Save $1,000 per couple on the select river cruise departures below.*

Applies to cruise-only itineraries as well.

Solo Traveler Offer - Single Supplement
Waived on Select River Cruise Departures*

*Book a select 2011 Europe Avalon Waterways River Cruise vacation in order to waive the single supplement fee. Only five promotional staterooms available each departure, Category P only. Offer available onselect dates of select cruises listed above. Booking must be made, under deposit, and discount applied after August 31, 2011 for travel at select times in 2011. Applies to new 2011 bookings only, and offer will not be applied to pre-existing bookings. Offer reliant on space availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Certain government-imposed taxes and fees of up to $375, including a September 11th Security fee of up to $10, are additional and must be paid by each traveler. Not combinable with any other offer other than Journeys Club member benefit. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply.

Save $1,000 per stateroom on the air-inclusive price of any 2012 Mekong River cruise.*

Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River from Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok
14 Days from Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok

Step back in history as you explore Vietnam and Cambodia on this amazing cruise vacation. Enjoy a 7-night cruise along the Mekong River, discover the ancient ruins of Angkor, visit some of Vietnam's and Cambodia's historical treasures, behold spectacular scenery, and learn about different cultures. This is a journey like no other!
Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River River Cruise Details

Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Luang Prabang, Hanoi & Ha Long Bay
21 Days from Bangkok to Hanoi

Step back in history as you explore Vietnam and Cambodia on this amazing cruise vacation. Enjoy a 7-night cruise along the Mekong River, discover the ancient ruins of Angkor, visit some of Vietnam's and Cambodia's historical treasures, behold spectacular scenery, and learn about different cultures. This is a journey like no other!
Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Luang Prabang, Hanoi & Ha Long Bay Cruise Details

The first Floriade Expo was held in 1960 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The Dutch Horticultural Council set itself a goal when it launched the Floriade. It was to be ‘a major cross-sector horticultural exhibition that will attract both national and international attention’. With over 3 million visitors, it was a definite success. The Euromast tower was built just for the Floriade, between 1958 and 1960 by Hugh Masskant.

The next Floriade was held 12 years later in 1972, and took place in Amsterdam. The ’72 expo was the busiest horticulture exhibition in all the world at the time, bringing in 5 million people between March and October. All the sections were held in different locations, and were brought together by a special Floriade train. Two of the biggest highlights of the 1972 expo were the lily display and the Dahliarama. The Floriade was held in Amsterdam again in 1982.

In 1992, the Floriade was held in Zoetermeer, and it attracted 3.3 million people to the grounds. Nearly 30 percent of all tourists that visited the Netherlands during this time came exclusively for the Floriade. The 1992 expo included a tramline that had been laid for the exposition, and there was a unique sculpture display. After the Floriade Expo was finished, the grounds were immediately reused for the Rokkeveen-West residential estate.

In 2002, the Floriade was held in Haarlemmermeer. The theme was ‘feel the art of nature’, and was divided into three separate sections. The sections were the Roof, the Mountain, and the Lake. The Roof was a large, floating piece made of 19,000 solar panels and fashioned the 30,000 square meter indoor display. Another key element was a 30-meter high pyramid called Spotter’s Hill. Floriade 2002 saw around 2.1 million visitors.

The 2012 Floriade Expo will take place in Venlo, Netherlands on an area that covers about 163 acres. There is to be 5 different sections of interest. The sections are: Relax and Heal, Green Engine, Education and Innovation, Environment, and World Show Stage.

The Relax and Heal section will allow visitors to see, smell, feel, hear, and taste how nature affects their mood, health, and wellbeing in the tranquil surroundings. It will have an Oriental setting, tea rituals, a barefoot path, and healing herbs to give each person a special experience. There will be a Restaurant Relax and Heal, with choices of Thai dishes, Japanese snacks, mint tea, and delicious fruit juices.

The Green Engine section houses the Villa Flora, the biggest indoor flower show which was designed just for Floriade 2012. You can take part in a fake flower auctions which allows you to bid on your own flowers, learn to make striking floral arrangements, and even plant your very own Dutch tulip as a souvenir. There is also a Restaurant Green Engine, where you can enjoy robust soups, organic salads, and sandwiches with generous fillings.

In the Education and Innovation section, you can watch a film, American-style, at the special Drive-In Cinema, and in the DALC travel pavilion, you can take a seat in a comfy car on the motorway. At Bee for the World, you can not only learn about the life of a bee, but also experience it for yourself! You will climb to different heights with your nose in flower blooms, land in a dim beehive, and move around while surrounded by the sound of bees buzzing. Make sure to visit the Restaurant Education and Innovation, where you can eat asparagus and strawberries from Netherland gardens.

