However, often such celebrations become stressful and individuals spend a lot of their time working out the logistics of mass catering, sorting out family disputes and generally running themselves ragged.

This is one of the reasons why some people choose to head off on Christmas cruises. Not only do such holidays enable them to escape the inclement British weather, they also provide them with a chance to genuinely relax.

Commenting on this aspect of such vacations, Simon Heptinstall noted in the Daily Mail that he had enjoyed being fed and watered without having to do any work himself over the festive season. The writer had been on a family cruise over December 25th that lasted for two weeks.

He said: “On New Year’s Day the cleaners began tidying up the aftermath of the party and over the course of the next few days all the Christmas decorations were gradually cleared away. That’s when I suddenly realised one of the best things about the cruise: I hadn’t had to do any putting away or washing up for the whole of Christmas and New Year.”

Meanwhile, the journalist added that the crew on the vessel were adept at catering for everyone’s preferences, whether they wanted to experience a festive bonanza, were after something a little more low-key or did not celebrate Christmas at all.

These days there are many options for those eager to get away at this time of year. For example, consumers can take their pick from the holidays offered by Royal Caribbean Cruises and P&O Cruises, both of which operate trips over the festive period.

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Whilst the Nile passes through many countries as it snakes north through the desert and up to the Mediterranean Sea, it is the northern section of the Nile that lies in Egypt that has become world famous. Since ancient times the people of Egypt have relied on the Nile to provide them with water and fertile land on which to grow crops for food and trade. It is no coincidence then that the vast majority of Egypt`s population still resides along the banks of the Nile today. In fact Egypt is so centred around the river flowing through it that Greek historian Herodotus described Egypt as “the gift of the Nile”.

Interestingly the Nile has not just proved to be very important in a practical sense, but has also played a central role in the spiritual beliefs of ancient Egyptians. Every year the Nile floods leaving the soil on its banks extremely fertile and the ancient Egyptians believed the God Hapy, along with the pharaoh, was responsible for this beneficial flooding. The ancient Egyptians also believed that their beloved Nile was a channel from life to death and then on to the afterlife, with the east banks representing birth and life and the west banks representing death. Therefore all of the famous tombs are located on the west banks of the Nile, as it was believed that in order to reach the afterlife your final resting place must be on the side of the Nile that represented passing over.

Unsurprisingly then the Nile is – and has been for many years – shrouded in a sense of history and mysticism, which over the years has attracted thousands of people to explore it. One of the best ways to explore all that Egypt and the Nile have to offer is by taking a cruise down the river, as not only will to be afforded perhaps the best view of Egypt possible, but most of the most interesting sights are located along the river`s banks.

On the west bank and across the river from Luxor is the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, perhaps the most magnificent of all Egypt`s splendours. These are limestone valleys where mummified bodies of many Egyptians pharaohs were laid to rest and those on a cruise should stop off to see the mummified body of the famous Tutankhamun and the stunning tombs of Nefertiti, the most beloved wife of Ramases II. Near these valleys is the Temple of Luxor, which was built in approximately 1400 BC and is often considered the most beautiful temple in Egypt. Visitors here are usually surprised by the temple`s size as it once housed an entire village – as well as the still present columns, statues, friezes and obelisks – within its walls. Other sights along the Nile that should not be missed include Karnak Temple, The Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Unfinished Obelisk.

Most visitors to Egypt get there by air and there are regular flights from airports all across the UK landing in Cairo, Luxor and Hurghada. Once you arrive in Egypt there is a huge variety of places to stay depending on what you want from your holiday, including beach-side resorts and even a few nights on a Nile cruise. Many visitors find the best way to explore lots of the country is to combine to accommodation options, perhaps going for a cruise down the Nile for a few night, followed by cheap holidays in Sharm El Sheikh.

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Just this year there have been a number of world cruises to choose from including three offered by P&O, two from Princess, two from Fred Olsen and two from Cunard. The Queen Victoria from the Cunard line is the largest ship to ever circumnavigate the globe.

There are a number of lines that are already taking booking for 2012 and beyond with many holidaymakers clearly hoping that a world trip will be the antidote needed for the economic global recession. Round the world cruises usually last for three to four months.

There are very few other types of holidays that are unbroken for that length of time without having to pack, unpack and or change hotels. Most cruisers choose their cruise because of the itinerary of ports that will be visited. The world cruise trumps any other cruise easily with its variety and number of destinations. They range in size from a major world capital to a tiny Pacific island.

