Victoria Cruises Offers Complimentary One-Night A La Carte Dining Upgrade on Yangtze River China Cruises

Victoria Cruises operates a variety of itineraries on the Yangtze River in China ranging from four to nine days.

As it prepares its newly renovated fleet for the 2013 cruise season on China’s Yangtze River, Victoria Cruises (http://www.victoriacruises.com/) is launching a complimentary one-night à la carte dining upgrade offer. Passengers will enjoy one dinner in the Dynasty Dining room with à la carte dining menu service – an amenity normally reserved for guests enrolled in the cruise line’s VIP Executive Program.

Victoria Cruises works with Philadelphia-based Concepts By Staib, Ltd. to continually improve its culinary program. Internationally-acclaimed chef Walter Staib and his team routinely travel to China to equip the ships and train the culinary staff with the necessary skills and recipes to prepare high-quality Western dishes.

Travelers who book passage on applicable Victoria Cruises’ vessels as part of a packaged vacation from leading U.S.-based tour operators will also have access to the one-night à la carte dining upgrade. For a complete list of operators featuring the cruise line’s Yangtze River sailings, contact Victoria Cruises at 212-818-1680. Visit www.victoriacruises.com to learn more about river cruising on China’s mist-shrouded Yangtze.

New York-based Victoria Cruises established new standards of excellence for sailing China’s Yangtze River when its first ship edged out of port in 1994. Victoria Cruises remains the service leader and the only American-managed luxury cruise line on the Yangtze River with the coveted five-star rating from the China National Tourism Administration. Victoria Cruises has earned numerous awards and recognitions over the years including the 2011 TravelAge West WAVE Award Editor’s Pick for Best River Cruise Line as well as Best New River Cruise Ship in 2010 with the launch of the luxurious Victoria Jenna. Travel Weekly also recently selected the Victoria Jenna as a Silver Award Winner for the Magellan Awards’ River Cruise Ship category. The cruise line operates a variety of itineraries on the Yangtze ranging from four to nine days.

For more information and a free color brochure or promotional DVD, contact Victoria Cruises at 57-08 39th Avenue, Woodside, NY 11377; phone (800) 348-8084, (212) 818-1680; fax (212) 818-9889. Send e-mail to contact@victoriacruises.com or visit http://www.victoriacruises.com.

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Victoria Cruises Partners with Ritz Tours on 10-Nite ‘Yangtze Essence’ China Tour Priced From $1999

Ritz Tours’ 10-night ‘Yangtze Essence’ China package includes a three-night luxury cruise along the Yangtze River from Chongqing to Yichang on Victoria Cruises.

Victoria Cruises (www.victoriacruises.com/) has partnered with Ritz Tours (www.ritztours.com/) to offer a 10-night Yangtze Essence program combining a luxurious three-night Yangtze River cruise in a private-balcony Executive Suite on the five-star Victoria Anna with tours of Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai. With land-only pricing from $1,999 per person, based on double occupancy, the China itinerary provides value with five-star hotel and cruise accommodations, superb dining and authentic cultural entertainment

Travelers can save an additional $100 per person by booking the Yangtze Essence program with Ritz Tours by Feb. 28, 2013.

The program begins with three nights in Beijing where guests will observe the tombs of the Ming Dynasty Emperors and other historical treasures such as the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City and Summer Palace. A morning excursion to the Temple of Heaven is often enhanced by the countless local tai chi practitioners who assemble in the courtyards to practice and train (weather permitting).

In Xi’an, guests will visit the Ming Dynasty City Wall and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda as well as the Terracotta Warriors exhibit – the city’s star attraction – buried for more than 2,000 years until its accidental discovery in 1974. The Xi’an experience culminates with an Imperial Dumpling Dinner and Tang Dynasty Show.

Next, guests will depart for a three-night luxury cruise along the Yangtze River from Chongqing to Yichang, enjoying private-balcony Executive Suite accommodations with enhanced ship placement and other VIP services and amenities offered through Victoria Cruises’ Executive Program on the five-star Victoria Anna. Amenities include personalized “white glove” service, access to exclusive ship areas, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, a la carte dining privileges, complimentary laundry (up to four items per day), shoe shine service and reserved seating for evening entertainment.

