​Small ship cruising offers a unique and intimate travel experience that stands apart from traditional mega-liner cruises. These niche voyages, typically carrying fewer than 800 passengers (sometimes as few as 100), provide adventurous travelers with access to off-the-beaten-path destinations and themed itineraries that larger ships simply can't match. The appeal of small ship cruising lies in its focus on destinations and themes. Whether you're sailing on a tall-masted ship, exploring the Amazon, visiting secluded islands, or witnessing the wonders of Antarctica up close, these cruises offer unparalleled adventures. Expert guides in fields like zoology, history, and anthropology often accompany voyages, enhancing the educational aspect of the journey. Key advantages of small ship cruising include:

Popular small ship cruise destinations include:

• European rivers and fjords: Glide through picturesque landscapes, visiting charming villages and historic cities along the continent's iconic waterways.
• Arctic and Antarctic regions: Experience the raw beauty of polar landscapes, observe unique wildlife, and follow in the footsteps of great explorers.
• Galapagos Islands: Discover the incredible biodiversity that inspired Charles Darwin, with opportunities for close encounters with unique species.
• South Pacific islands: Island-hop through paradise, experiencing diverse cultures and pristine beaches far from the typical tourist trail.
• Remote Asian waterways like the Yangtze River: Delve into the heart of ancient civilizations, witnessing both timeless traditions and rapid modernization.

​The typical small ship cruiser is an engaged traveler seeking adventure and discovery rather than a traditional tourist experience. These voyages attract a wide age range, depending on the itinerary and theme. While amenities vary, many small ships offer high-quality dining, entertainment options, and all-inclusive packages. The relaxed, informal atmosphere encourages interaction among passengers and crew, creating a unique social experience. For travelers seeking a more immersive, educational, and personalized cruise experience, small ship cruising proves that sometimes, less truly is more.

Picture a vacation that strikes the perfect balance between luxury river cruising and exhilarating physical activities. Welcome to the world of AmaWaterways and Backroads River Cruising, where the thrill of active travel meets relaxed luxury tours. This unique alliance between AmaWaterways, the experts in river cruising, and Backroads, the leaders in active travel, has reshaped the very concept of vacationing, presenting an irresistible offer for thrill-seekers and luxury lovers alike. Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing tour of Europe's bewitching landscape, all the while keeping your fitness streak ticking.

​One of the stand-out benefits of a Backroads and AmaWaterways cruise is the sheer flexibility it provides. Participants can set their own rhythm, deciding their biking lengths each day. Beyond biking, there are provisions to explore the cities or ports solo, or delve into the vibrant local culture through curated city tours. Efficient and knowledgeable trip leaders act as compasses throughout, providing clear instructions, and sharing insights into the local culture and landscapes.

​In sum, the biking and hiking river cruises brought to you by AmaWaterways and Backroads create the perfect blend of an adrenaline-fueled, active vacation and a luxury river cruise. By merging adventure and leisure in one attractive package, this duo raises the bar for river cruising. It's a compelling call to the world of active cruising, where the heart keeps racing, the sights keep mesmerizing and the luxury keeps pampering. So, why wait? Be part of the incredible journey that awaits and get ready to experience the adventure of a lifetime.

​In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a pause for quality time with your loved one becomes a necessity. What could be a better cure than going on a romantic adventure together? Let us help you organize the ideal getaway for you and your partner, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or just enjoying time spent together. Relax, spend time together, and make enduring memories with your partner. It's time to pick your dream romantic getaway for a trip you won't soon forget!

Kauai - When it comes to romantic getaways for couples looking for a magical escape, Kauai is incomparable. This Hawaiian paradise is praised for being the greatest for igniting and reigniting love for the following reasons:

1. Pristine Natural Beauty: The gorgeous scenery of Kauai is a romantic blank canvas.
2. Secluded beaches: Kauai has pristine, private beaches that offer a cozy environment for strolls on a romantic note, picnics at sunset, or just spending time together with a view of the Pacific Ocean.
3. Romantic Sunset cruises Take a romantic boat around the shore of Kauai to see the splendor of the sunsets.
4. Luxurious accommodations: With a variety of luxury lodging options, including private villas and beachfront resorts, Kauai ensures that every second of your visit will be spent in comfort and elegance. Elevate your romantic experience with spa treatments, intimate dinners, and unrivaled hospitality.
5. Culinary Delights: Enjoy the culinary delicacies of the island together. Kauai's farm-to-table eating establishments, oceanfront feasts, and native cuisines all add to a culinary adventure that heightens the romantic quality of your vacation.

