As soon as March hit, the population immediately started lamenting the end of summer. Cries of "Autumn is here!" were heard ringing through the streets as people prepared to hunker down for the changing of the season. Though it was all a bit premature (autumn doesn't officially start until 21 March after all), it's not an exaggeration to say that it's all just around the corner.
Soon it will be autumn and then winter, and with winter comes Christmas. So, it may just be time to start thinking about your holiday plans. Luckily APT is one step ahead, offering the chance to leave the 2016 holiday hustle and bustle behind for the quiet serenity of a river cruise through the magical wintery landscapes of Europe.
Depart on the Magnificent Europe: White Christmas & New Years Eve 16 Night River Cruise and you could find yourself amidst the white Christmas of storybooks and silver screens. Here's what you can expect along with three reasons why you should book your spot.
Reason #1: The Scenery
Setting sail from Budapest, there is hardly a better setting for the magic of Christmas. Think twinkling lights adorning beautifully ornate historic buildings, crisp winter air, perhaps a dusting of snow and sipping a warming cup of mulled wine as you browse brightly lit Christmas markets. And that's only the beginning!
16 nights follow, gracefully floating the picturesque waters of the Danube. Vienna, Linz, Salzberg, Nuremberg, Bamberg and Bonn are just a selection of the cities to be seen, each one more charming than the last. With exciting onshore excursions and APT Exclusive experiences, your holiday season will be spent making once-in-a-lifetime memories. From private opera recitals at the Hungarian State Opera House to cocktail receptions in Vienna's City Palace, it will be a Christmas to remember.
Reason #2: The Luxury
While a swathe of magical settings drift past outside, your experience onboard will be just as memorable. This all inclusive journey will embark on a luxurious Concerto river ship, the grandest ships on Europe's rivers. The ship features some of the largest suites available, including the Twin Balcony Suites featuring a glass conservatory. But the delight is in the details with exclusive facilities designed and included to ensure your time onboard surpasses expectations. This includes a Fireside Library, heated swimming pool (some with swim-up bars) and up to seven distinct dining experiences.
Reason #3: The Service
Throw those typical holiday hassles out the window. Gone are the crowded shops, boxes of tangled fairy lights and obligations as you spend your days indulging in fine food, incredible scenery and exciting adventures through Europe. APT cruises are intimate and luxurious with a high staff-to-passenger ratio, ensuring your every need will be attended to with incredible standards of service.
This holiday season escape culminates in a New Year's Eve celebration in none other than Amsterdam. Spend two days exploring the Dutch capital, taking in incredible sunsets on the canals, the Anne Frank Museum and touring the idyllic landscapes of the Leeghwater region. Cap things off in style with a special dinner followed by a twilight cruise and party with live entertainment – a perfect end to a journey dedicated to the beauty and luxury of the holiday season.