In the Environment section, you’ll learn about the importance of bringing ‘green’ into the city, indoors and outdoors, and at home and work. You will also watch a special virtual tour of the Floriade. At the Restaurant Environment, you will enjoy barbecued dishes and divine cocktails.

At the World Show Stage section, you will be able to enjoy stunning performances on Theatre Hill, take a stroll down the Floriade Boulevard, and take in the Indonesian cultures. Make sure to visit the exquisite Rose Garden, filled with vivid colors of red, pink, and green roses. At the Restaurant WSS, you will be able to enjoy fresh Italian pastas and pizzas, Oriental delicacies, and Asian stir-fries.

The ship has a capacity of 160 people and, while the cruise was sold out, it never seemed  crowded .  The cabins were comfortable and roomy. Our Cruise Director did a wonderful job of organization and we were well informed of the next day’s activities by a newsletter delivered to our cabins each evening after dinner.

The food was fabulous!  Breakfast and lunch were served in a casual buffet style, with dinner (including unlimited wine) served with menu choices to satisfy any palate.   The dining room was comfortable, with large windows affording beautiful views as we cruised during the evening meal enjoying the scenery along the river.

Each evening there was entertainment in the spacious lounge.  The variety was amazing.  Local talent was brought aboard to treat us to insight into the culture of the region.  Additionally, we were treated to wine and beer tastings from regional vintners and brew masters.  On the comic side, we had a Crew Show that had us rolling in the aisles.

As the rivers were the main source of trade and transportation throughout history, each city and town along the way has a heritage going back hundreds if not thousands of years. Each day brought a new adventure with well educated local guides to share their love of their home with us.  Generally there was a guide for each 15-20 people which allowed ample time for questions and further discussion.

We all agreed that we had never had such a perfect vacation.  The days were busy, but enough time was scheduled to allow for leisure time, a nap, a game of Bridge, or just visiting on the Sun Deck watching the beautiful river towns as we passed by.

Can’t wait until next year for another Avalon Cruise!

• Giving cruisers a choice of appetizer, salad, entrée, cheese and dessert
• Featuring local fare options at each meal
• Highlighting sustainable cuisine on our French itineraries
• Providing cruisers more healthy menu options including low calorie, low sodium and glucose-free cuisine
• Introducing Night Fare, served at 10:30 PM to cap off each day with a treat

Avalon Waterways is adding even more selections for the “most important meal of the day” in 2011 as well. In addition to providing our travelers Early- and Late-riser breakfast options, we are adding complimentary sparkling wine – great for Mimosas – and made-to-order egg stations to our already robust breakfast buffet, fleet-wide. Guests can also order continental breakfast in their room and have drinks delivered throughout the day.

More drink options are also on the menu for Avalon Waterways in the coming year. In addition to offering cruisers the customary complimentary wine, beer or soft drinks at dinner and soft drinks included with lunch, we will feature a Cocktail Hour on our ships for cruisers interested in enjoying local wine, beer and other spirits before dinner, while socializing with fellow travelers. Complimentary cappuccino, espresso, latte and premium, Lavazza coffee will also be provided to our passengers throughout the day.

Celebration Packages are also new on our ships in 2011. We will be offering cruisers the chance to commemorate a birthday or anniversary in their room with several celebratory cuisine selections.

This year, we also introduced alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink packages: Packages that can be pre-purchased by interested passengers.

Meal Schedule

Early Riser Coffee, 6 a.m.
Start your day right with self-service coffee, hot water, croissants, cookies, and assorted finger foods.

Breakfast Buffet, 7 a.m.–8:30 a.m.
Enjoy a tempting selection of breads, cereals, fruits, cold cuts and cheeses, smoked salmon, pastries, yogurts, and juices. Hot items such as eggs, sausage, and bacon vary daily.*

*Buffet breakfast items are conveniently color coded on all Avalon Waterways river cruise ships to indicate foods that are low calorie, low fat/low calorie, high fiber, low cholesterol, and high energy

Late Riser Breakfast, 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m.
Self-service coffee, hot water, croissants, cookies and assorted finger foods.

Lunch Buffet, 12:30 p.m.
Select from intriguing appetizers, hearty soups, hot dishes, homemade breads, cold cuts and cheeses, salads, and delectable desserts.

Afternoon Tea, 4 p.m.
Take a mid-day break with coffee or tea and cake or cookies served in the lounge or on the top deck.

Dinner, 7:30 p.m.
Dine elegantly with a sit-down meal served in a single sitting. The chef will delight you with gourmet selections and the perfect, complimentary wines (complimentary beer or soft drinks also available). Menus typically feature an appetizer, soup, entrée, dessert, and coffee or tea.

