Your Travel Expert On: Exotic Cruises

By Maureen Jones (Open Post)

When someone tells me, “I don’t like to cruise,” my answer is, “You didn’t go on the right cruise line.”

Today there are such tremendous offers such as free air fare, discounted business and first class air, two for one fares, private car excursions, shipboard credit of $600, a cruise is worth looking at.

You can be casual, and don’t take anything dressy if you don’t want to. With the choice of restaurants, you can avoid the black tie event very easily. The world cruise – 120 days - for one cruise line was sold out the first day it went on the market. People book their favorite cabin a year in advance and what is interesting, is that the most expensive cabins sell out first.

From the Temples of Asia to the Wilds of Africa. A luxury cruise is the perfect way to uncover the exotic treasures of Asia and Africa. With thoughtful itineraries providing a balance of onboard enrichment and land adventure, your journey is sure to be authentic and memorable.

The indulgent conveniences of a cruise, extraordinary service, lavish accommodations, exceptional quality and incredible choices mean more time can be spent relaxing. Whether you dream of exploring the temples of Cambodia or shopping in the streets of Cape Town, we can help you select the perfect cruise that allows the freedom to experience each new locale or simply relax in style on board.

The cruise itineraries spotlighted here feature Asia and Africa’s most exotic ports. Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately known as Saigon, blooms like a delicate flower from an intimate seat in a pedicab, a phenomenal way to get an overview of the city.

In Singapore, striking tropical plant life thrives at the Botanical Gardens, and sumptuous high tea at the world renowned Raffles Hotel Singapore is a special treat. A long evening is the perfect chance to partake in a relaxing dinner at a local Singaporean restaurant, or be thrilled on board with exciting entertainment. Cruising allows for enjoyment of a dynamic range of pursuits in a matter of days.

In Japan, sensuality takes over. A land excursion to Kyoto is a remarkable way to explore on shore. The city is the center of the ancient art of the geisha, an art that still flourishes today. Skilled geiko, experienced geisha exhibit their exceptional skill in music, dancing, singing, calligraphy and, most importantly, conversation, as their apprentices’ maiko absorb the careful lessons. Their performance captivates on shore, and later on board, a show continues the magic of entertainment.

For a truly epic adventure, a cruise stretching from the shores of Thailand, all the way to the tip of Africa is the perfect choice. An inclusive overnight stay in Bangkok presents the chance to revel in the pleasures of a traditional Thai massage in the very city that originated the practice. Or, opt for a treatment at the onboard spa, where the interiors were designed with feng-shui practices in mind.

Cross the Indian Ocean to the electrifying African shores where the range of shore excursions is sure to excite. From Elephant Back Safaris to zip lining through Karkloof Forest this sweeping four stays grounded with a baseline sense of luxury and comfort on board.

However you choose to spend your time, a cruise is the ultimate way to discover Asia and Africa with both access and ease in the midst of the exotic and the new. Whether you explore both breathtaking continents or solely traverse one, we have access to exceptional local guides, exclusive deals, VIP treatments and exclusive extras so you can set off on your cruise in style.
There are eight fantastic offers with Holland America and Crystal Cruise for these destinations on our web site - www.allhorizonstvl.com

Lots of extras for our clients. Worth looking at.

Maureen Jones

Maureen Jones is president of All Horizons Travel at 160 Main Street, Los Altos. Members of her staff are experts in business travel, cruises, and all types of leisure.