World cruises also tend to have a good deal of sea days, those days in between ports since there is so much sea and ocean to cover. But just the shear number of ports that are visited out weighs any worries of spending so much time between ports. The world cruises help people get to ports that may not be visited by other cruises. For the most part people choose by itinerary then price.

The prices can be extraordinary and not all can afford to take them. There are cruises from Southampton that are worldwide and for a couple it may cost as much as £100,000. “More and more lines are offering them”, says the director of UK-based Passenger Shipping Association Bill Gibbons.

He says the prices average about £15,000 and there are a good number of people that can afford that. But there are other options available for far less. An inside cabin on a Fred Olsen world trip could cost as little as £8,000 per person. That equates to only £75 per day for 106 days. World cruises tend to sail in the winter due to them traveling in the southern hemisphere.

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One of the obvious perks for choosing Mediterranean cruises is that you get the opportunity to experience so much of the Old world blended with the New world in just one excursion.  With many top attractions such as Egyptian Pyramids and the exciting clubs of the Mediterranean resorts all packaged into one holiday cruise you get the unique opportunity to explore multiple holiday destinations in just one excursion allowing you to truly get a glimpse of everything that is out there in the world waiting to be explored.

With port stops that allow you to disembark and spend a night in some of the top tourist destinations of the world and opportunities to scuba dive, explore, sunbathe, and immerse yourself in some of the most enticing cultures of the world, there is never a dull moment while exploring the Mediterranean from aboard a cruise ship.  Plus, if one location does not agree with your sense of travel and exploration, there is always the thrill of another port to explore the next day making it safe to say that you are sure to find excitement and satisfaction while aboard a cruise liner.

Of course, outside of the exciting port destinations that make up your cruise through the Mediterranean, you can also rest assured that your travel experience will never be boring on cruise holidays.  Normally travel via car, plane, or rail can get tiresome after awhile, but aboard a cruise ship you will hardly notice time passing with plenty do to that will keep people of all activity levels and age levels active and occupied at every minute so that you really do optimize every minute of your holiday break.

Some of the most popular cruise liners offer casinos that you can try your luck at during the ride as well as plenty of family activities, sporting activities, and lounges that offer the best in sports and general television programming.  Of course, with so much excitement from time to time you may need to budget in some time for rest and relaxation as well, but with full service spas, pools, hot tubs, and the opportunity to indulge in the highest ranked cuisines internationally finding a place to pamper yourself should not be too hard.  Toss in the fitness centre to help stay health and you will find just about everything you could ever need or want aboard your cruise ship while sailing through the Mediterranean.

Published for NCL.co.uk

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By taking a cruise in the Baltic Sea, you can explore Europe’s fascinating waters by boat. You can see many countries in Europe and have the adventure of a lifetime. One of the most exciting things about taking a Baltic cruise is all of the fantastic places and sights that you will see. Some Baltic cruise ports include Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, Gdansk, and Oslo.

You will get to view amazing sites when visiting these countries. Many of the countries in Europe are known for their classical music, ballet, and art. In addition, that area of the world is rich with history. You can learn about Russian Tsars, World War II, and the rise and fall of communism.

In the Baltic area, there are amazing waterfalls, lush forests, and beautiful sunsets. There is natural beauty that will take your breath away. Every port that you visit will have exciting sights and sounds. You will get to see the fjords in Norway, the Festival of White Nights in St. Petersburg, and the natural phenomenon of the Midnight Sun.

Baltic Cruises

• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line has a Baltic Treasures cruise, which is 10 days, and a Scandinavian Splendor cruise, which is 14 days long. You will stop at Gdansk, Poland, where many people love to shop, and Riga, Latvia, where you can explore timeless treasures and see exquisite architecture. You will also visit Helsinki and St. Petersburg.

• Windstar Cruises: This cruise line has smaller boats, as they only carry about 150 passengers. You can stop at Copenhagen, Oslo, Stockholm, or Aarhus. It is an adventure that you will never forget. In Oslo, you can explore the Viking Ship Museum and National Opera House, and in Russia, you can see a Russian ballet performance.

• Holland America Line: You can take a 7, 12, or 14 day cruise and explore Norway, Amsterdam, or Ireland. You can also visit Tallinn, where you can take tours of the town and beautiful cathedral. You can also take a bike ride through the area. You can also stop at Estonia and the German port Warnemunde.

