European river cruises to the eastern edge of France through Alsace and Lorraine show you a completely unique aspect of France and Europe. This lovely region has a long and storied past.

Alsace and Lorraine - beauty with a troubled history
European river cruises through the waterways and canals of this area of France will allow you to see some very beautiful countryside with some amazingly historic towns and cities - but it wasn't always like that.
Historically, this was always a notorious 'grey area' between France and Germany or the German precursor states. In parts of this large region, the language spoken was a German dialect and there was a split between cultural French and Germans by both general geography and rural/urban tradition.

Well established as part of France by the mid-19th century, it was ceded to the new German state after France's catastrophic defeat in the Franco-Prussian war of 1870.
Thus began a period of 'Germanisation' but the position changed again in 1919 when after the First World War, the lands were ceded back to France. That in turn heralded in a period of 'Francification' that included vast deportations of people from the area who were of German origin.

Parts of the area were taken under control of the Nazi state after France's defeat in 1940 and returned to French control yet again after 1945. So, much blood was spilled in these lands in the relatively recent past, but today that legacy has resulted in one of Europe's true multi-cultural areas and a richness of tradition that has to be seen.

The culture - German or French?
If you take European river cruises through this area, you'll be able to see strong echoes of France and Germany. A lot of cuisine here has a distinctly Germanic feel but with French finesse. The local wines in Alsace are simply not quite German or French - they're uniquely Alsatian.

In many of the larger towns you'll see ancient architecture that looks in part French and in part German. Oddly, you'll also see 19th and earlier 20th century major buildings that are overtly and entirely out-of-context in their determination to be classically German or French architecture. They have their origins in respective attempts to 'Germanify' or 'Francify' the lands in times past.

In fact, when you speak to local people with a history in these localities, you may sense that they feel themselves to be uniquely Alsatian rather than wishing to be drawn too deeply into agonising over whether they're spiritually either-or.

The past in context
Of course, cruising the waterways of this beautiful part of France and exploring the towns, cities, chateaux and fortresses, isn't just about analysing the insanities of the past, but rather more about enjoying yourself! That's very easy to do in Alsace-Lorraine. The local food and wines are superb, the countryside a delight and many of the towns exceptionally historic and picturesque.

So, if European river cruises appeal to you, think long and hard about this part of eastern France.


Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for European river cruises we offer experiences in France, Holland, Italy and the UK.
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Paris is considered one of the most romantic cities in the world. Along with the inherent romance, it is extremely picturesque and a major cultural and historical hub. Often dubbed as the City of Lights, it's a one-stop destination for beauty - from its architectural treasures and iconic monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe to its majestic botanical gardens and religious buildings.

There are plenty of ways to explore Paris. Many tourists explore the city on foot, being the cheapest option and allowing more time to appreciate its delights on more personal level. Some choose cycling as an alternative to taking public transportation or hiring a taxi. But another excellent way to explore Paris and really get into the heart of the city is by boat. Many of the most popular European river cruises begin or end in Paris, and there are countless reasons why you shouldn't miss the experience, starting with the following.

A Different Perspective
European river cruises are a popular way to explore for very good reason. You can really get to know a very different side of a destination from a more unusual angle. Cruising along the River Seine as it winds is way through Paris is a delight. A major historical and cultural icon, in 1991 the banks of the river were inducted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the river itself has inspired some of the world's most renowned painters of the 19th and 20th century - including greats such as Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, and Georges-Pierre Seurat. As you cruise through the city's waterways you'll be able to spot some of the city's top architectural wonders, among which are the Palais Garnier, Galeries Lafayette, and of course the Eiffel Tower.

The Most Romantic Dinner of Your Life
You can enjoy a great dinner almost anywhere in Paris - one of the many things the city is known for is its sumptuous and flavourful cuisine. But nothing says "romance" quite like an intimate dinner on board your very own "floating hotel" admiring the City of Lights in all its radiant glory. Many European river cruises offer an option to enjoy exclusive city dinner cruises, and Paris is no exception.

Gain Easier Access to the Heart of the City
One of the top reasons why European river cruises are so popular is because they provide not only efficient transport but also flexible options. While you may be at the very start or finish of your water based adventure (on a longer Picardy, Burgundy or Champagne itinerary), taking the time to explore Paris is a must. You'll cruise right through the heart of the city, recognising iconic landmarks and architecture, and you'll be able to get a much better "lay of the land" to aid you in your exploration on foot at a later stage.
 

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for European river cruises we offer experiences in France, Holland, Italy and the UK.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_D_Newman

Most people who are planning a cruise to Europe, already know which locations they want to visit. Fortunately for them Royal Caribbean Cruises can be custom made to fit individual interests. You will be able to pick a cruise that travels to your favorite locations. This cruise line visits some of the most sought after European destinations in the world.

Important tips, to consider when planning your trip, are the details of your cruise. This cruise line has long been known for providing excellent ways to travel. Key components to your vacation will be included in your cruise fare. These components are just another reason to choose Royal Caribbean for your European vacation.

Most traditional trips to Europe, will require that you consider accommodations. This is not the case where Royal Caribbean is concerned. You will be treated to some of the greatest lodging options in the world. The ships in the fleet are wonderfully designed, and offer everything you could need or want while on vacation.

Travelers are able to choose cabins that fit their individual tastes and needs. It doesn't matter whether you are traveling as a couple, or as a family. You will be able to find the accommodations onboard that you want. These along with great customer service will enhance your trip to Europe.