Napa Valley: For couples looking for a magical getaway, Napa Valley—known for its world-class wines and undulating hills—represents the pinnacle of romance. Here's why Napa Valley, with its perfect blend of gorgeous scenery, fine wines, and personal encounters, is praised as the ultimate romantic destination:

1. The famous vineyards of Napa Valley weave a charming picture of lush foliage and neat rows of grapevines. Take a stroll together through these romantic settings, where the sound of ripening grapes and the soft rustle of leaves provide the perfect atmosphere for a romantic adventure.
2. World-Class wineries:  Savor the fine art of wine tasting at the top vineyards in Napa Valley. Enjoy exceptional vintages, partake in wine flights, and strengthen your bond at private tastings. The exquisite tasting rooms and vineyard settings provide a romantic atmosphere that enhances the entire experience.
3. Gourmet Dining: Offering fine dining experiences amid rolling hills and grape views, Napa Valley is a culinary heaven. Visit farm-to-table eateries for a culinary symphony of locally produced ingredients and well-thought-out wine pairings. Every candlelit supper turns into an occasion to celebrate culinary mastery and love.
4. Hot Air Balloon rides: Take a hot air balloon ride for two and soar above the stunning Napa Valley scenery. Drift over valleys and vineyards as the first rays of dawn cast the landscape in golden tones, offering a very unique and picturesque view of the area.
5. Spa retreats for two: Pamper yourselves with spa retreats that cater to couples seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. From soothing massages to therapeutic baths, Napa Valley's luxurious spas provide a romantic escape, allowing you to unwind together in serene surroundings.

Nantucket: A Romantic Love Story Revealed: Nantucket, an island off the coast of Massachusetts, stands as a timeless and captivating destination that consistently ranks among the most romantic places. Here's why Nantucket is celebrated for its romantic allure, weaving together charming landscapes, historic charm, and intimate experiences:

1. Cobblestone lanes, old buildings, and quaint beach cottages on Nantucket create a gorgeous scene that carries couples back in time. The ageless charm of the island makes it the ideal setting for passionate walks and intimate moments.
2. Pristine Beaches: Nantucket's coastline is made up of miles of pristine beaches with gentle, sandy shorelines. Couples can choose quiet areas on the coast to retire to, with the soothing sound of the waves serving as the romantic backdrop. Siasconset Beach and Jetties Beach are ideal locations for romantic beachside getaways.
3. Lighthouses and Coastal views: Famous lighthouses in Nantucket, such Sankaty Head Light and Brant Point Light, provide spectacular sweeping views of the coastline. As the sun sets over the Atlantic, couples can make wonderful memories by embracing against the backdrop of these marine monuments.
4. Intimate bed and Breakfast: Intimate bed-and-breakfasts abound on Nantucket, offering couples comfortable lodging with unique twists. These little places, which range from coastal getaways to ancient inns, provide a cozy and romantic ambiance.
5. Year-round charm: The year-round romantic atmosphere of Nantucket is unwavering. Nantucket is a year-round refuge for couples seeking romance, whether it's the blossoming gardens of spring, the sun-dappled days of summer, the crisp coastal air of fall, or the tranquil winter landscapes.

​Welcome to one of the last frontiers on earth - Antarctica, a vast untouched wilderness where the usual rules of time and space seem to suspend their course. The overpowering beauty that looms in the form of colossal ice structures and the melody of cracking glaciers create a theatre of nature's raw power and inspire intrepid explorers from across the globe. Yet, the white complexity of Antarctica is far from monotonous; ever-changing, ever-thrilling, it beautifully stitches together a distinctive calamity of events each month, making every visit a novel encounter you're unlikely to experience anywhere else. From the playful mating rituals of penguins in November to awe-inspiring whale watching spectacle in balmy February, this four-month rendezvous across the Antarctic calendar offers a profound comprehension of life in the extremes.

Discovering Antarctica: A Unique Journey Unfolding Each Month From November to February!
November:
In November, the Antarctic landscape transforms into a photographer's dream - an elaborate canvas of ice floes and sea ice bask in the ethereal Antarctic light. Imagine our ship snugly embedded in this icy panorama, enabling us to set foot on untouched snow-covered terrains for hiking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. It's really peaceful.
Watch penguin colonies frolicking in their mating rituals, compete over nesting space, and engage in delightful flipper waving. The Falkland Islands bloom with the vibrant colors of spring wildflowers. Plus, South Georgia beaches host the captivating drama of huge Elephant Seals in fierce mating battles.