• Costa Cruises: This cruise stops at the Lithuanian port of Klaipeda, where you can explore the beautiful botanical gardens or visit one of the national parks and see the lush forest trees of the area. Riga, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Helsinki, Kiel, and Stockholm are also on the list of stops.

When taking a Baltic cruise, many of the countries have different currencies, so you might check to see if you need to get your money converted. Also keep in mind that Russia requires visas for their visitors, so you might check with the other countries as well.

The best time to take a Baltic cruise is probably from May until September. The weather is warmest then. The most popular months for tourists to take a Baltic cruise are July and August. Many cruise lines offer cruises at affordable prices throughout the year.

In most of the countries, people speak English fluently, so you can communicate with people who live there. In addition, ships will dock close to the sights of the town, so you can easily find your way around. Most of the time you can walk, or in some cases, there is a shuttle bus, which will take you where you want to go.

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You then need to pick your ship, this will be very easy once you choose a river or an ocean cruise. A river cruiser is often a lot smaller and generally will hold around 150 passengers and will attract those who don’t mind about the ship and are more interested in the stops and the activities on land. An ocean liner is different and could carry anything between 350 passengers to over 5000! Some ocean cruisers can be very strict about the dress code whereas other are more casual and family orientated- so always look into which kind you’d be happier on before you book.

Then you’ll, of course, need to look at destinations. This is all down to personal choice, but Mediterranean cruises are some of the most popular cruises on the market with beautiful views and scenery. Or you might like something a bit more adventurous like a trip around the arctic? River cruises are very versatile as well and many of them, particularly Rhine cruises, go through a lot of different countries to give you a really varied look at the different places you can visit- it’s like three holidays in one!

Accommodation on ships is different on ocean liners than it is on river cruises. On ocean cruises you can have an inside room, with no window, an ocean view room, a room with a balcony and a luxury suite. A luxury suite is, of course, the most expensive and some of these even have their own personal butler on top end luxury cruises! River cruise rooms are all usually the same sort of style, but some of them that are below the deck don’t have a window- only a porthole, whilst some of them have a small balcony with French windows that you can open for air, but can’t stand on like you can on an ocean liner.

Booking as soon as possible is key with cruises, and it’s always good to avoid cruises during the school holidays or a cruise that advertises a lot of children’s clubs- unless you have children, of course, and are looking for a fun family cruise. In which case these are the best!

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Although you can explore the Galapagos on your own when the cruise boat docks, it is best to have a guide if you want to view the best sites that the islands have to offer. So it is better to pay a bit more and browse through the luxury holidays option so that you can get the most out of the varied but spectacular array of natural beauties on offer.  From the cruise ship you the can visit the outer islands and see everything from the white beaches to the deep rainforests including the amazing wildlife that peaks out around every corner.

If you dock for some time it is worth taking a guided trip through the islands so that you can see firsthand the nesting birds, great giant tortoises, the water iguanas, and the sea lions as they gleefully perform their acrobatics.  In addition, some cruise tours will dock for a day or two so that you can venture into town for some unique and exquisite local goods or take advantage of the ferry system so that you can closely tour an island you otherwise would not get a chance to step foot on.

There are many different ways to choose a luxury cruise line as there are dozens of cruise companies that tour the Galapagos Islands.  You can choose to book a tour on everything from luxury ships to small luxury yachts that allow you to get even closer to the shorelines of the exotic islands.  The larger cruise ships offer you a full range or amenities as well as plenty of other entertainment options such as live shows at night and open bars while the smaller luxury yachts offer a more personalized trip through the islands.

Some people even choose to charter little romantic sailboats that offer small decks and intimate cabin space so that the holiday is truly one of a kind.  These are great for exploring the more secluded areas and for a chance at seeing wildlife that would be scared away by a larger cruise vessel.  Regardless of your choice most luxury cruise lines will offer guides when you disembark on an island.  Just be careful to make sure that you choose a trip that offers small tour group sizes so that you get the most personal experience possible.

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Royal Caribbean Cruises have 21 ships in their cruise fleet, and the facilities that they offer on board are excellent. Obviously exactly what’s on offer will vary from ship to ship, but amongst the many things you could choose to be a part of when on board, are such things as ice skating, salsa dancing, rock wall climbing, fruit and vegetable carving, wine tasting, scavenger hunts, bingo, karaoke, talent shows, golf, or football. Or, if being entertained is more your style, there is usually live music and theatre shows taking place, or you could just enjoy a walk on deck in the sun.

