Which Would You Choose...Luxury Cruises
"We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch - we are going back from whence we came." -John F. Kennedy
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"Which Would You Choose?" is a concept created by one of my favorite bloggers, Tina, from The Enchanted Home...I hope she doesn't mind if I copy her idea using luxury cruises.
Here's how it works...imagine for a moment that you are offered a free cruise for two, anywhere in the world...you get to choose the cruise line and the destination...and, you will be flown first class to your destination so there are no worries about getting to the port.
Which would you choose?
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Your six night cruise on a luxury barge exploring France via river and canals will include daily excursions ranging from private tastings at renowned vineyards to visits to romantic castles and historic villages. Fine French wine and cheese are presented throughout the day (in addition to the three gourmet meals on board) and one evening ashore will include dinner at a Michelin starred restaurant. Select from one of four luxurious hotel barges which sleep from from 8 to 12 guests, operating in different regions in France - Burgundy~Cote D'Or, Upper Loire Valley, Central Burgundy, Alsace~Lorraine and Champagne.
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Experience intimate cruising aboard the Seabourn Spirit, with only 104 suites. Your 11 day itinerary will depart from Venice and include stops in various Adriatic ports in Croatia, Greece and Italy, each featuring uniquely curated shore excursions. Enjoy champagne and caviar, as well as other gourmet selections throughout your cruise at your convenience on one of the world's most highly esteemed cruise lines.
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This 17 day trip includes an 11 day voyage aboard the Viking Emerald, voted top River Cruise Ship by Conde Nast Traveler. In addition to touring both Beijing, Shanghai and Xian, you will cruise along the Yangtze river including visits to Jingdezhen, the porcelain capital of China, and Nanjing, nicknamed Venice of the East. Each stop includes in depth shore excursions offering opportunities for cultural enrichment. Additionally, the on board 'culture curriculum' will assist you in learning more about the places you are visiting.
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Set sail in the South Pacific aboard Wind Spirit, Windstar's sailing yacht that accommodates 148 guests. On your seven day cruise, you will visit one legendary island after another, including overnights in most ports to give you time to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, wander through tropical rainforests, and experience Polynesian culture. When you’re not searching for secluded waterfalls, choosing a fragrant bloom to go behind your ear, or snorkeling vibrant reefs, you can watch the passing scenery from your favorite spot on deck.
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The latest ship in the Paul Gaugin family is the m/v Tere Moana. With only 45 staterooms, you will feel like you are aboard your own yacht. If you have cruised in the Caribbean before, this cruise will be completely different. This seven day journey leaves from St. Maarten and includes stops in ports that other ships cannot enter, but the Tere Moana is able because it is so small - Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, Tortola, St. Kitt's, Les Saintes and St. Barths. The Tere Moana is all-inclusive - you can enjoy meals and cocktails any time of the day. Snorkeling, scuba diving and other water activities are available, as well as shore excursions in each port.
SO...which will it be? Do you love to sail the seven seas or are you more comfortable on land? Have you sailed to any of these destinations? Is there a particular ship or destination that is on your travel "bucket list"? I can't wait to hear your responses!!
My friend and travel professional extraordinaire, Crista, is hosting a "Small is Beautiful" Cruise Night in St. Louis on Thursday featuring cruises on small ships/boats with passengers from 2 to 200, and hoping to banish the stereotypes often associated with cruises. If you happen to be in St. Louis, e-mail me for details and definitely stop by to learn more about some of these amazing options for small ship luxury cruising.