Passengers will discover cultural and scenic gems along the Yangtze including an excursion to the “Ghost City” of Fengdu and passage through the mist-shrouded Three Gorges, as well as a small boat experience through one of the Yangtze’s tranquil tributaries (Daning River or Shennong Stream, based on weather conditions). Travelers will also enjoy an educational tour of the Three Gorges Dam site, the largest hydroelectric dam project in the world.

The Yangtze Essence program culminates with a visit to Shanghai, where guests will have an opportunity to stroll the elegant waterfront boulevard known as The Bund, shop for designer luxury items on Nanjing Road and visit the peaceful Yu Garden, a classical garden right in the center of the bustling city. The tour ends with an exciting Chinese Acrobatic performance.

Land-only departures for Ritz Tours’ Yangtze Essence itinerary start at $1,999 per person, based on double occupancy. The program features all intra-China land and air transportation, Executive Suite accommodations with private balcony and VIP amenities aboard the five-star Victoria Anna, five-star hotel accommodations in Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai, meals and excursions as specified in the itinerary, English-speaking guides and applicable taxes/fees. International airfare is not included but can be booked with Ritz Tours at competitive rates.

Consult your local travel agent for more information or to book, or contact Ritz Tours at 888-345-7489 or www.ritztours.com.

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Crystal Cruises Includes Complimentary 3-Day Beijing Adventure on New Spring China Voyages

Crystal Cruises is taking guests off the ship and through Beijing’s most historic and cultural sites for three nights next spring, as part of two new 2013 cruises to China. For the first time in four years, the all-inclusive Overland Adventure will be featured as a complimentary pre- and post-cruise package on two different luxury cruises, both sailing aboard Crystal Symphony for 10 days before and after the unique land trip:

• · An “All China” voyage, departing March 23, offering extended time in several of the country’s greatest cities, as follows: Hong Kong (overnight)-Xiamen-Shanghai (two nights)-Dalian-Beijing/Zingang.
• · A “Pan-Asia” sailing, departing March 30, offering not just a taste of several Asian countries, but plenty of time in port, with several overnights, as follows: Beijing/Zingang-Dalian-Shanghai (overnight)-Pusan, S. Korea-Nakasaki-Kôbe, Japan (two nights). Travelers can sail all the way to North America by also adding the following Kôbe-Vancouver voyage, through Russia and Alaska (Crystal’s only Alaska cruise in 2013), afterward.

“These cruises offer incredible itineraries for easily exploring a region that is fascinating, extremely vast, and growing very quickly in terms of travel popularity,” explains John Stoll, vice president of land and port operations. “To also spend three nights and days immersed in one of the area’s greatest cities, with the benefit of still traveling in Crystal’s signature Six-Star style while on land, brings even more value and destination enrichment to these vacations.”

The Beijing land program provides in-depth exploration of the city and surrounding’s most popular landmarks — like Tiananmen Square, The Great Wall, Olympic Park, and The Forbidden City — as well as exclusive access to intimate cultural experiences – like a rickshaw tour through Beijing’s complex alleyways/hutongs and a spectacular dinner and performance at the government’s Great Hall of the People. Throughout, Crystal provides expert guidance, enriching insight, luxury accommodations, traditional meals, transportation (including transfers between Beijing and the ship), porterage, gratuities, and English-speaking escorts.

Until October 31, all-inclusive “Book Now” fares for the voyages, with Beijing trip included, start at $4,620 and $4,400, for March 23 and 30’s cruises, respectively, with additional savings for combining “back-to-back” sailings. The cruises are also available without the Beijing trip starting at $3,820 and $3,600, respectively.

Crystal’s exclusive, eye-opening luxury shore-side experiences are cornerstones of its Crystal Adventures program, helping earn the line top ratings for two decades.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

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Pacific Delight Guarantees Departures on China & Asia Tours with 2 Passengers; Offers $1000 savings through Nov. 30

Pacific Delight Tours (http://www.PacificDelightTours.com) is introducing “All Travel Guaranteed” for all of its 2013 world-class programs to China and Asia with a two-passenger minimum. Previously, the leading vacation provider required a six-passenger minimum on most of its tours.

In addition to guaranteed travel and no operational or supplemental fees, Pacific Delight is offering savings of up to $1,000 per couple on select Gold Experience Tours booked by Nov. 30, 2012.

