I'm very taken with River Cruising. What is it about River Cruising that is making it the hot new travel trend? Here are my top five reasons a Uniworld Boutique River Cruise should be at the top of your travel list.

1. They are traveling boutique hotels.

SS Maria Theresa Suite; Europe

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<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"… — SS Maria Theresa Suite; Europe
Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Uniworld’s iconic ships exemplify true artistry, the very essence of their boutique philosophy. Their partnership with the design visionaries at their award-winning sister company, the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, makes their stylish ships becoming with a flair inspired by the rivers upon which they cruise. They combine a blend of old-world elegance, the latest technological innovations, and ultra-luxurious amenities to offer you the best in sublime artistry and quality amenities that set them apart.

2. These smaller ships are able to reach places that their larger counterpoints cannot.

Queen Isabel Pool: Europe- Portugal, Spain and The Duoro River ValleyPhoto courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection — Queen Isabel Pool: Europe- Portugal, Spain and The Duoro River Valley
Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

How about sailing from Porto through the breathtaking, UNESCO-designated Douro River Valley, where vines cling to precipitous hillsides? And visit charming quintas, meeting the winemakers who run them? Or visit a Normandy apple farm for an apple brandy tasting. There's more: Burgundy & Provence, the most scenic section of the Yangtze River with its famous Three Gorges, the floating villages of the Mekong, Russia's gilded icons, and the centuries-old bazaars that make Jaipur such a magical place.

3. River Cruising is terrific for multi-generational travel.

SS Maria TheresaPhoto courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection — SS Maria Theresa
Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

From the classic Christmas market in Germany, Castles Along the Rhine, Delightful Danube and Prague, and the Gems of Northern Italy, Uniworld River Cruises provide life-enriching opportunities for families to discover different cultures and cuisines in memorable ways. Those looking to experience Europe at its most magical delight in holiday traditions and treats of Germany and Austria. Find special gifts for loved ones back home while savoring tantalizing once-a-year treats with Uniworld’s “Taste of Christmas” program, including gingerbread, crepes with cinnamon, and warm spiced wine. Medieval squares twinkle with lights, and life-sized Nativity figures and joyful brass choirs treat your senses. Children will remember sailing through castle-strewn hillsides and visiting charming towns decked in holiday finery.

4. It's All-Inclusive.

Uniworld's farm to table concept features world-class meals prepared for the most discerning palettes.Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection — Uniworld's farm to table concept features world-class meals prepared for the most discerning palettes.
Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Uniworld is truly All-Inclusive in Europe: enjoy gourmet meals and unlimited beverages onboard, gratuities, shore excursions, transfers and more. Dine on a sundeck with a bistro menu after you have taken bicycles to tour onshore. There's a bistro menu for all day snacking, craft beers and local wines chosen by sommeliers to accompany each meal, and meals inspired by the region with food from regional farmer's markets and artisanal producers.

5. Effortless Travel

The River Baroness captures the essence of the French joie de vivre, and chic, sophisticated flair.Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection — The River Baroness captures the essence of the French joie de vivre, and chic, sophisticated flair.
Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Once onboard, simply unpack and relax. Let the serene Seine carry you through the countryside as you see for yourself the landscapes immortalized by so many great artists. Breath in the fragrance of Monet's garden in Giverny, and stand on the beach of Honfleur where Courbet and Boudin set up their easels to paint fishing vessels sailing into port. Walk in the paths of Van Gogh in Auvers-sur-Oise, the town where he spent his final months. What a wonderful and relaxing way to immerse yourself in a fascinating and inviting land, rich in legend, history and art.

I am a Uniworld River Cruise Specialist. Call me so we can start working on your vacation.

Kristen Meckem: 541.728.8579

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has earned recognition for a fourth year running as Travel + Leisure’s “Top River Cruise Line for Families” in its coveted 2015 World’s Best Awards.