Night Fare, 10:30 p.m.

Note: Meal times may vary depending on cruise schedule.

Avalon Waterways is pleased to announce the marriage of world-class river cruising with themed & specialty cruises, such as President's, Christmastime, wine, and music river cruises!

Expand your horizons on these marvelous wine-themed river cruises. Learn the differences between an Austrian Grüner Veltliner and a French Sauvignon Blanc. A distinguished wine authority explains how various grape varieties are cultivated, and teaches you what to look for in a good wine. Visit a wine village and taste the wines to test your newfound talent. An adventure Bacchus himself would enjoy!

Only 4 dates offer this unique themed river cruise.

Windmills, Vineyards & Paris Wine River Cruise

Amsterdam to Paris - October 2, 2011

Vineyards, vintages, varietals, and some very fine wines are the focus of our exciting “Windmills, Vineyards & Paris” Wine river cruise. As you leisurely float past the legendary vineyards along the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, a distinguished wine authority will describe how various grape varieties are cultivated, and will teach you what to look for in a good wine. On board your ship, the luxurious Avalon Luminary, participate in onboard tastings of regional wines, attend fascinating lectures on French and German wines, and be pamperedata food and wine pairing gala dinner.

Blue Danube Discovery Wine River Cruise

Budapest to Prague - July 14, 2011

Enhance your knowledge and love of European wines on our exhilarating “The Blue Danube Discovery” Wine river cruise. Learn the differences between an Austrian Grüner Veltliner and a German Riesling Spätlese—and a whole lot more! A distinguished wine authority will describe how various grape varieties are cultivated, and will teach you what to look for in a good wine. Marvel at Austria’s legendary Wachau Wine Valley, and consider visiting the Wine Academy or a typical Wachau wine cellar in Melk. Participate in a wine tasting excursion in Prague, On board your ship, the splendid Avalon Tranquility, attend an Austrian sweet wine lecture and tasting, and be pamperedata food and wine pairing gala dinner.

Burgundy & Provence Wine River Cruise

Côte d’Azur to Paris - October 30, 2011

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just an enthusiast, you’ll expand your horizons on our exciting “Burgundy & Provence” Wine river cruise. As you leisurely float by the legendary vineyards along the Saône and Rhône Rivers, a distinguished wine authority will describe how various grape varieties are cultivated, and will teach you what to look for in a good wine. Visit a wine cellar in Beaune, and participate in tasting excursions of France’s famed Burgundy, Chardonnay, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. On board your ship, the magnificent Avalon Scenery, attend a Beaujolais wine tasting, a food and wine pairing gala dinner, and a scrumptious wine and chocolate tasting. An adventure Bacchus himself would enjoy!

The Legendary Danube Wine River Cruise

Prague to Budapest - October 26, 2011

Enhance your knowledge and love of European wines on our exhilarating “The Legendary Danube” Wine river cruise. Learn the differences between an Austrian Grüner Veltliner and a German Riesling Spätlese—and a whole lot more! A distinguished wine authority will describe how various grape varieties are cultivated, and will teach you what to look for in a good wine. Participate in a wine tasting excursion in Prague, marvel at Austria’s legendary Wachau Wine Valley, and consider visiting the Wine Academy or a typical Wachau wine cellar in Melk. On board your ship, the splendid Avalon Tranquility, attend an Austrian sweet wine lecture and tasting, and be pamperedata food and wine pairing gala dinner.

Fast Facts

• Countries: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, Ukraine
• Source: Black Forest, Germany
• Mouth: The Black Sea
• Length: 1,777 miles

View our selection of Danube River Cruises for 2011

As the Danube leaves the cover of German'’s Black Forest, it trolls through the pristinely-preserved medieval town of Regensburg. This bustling university town boasts ancient treasures like the Porta Praetoria—the north gate to the ancient Roman fortress, Castra Regina, built in 179 A.D. During the holidays, Regensburg shines bright with its Christmas market lighting up the historic market square.

Farther downstream, Passau, Austria, is a gem of a city located at the confluence of the rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube. Cobblestone streets lead the way to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which houses the world’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes.

Continuing along, the village of Grein offers excellent photo opportunities, with its turreted houses lining the main square in the shadow of its idyllic castle perched high on a bluff. Situated in the rolling green hills of the Wachau Valley, Melk is home to the magnificent Benedictine Abbey, one of Europe’s largest and most intriguing monasteries. Step out onto the monastic terrace to look out over the Danube and take in the mesmerizing view of the sweeping countryside.

Float through the Wachau wine region to Dürnstein, known for the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue façade. Above town are the ruins of the castle where England’s King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192.