Relaxation begins from the moment a reservation is booked with Pacific Delight Tours’ no-nonsense mantra and commitment to offering clear, no surprise pricing. Vacationers can experience the ultimate in luxury on China and Asia journeys while taking comfort in knowing that there will be no hidden fees and guaranteed travel with two passengers.
“Our number one priority has always been the happiness and satisfaction of our customers,” said Larry Kwan, president of Pacific Delight Tours. “We strive to make all of our travelers’ vacations the most enjoyable and unforgettable experience from the planning stage all the way through to the end of their trip, which is why we do not believe in hitting them with any surprise charges,” he added.

Travelers will marvel with the 12-day China Golden Route Gold Experience package priced from $3,699 per person, based on double occupancy (from $3,499* per person, double, with the discount of $200 per person factored into the price), which features FiveStarPlus® accommodations in Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, Guilin and Hong Kong.

For those looking to experience both the major cities and the picturesque Yangtze River through China’s countryside, the 17-day Cultural China & Yangtze River Gold Experience package is the perfect solution. Vacationers will enjoy a three night Yangtze River cruise in upgraded Executive Suite accommodations, complete with “Boutique Lifestyle Service” and a private balcony on a five-star Victoria Cruises ship, along with FiveStarPlus® accommodations for the duration of the trip in Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing, Shanghai, Guilin, Yangshou and Hong Kong. The package is priced from $4,999 per person, based on double occupancy (from $4,499* per person, double, with the discount of $500 per person factored into the price).

Each highlighted Pacific Delight Tours Gold Experience itinerary includes English speaking tour guides, historical sightseeing and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all meals, Intra-China flights and the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program.

For more information or to book, consult your local travel agent, contact Pacific Delight Tours at 800-221-7179 or visit www.PacificDelightTours.com.

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Victoria Cruises, Travcoa Offer Exclusive ‘Legendary China’ Journey on Yangtze River

Cruising aboard Victoria Cruises affords a spectacular view of centuries-old pagodas and temples nestled along the mist-shrouded Yangtze River.

Victoria Cruises (www.victoriacruises.com) and Travcoa (www.travcoa.com) partner to offer an exclusive 12-night Legendary China itinerary, which includes stays in Beijing, Xian and Shanghai, in addition to two other itineraries featuring Yangtze River cruises throughout 2012.

The extensive Legendary China journey includes a luxurious three-night cruise with Executive Deck accommodations aboard the five-star Victoria Jenna, the newest and largest ship in the Victoria Cruises’ fleet. The trip also includes nine nights in five-star deluxe hotels throughout China. Also included are airport transfers, three a la carte meals per day, captivating sightseeing with an experienced English-speaking guide and TRAVCOA travel director plus the TravcoAssist Travel Protection Plan, including emergency medical evacuation insurance coverage for injury or illness, and 24-hour Worldwide Live Travel Assistance through Travel Guard Assistance.

The Executive Deck program on Victoria Cruises’ ships features a variety of services, including enhanced ship placement, access to exclusive VIP areas, complimentary beverages including morning coffee and tea service, exclusive shore excursions for groups of six or more, enhanced dining privileges, exclusive happy hour and complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access in the Executive Lounge and lobby areas, with computers available for passenger use.

The program also now includes a welcome fruit basket, complimentary laundry (up to four items per day), shoe shine service, complimentary diet soda and wine and beer with dinner, nightly turn down service, and reserved seating for evening entertainment (must be pre-reserved with cruise director).

“This itinerary encompasses the greatest wonders of China, all while staying in upscale accommodations,” said Larry Greenman, manager of public relations and customer service for Victoria Cruises. “Unsurpassed luxury, a hassle-free experience and peace of mind are what people expect from Travcoa and Victoria Cruises – and our exclusive ‘Legendary China’ program delivers.”

The deluxe 12-night Legendary China itinerary includes the following escorted sightseeing experiences:

Beijing

An excursion to the extraordinary 2,000-year-old Great Wall of China, one of the most spectacular structures ever built by man.

A visit to Tiananmen Square and nearby Forbidden City, an impressive architectural masterpiece, with special access to the Chong Hua Palace.

Explore the hutongs – narrow streets of “Old China” – by rickshaw.

A visit to the fabled Summer Palace, resort of the Empress Dowager.

A special Peking Duck dinner.

A visit to the home of a local family for a cup of tea.

Xi’an

See the extraordinary life-sized Terry Cotta Army, along with their horses and chariots entombed with the Emperor.

A trip to the Shaanxi Historical Museum to learn about Xi’an’s buried past.

A visit to the Wild Goose Pagoda.

