W I N T E R 2 0 1 5 / 2 0 1 6
RiverViews T H E U N I WO R L D R I V E R H E R I TAG E C L U B
E-MAGAZINE
MILAN EXECUTIVE Q&A: The Power of Three Luxury Brands
ROYALTY AND EXQUISITE CUISINE: New Themed Cruises
WELLNESS ON THE WATER
RiverViews U N I W O R L D ' S R I V E R H E R I TAG E C L U B
IN THIS ISSUE WINTER 2015 02 L ETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
11 EMPLOYEE TRAVEL JOURNAL
03 N EW THEMED CRUISES
13 W ELLNESS ON THE WATER
05 2016 CHINA ITINERARIES
15 IMMERSIVE INSIGHTS
07 E XECUTIVE Q&A
17 AWARDS OF DISTINCTION
09 D ESTINATION SPOTLIGHT
18 PAST GUEST PROGRAM
Guy Young
Royalty and Exquisite Cuisine
Treasures from an Ancient Land
The Power of Three Luxury Brands
An Insider's Guide to Milan
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Patricia Prado
A Multidimensional Approach
Videos and Virtual Reality
A Tradition of Excellence
Uniworld’s River Heritage Club
E-MAGAZINE
L E TTE R F R O M TH E P R E S I D E NT
Dear Valued Past Guest Welcome to our Winter edition of RiverViews.
January is a hectic time of year for everyone, especially
I have traveled with my family many times before, and it
all of us here at Uniworld. In addition to recovering from
is always a wonderful experience. I hope you’ll be able to
the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, we’re also
join us on the July 20th departure of “Castles along the
busy preparing for the 2016 cruise season.
Rhine.” This departure is part of our Generations family-
This year, we’re introducing our exciting themed cruises, which you can read about on page 3. These cruises are
friendly program, so kids, parents and grandparents alike will enjoy an unforgettable adventure.
sure to be a delight for travelers interested in European royalty and French cuisine. We are also introducing our enhanced Italy itineraries, which now feature two nights in Milan. Turn to page 9 to read more. If you’re already thinking ahead and wondering where to travel this year on vacation, Italy should be at the top of your list.. GET TO KNOW OUR FAMILY The holiday season always brings families together and reminds us of the bonds we share. So, in that spirit, we'd like to introduce you to a few members of Uniworld’s extended family. Page 7 features a Q&A with myself and executives from two of Uniworld’s sister companies: John Boulding, CEO of Insight Vacations, and Jonathan
INNOVATIVE WELLNESS PROGRAM Exercise routines and fitness programs were likely not on anyone’s mind last month, as we found ourselves surrounded by an overabundance of delicious holiday treats. This month, though, is a very different story. If you
Raggett, Managing Director of Red Carnation Hotel Collection. Plus, page 11 features a spotlight on our awardwinning Generations family river cruises with Patricia
happen to find yourself onboard a Uniworld ship this year and you’re still working off those holiday calories, be sure to visit our fitness centre. Uniworld offers an innovative
Prado, Uniworld Manager of Product Development &
wellness program, complete with complimentary exercise
Operations.
classes, TRX® Suspension Training, onboard yoga and
2016 PRESIDENT’S CRUISE
much more. You can learn about our wellness offerings
On the topic of family, I am absolutely looking forward to
on page 13.
making great memories together with my own family later this year during Uniworld’s annual President’s Cruise.
Thank you again for your patronage and loyalty. As always, I wish you safe and happy travels.
Guy Young PRESIDENT Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
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TH E M E D CR UI S E S
Royalty & Exquisite Cuisine NEW THEMED CRUISES Uniworld’s themed cruises in Europe take you inside the worlds of European aristocracy and French cuisine with exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. If you’ve ever imagined yourself living a life of royalty, or wanted to indulge your inner gourmand in France, The Monarch Collection and Connoisseur Collection themed cruises allow you to do just that.
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THE MONARCH COLLECTION Available on select summer departures of our "European Jewels"
scenes at Vienna’s Spanish Riding School to discover the
and "Enchanting Danube" cruises, the Monarch Collection themed
450-year-old equestrian tradition of the true horse of royalty, the
cruises feature excursions and activities that highlight Europe’s
Lipizzaner stallion. The school is the oldest of its kind in the world,
rich aristocratic history. Visit Artstetten Castle, for example, the
originally established to strengthen the bodies and minds of
former summer home of Austria’s famed Habsburg dynasty. You’ll
horses used in battle. Today, the school continues to train horses
be hosted by Princess Anita von Hohenberg—the great-
in classical dressage—a method of training which emphasizes
granddaughter of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and a direct
riding with the horse rather than against it.
descendent of Empress Maria Theresa. You will also go behind the Arstetten Castle dates back to the 1200s. The castle had many owners over the centuries before it passed to the House of Habsburg in 1823.