Fine dining is available with a five course meal in the main dining room, or you could opt for a casual bite in one of the cafes or family restaurants on board. There are even specialty restaurants available, or you could opt for a quiet night in and dinner in your state room.

There are over 100 destinations to choose from when you cruise with Royal Caribbean, so you could choose the rugged beauty of www.royalcaribbean.co.uk

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Episode One (12 April, 9pm on ITV1) sees Joanna exploring some of Egypt’s most iconic sites. Starting in Alexandria, once home to Cleopatra, the intrepid presenter then heads south to Cairo, visits Giza’s Great Pyramids and travels onwards along the banks of the Nile to Luxor and Aswan.

Specialist tour operator, Voyages Jules Verne, offers an extensive range of Egyptian options, including:

• A Few Days at the Pyramids: Enjoy a four-night stay at the five-star Mövenpick Cairo Pyramids hotel that includes a day’s city sightseeing, visits to the Egyptian Museum, the Pyramids and Great Sphinx, amongst others, and a private evening sailing on the Nile by felucca. Price is from £727 pp*.

• Pyramids & the Nile: Combine a short stay in Cairo with a four-night Nile cruise on this week-long itinerary where sightseeing highlights such as the temple of Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu and Aswan await. Price is from £995 pp*.

• Royal Egypt: Live like an Egyptian king or queen on this spectacular 14-night itinerary that encompasses Alexandria, Cairo and Luxor (including a private evening reception at Luxor Temple) as well as a seven-night cruise on the SS Misr, an historic vessel described as the ‘most luxurious steamship on the Nile’. Price is from £2,695 pp*.

• The Alternative Nile: Of particular interest to the returning traveller and new for 2010, this seven-night tour journeys to lesser-visited sites along the Nile. Thanks to recent changes in Egyptian regulations, it’s now possible to access ancient treasures – such as Esna Temple, Gebel el-Silsila, the temple of Horemhep, the Valley & Tombs of the Nobles, and the temples at Adydos and Denderah – in the company of an Egyptologist. Accommodation is on the luxurious SS Misr steamship (see above). Price is from £1,695 pp.

*According to the itinerary selected, prices include air travel and taxes, transportation, accommodation, some meals, a sightseeing programme and the services of guides and local representatives. Prices are based on two people sharing.

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A “last-minute” cruise offers discounted rates whilst allowing the traveller to enjoy a cruise to his or her dream destination anywhere in the world. A last-minute cruise deal is the best option after the peak of the tourist season, which is usually between September 1st and December the 15th, and after the spring break from the middle of March to June the 15th.

Booking of last-minute cruises should be completed at least six days before departure, which is considered to be the latest deadline for all cancellations of cruise reservations without penalties. Last-minute cruises usually offer highly reduced rates to fill cancelled slots.

Many last-minute Holland-America cruises offer big discounts, but like any deal that comes with “too good to be true” rates, it is still wise to know the pros and cons of what it involves. Typically, these cruise deals may not allow upgrades or may still charge service fees or taxes. To learn about more last-minute deals, check websites of different cruise ships that offer such special deals.

Last-minute cruise bargains are usually not available during major holidays such as Christmas or New Year breaks or Easter week. But there are plenty of trips in the Caribbean during September, and until early November; the pre-Christmas holiday period, which is in the first two weeks of December; and the post-Christmas holiday period, which is in the first two weeks of January.

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The Mediterranean is a popular holiday cruise destination known for its golden beaches and warm climates. Indeed, a cruise is the best way to explore this majestic region that takes pride in its diverse cultures. Most of the touristy spots in this region are equally as interesting to explore but why not indulge in the tourism wonders that the Balearics, Italian and French Rivieras, and Spanish Costa can offer? On such a cruise, tourists get to savour the different cultures of world-famous cities such as Barcelona, Rome, and Cannes.

In this part of Europe are traditional “old towns” where visitors can enjoy a drink while enjoying the sight of the majestic ancient churches. The laid-back atmosphere in these spots is something most travellers relish.