Yangtze River

Explore the streets and museums of Chongqing before boarding the five-star Victoria Jenna cruise ship.

A spectacular view of centuries-old pagodas and temples nestled along the mist-shrouded Yangtze River.

Many onboard activities including a host of nightly entertainment options.

An excursion to the impressive Three Gorges Dam Site in Sandouping, an extraordinary feat of engineering and major highlight of the river cruise.

An incredible sailing experience through the Shennong Stream – one of the Yangtze’s scenic tributaries.

Shanghai

A visit to the classical Yu Yuan Gardens in Shanghai’s Old Town.

Explore the extraordinary collection of ancient Chinese art at the Shanghai Museum.

A spectacular dinner followed by a dazzling Acrobatics Show.

The deluxe Legendary China itinerary is priced from $5,475 per person, based on double occupancy, with departures scheduled throughout 2012. International airfare is not included. To travel with Travcoa, call your travel agent, or a Travcoa Journey Consultant at 1.800.992.2003, email info@travcoa.com or visit www.travcoa.com.

Travcoa

For more than a half-century, Travcoa has ensured that guests travel in the utmost comfort and style to the most exceptional places in the world. A leading luxury tour operator since 1954, Travcoa is renowned for crafting unique journeys that feature meaningful cultural encounters without sacrificing sophistication, style or luxury. Your journey is enriched through the people you meet and the epicurean delights, events and places experienced along the way.

Travcoa offers three styles of luxury travel experiences: discover worldwide destinations in a small-group averaging 12 like-minded guests with an Escorted Journeys; travel privately on a pre-set itinerary for two people, or as many as you wish with an Independent Journey; or have one of our Custom Journey Planners handcraft a Tailor-Made Journey to your exacting specifications. Each style includes private transportation, superior accommodations, expert local guides, privileged access to local treasures and natural wonders, and either the company of one of our renowned Travcoa Travel Directors or on-call assistance from TravcoAssist throughout your journey.

Whichever way you prefer to travel, Travcoa pledges the highest level of personal service with unparalleled attention to detail and value.

To travel with Travcoa, call your travel agent, or a Travcoa Journey Consultant at 1.800.992.2003, email info@travcoa.com or visit www.travcoa.com.

Victoria Cruises

Based in New York, Victoria Cruises established new standards of excellence for sailing China’s Yangtze River when its first ship edged out of port in 1994. Since that time, Victoria Cruises has achieved tremendous success by introducing the majesty of the Yangtze River to travelers worldwide. A true pioneer and innovator, Victoria Cruises delivers an unrivaled and unsurpassed Yangtze River experience. An American-managed company, Victoria Cruises operates the largest fleet of vessels with the coveted five-star rating from the China National Tourism Administration. Victoria Cruises offers a variety of itineraries varying from four to nine days including Grand Yangtze Discovery, Three Gorges Highlights, and Three Gorges Explorer.

Victoria Cruises has earned numerous awards and recognitions over the years and has most recently received the 2011 TravelAge West WAVE Award Editor’s Pick for Best River Cruise Line as well as Best New River Cruise Ship in 2010 with the launch of the luxurious Victoria Jenna.Travel Weekly also recently selected the Victoria Jenna as a Silver Award Winner for the Magellan Awards’ River Cruise Ship category.

For more information and a free color brochure or promotional DVD, contact Victoria Cruises at 57-08 39^th Avenue, Woodside, NY 11377; phone (800) 348-8084, (212) 818-1680; fax (212) 818-9889. Send e-mail to contact@victoriacruises.com or visit www.victoriacruises.com.

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Victoria Cruises Launches New ‘Tribes of the Three Gorges’ Excursion on China’s Yangtze River

Qutang Gorge Victoria Cruises is now offering a new optional Tribes of the Three Gorges excursion on its four-night upstream Yangtze River sailings from Yichang to Chongqing.

Victoria Cruises (http://www.victoriacruises.com) is now offering a new optional Tribes of the Three Gorges excursion on its four-night upstream Yangtze River sailings from Yichang to Chongqing.

Priced separately from Victoria Cruises’ standard excursion package at an additional $42 per person, the tour provides an introspective glimpse into local life in the Xiling Gorge region with opportunities to see Toad Spring, statues of the ancient Ba nationality, scenic Dragon Stream, Monkey Hill (featuring more than 200 wild specimens), Lover Bridge and Huanglong Waterfall. Additionally, passengers opting for the excursion will meet local fisherman and enjoy a boatman performance as well as Crying Wedding performance, a custom of the Tujia nationality.