Vienna, Austria’s capital, is next. The “City of Music” inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss. Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, the city has much to offer—the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, and the majestic Ring Boulevard, to name just a few. Visitors can waltz their way down shop-lined streets, savor the sounds of an orchestral concert, or delight in a Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café.

Sail on through the picturesque Austrian views before heading to the heart of Hungary. Spanning both banks of the Danube, Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with Fisherman’s Bastion and the Matthias Church is among the many sights of Budapest that impress and excite.

South of Budapest, the quiet town of Kalocsa, Hungary, was founded by St. Stephen in 1009. The Archbishop’s Palace and the Kalocsa Cathedral are must-see sights in this town that is most known for paprika and folklore art.

The Danube winds away from Hungary and through the city of Novi Sad, Serbia. Steeped in history, the hilltop Petrovaradin Fort affords dramatic views of the Danube. On to Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, situated at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. Full of lively pedestrian areas and imposing cathedrals and fortresses, Belgrade is a riveting study in contrasts.

The Danube flows away from Belgrade, through rustic hills lined with stunning Roman fortresses, and through the dramatic gorge of the Iron Gates. This narrow and formerly very dangerous passage divides Europe’s Alps in the northwest from the Carpathians in the southeast and forms a natural border between Serbia and Romania.

Downstream, Bulgaria’s most ancient and breathtaking treasures can be found a short drive away from the Danube. Veliko Târnovo, situated on three hills surrounding the Yantra River, is a natural fortress with stone houses clinging to its steep slopes. The historic village of Arbanassi is nearby, featuring the well-known Etnographic Museum and intricately designed frescoes in its Church of the Nativity.

Silestra is a key port city—essential to Bulgaria’s thriving agricultural industry. A short distance away, the resort town of Varna sits on the shores of the Black Sea. Its storied past comes to life as you walk through Roman baths and marvel at the Gold of Varna, an archaeological wonder.

Bucharest, Romania’s lively capital, is only a short drive from the shores of the Danube. Its wide boulevards and Arc de Triomphe have gained it the name "Paris of the East." Enjoy people-watching in the Royal Palace Square, the scene of riots in 1989 which led to the collapse of the communist dictatorship. The Royal Palace now houses the National Art Museum and is filled with priceless examples of Eastern European art.

View our selection of Danube River Cruises

The Globus family of brands has expertly designed and unveiled more than 30 “low season” vacations, including two NEW itineraries with Globus and Monograms, offering Americans a plethora of opportunities to travel abroad at unbeatable prices this fall, winter and next spring.

In addition to its already robust selection of holiday tours and cruises and winter vacation packages across Europe, Globus is introducing a NEW, nine-day Christmas in Paris & New Year’s Eve in London itinerary, priced from $1,599. And, capitalizing on America’s interest in Ireland, Monograms is providing travelers a NEW four-day Dublin Getaway, priced from $517.

“Winter is a great time for Americans to make European travel dreams come true,” said Steve Born, vice president of marketing for the Globus family of brands. “They can take a vacation at a reduced price, while avoiding the crowds that converge during the summer travel months.”

From holiday cruises on the Main and Danube rivers to tours across Europe ranging from seven to 29 days as well as 10 independent vacation packages, the Globus family of brands’ “European Winter Vacations” offer unparalleled savings to fit any travel style.

“Not only are we giving travelers a large selection of tours, cruises and independent vacations from which to choose a phenomenal European vacation,” said Born. “We are offering them savings of up to 40 percent on air and 15 percent on land, compared to peak season pricing.”

Even more chances to save are available for those who plan ahead and book early: Travelers can save $200 per couple on Globus family of brands’ 2010/11 European Winter vacations when booking air-inclusive with Alitalia by July 27, 2010.* Sample fares start as low as $415/person.

The ship will offer 64 newly designed Panorama suites offering a full 200 square feet of living space. The cabins will include wall to wall panoramic windows. When open, the 10-foot wide by 7 foot tall window transforms the entire suite into the category's first open-air balcony.

Other cabin amenities include flat screen TV's, large closet, a fully stocked min-bar and in room safe. As with other Avalon ships, there will be a club, main lounge, dining room, pool deck, open-air bistro, fitness room and hair salon on board.

The Panorama will be christened in May 2011, and will then sail a 14 night itineraries between Amsterdam and Budapest. Late November and December, the ship will offer Christmas market itineraries.

