Touring the European Christmas Markets with Viking River Cruise

Throughout Europe (especially Germany and Eastern Europe), in a historic tradition dating back hundreds of years, many towns and villages open their “Christmas Market” for the holiday season. Buildings light up with Christmas decorations, vendors sell hand-made, traditional toys and other Christmas mementos, and the town square is turned into an open-air celebration of Christmas. (You can watch this short video to get an idea of what to expect at a European Christmas Market.)

The Christmas Markets in Europe are rich with tradition and history, each one a unique reflection of local culture. If you have an interest in a unique Christmas vacation you’ll remember for a lifetime, consider a European Christmas Market tour with Viking River Cruises.

Let’s pick a few major cities and take a closer look at what makes some of the more notable destinations on the European Christmas Market river cruise so special.Continue reading

The New Quantum of the Seas® Boasts Unprecedented “Firsts At Sea”

The cruise world impatiently awaits the launch of Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum-class ships scheduled to debut in the Fall of 2014.

Royal Caribbean’s ships are known for their leading signature experiences aboard including the FlowRider® surf simulators, Rock Climbing Walls, and Ice-Skating rinks and AquaTheaters. Taking their innovation by leaps and bounds, they’ve introduced even more “groundbreaking” new experiences aboard this up-and-coming class that’s sure to wow the avid cruiser and cruise novices alike.Continue reading