Victoria Cruises’ standard excursion package is priced from $90 per person, which includes the “Ghost City” of Fengdu and Three Gorges Dam excursions, as well as an incredible sailing experience through the Small Gorges of the Daning River, one of the Yangtze’s tributaries (may be substituted for Shennong Stream tributary sailing at Victoria Cruises’ discretion). The Small Gorges excursion culminates with a tranquil sampan journey through the “Mini Gorges” of the Ma Du River, itself a tributary of the Daning.

Victoria Cruises also offers additional optional excursions, such as White Emperor City, which is priced at $38 per person, in addition to the cost of Victoria Cruises’ standard excursion package.

Overlooking the Western end of Qutang Gorge, White Emperor City has long been a refuge for would-be kings and poets who traveled there to be inspired by the breathtaking views. Legend has it that in 25 A.D., white vapor in the shape of a dragon rose from a well, and Gong Sunshu, a soldier who had been headquartered there, declared himself the “White Emperor.” Remains of the city wall can be seen on the hill behind Baidi Mountain, and a temple built to commemorate Gong’s reign dates back more than 1,950 years.

Travelers can book excursions as well as upgraded meal service and other VIP amenities offered through Victoria Cruises’ Executive Deck program in advance of departure, or they can upgrade onboard based on availability.

Victoria Cruises’ Executive Deck program features “white glove” concierge service, enhanced ship placement, access to exclusive VIP areas, exclusive shore excursions for groups of six or more, à la carte meal services or reserved window seating in the main dining room, exclusive happy hour, complimentary Internet access, exclusive cultural demonstrations and reserved seating for evening entertainment.

The four-night cruise is priced from $880 per person for a private balcony Superior Stateroom. Superior Staterooms on the Executive Deck start at $1,080 per person, while Executive Suites, Deluxe Suites and Shangri-La Suites start from $1,340, $1,820 and $2,300 per person, respectively. Prices are based on double occupancy and may vary based on ship and deck placement.

Based in New York, Victoria Cruises established new standards of excellence for sailing China’s Yangtze River when its first ship edged out of port in 1994. Since that time, Victoria Cruises has achieved tremendous success by introducing the majesty of the Yangtze River to travelers worldwide. A true pioneer and innovator, Victoria Cruises delivers an unrivaled and unsurpassed Yangtze River experience. An American-managed company, Victoria Cruises operates the largest fleet of vessels with the coveted five-star rating from the China National Tourism Administration. Victoria Cruises offers a variety of itineraries varying from four to nine days including Grand Yangtze Discovery, Three Gorges Highlights and Three Gorges Explorer.

Victoria Cruises has earned numerous awards and recognitions over the years and has most recently received the 2011 TravelAge West WAVE Award Editor’s Pick for Best River Cruise Line as well as Best New River Cruise Ship in 2010 with the launch of the luxurious Victoria Jenna. Travel Weekly also recently selected the Victoria Jenna as a Silver Award Winner for the Magellan Awards’ River Cruise Ship category.

China’s magnificent Yangtze River continues to awe and inspire and Victoria Cruises remains the finest guide for the journey.

For more information and a free color brochure or promotional DVD, contact Victoria Cruises at 57-08 39th Avenue, Woodside, NY 11377; phone 800-348-8084, 212-818-1680; fax (212) 818-9889. Send e-mail to contact@victoriacruises.com or visit http://www.victoriacruises.com.

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Pacific Delight Sets ‘Once-a-Year’ China Special Package featuring Beijing, Shanghai, Yangtze River Cruise from $1899 With Air

Pacific Delight (www.PacificDelightTours.com) is launching  its annual promotion offering major savings on one particular date. The Once A Year China Special kicks off with a Jan. 11, 2012 departure from Los Angeles (add $200 for New York’s JFK) covering Beijing (three nights) and Shanghai (two nights) and featuring a four-night Yangtze River sailing with Victoria Cruises. Rates start at $1,899 per person including airfare.

“Don’t let the rate fool you, despite the attractive price tag this special departure features 20 meals including a Beijing Duck dinner with American breakfast and all the deluxe amenities you’d expect from a Pacific Delight program,” said Larry Kwan, president of Pacific Delight Tours. “We’re confident that this is without a doubt the best value to China in the market.”