• Be mindful of who is around when you are discussing your trip - there is no need to let too many people know or draw attention to the fact your house might be empty for a period.
• The best deterrent is to have someone housesit. If that is not possible, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to take in the newspaper, mail, and any other deliveries and keep an eye on the house. Give them your trip plans and an emergency phone number so they can reach you in case of an emergency. You can also arrange with the post office and newspaper to suspend delivery for the time you are away.
• Lock doors, windows and secure sliding doors (a metal rod or a broomstick in the sliding door track is an inexpensive lock), as well as the garage, the basement, and the attic. Some people even disconnect the power to motorized garage door openers.
• Move any valuables from plain sight.
• Check on your appliances, unplug anything that doesn't need to be on while you're away. Lower air conditioning/heating units to energy-saving levels.
• Set timers to turn on lights if you do not have someone staying at the house.

The views on a Globus European river cruise can transform the way you travel forever. Unwind in contemporary spaces on the youngest European river cruising fleet. Encounter ever-changing landscapes and spectacular panoramic views out floor-to-ceiling windows found throughout the ship. Let the transformation begin.  

This is a special limited time river cruise offer! Take advantage of this extraordinary river cruise deal before it sails away!

A Taste of the Danube: 
4 days from Vienna to Budapest        April 24 and July 3, 2010

A Taste of the Danube: 
5 days from Budapest to Vienna       April 20th and June 29, 2010

Romantic Rhine: 
8 days from Zurich to Amsterdam               April 10th and August 14, 2010

Tulip Time: 
8 days round trip Amsterdam                        March 27, March 31st and April 3, 2010

Paris to Normandy's Landing Beaches: 
8 days round trip Paris     July 5, August 2, 9th and 16, 2010

The Legendary Danube: 
11 days Prauge to Budapest                 April 10th and 24th, 2010

Burgundy & Provence: 
11 days Cote d'Azur to Paris                 April 11, 2010

Burgundy & Provence: 
11 days Paris to Nice                               April 2, 2010

Central European Experience: 
12 days Paris to Prague           April 22, 2010

Blue Danube Discovery: 
13 days Budapest to Prague               April 4 and 15, July 4, 2010

European Splendor: 
13 days Vienna to Amsterdam                May 3 and July 19th, 2010

Windmills, Vineyards & Paris: 
13 days Paris to Amserdam   April 10, June 5th and July 31, 2010

Magnificent Europe: 
15 days Budapest to Amsterdam           March 27, June 12, July 10th and August 7, 2010
         Reverse itinerary August 14, 2010

Jewels of Central Europe: 
17 days Paris to Budapest                         April 22, 2010

Click for more on Globus tours | For more Globus tour deals

Services offered include services of 24/7 agent for any last minutes changes, pre-trip travel advice such as what vaccines are required, embassy contacts, weather and currency information.  They also offer assistance for last minute changes, such as cancelled or delayed flights, making hotel reservations or ground transportation reservations. Benefits include coverage in the event of cruise line, airline or tour operator default (financial default non applicable to all suppliers) Coverage for sickness, injury or death of immediate family member. Terrorist incident that results in loss of life or major damage to property, by any person

With a good policy, you receive 24 hours assistance replacing lost or stolen documents such as visas, passports or tickets. Cash advance for travel or medical emergencies. They can also help you locate English speaking medical specialists, facilities and assistance with medical evacuations anywhere in the world.

They will provide you with baggage and personal effects loss coverage, baggage delay coverage and luggage tracing services. They have a bilingual staff for telephone interpretation for medical or legal emergencies.

If you purchase your travel insurance within 15 days of making your initial deposit your coverage will include pre-existing conditions which applies to the first $25,000 of trip cost.

Whether a child gets the flu, or a close family member has a medical emergency, travel protection has a plan that will protect you before or during your vacation. The right kind of insurance is essential. It will provide you with peace of mind, medical evacuation in case of an emergency, baggage coverage, flight delay and flight cancellation coverage.

In addition to these services some insurance policies also provide a concierge service which is available to assist you with restaurant reservations, event tickets, tee time reservations and floral services.

This is only a brief description of some of the benefits and travel services provided. All policies and coverage may vary, and may not be available in all states. There are also expanded coverage plans that offer business related covered reasons for trip cancellation and interruption, and other that let you cancel for any reason.

At times it is best to purchase the insurance with the tour operator or cruise line as part of your package, where on other occasions you can save money and get better coverage medical and evacuation coverage. An experience agent can explain your options to that you can purchase the best policy for your individual needs.

Good travel insurance isn't always expensive. We have negotiated excellent policies exclusive to Atlas, where rather than paying by age, which can add up for seniors, everyone is charged a flat amount base on the cost of the trip.

By handling all of the details, from airport transfers to insider tips and recommendations, on a Monograms vacation you are free to enjoy the world’s most intriguing locales hassle-free. And since we combine the costs of transportation, accommodations, sightseeing and some meals into one affordable package, your travel dollar can take your farther than ever. Discover just how far you can go when you make Monograms your friend in travel.

