GENERAL TRAVEL QUESTIONS
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What are the advantages of river cruising?

Many of the world's major cities and great cultures grew up along riverbanks. Whether you journey along the Nile in Egypt or across the heart of Europe on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, the storied past will spring to life as you relax in comfort aboard your river cruise vessel.

In fact, many experienced travelers consider river cruising the ultimate travel experience. There are several reasons for this. First, river cruise passengers unpack but once (no baggage drills) while their "floating hotel" provides access to unspoiled towns and villages that would otherwise be difficult to visit. All-in-all, river cruising is a much more relaxed and comfortable way to travel.

Secondly, river ships are not nearly as big as their ocean-going cousins. Most accommodate no more than 100 passengers. You will not feel lost in the crowd and you will generally receive better, more personalized service from crew members - many of whom will know you by name! Nor are river ships as small as barges, their tinier cousins. Because of this they can provide more service and comfort, including lounges, a sun deck and other modern-day comforts.

Aboard a river cruiser, you'll sail near shore for close-up views of the countryside ... vineyards, castles, and even glimpses of the local people in everyday pursuits. Ports of call range from tiny hamlets to cosmopolitan capitals.

Best of all, as all meals are included, river cruise programs offer an excellent value.
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How important is the presence of a Travel Director on a group travel program?

A great deal of research and thought goes into your decision to travel with a tour operator on an international travel program. That is why it is so important to have a representative of our company travel with you.

It is essential to have a personable, mature and experienced tour leader who can handle all of the travel logistics. But, our Travel Directors must do more than that. They enhance your appreciation of the countries you are visiting, add a dimension of personality and knowledge that you would not encounter on your own and provide a constant source of information and comfort so that you can fully enjoy your journey without worry or care.

On a more practical level, your Travel Director will provide daily briefings, up to the minute information on local conditions, currency conversion, cultural do's and don'ts, sightseeing and dining.

Perhaps, however, a Travel Director is most appreciated when unexpected problems arise, from a misplaced passport, to lost luggage, to a sudden illness. The Travel Director, being a professional, knows the "ropes" and often the language in the country visited. He or she can, therefore, intervene with hotel or airport personnel, find medical assistance and, best of all, solve unforeseen problems before they arise.