Pacific Delight’s Jan. 11 Once A Year China Special features four- and five-star hotels as well as five-star accommodations on a luxurious Victoria Cruises vessel, international air transportation from Los Angeles (add $200 for JFK), intra-China flights and transportation, and meals as specified in the itinerary.

The program also includes a plethora of sightseeing including The Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City and Summer Palace in Beijing as well as the classical Yu Gardens and Temple of the Town God in Shanghai. The Bund, Shanghai’s colonial waterfront promenade, is also included along with a visit to the Shanghai Museum.

A relaxing Victoria Cruises sailing through the mist-shrouded Three Gorges of the Yangtze River complements the journey perfectly with excursions such as the scenic Daning River and tranquil Ma Du River tributaries (the Ma Du segment utilizes a traditional sampan) and the impressive “Ghost City” of Fengdu.

Rates start at $1,899 per person, based on double occupancy, with departure from Los Angeles on Jan 12, 2012.

Consult your local travel agent or contact Pacific Delight Tours at 800-221-7179 for more information. Visit Pacific Delight Tours at www.PacificDelightTours.com.

See also:

HANGZHOU: CHINA’S CITY OF ROMANCE
Marco Polo’s ‘City of Heaven’ As Alluring as Ever

HANGZHOU: ANCIENT & MODERN COME TOGETHER IN CHINA’S RESORT CITY

ZHEJIANG PROVINCE PRESENTS
MICROCOSM OF CHINA, OLD & NEW
Region Was Cutting Edge, Even in Marco Polo’s Time

For more travel features, visit:

www.travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

Victoria Cruises Offers up to 50% Off China’s Yangtze Sailings; Hosts 4 Chinese New Year Trips

Highlights of the experience onboard Victoria Cruises include cultural entertainment featuring traditional Chinese costumes

Winter is the perfect time to see China’s mist-shrouded Yangtze River while taking advantage of steep discounts on Victoria Cruises’ (http://www.victoriacruises.com) popular Three Gorges Highlights program with 4- and 5-day sailings departing every Thursday and Sunday, respectively, in January and February 2012.

Discounted rates start at $470 per person, based on double occupancy, for a superior stateroom with private balcony. Executive Suites (pictured right) – which feature upgraded accommodations and ship placement along with VIP amenities such as “white glove” concierge service, access to exclusive ship areas, à la carte meal service, private cultural lectures and reserved seating for evening entertainment – start at $870 per person, based on double occupancy, throughout January and February 2012.

Additionally, Victoria Cruises will be offering four special Chinese New Year celebratory cruises departing January 23, 24, 26 and 27. A $150 per person surcharge will be applied for passengers on these four departures.

Victoria Cruises’ steeply-discounted Three Gorges Highlights winter special sails upstream from Yichang to Chongqing (five days/four nights) as well as downstream from Chongqing to Yichang (four days/three nights) on Victoria Cruises’ lavish five-star vessels.

In addition to spectacular views of centuries-old pagodas nestled along the Yangtze and a scenic passage through the famous Three Gorges, a one-time shore excursion fee of $65 per person (inclusive of all excursions) provides guests with an educational visit to the massive Three Gorges Dam as well as unforgettable sightseeing at the “Ghost City” of Fengdu (pictured right).

Also included in the shore excursion package, an incredible sailing experience through the Small Gorges of the Daning River – one of the Yangtze’s tributaries – culminates with a tranquil sampan journey through the “Mini Gorges” of the Ma Du River, itself a tributary of the Daning.

Guests can also participate in an optional shore excursion to White Emperor City (pictured right), overlooking the western end of Qutang Gorge.

According to legend, in 25 A.D. white vapor rose from a well to form the shape of a dragon, and Gong Sunshu, a soldier who had been headquartered there, declared himself the “White Emperor.” Remains of the city wall can be seen on the hill behind Baidi Mountain, and a temple built to commemorate Gong’s reign dates back more than 1,950 years and has long been a refuge for would-be kings and poets who have traveled there to be inspired by the breathtaking views. The optional White Emperor City shore excursion is available this winter for an additional $38 per guest.

Passengers can also participate in exciting onboard activities such as Tai Chi lessons, demonstrations of acupuncture/acupressure and discussions on the Yangtze’s history. Nightly entertainment options include traditional Chinese dance and musical performances (pictured below).

All prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplements are available. Itineraries are subject to change based on river conditions.