Mediterranean cuisine is also diverse, with a dash of Greek, Moroccan, and Spanish influence. Cruisers can enjoy many dishes, but they should not leave without trying the Spanish Tapas (small dishes made from meat, vegetables and fish). Since Mediterranean countries are near the sea, fish has always been a staple of many dishes and is considered the “key” to the Mediterranean’s cooking heritage. Fish is cooked in countless ways, including casseroles, pastas, soups, and stews, depending on which country you visit. There are many vegetables and fruits that are grown in the warm Mediterranean climate, and these are a feast for the wandering traveller.

Travellers may also enjoy learning the languages spoken in this region. Although many people speak English in the coastal ports, it is always worth trying to speak the local language. Among the languages spoken in the Mediterranean region are Spanish, Italian, and Greek.

In order for you to experience the Mediterranean, many cruise deals are available at reduced or discounted rates. Plan a booking at least four months prior to departure to get an itinerary or the shore excursions of your choice.

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It’s a four night cruise that is all inclusive and ports include Southampton, Zeebrugge for Bruges, Rotterdam for Amsterdam and Cherboug. It departs on 28th May 2010. All you have to do is go to the competition page and fill in the form telling them what you would like to see and do on your dream luxury cruise (minimum 100 words). They will then judge the best entry and announce the winner on 30th September 2009.

To enter please visit http://www.whitestarcruises.com/win-a-luxury-cruise-with-white-star-cruises.phtml

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In an unusual move, the destination-led cruise specialist will also honour existing summer 2009 bookings with the savings. The new fares are strictly limited in availability and will run on a first come, first served basis.

From May to late August next year, all of Voyages of Discovery’s eclectic summer voyages from the UK will sail on a round trip from Harwich, with destinations ranging from Scandinavia to Russia, including the Baltic and Northern Waters. A selection of exciting fly cruises is also available to the Mediterranean. As ever, a highly acclaimed team of lecturers and guest speakers will be onboard to enrich the experience.

Don’t miss the boat – prices start at just £599 pp for the eight-day Norwegian Fjords I voyage departing Harwich on 24 May 2009 (brochure early booking price was £899).

The 10-day Italian Odyssey voyage departing 10 September 2009 (departs Gatwick – £15 supplement for Manchester), costs from just £1099 pp (brochure early booking price was £1,299).

Fares are based on two sharing a twin-bedded inside cabin and with all on-board meals and with entertainment, gratuities and port charges included (unlike many other cruise lines), and with the added value of free parking at Harwich or selected transfers to the port on no-fly cruises, it means that Voyages of Discovery’s value for money continues to be second to none!

Full ATOL and ABTA protection means that your money and holiday is safe. Voyages of Discovery also guarantees no currency or fuel surcharges.

For full details of the savings and voyages available, call 01444 462150 or visit www.voyagesofdiscovery.co.uk.

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So breathtakingly beautiful is Tanquary Fjord that the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) in conjunction with the Discovery Channel has chosen to film wildlife during this 16-day High Arctic expedition for a segment of the sequel to the award-winning “Planet Earth”.  “Frozen Planet,” is a six-part series that explores the Arctic and Antarctica.  Travelers aboard the icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov will have the opportunity to watch dailies of just-shot footage of elusive Arctic wildlife.  The BBC film crew will deliver presentations aboard about their work when they are not filming.  BBC crew members use a Cineflex camera mounted on a helicopter to film from a long distance. This revolutionary technology permits close-up views without disturbing the animals.

Tanquary Fjord: Western Ellesmere Island embarks in Resolute, Nunavut, high above the Arctic Circle. The expedition includes: a visit to Devon Island; an exploration of the archaeological remains of the Thule people (ancestors of the Inuit); a transit through Hell Gate, seldom navigated by passenger vessels; a helicopter reconnaissance to see a petrified forest on Ellesmere Island’s western coast; and a flight over Axel Heiberg to search for musk oxen, wolves and Arctic hare.  A visit to Mac Dougall Sound will provide potential walrus and polar bear sightings.  The final day of the trip will be spent visiting Beechey Island, where members of Sir John Franklin’s crew were buried during their tragic quest to discover the Northwest Passage.

“Tanquary Fjord – Western Ellesmere Island” will take place from August 3 – 18, 2009.  The   price ranges from $13,390 to $22,990 per person in US dollars.

For more information, call Quark Expeditions at 800-356-5699 or visit www.quarkexpeditions.com.