December:
As summer dawns in December, daylight stretches out, and temperatures cross the freezing point. It is a fruitful period for wildlife enthusiasts as Orcas and Humpbacks are in abundance. Penguin colonies are abuzz with preparation for the imminent chick hatching mid-month. Our undersea experts take advantage of the clear waters, documenting fascinating underwater creatures that guests can appreciate from the comfort of our ship.

January:
January's warmer climate triggers the massive glaciers' calving process, as colossal pieces of ice crash into Antarctic seas. Penguin toddlers - adorable balls of fluff - follow their parents in a food chase. Increased activity among chicks attracts predators, notably the ancient looking Leopard Seal. The birth of seal pups - Leopard, Crabeater and Weddell - adds an extra dose of cuteness to the scenery as they can be spotted lazing on ice floes and icy debris.

February:
Following two months of non-stop summer sun, the pack ice lessens in February, allowing us to venture further into unexplored territories. Our expedition fleet, possessing advanced ice capabilities, paves the way to the untouched western peninsula, only previously witnessed by iconic explorers. February presents a golden window for whale watchers with Minke, Sperm, Southern right and Humpback whales, in abundance. These refined aquatic mammals often display their curious nature, swimming right up to the ship.

​What is the best season to immerse yourself in Antarctica's untouched beauty? The consensus leans towards the austral summer, stretching from the end of November till early March. Let's delve into the reasons that make this time period an Antarctic traveler's dream.

Note, though, that despite summer's embrace, Antarctica remains a formidable, isolated destination. Changing weather patterns can be a part of the journey, so good planning should always accompany your sense of adventure.
So, when does Antarctica truly come alive? Indeed, in summer. Expect a season of warm sunlit days, teeming wildlife, accessible landscapes, and a variety of exciting activities that will make your Antarctic adventure a trip of a lifetime.

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An expedition to the far reaches of Antarctica is a formidable task that requires meticulous planning. Trips are mostly organized via sturdy, ice-strengthened vessels which navigate from Ushuaia, Argentina, through the formidable Drake Passage before reaching the Antarctic Peninsula. It is essential to consult with a trusted travel advisor, one who is well-versed in polar region travel. Such advisors have the comprehensive knowledge and experience to guide you through the various options available, ensuring that you choose a cruise line that aligns best with your needs, desires, and active lifestyle.
Size matters when it comes to ships in Antarctica. Cruise liners ferrying over 500 passengers offer a cruising experience only, with passengers taking in the awe-inspiring sights from the deck, but not stepping foot onto the land. However, smaller ships, those carrying less than 200 passengers, provide multiple intimate encounters with the White Continent, giving passengers the rare chance to stride among penguins and breathe in the icy glamour of this ethereal landscape.

​Dare to dream of destinations that promise to stir the soul and ignite the wanderlust within? As we cast our gaze towards 2024, the prospect of travel teases like a fine melody–each note a destination waiting to be explored, each harmony a culture eager to be experienced. In this world tapestry, five splendid gems stand out, poised to define the ultimate travel year. From the raw, rugged beauty of Australia’s Kimberley to the polished urbanity of Japan’s Kobe; from the pulsating cultural veins of Colombia’s Magdalena River to the tranquil turquoises of Mauritius and Botswana's splendid Okavango Delta. Here's an insider's guide to the top five must-visit places in 2024, where luxury and adventure interlace to create unrivaled experiences. Join us on this journey of discovery, where each enigmatic locale unfolds as a chapter of your next great travel story.

​As the pages of 2024 unfurl, the seasoned traveler will find themselves crossing borders not just on the map, but within their own spirit of adventure. Our carefully curated quintet of destinations offers not mere visits, but transformative experiences. From the untouched splendor of Kimberley to the refined elegance of Kobe, the soul-stirring rhythm of the Magdalena River, the transcendent beauty of Mauritius, and the inspiring innovation of Okavango Delta, every locale promises a chapter in your story worth savoring. Pack your bags, embrace your curiosity, and prepare to weave these magnificent threads into the rich tapestry of your travel memories. The journey of a lifetime awaits in 2024—it's time to turn these dreams into your reality.

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​In Spring - Salzburg transforms into a vibrant green oasis post-winter, showcasing the colorful charm of Mirabell Gardens and blooming magnolias at Makartplatz Square. April unfolds with lively events like the Trick Fountains of Schloss Hellbrunn and scenic river tours. Unpredictable March-April weather calls for layered attire and umbrellas. Easter festivities infuse Salzburg with lively traditions. #SalzburgSpring 🌱

​In Summer - Salzburg is buzzing with Festival fever, transforming into a cosmopolitan hub with global artists and visitors. June promises sunshine and mild temperatures, with sporadic rain and swim-friendly days. July and August bring real summer, perfect for outdoor activities. Pack lightweight clothes, an evening jacket, and always bring an umbrella. Planning to attend the Festival? Check the dress code for your event. Explore Salzburg's cultural richness with 25 museums, from Baroque splendor at DomQuartier to 21st-century art at Museum der Moderne Salzburg. 🎭☀️ #SalzburgFestival #SummerExploration
In the fall - Discover Salzburg's autumn charm with jazz, folk culture, and leisurely strolls sans crowds. Embrace the rich beer culture in traditional folk attire or casual wear. As temperatures drop, explore behind-the-scenes brewery tours. Autumn markets showcase harvest abundance, and nature's vibrant colors invite hikes. Musical diversity fills the city during Salzburger Kulturtage and Jazz & The City, turning public spaces into stages. 🎶🍂 #SalzburgAutumn #CulturalVibes
In Winter - Salzburg transforms into a winter wonderland with festive vibes. November and December bring enchanting Christmas markets, a romantic atmosphere, and musical events for all ages. January and February are the coldest months, offering snow-covered landscapes. For a magical escape, Winterfest in the Volksgarten features contemporary circus performances. Don't forget winter clothing and enjoy winter hiking on city mountains. Experience a dazzling New Year's Eve with fireworks and classical concerts, culminating in Mozart Week celebrations around Mozart's birthday on January 27. 🎄❄️ #SalzburgWinterMagic #NewYearCelebration

​While in Vienna, experience a true taste of Austria. It is a treat for the taste buds as much as the senses.

Ingredients
4.5 oz. butter, softened
1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
12 tbsp. sugar
7 egg yolks
7 egg whites, whipped
7 oz. flour
2 tbsp. apricot Jam


Ganache:
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup dark chocolate
1 stick butter

Preparation Method
Mix butter, sugar, and egg yolks together until creamy. Fold the melted chocolate into the mixture. In a separate bowl, fold the whipped egg whites and fl our together. Combine with the egg yolk and chocolate mixture. Pour into a greased 9” round cake pan. Bake for approximately 45 min. at 370 F°. Let the cake cool and remove from pan. When fully cooled, cut the cake in half horizontally. Fill with apricot jam and glaze top of cake with the ganache.

Makes 8 servings.

​One of the largest Christmas markets in Vienna is the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, where a towering 30-meter spruce, glitters with lights against the neogothic Rathaus.
​
Keeping up with Austrian traditions with a colossal advent calendar and wreath sets the festive scene. Grab a mug of punch or mulled wine before exploring the 150+ stalls offering artisan Christmas decorations, beeswax candles, and unique glass and tin creations. 

​You will find plenty of seasonal snacks like Hungarian langos, crispy and sprinkled with optional garlic sauce, or savor roasted chestnuts and Erdäpfelpuffer (hash browns). Don't miss the sweet treats, including regional Krapfen (donuts), chocolate-dipped fruit skewers, and fresh soft gingerbread.

Explore the new Nativity Scene Path in Rathauspark, featuring 10 to 15 hand-made scenes with contemporary themes. Enjoy live Advent music each evening, including gospel choirs and brass bands, creating a magical atmosphere beneath the towering Christmas tree.
​
Experience this market and others when you sail on a Danube cruise between the end of Nov till Christmas Eve.
Christmas in Austria means one thing: Glühwein. This tasty mulled wine is the festive drink of choice in Innsbruck—and it's easy to see why. It's sweet, it's yummy and it's just what you need on a cold and frosty evening.

​Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients

• 3 cups of white wine (Silvaner or Müller-Thurgau)
• 1 cup apple juice
• 1/4 cup Franconian plum brandy (optional but recommended, as a little of the alcohol cooks out of the wine)
• 4 slices of orange
• 2 slices of lemon
• 1 stick of cinnamon
• 1 star anise
• 5 allspice seeds
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 pinch of aniseed
• 1 tsp. honey (if you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more)

Extra slices of fruit for garnish, if desired