For more information or to book, or for a list of tour operators which include the Yangtze River in their value-priced winter programs, contact Victoria Cruises toll-free at 800-348-8084 or visit www.VictoriaCruises.com.

Victoria Cruises

Based in New York, Victoria Cruises established new standards of excellence for sailing China’s Yangtze River when its first ship edged out of port in 1994. Since that time, Victoria Cruises has achieved tremendous success by introducing the majesty of the Yangtze River to travelers worldwide. A true pioneer and innovator, Victoria Cruises delivers an unrivaled and unsurpassed Yangtze River experience. An American-managed company, Victoria Cruises operates the largest fleet of vessels with the coveted five-star rating from the China National Tourism Administration. Victoria Cruises offers a variety of itineraries varying from four to nine days including Grand Yangtze Discovery, Three Gorges Highlights and Three Gorges Explorer.

Victoria Cruises has earned numerous awards and recognitions over the years and has most recently received the 2011 TravelAge West WAVE Award Editor’s Pick for Best River Cruise Line as well as Best New River Cruise Ship in 2010 with the launch of the luxurious Victoria Jenna. Travel Weekly also recently selected the Victoria Jenna as a Silver Award Winner for the Magellan Awards’ River Cruise Ship category.

China’s magnificent Yangtze River continues to awe and inspire and Victoria Cruises remains the finest guide for the journey.

For more information and a free color brochure or promotional DVD, contact Victoria Cruises at 57-08 39th Avenue, Woodside, NY 11377; phone (800) 348-8084, (212) 818-1680; fax (212) 818-9889. Send e-mail to contact@victoriacruises.com or visit http://www.victoriacruises.com.

See also:

HANGZHOU: CHINA’S CITY OF ROMANCE
Marco Polo’s ‘City of Heaven’ As Alluring as Ever

HANGZHOU: ANCIENT & MODERN COME TOGETHER IN CHINA’S RESORT CITY

ZHEJIANG PROVINCE PRESENTS
MICROCOSM OF CHINA, OLD & NEW
Region Was Cutting Edge, Even in Marco Polo’s Time

For more travel features, visit:

www.travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

Chinatours.com to award free China tour for participants in Facebook, Twitter lottery

A scene in the living history village at East Lake in Zhejiang Province, China © 2011 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

XIAN, CHINA, July 21, 2011 — China Tours, a private tour specialist within China, has embraced social media in an ongoing initiative to encourage travelers to visit China. All followers of @Chinatours.com on Twitter and fans of Chinatours.com on Facebook will have a chance to win a FREE trip to China excluding international airfares.

Follow @chinatourscom on Twitter or join the Chinatours.com Fan Page on Facebook, you can register to win the free tour. All qualifying entrants received from July 20th, 2011 to August 20th, 2011 will be entered into a random drawing to win a luxury 8-day stay in China, $1168 of value, including first-class accommodations, private English-speaking guide, all intra-China transfers, most meals, taxes and service fees, as well as admission fees to comprehensive sightseeing and activities.

Note that duplicate entries are invalid and will be deleted. Chinatours.com will award one person “8 days tour of Beijing-Xian-Shanghai” from all entries joining the draw, via an unbiased third party who conducts the drawing in a manner that is guaranteed to be fair.

To sweeten the customers further, those who don’t win the prize are eligible to get a $59 coupon when booking a travel package valued over $1000 with Chinatours.com in 2011 and 2012.

“It is part of our continued efforts to grab the attention of current and prospective travelers,” said the director manager of Chinatours.com. “This exclusive offer may engage global travelers who are seeking quality tours and better experiences to China. We are offer two opportunities for people to win a tour, one for Facebook users and another for Twitter users.”

Chinatours.com has just revamped its website for better navigation. The new interface features tour-class comparison, revamped routes and multiple payment options, which aim to improve user-friendliness and efficiency. Visitors to Chinatours.com now can see the updates live on the site.

This is chinatours.com’s first marketing campaign on the social networks and it will keep active on Twitter, Facebook and other SNS sites in the future.

Chinatours.com, the online shop of Xian ANZ International Travel Service Co., Ltd, mainly sells private tours in China, providing high quality tours to China at affordable price.