Taking a Burgundy & Provence river cruise? You can add a pre-cruise extension of A Week in London & Paris, a one week Paris & Nice package or a 10 day London, Paris & Nice vacation.

In conjunction with the Romantic Rhine, European Splendor, Magnificent Europe or Black Sea Cruise, you can add a pre-cruise 10 day London, Paris & Amsterdam, or a post cruise 7 day Amsterdam, Paris & London. 

With A Taste of the Danube you can add post-cruise, a 7 day Vienna & Prague, 7 day Vienna & Munich, 10 day Vienna, Munich & Zurich or 10 day Vienna, Prague & Berlin.

We feel the Danube will be the most popular with our clients, as the cruise is just 5 days in duration, so you can add a week package and then in, and vacation in Europe both by land & sea, in under 2 weeks.

For more information, call a river cruise specialist at 800-942-3301.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a site that holds a list of outstanding cultural or natural universal value such as, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. It could be a monument, building, mountain, forest, lake, desert, complex or city.

So how is a site selected?

Only countries that have signed the World Heritage Convention, pledging to protect their natural & cultural heritage can submit nominations for properties on their territory to be considered for inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

A nominated property is independently evaluated by several Advisory Boards. Once a site has been nominated & evaluated, the intergovernmental World Heritage Committee makes the final decision. One per year, the Committee meets to decide which sites will be inscribed on the World Heritage list.

The program aims to catalogue & preserve sites of outstanding importance, either cultural or natural, to the common heritage of humankind.

There are currently 878 World Heritage Sites in 145 countries. These include 679 cultural, 174 natural and 25 mixed properties.

You may have visited a place in the U.S. already, not realizing it was a UNESCO site such as the Statue of Liberty, Grand Canyon, Yosemite Yellowstone or Olympic National Park.

Click here for a full list of site.

I have seen 20 sites in 9 countries, so only 858 to go, but I have to say that certain countries do not interest me AT ALL, so my goal would be to see at least half of the UNESCO sites while traveling the world.

How many UNESCO sites have you visited?

Atlas Cruises & Tours has been honored with the "Top 25" award from Ensemble Travel Group, one of the travel industry’s oldest and most respected affiliated travel agency organizations. The honor was presented to less than five percent of Ensemble Travel Group’s 450+ member agencies in the United States. Selection criteria was based on members’ 2008 sales performance with Ensemble Travel Group’s preferred suppliers.

To commemorate the award, Terry Lobo, president of Atlas Cruises & Tours, and other Ensemble Travel Group top producers were special guests of the Globus family of brands on an 8-night European river cruise along the Rhine on the Avalon Tapestry. While touring the cities of Strasbourg, Heidelberg, Mainz, Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Cologne, and Amsterdam, Ensemble Travel Group’s top producers enjoyed the insights and special connections of celebrated author and TV food and travel journalist Burt Wolf. Earlier this year Ensemble Travel Group was selected by Wolf as the exclusive agency distribution channel for his 2009 cruises aboard Avalon Waterways.

Wolf delighted guests with exclusive touches throughout the cruise, such as a private lunch in a 200-year-old restaurant in Heidelberg, several wine tastings from Wolf’s favorite labels, "La Strada" classical musical concert by top performing string trio, and an array of special regional gifts.

The Globus family of brands was the primary host of the 8-night river cruise. Globus executives Paula Hayes, vice president of sales, and Larry McCarthy, director of national accounts, represented this long-term partner of Ensemble Travel Group.

Should you bring a laptop while traveling?

This is a personal question that really depends on many things. What you’ll be doing, where you are going and how long will you be traveling?

I would like to share some guidelines that may help with your decision.

Reasons you should bring a laptop:

You can email your family and friends. Having your laptop, you can email your loved ones back home. This is something you could do at most internet cafes, which is a much nicer atmosphere than your hotel room. Most cafes around the world do offer free Wifi when you order something. Not all cafes have free Wifi; some do have a small charge. Newer cruise ships also offer Wifi, but make sure and purchase a package, as usage rates can be high.

You can download all your photos. You can download your digital photo right to your laptop. This will keep your camera’s memory stick free everyday. This will allow you to capture that favorite photo. If your memory stick is full, you would lose that favorite photo moment.

Keeping a journal of the cities you visited. Sometimes we see so much on our vacation that we tend to forget something. Keeping a journal along the way will allow you to never forget. It also allows you to post your travel blogs in writing.

Calling home for free (or very cheap) with Skype. For mere cents per minute you can make calls to landlines and cell phones from all over the world with Skype. It allows you to call from any web-enabled laptop. It’s a great way to keep in touch over the phone.