Entertainment is also a major consideration when you are planning a trip. This too has been taken care of by Royal Caribbean Cruises. Guests discover that there are exciting entertainment options on these ships. You can enjoy live music, shows, and more in between ports of call. This cruise line has thought of everything that will provide you with a great trip.

Dining is one of the most crucial considerations when you are making vacation plans. While you are on a Royal Caribbean ship, this will not be a problem. There are fantastic restaurants to appeal to any appetite. Children will love the atmosphere of casual dining locations, while mom and dad can treat themselves to romantic settings. The food offered on these cruises are superb. They are prepared by some of the greatest chefs in the world.

Once you arrive in Europe, you will have even more choices to make. There are any number of terrific tours and excursions to take. Each port of call will have unique offerings for tourists to enjoy. These serve to assist you as you explore them and the attractions located here. There are extremely popular ports found throughout Europe.

Some of the most popular are London, England, Nice, France, and Madrid, Spain. It doesn't matter, what part of Europe you journey to. You will be amazed at all of the splendid offerings available to you. Some travelers will focus on the wonderful monuments and landmarks in Europe. They will want to stand on sites like the Rock of Gibralter.

Then there are some adventurous souls who will want to journey along the Grand Prix. Every single stop that Royal Caribbean Cruises makes will create long-lasting memories. If you choose to visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, or George's Square in Glasgow, the history here will be apparent. So much of the European offerings, help visitors to appreciate its rich history.

The cruises provided through this line are filled with joy and excitement. They offer travelers of all ages an opportunity to see the best of Europe. Each day spent here will endear every location in your heart. Enjoying the sights and sounds of this continent is the greatest way to experience it.


Royal Caribbean cruises offer an escape from the every day. Book your Royal Caribbean cruises today!
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They say that the best place to go on a river cruise is Europe. The Rhine River was connected to the Danube River after 1992, resulting to a 2,200-mile waterway that passes on 12 different countries. What is great about a European river cruise is that you would be able to go to places that an ocean cruise would not be able to access.

There are a lot of different cruises offered in the market today. It is best of you can find the time to compare each one of them from each other, so that you can decide for yourself whether or not it is of a good deal and decision for you to go with a certain cruise company.

A Danube River Cruise would pass through Budapest and Vienna, gorgeous cities that would enchant you with their beauty. You may also go for the Rhine River Cruise to see scenery that is worthy of your swoon and camera clicks. Other river cruises include Saone and Rhone rivers in Provence, some through the rivers of Portugal, and through the Dneiper and Volga rivers in Russia. One of the most popular cruises is the Christmas Markets cruise.

A European river cruise would not only be entertaining but would also be educational. You can experience the rich culture of the area, as how it started from being a place of development and growth. All of these experiences can be taken care of just by availing of a single package. The great thing about a European river cruise is that you do not have to worry of going from one place to another and worrying about accommodations. With a cruise package, everything you need is already included. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the trip.

As you compare different European cruise packages, look at the different perks and included amenities in the packages. Some new ships have a lot of modern and technological facilities. For instance, you may need to stay online or check your mail regularly while you are on the cruise. You may check if the cruise ship has WiFi access.

Whether you would choose to get a cruise in a ship with picture windows or those with French balconies which offer breathtaking views of the place, your unique experience in a European cruise ship would be unmatched by any other vacation you would go to.



Find out more about European cruises [http://www.europeancruisesplan.com] and European River Cruises [http://www.europeancruisesplan.com] by visiting our website today!
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Holidays should be completely stress-free shouldn't they? After all, if you're booking a holiday it's probably safe to make the assumption that you need a break or a change of scenery, and the last thing you'll want to be doing is travelling for hours on end to get to your destination, with nothing to keep you entertained.
The thing with river cruises is that they're completely hassle-free from start to finish; you can research, pick and book a river cruise online with access to full trip itineraries and deck plans, and you can choose to arrive at the European departure port by coach or plane (as organised by the holiday company) or to arrange your own transport.

So, rather than being restricted to departing from a major UK airport if you don't happen to live anywhere near one, you can choose to go directly to a guaranteed coach pick-up point or arrange your own travel, at your convenience, to the place from which your cruise ship will set sail.

Take the MS Olympia cruise ship, for example. She departs from various European ports including Cologne, Andernach and Trier, giving plenty of options to those looking to set sail for a range of European destinations.
When it comes to European destinations, Rhine River cruises are extremely popular - probably because you can take in the sights and sounds of the spectacular Rhine Gorge, visiting places like Rudesheim, the ancient city of Speyer, Strasbourg and Mainz. From Strasbourg you'll be able to visit the Notre Dame Cathedral in all its towering glory, as well as the imposing European Parliament buildings. Later on down the river, you'll be able to visit the Burg Eltz castle and see the incredible Rhine fireworks.

The 'Rhine in Flames' is a seriously spectacular show of fireworks and illuminated river craft, which light up the night for all those lucky enough to be there, and Rhine River cruises are the perfect way to make sure you've got a front-row seat for the show. The great thing about a Rhine River cruise is the variety of places you'll experience, and all from a luxurious moving base that will take you from port to city in true style and give you that perfect mix of excitement, culture and relaxation.


There are plenty of river cruises you can choose from with the Rhine River Cruises being a firm faovurite amongst tourists
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