See also:

HANGZHOU: CHINA’S CITY OF ROMANCE
Marco Polo’s ‘City of Heaven’ As Alluring as Ever

HANGZHOU: ANCIENT & MODERN COME TOGETHER IN CHINA’S RESORT CITY

ZHEJIANG PROVINCE PRESENTS
MICROCOSM OF CHINA, OLD & NEW
Region Was Cutting Edge, Even in Marco Polo’s Time

And see other travel features at:

www.travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

 

 

USTOA Tour Company Members Offer Culinary Adventures in Five Asian Countries

USTOA member companies offer culinary adventures to China and other Asian destinations highlighted with cooking classes and feasts © 2011 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Tour companies are serving up a menu of Asian food adventures, from cooking classes to culinary feasts. Travelers can dine at the home of a noted chef in India, learn to cook five traditional dishes in Vietnam, or savor authentic Beijing duck in China.

Here are four representative tours from USTOA companies to suit varying tastes and palates.

India

“A Portrait of India”: 18 days/17 nights: Foodies can enjoy a cooking demonstration and dinner at the home of a noted Indian chef on Tauck’s 18 day, 17 night “A Portrait of India”. Visit New Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Cochin, Kumarakom, and Mumbai. Priced from $7,890 per person, land only, the tour must be booked by December 1, 2011 for travel available until December 21, 2011. According to Tauck, this virtually all-inclusive price reflects a savings of up to 40% over making the same arrangements on your own. For reservations and more information, phone 1-800-468-2825 or visit www.tauck.com.

Southeast Asia

Treasures of Angkor Wat and Vietnam: 16 days/15 nights:Experience a half day Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An, including a visit to the market and preparation of five traditional dishes, with Explorations’ “Treasures of Angkor Wat and Vietnam” from Collette Vacations. This 16 day/15 night tour to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam offers a small group of twenty-eight passengers. Price begins from $2,999 per person, saving travelers up to 25% over independent booking, according to Collette. Book by March 1, 2012 for travel valid until April 12, 2012. International airfare is additional. For reservations and more information, phone 1-877-451-8687 or visit www.explorationstouring.

Laos and Vietnam: Sacred Jewels of Southeast Asia: 16 days/15 nights: On International Expeditions’ “Laos and Vietnam: Sacred Jewels of Southeast Asia.” travelers sample the famous roast chicken at Anh Tuyet’s restaurant in Hanoi, Vietnam, featured on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations.” In Laos, culinary offerings include lunch at Makphet Restaurant in Vientiane. and Italian cuisine at Xe Pian ecolodge. Also offered is an elephant fish lunch in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Activities include sightseeing by cyclo-rickshaw, tuk-tuk, long boat, sampan boat and elephant back. An overnight cruise on Halong Bay in Vietnam aboard a Chinese junk, plus visits to Luang Prabang in Laos and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam are also included, as are excursions to local markets, villages, and sustainability projects, a private baci welcome ceremony, and a sacred tak bat ceremony. Hotel accommodations are for thirteen nights, with three nights in secluded Xe Pian National Protected Area. The tour, which can be booked at any time, is priced from $4,298 per person, land only, and is available until December 1, 2011. For reservations and more information, phone 1-800-633-4734 or visit www.IEtravel.com/explore-laos.

China

China Impressions: 10 days/9 nights: Savor a Beijing duck dinner and local culinary lunches on Pacific Delight Tours’ 10 day, 9 night “China Impressions” tour. Cost starts from $2,199 per person, representing up to a 40% savings over booking independently, according to Pacific Delight Tours. The itinerary visits Beijing, Xi’an, Suzhou, and Shanghai, and includes international airfare from Los Angeles (add $200 for New York), deluxe hotels, meals, sightseeing, and transfers. This tour is available through March 2012. For reservations and more information, phone 1-800-221-7179 or visit www.pacificdelighttours.com.

“Today’s traveler to Asia wants a total experience, including tasting local cuisine and learning about a culture through its food,” says Terry Dale, president of the U.S. Tour Operators Association. “These tours, by introducing travelers to local cuisine, provide an immersion and greater understanding into Asian cultures.”

 

All tour prices are based on double occupancy. Restrictions and additional security fees, departure and local taxes and fees may apply. Prices may vary based on departure date.

For more information on Asia vacations with culinary interest visit: www.USTOA.com, or www.USTOA.travel.

USTOA member companies have met the travel industry’s highest standards, including participation in the association’s Travelers Assistance Program, which among other things protects consumer payments up to $1 million in case the company goes out of business. USTOA is the premier association of companies providing vacation packages, tours, and custom travel itineraries for more than 11 million people yearly.

For more travel features, visit

www.travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin