baggage sent directly to their cabins? What were the rooms were like? Was the entertainment good, great, or fantastic? How clean was the pool? Or were the staff friendly? As most cruise ships now compete to have the best celebrity chefs with their amazing world class cuisine and 24 hour dining areas. Where the celebrity meal covered in the all inclusive cost, we will look at the diversity and freshness of the food quality the ambience and presentation and cleanliness of the food areas, to ensure the highest quality of food with the balance of excellent hygiene. Is it a luxurious dine with the captain or just the laid back informal occasion? What were the prices of the drinks? Was there a shock when you got your final bill? Do they provide the latest film shown in the cinemas? Was your movie ruined by a screaming child? We will look at different types of cabins sizes, the adequate, the cleanliness (for example quality of the sheets), the range of television channels, comfort of the beds and all the other available amenities As you travel to different destinations every day it would be very important to see how well the tours and excursions where conducted, what would you recommend and what was a waste of money? So is there a better way to travel around the various locations? We will recommend various publications and online websites that have great cruise deals and discounts that will aid you in maximising your cruise holiday. A cruise is a very unique experience; it is similar to a floating luxurious hotel in which you only have to unpack once as the world will visits you. Is it worth having an outside cabin? Will your cruise give you the option of paying your on board bill at the end of the cruise? To tell the truth, most cruise liners do have onboard money less systems. We will have reviews by cruise industry experts and also the reviews and comments of passengers giving us a unique insight of what you will really expect before your cruise holiday.
Paul Phillips entrepreneur some would say X pop star loves exchanging his travel experiences with fellow travellers, visit <a href="http://www.reviewacruise.com/blog" title="Cruise Reviews">Cruise Reviews</a> copyright of reviewacruise you may use this info on your website please leave article intact author paul phillips
Single Cruisers Can Go With A Group Or on Their Own
Single cruising is a lot of fun because of the friendly people you meet. Many cruise lines have special parties for single cruising passengers so that you can get to know your other single cruisers.
However, if you are a first time cruiser it is recommended that you go on an organized single cruise. There are a lot of reasons for this. First of all you are guaranteed that there will be other singles on board. As a group you will have all kinds of special activities. The first night of your cruise the group will hold a cocktail party. It is a kind of getting to know you soiree for the entire single cruising group. There are other advantageous, sometimes they arrange a hotel stay the night before the cruise so you will already know who your fellow single cruisers are. During the cruise they will host games, organize group tours and of course, group dining. The organizers sometime set up message boards so the group can talk before the singles cruise begins.
Don t try to go around the travel agency that is organizing the singles cruise because you think you can get it cheaper. Yes, you will be on the cruise with all the singles, but you won t be able to participate in the activities. The organizing travel agency will issue identification for the group of single cruisers and will have security at the functions so there will be no crashing the party. I spoke to a guy once who tried to do this and found out to late that he would be excluded. He even tried to pay to get into the activities but that was not allowed, so he missed out.
There are always questions on whether or not you should book a single cabin or take the risk of a roommate assigned by either the cruise line or the organizing travel agency. This depends on how agreeable you are. Of course, you might end up with someone who is rude, so you are taking a chance. If you don t want to take the chance, book your own cabin which will be a bit more expensive.
The travel agency will try to pick someone that is compatible. Criteria such as age, a smoker or not, and naturally, sex are used when trying to match cabin mates. If you opt to let them choose a cabin mate they may supply you an email address to contact the cabin mate so you can set some rules in advance. Find out what your cabin mates sleep habits are. If you re an early riser and your cabin mate likes to party, there will be a problem. Be flexible, the other person may want to set some rules too. The biggest problem with a stranger in the cabin on a singles cruise is that they might meet someone special and want to use the cabin for a few hours with you not in it.
The organizing travel agency will set up the dining arrangements. If after the first night you are uncomfortable with your table talk to the Maitre D he will help you. From the information I have gotten, the organizing travel agency will usually mix the tables up every night so that everyone has a chance to interact. That is the ideal solution. If you have taken the plunge solo and booked your own cruise the same goes for you, speak to the Maitre D and he will help you. Many ships now have a variety of dining options where you and pick where you want to eat and when.
Younger single cruisers should stick to three and four day cruises. One, because they re cheaper and two, you don t use up a lot of vacation time. Pick a three day cruise on a weekend that falls on a holiday and you won t use up any vacation time at all. Three days is a short time to meet people, but single cruisers are sailing with the intention of meeting people so they won t be shy. If you booking this on your own, research which cruise lines offer special single cruising dates. The over 40 crowd will be on longer cruises because they have more money and time.
If you are a single parent and you want to cruise with your kids choose a line that has a good children s program. That way your kids are supervised and you are free to do what you please. Many travel agencies are catering to this need and are setting up single cruises for parents and their kids. So do some research to find agencies that are offering a program for single parent cruisers with children.
If you are a single cruiser and you don t want to go on an organized single cruise, there are message boards out there where people post that they are looking for a roommate. It s a gamble, but if you really want to take a cruise and need to save money it is an option. There are two ways to do this. Choose a singles cruise; get the prices and the post a message to see if there are any takers. Or pick a date or an itinerary, do your post and see if anyone else is interested. It s risky but if someone answers your post you have plenty of time to talk over the internet to see if you are compatible.
Single cruising is fun but don t set your heart on finding that special someone. Take a single cruise with the idea of having fun and meeting new people that may become fast friends. Chances that you will meet your life mate are very small but it will be fun trying. Maybe, when you least expect it, your dream will come true.
For more mature female cruiser, look to the fancier cruise lines. They are a bit pricier but they usually have dance hosts and will seat you with the single gentlemen for dining.
Some cruise lines have seen the advantage of attracting single cruisers and have lessened the single supplement. In the past Crystal, Radisson and Sliversea have reduced their single cruisers supplements. These are all luxury lines.
For you single cruisers who want to brave it on your own here are some cruise lines that offer single cabins.
Cunard’s QE2 was built with 122 single cabins, the new Queen Mary 2 has none. Besides the QE2, only Costa, Peter Deilmann Cruises, Holland America, NCL, Orient Line and Swan Hellenic still have a few single cabins on some of their ships, and these tend to be the older ships. One exception to the rule is Discovery World Cruises. While their ship MV Discovery has only two dedicated single cabins, 169 double cabins are also designated as singles and sold at a single rate. Peter Deilmann Cruises also offers a single rate on double cabins on most of their river ships.
Call your travel agent and talk about single cruising and what s best for you.
Happy Cruising!
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
Mary Hanna has traveled the world by Air and Ship while writing eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles on Internet Marketing, Cruising, Gardening and Cooking. Visit her websites at: http://www.CruiseGold.com http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.CruisingTips.com
