On television watching the Olympics, we often see the curve of Seine River. The elegant buildings, islands and tree lined shores are thrilling. Why are rivers so engaging for us women travelers? They are natural, free flowing and they ‘talk’ to us about history and humanity. Below is why we love river cruises, especially those with special single rates.
As the Romans traveled North from Southern Europe, they traded, ‘married’ and fought their way, mainly along rivers. They used rivers as the best, safest routes modes, well before they built those famous Roman roads. The Rhine, Rhone and Seine are some of these early Roman pathways. Romans also mastered the waters with dams and aqueducts. They used the latter to carry water long distances inland so they could settle elsewhere.
We women travelers thank the Romans while sailing on river cruises. European rivers are lined with Roman, medieval, Gothic, 19c industrial wonders plus modern icons. One sees a Roman colosseum and aqueduct in Provence on the Rhone. One watches medieval villages and massive cathedrals along the Rhine. Look up from the Seine River to industrial feats like the Eiffel Tower or royal palaces like the Louvre. Remember and memorialize WW2 battle sites like Remagen on the Rhine. The shore is your entertainment when moving from one port to another.
On a river cruise, one reaches deeper into countryside that has small or no airports like Strasbourg, Cologne, Heidelberg. (A personal favorite is Strasbourg with its UNESCO Heritage badge, unforgettable, especially at Christmas Time). And if you enjoy modern architecture, the center of Cologne was rebuilt by famous architects after its total destruction.
As you glide into countryside, definitely visit some of the local markets for farm fresh cheese, chocolates, lavender objects. On a river cruise you should have time to browse; it is not a jump on and rush off experience. And if docked at night, return to town to enjoy a Christmas market by candlelight or a local tavern for atmosphere.For more information on our river cruises with special solo rates, email us. Call us at 646 309 5607; we are happy to chat and share our river cruise experiences. We are an award winning tour company for small groups and women only.