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With state of the art tools and technology for the ultimate experience in exploring life above and below the sea, the National Geographic Explorer is currently carrying its first group of guests on a 14-day voyage from Iceland to Greenland. While onboard, Lindblad guests will have the opportunity to experience a myriad of exceptional accoutrements which make the National Geographic Explorer an unparalleled base for exploring the seas. Some of these features, which create Lindblad’s hallmark intimate and educational environment include:

– A Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) that can explore the ocean at depths to 1000ft.;
– A Reinforced Ice Belt ensuring the ability to go further with the greatest safety in polar regions;
– The Observation Lounge, a glassed enclosed venue with exceptional views, providing panoramic vistas of scenic destinations;
– A Chart Room with nautical maps and other navigational information;
– A Remote Controlled Crow’s Nest Camera with real-time footage broadcast on high definition LCD video screens within each cabin;
– An Electronic Chart System that broadcasts as a channel in the cabins;
– 14 Zodiacs with an internal boarding mechanism that allows guests to disembark quickly and seamlessly from the ship;
– 36 Kayaks that allows guests to kayak in remote and pristine environments — a unique ability of Lindblad in the Arctic and Antarctica.

“The National Geographic Explorer is a magnificent ship. With the tools and technology housed onboard, she is the ultimate 21st century expedition vessel. She is also a beautiful ship that has been built with careful attention to detail and comfort,” said Sven Lindblad, founder and president of Lindblad Expeditions. “I am certain that our guests are going to enjoying exploring remote and pristine places of beauty while traveling on the National Geographic Explorer and I am excited by this newest chapter in our company’s development.”

Details about the National Geographic Explorer as well as upcoming itineraries can be found at www.expeditions.com.

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The range of activities on-board a family cruise ensure children have a fun-filled and enjoyable holiday, in between day excursions. Most cruise lines advertising family cruises will offer children’s clubs on board, with activities such as discos and scavenge hunts. There are also activities that focus on fun for the whole family, both on-board, and on the shore excursions.

Cruises are a great way to ensure your children are kept entertained, and the variety of day trips means they won’t get bored with the same place. You may find the organised local tours suit your family, or you may be tempted by some of the more adventurous offerings. A cruise to Villefranche for example, offers canyoning for children and adults alike. Visits to the local theme park or horse-riding may also be more to your taste.

The Telegraph Cruise Channel has a variety of expert articles and guides to family cruises that may just inspire you and your family for your next trip abroad.

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European Rail, the UK’s largest independent rail ticketing and holidays company, has announced a new partnership with luxury river cruise operator, Amadeus Waterways, to provide wonderfully airport- and aircraft-free rail-to-river packages that depart from London to destinations throughout Europe. To celebrate, they have put together two specially priced and limited availability Christmas season dates on the Rhine and Mosel rivers between Amsterdam and  Germany’s oldest city, Trier.

Departing via high-speed Eurostar from London’s magnificently restored St. Pancras station, each 8 day trip combines the comfort, convenience and security of rail travel with the elegance of Amadeus’s unusually spacious river vessels. Travellers have departure options of 23 November with the cruise starting from Amsterdam, or 30 November and 14 December starting from Trier.

Both packages include return standard-class rail travel, a category E ‘Piano deck’ outside cabin on the Amadeus ship ‘Amadagio’, a generous selection of sightseeing tours, and all port charges and supplements. Prices start at £981 per person, with upgrades to first-class rail travel available from just £158 with complimentary meals or refreshments on high-speed train services. Cabin upgrades, including junior suites, and various other cruise options are available on request.

For bookings or more details, call 020 7619 1080 or email holidays@europeanrail.com.

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Cruise shipping companies should look forward to further rapid business expansion, a senior industry executive says. David Dingle, chairman of the European Cruise Council (ECC), said in Brussels this week that the European source market for cruises is growing at 11% a year and increasing.  This is higher than in North America, which has averaged 8% growth in recent years.

In 2006, Europe generated 3.4 million cruise passengers last year, equivalent to 23% of the global source markets, and the ECC forecasts that there will be 5 million by 2015. Dingle said he personally expects the figure to be reached much sooner, meaning that more than half the new cruise ships to be delivered in the near future should be employed in European markets.

The UK accounts for 34% of the European source markets and continues to develop at a brisk rate, and Dingle predicted that 2.0 million Britons would take a cruise in 2012. The figure for 2007 was 1.35 million and it is expected to rise by 200,000 this year, when several new ships will enter the market. The increase alone is roughly equal to the number of cruise holidays sold in the UK in 1994.

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