If you are regular visitors to our website, you will have read many of our photo narratives of our cruise experiences around the world and learned of our love of unpacking once and watching the world float by in front of you—in unsurpassed luxury.

And if you are new to our site (and thinking of cruising as a vacation option) we hope you will be inspired to learn more about the cruise experience and how it may just change the way you travel in the future.

Here are two exciting new cruise opportunities we just learned learned about:

Discover the ANCIENT wonders of Egypt on A Viking Cruise

We’ve sailed many times with Viking Cruises, both on ocean and river cruises, and the experience never failed to create unforgettable travel memories. Our staterooms were always spacious and comfortable, and it was truly a daily delight to see castles and incredible scenery roll by as we relaxed on our balcony. The included shore excursions were led by outstanding local guides who made history come alive with their insightful commentary.

That being said, we can only imagine experiencing the wonders of Egypt on the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary. Guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Saqqara (also known as “Sakkara”) and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. They then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

Can you ask for anything more in such an itinerary?

For guests looking to extend their journey, Viking also offers Pre and Post Extensions that provide Privileged Access to archives and exhibits. Additional offerings include a new three-night Pre-Extension in Istanbul, where guests can visit the timeless city and important religious sites including the “Blue Mosque” and the legendary Hagia Sophia. Before their voyage, guests can also choose to extend their journey in Jerusalem, exploring the ancient history and vibrant culture of Israel’s fascinating capital. After concluding the river voyage, guests can also extend the journey with a 4-night Post-Extension to Jordan – Petra, Dead Sea & Amman to view Roman antiquities at Jerash, Crusader-era castles at Kerak or Shobak and experience the lost city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a Holiday SALE on America’s Scenic Rivers

While European holiday cruises along the rivers are very romantic, and well worth the trip, for some Americans the long flight to Europe and all the logistics involved might be too much trip planning.

Enter the newest promotion from www.AQVoyages.com that can bring you all the joy of the holiday season close to home. The themed voyages, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Cruises, and New Year's Celebration, are curated to bring travelers time-honored traditions, festive entertainment, and authentic culinary specialties.

In addition to traditional holiday festivities, AQV is introducing new Christmas Markets on select Lower Mississippi River voyages. Guests will have the opportunity to explore charming European-styled markets filled with handcrafted gifts, local delicacies, and seasonal treats, offering an authentic taste of holiday shopping as they wander through the decorated stalls.

American Queen Voyages’ all-inclusive fares include a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, ground transfers between the hotel and vessel, unlimited guided tours and experiences, unlimited beverages, open bars and lounges, acclaimed cuisine in multiple venues, in-room dining, unlimited WiFi, live daily onboard entertainment and enrichment, and hiking sticks. Bicycles are included on river voyages. Additionally, AQV cruise fares include port taxes and fees and pre-paid gratuities.

Happy Holidays!