You can get lots of local information. Many laptops today have maps, directions, schedules and must-see sites for key cities. Maybe you would like get tickets to a play or need to get those directions to a restaurant. You can get all the information you need right from your laptop. Usually it’s much better than carrying around big guidebooks.

You can work. Even though we are on vacation, sometimes we still have our work on our minds. Maybe you have an on-line business and need to be kept informed. Having your laptop with you allows you to still work.  

Reasons you should keep your laptop home:

It could get lost, stolen or damaged. Where you are traveling really depends on the risks, which could range from mild to extreme. Getting your laptop insured by home or travel insurance is really not likely. Most insurance companies won’t cover you unless you pay a very high premium.

It’s extra weight to carry. If weight is an issue then you may want to keep it home. Depending on where you are traveling, you would need to bring your power adapter and any plug in devices to operate your laptop.

Surfing the internet. As we all know, the internet can be addicting. You could spend hours surfing the web, when we should be enjoying the experience of the city that you paid to see.

Checking in at the airport.  Our new airport regulations require us to open our carry bags to get through security. When you are traveling with your laptop, you will have to remove your laptop from the carry case for security inspection, so allow extra time for check-in.

You need to base your decision on where you are going. The more remote destinations you are traveling to, the less likely you will find a Wifi connection. Some remote islands will probably only have a dial up connection, which would probably be very slow.

The biggest consideration is whether you feel you actually need a laptop. Some people absolutely need to stay connected. If you decide to bring it, I would recommend a soft case to protect it. I would use a water-resistant case. Remember to never stow your computer in your luggage.

Contributed by: A Sternberg
angie@atlastravelweb.com

Paris to Normandy's Landing Beaches
Combine time in France's splendid capital with discoveries of quaint villages along the Seine and in the picturesque Normandy region, and the poignant WWII landing beaches. Experience Van Gogh's Auvers-sur-Oise, Claude Monet's stunning gardens at Giverny and Joan or Arc's historic Rouen.

Grand France
Cruisers will experience France at its scenic best with guided sightseeing in Paris, Rouen, Lyon, Avignon & more....see charming and historic cities along the Saône and Rhône Rivers through the heart of this beautiful country.

Castles on the Rhine to the City of Music
Four countries, three rivers and the masterful Main Danube Canal...start in Zurich, then enjoy guided sightseeing in the cities of Strasbourg, Wurzburg, Nuremberg and Vienna.

Taste of the Danube
Choose from a 5 day Vienna to Budapest cruise or a 6 day Budapest to Vienna cruise.  Great options for those with limited time to travel or who are interested in combining a river cruise with a land vacation.

Christmastime in Germany & Austria
See beautiful decorations, the festive lights and the special atmosphere that only a visit to a Christmas market on a cold, crisp winter's day can bring. See the highlights of the towns along the Main and Danube with a local expert, visit the Benedictine Abbey of Melk and more.

To celebrate their new itineraries, and to encourage travelers to book their 2010 river cruise vacation, Globus is offering early booking incentives. Guests receive $150 off per person on any Egypt, China, Galapagos or Taste of the Danube cruise and land only vacation and $300 off per person when booking any of these itineraries including airfare.

For European itineraries guests receive $250 off per person select Europe river cruises and land only vacations, or $500 off per person on air inclusive vacations. Bookings must be made, under deposit and discount applied between March 25th and June 30th for travel through Dec. 31, 2010. The offer applies to new 2010 bookings only and will not be applied to existing bookings.

About Avlon River Cruises: Chosen by Travel + Leisure magazine as a Top 10 Small Ship Cruise Line in 2007, Avalon Waterways is the world’s fastest-growing small ship cruise company. Making waves in river and small ship cruising by offering travelers the newest, most luxurious ships in Europe, China, Egypt and the Galápagos, Avalon Waterways’ ships feature state-of-the-art design and technology and house the largest staterooms, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic sliding glass doors. Avalon Waterways is part of the Globus family of brands, an award-wining travel industry leader with 80 years of international travel expertise.

Breakfast and lunch were served buffet style, with dinner offering open seating with a choice of two or three entrees each evening. The food was very good. The cuisine was based on local fare of the cities we were visiting...such as chicken paprika, Hungarian Goulash or Viennese Wiener Schnitzel. Being raise in a German family where my mother's cooking was the best, the chef onboard was able to bring back fond memories. Even something as simple as soup was turned into a satisfying meal that tempted the palettes.

From the outstanding Sound of the Vienna Concert we attended, to the beautiful foothills of Wachau Valley, a lovely landscape of vineyards, ruined castles and quaint villages, and the Baroque Abbey in Melk, the trip was truly sensational.