In 2008, two women passed the entrance exam and trial period at the Spanish Riding School. They were the first women to be accepted to train as riders at the school in 436 years!
CONNOISSEUR COLLECTION Our itineraries in France each offer unique culinary excursions as
French cuisine is Paul Bocuse, whose institute in Lyon—France’s
part of the Connoisseur Collection, available on select summer
culinary capital—you’ll visit during "Burgundy & Provence". If
departures. You’ll discover why UNESCO declared French cuisine a
you’re a lover of French wine, our "Bordeaux, Vineyards &
“world intangible heritage” as you visit the famous La Couronne
Châteaux" is an ideal journey. The Bordeaux region of France is an
restaurant during "Paris & Normandy". This restaurant is where
oenophile’s paradise, and with our Connoisseur Collection, you’ll
Julia Child had her first French meal, which was the meal that
sample some of the region’s world-class wines. Enjoy a food and
changed her life—and made her America’s preeminent
wine pairing lunch at Château de Cazeneuve and celebrate sunset
ambassador of French cuisine. A contemporary ambassador of
on Patiras Island with cocktails and a magnificent view of Pauillac. uniworld.com / 4
2 01 6 CH I NA I TI NE R AR I E S
TREASURES OF AN ANCIENT LAND What’s your idea of the quintessential souvenir? For many guests traveling on Uniworld’s cruise/tours in China, the ideal souvenir is unique in some way, inspires fond memories and isn’t readily available back home. We’ve also noticed that the mementos people cherish most tend to be handcrafted items, particularly ones they’ve chance to observe during the creative process. Below are eight of our favorites.
TEA
PORCELAIN
CALLIGRAPHY
JADE
Drinking tea has a long history in China and it comes in a staggering number of varieties. Guests on our "Grand China & the Yangtze" itinerary have an opportunity to visit a 400-year-old tea plantation, where workers still harvest and sort leaves the old-fashioned way—entirely by hand.
Porcelain was one of China’s earliest handicrafts introduced to the West via the fabled Silk Road. Today it can be found almost everywhere, from colorful local street markets to high-end art galleries and antique shops.
Calligraphy is a highly respected Chinese art form that makes great souvenirs— you can even get your own name printed in Chinese characters. At the Shanghai Museum—visited on all four of our China itineraries, including the 12-day "Treasures of China & the Yangtze"—you can see a fine collection of calligraphy (the museum’s gift shop is excellent, too).
Jade has symbolized beauty, power and immortality in Chinese culture for 4,000 years, and you’ll find ample opportunities to purchase jewelry and other mementos made of jade on all four Uniworld journeys in the Middle Kingdom, including the 11-day "Highlights of China & the Yangtze".
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TIPS FOR BUYING CHINESE SOUVENIRS • Always ask for a receipt when making a major purchase, as Chinese customs agents sometimes ask to see documentation. • Big ticket items—such as antiques and jewelry—should be purchased with caution. Make sure that any antique you buy has a wax seal proving its authenticity and year of manufacture. Antiques dating from before 1795 cannot be legally exported. • Certain cultural items, such as jade carvings and rare relics, are not allowed to be exported from China. Before purchasing, confirm that it will pass Chinese customs.
SILK
PAINTINGS
CLOISONNÉ
SPIRITUAL GOODS
China is the birthplace of silk and silk products from Suzhou are especially renowned. Guests on Uniworld’s 18-day "Grand China & the Yangtze" can learn more about silk and its fascinating history at the Embroidery Research Institute in Suzhou, and guests on our 11-day "Highlights of China & the Yangtze" may visit a silk carpet workshop.
Every Uniworld itinerary in China features a cruise through the mystical Three Gorges section of the Yangtze River, a place of mistshrouded mountain peaks and otherworldly rock formations. A watercolor painting not only captures ethereal Yangtze landscapes in a beautiful and time-honored manner, it’s also lightweight and easy to pack. Modern art more your style? Don’t miss the bustling 798 Art District in Beijing.
Cloisonné refers to intricate designs made with colored enamel placed inside delicate wire enclosures. Developed during the 15th century, the technique is now used to decorate vases, bowls, jewelry, ornaments and much more. Look for it in places such as Liulichang Street in Beijing, a narrow lane lined with antique and artisan shops.
Guests on Uniworld’s 14-day "China, Tibet & the Yangtze" cruise/tour have a rare opportunity to purchase some truly one-of-a-kind souvenirs in the remote region of Tibet, including spiritual goods such as prayer flags and wheels, incense and beads of every color, size and price.
