Washington DC, Oct. 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the unified voice and leading authority of the global cruise community, is highlighting some of the most popular cruise destinations in time for Plan a Cruise Month. During the first week of the campaign, CLIA is shining a spotlight on European cruise destinations including things to do, dishes to eat, and more.
“From historic architecture to diverse cultures, Europe offers a variety of experiences and a cruise can take you there,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO, CLIA. “Whether it’s on a river cruise through France or Baltic ocean cruise, a cruise vacation offers a convenient way to explore everything Europe has to offer.”
Highlights of Cruising through Europe
Diverse Destinations: From the British Isles to the Seine, the available cruise itineraries around Europe are seemingly endless for history-loving travelers, foodies, and everyone in between.
- Lyon, France: France’s “culinary capital” is a brilliant destination for both seasoned epicures and everyday foodies, and includes trips to the famous Les Halles food market or an induction ceremony at a famous winery for cruisers looking to imbibe.
- Tallin, Estonia: This historic city combines sleek Scandinavian aesthetic with Soviet-era sights. Filled with sidewalk cafes, art galleries, and storied architecture, Tallin lends itself to cruisers looking to sightsee on foot or relax in a café and people-watch.
- Olden, Norway: For travelers looking to become immersed in a beautiful postcard-worthy landscape, Olden is an unsuspecting destination. This Norwegian port village offers travelers outdoor adventures like glacier-fed lake fishing, as well as tourist attractions like the “Old Church” which dates back to 1759.
- Regensburg, Germany: Cruisers can visit the city that mostly survived World War II to experience the storybook beauty of Romanesque and Gothic structures, bridges, and courtyards. While there, travelers can taste traditional German sausages and cuisine at the famous Regensburg Sausage Kitchen.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures: Europe is home to some of the most well-known castles, cathedrals, and picturesque villages, but the region has even more to offer with exciting and unexpected experiences to be had.
- Tulips in the Netherlands: Travelers can experience the breathtaking tulip fields for which the Netherlands are known for with guided tours and walks through acres of blooms.
- French Truffle Hunting: Cruisers can search for a “black diamond” at truffle farms throughout France to seek out the culinary jewel. Truffle-hunting dogs can even assist the excursion.
- Soaking in Budapest: This capital city offers a unique chance to soak in warm waters full of the Earth’s minerals, as it houses more than eighty active thermal springs and wells.
- Drinking in Dublin: Cruise travelers looking to sip a few suds can tour the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, complete with the history of the brew and a tasting perfect for beer aficionados and history-lovers alike.
- Prehistoric Adventure in Malta: Cruisers to Malta can visit the Prehistoric Temple of Hagar Qim, a megalithic temple etched from limestone and one of the most ancient religious sites in the world.
CLIA Travel Tips when Cruising Europe
- Trust a Travel Agent: A CLIA-certified travel agent can create an experience built around travelers’ preferences and travel goals. By leaving the logistics to a professional and having an expert at the ready, it takes the stress out of cruise vacation planning.
- Pack Up: Cruising allows travelers to see the world but only unpack their suitcase once, which mitigates much of the vacation packing stress. When it comes to packing, travelers should keep the Four E’s in mind: Essentials (toiletries, basic clothing), Extras (surge protectors, European outlet adapters), Excursions (hiking boots, bathing suits), and Elements (foldable ponchos, UPF-protected sun gear).
- Become Ship Savvy: Getting to know the layout of the ship can help cruisers when looking for cafes, restrooms, or the pool, and cut down on time wandering the ship in search of something specific. Cruisers are encouraged to pick up any available ship materials including a map of the layout, daily newsletters, and activity bulletins.
More about Plan a Cruise Month:
October is Plan a Cruise Month – a worldwide movement to learn more about cruising and how to plan and take a cruise vacation. The campaign, created by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the unified voice and leading authority of the global cruise community, offers insight on the best cruise destinations, special cruise line deals and promotions as well as experts to help navigate the many cruise vacation options available for every travel style and budget. Travelers can find a CLIA-certified cruise specialist at https://www.cruising.org/cruise-vacationer/cruise-travel-guide/clia-agent-finder. To learn more about Plan A Cruise Month and access the electronic press kit that includes an infographic about today’s release, please visit: http://cruising.new-media-release.com/index.html.
About Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) – One Industry, One Voice
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the world’s largest cruise industry trade association, providing a unified voice and leading authority of the global cruise community. The association has 15 offices globally with representation in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australasia. CLIA supports policies and practices that foster a safe, secure, healthy and sustainable cruise ship environment for the more than 24 million passengers who cruise annually and is dedicated to promote the cruise travel experience. Members are comprised of the world's most prestigious ocean, river and specialty cruise lines; a highly trained and certified travel agent community; and cruise line suppliers and partners, including ports & destinations, ship development, suppliers and business services. The organization’s mission is to be the unified global organization that helps its members succeed by advocating, educating and promoting for the common interests of the cruise community. For more information, visit www.cruising.org or follow Cruise Lines International Association on CLIA Facebook and Twitter pages.
Attachments:
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f0e9f784-ba0f-4429-b88e-b004aa6c5076