I would highly recommend this cruise cruise to anyone considering visiting the area.

Contributed by:  G Thomas
gabriela@atlastravelweb.com

BURT WOLF CRUISES FOR 2009
For full trip details on all of the Burt Wolf 2009 cruises, please call us at 1-800-942-3301.

TULIP TIME CRUISE
March 28 to April 5, 2009
Holland & Belgium
Cruise priced from $2,859 to $3,378 pp (plus airfare).

RHINE RIVER CRUISE
April 18 to 26, 2009
France, Germany, Holland
Cruise priced from $3,131 to $3,650 pp (plus airfare).

CRUISING THROUGH FRANCE
May 24 to June 4, 2009
Nice to Paris, France
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,959 to $4,608 (plus airfare).

CRUISING THE DANUBE
June 18 to July 1, 2009
Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic
Tour/Cruise priced from $4,179 to $4,828 (plus airfare).

CRUISING THROUGH FRANCE
July 11 to 22, 2009
Paris to Nice, France
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,909 to $4,558 (plus airfare).

CRUISING THE DANUBE
July 29 to August 9, 2009
Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,799 to $4,448 (plus airfare).

CRUISING THE DANUBE
August 12 to 23, 2009
Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,799 to $4,448 (plus airfare).

RHINE RIVER CRUISE
August 22 to 30, 2009
Holland, Germany, France
Cruise priced from $3,339 to $3,988 (plus airfare).

CRUISING CENTRAL EUROPE
October 15 to 27, 2009
France, Germany, Czech Republic
Tour/Cruise priced from $3,909 to $4,558 (plus airfare).

CHRISTMAS TIME CRUISE
December 10 to 19, 2009
Austria, Germany, Czech Republic
Tour/Cruise priced from $2,934 to $3,490 (plus airfare).

The Avalon Affinity will sail itineraries on the Rhine and Moselle rivers, as well as Christmas cruises on the Danube.

Avalon Affinity has four decks, including a sky deck with lounge chairs. There are two bars, an open-seating dining room, hairdresser and fitness center, as well as an elevator. Smoking is not permitted inside.

Staterooms (65), all outside, measure 172 square ft.; junior suites are 258 square ft. Cabins on the Royal and Sapphire Decks have "French balconies," sliding glass doors with a protective railing; remaining cabins have picture windows. 

Stateroom amenities include flat-screen satellite TV, radio, mini-bar, safe and hair dryers. Beds can be configured into two twins or one queen and come with high-quality pillows and duvets and Egyptian cotton linens. 

Consider sailing aboard the Affinity in July, on the Windmills, Vineyards & Paris cruise. Book by March 15th, and receive $350 off per person for July 19th & 28th departures.

Experience France, Luxembourg, Germany, Belgium, and Holland on this fantastic cruise vacation. See the city’s major highlights on a guided tour of Paris and travel between Paris and Metz via TGV high-speed train. Also enjoy guided sightseeing in Trier and Cologne, a canal cruise in Amsterdam, and take pictures of the windmills at famous Kinderdijk. Visit Reichsburg Castle in Cochem and enjoy a wine cellar visit in Bernkastel. Guided sightseeing in Arnhem includes a visit to the Airborne Museum Hartenstein, and you can sample the area’s famous Riesling wines in the pretty wine village of Rüdesheim.

We were very pleased to see our web site, www.rivercruisetours.com featured as an option for booking river cruises. The good news is that the other suppliers mentioned including Tauck, Viking & Uniworld river cruises can also be booked through our agency, in many cases due to our membership in a consortia, at lower prices than booking direct.

Take a virtual tour of the Avalon Tranquility, the Avalon Poetry and the newest ship, the Avalon Scenery.  You can view various areas of the ship including the lobby, staterooms, bar, dining room, sky deck and fitness room.

Avalon is currently offering $200 off pp for air inclusive bookings and $100 off pp for cruise only reservation. Click here more details to see all of the great itineraries offered in 2009 including Christmas markets river cruises.

If you are looking for a smart investment, Globus gives you a world of return. A river cruise with Globus is a fantastic value, since the price includes accommodations, local sightseeing, many meals, and complimentary wine with dinner, greatly minimizing both on-shore and onboard costs. It’s clear that a journey with Globus is an investment in yourself, one amazing experience at a time.

For a limited time, Globus is offering the following promotion:

Save $400 off per stateroom on the air-inclusive price of any 2009 Europe river cruise.*

Save $200 off per stateroom on the land/cruise only price of any 2009 Europe river cruise.*

Some restrictions apply, visit our Globus web site for more details.

River cruising is one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry. For more information, visit our web site dedicated to river cruises.