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E X E CUTI V E Q & A
THE POWER OF THREE L U X U R Y
B R A N D S
John Boulding (CEO, Insight Vacations), Jonathan Raggett (Managing Director, Red Carnation Hotel Collection), and Guy Young (President, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection) oversee three of the most high-end luxury brands in The Travel Corporation family of companies. Step inside their world and learn about the power behind these luxury brands with a brief Q&A session.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION/ ITINERARY YOUR COMPANY OFFERS? John Boulding: Spain and Portugal are my all-time European favorites! The full diversity of such an amazing destination as Iberia is reflected in its character and its people. The proud independence and color of Barcelona, the majesty of the Sierras and great Moorish fortresses, the passion and culture of Andalucía, the charm and history of the Alentejo and the monumental legacy of Lisbon work together to make it a truly special region. Jonathan Raggett: South Africa, where we have three exceptional properties—the 12 Apostles in Cape Town; the iconic Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga Rocks, Durban; and Bushmans Kloof in the Cederberg Mountains, a stunning wilderness reserve and wellness retreat. 7
Guy Young: I love France and have had the good fortune of cruising all three of Uniworld’s France itineraries. Recently, my wife and I cruised the “Bordeaux, Vineyards & Châteaux” itinerary. One of the highlights was a bicycle ride through the Médoc wine region, stopping off at various châteaux for wine tasting. Combining exercise with amazing vineyards, châteaux and great wines is a formula that is truly hard to beat!
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE IN YOUR CURRENT POSITION? John Boulding: The preparation, planning and launch for 2016 of our new Luxury Gold by Insight Vacations. I was proud and pleased to work closely with our Chairman, Stanley Tollman, and Group CEO, Brett Tollman, to deliver their family’s vision of creating the finest
escorted journeys available. We learned from their heritage of 100 years in hospitality. We also shared the knowledge, expertise and planning resources of both Uniworld and Red Carnation Hotels. They too are world-leading luxury brands and were able to contribute greatly. Jonathan Raggett: There have been many memorable experiences in my fifteen years as Managing Director, but in recent times, the most memorable has to be the acquisition of Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland. We undertook a three year program of restoration and it’s been a delight to witness the transformation. The 68 guest rooms and 14 staterooms now
include the finest and latest modern amenities while retaining the original features of the castle. I am delighted that the Tollman family’s vision and commitment to this project has been recognized and we are very proud the hotel won Best Hotel in Virtuoso’s Best of the Best Awards, together with Opening of the Year at the recent European Hospitality Awards. Guy Young: Uniworld has seen so much growth over the last five years. It's been very exciting and a great privilege for me. What stands out most was the launch of our first 135 meter ship—the S.S. Antoinette—in 2011. The ship is stunning and includes many innovations, such as an infinity swimming pool, conservatory balconies and al fresco dining area. The S.S. Antoinette set the standard for all of our new builds, and she remains the most beautiful and luxurious ship on the Rhine River.
Jonathan Raggett: We recognize that if we want our staff to provide our guests with exceptional service, they have to be empowered and cherished. Looking after our staff is one of our cornerstones and we believe in giving all members of the team the opportunity to achieve their career ambitions. We are currently ranked at Number 2 on The Sunday Times Top 100 Companies to Work For. Our guests recognize and appreciate that it is our staff who make the difference to their experience, with much of the feedback that I receive on a daily basis including comments such as “the number one appeal of this property is your people” and “how refreshing it was to see so many
young energetic and positively gracious staff … they know their stuff, and have hospitality skills that far exceed those of the traditionalists at the Dorchester, the Capital and especially the Savoy.” Guy Young: To be successful in a highly competitive market, we have focused on having a differentiated product and delivering great service. Every ship is unique and designed to be as inspiring as the destinations visited.. As a company, we spend very little on consumer advertising. Rather, we invest heavily in our ships and, even more importantly, on our guest experience. While we have been honored with many accolades—notably, a recent award for “Best River Cruise Line” by Cruise Critic—what is most rewarding to me is the consistently great reviews we get from our guests. Nothing stands out more than the praise we receive for our onboard and onshore staff. Service is at the heart of our
company and will continue to be the focus and underlying differentiator for Uniworld.
HOW DOES BEING PART OF THE TRAVEL CORPORATION BENEFIT YOUR COMPANY? John Boulding: I believe our common goal of delivering the very best luxury experiences along with truly outstanding value is the common thread that binds us together, and it is wonderful to be able to offer Insight Past Guests benefits to Uniworld and Red Carnation Hotel guests, and vice-versa. We also share some products. Uniworld and Insight have cooperated on several itineraries —“La Serenissima,” for example, is a luxury cruise and tour program in Italy. Red Carnation’s award-winning Milestone Hotel is a fabulous four night stay on our “Luxurious London & Paris” vacation. Jonathan Raggett: We recognize that if we want our staff to provide our guests with exceptional service, they have to be empowered and cherished. Looking after our staff is one of our cornerstones and we believe in giving all members of the team the opportunity to achieve their career ambitions. We are currently ranked at Number 2 on The Sunday Times Top 100 Companies to Work For. Through the feedback I receive from our guests, it is clear they recognize and appreciate that it is our staff who make the difference to their experience. Guy Young: The Tollman family has a rich legacy in the hospitality business and a passion for delivering exceptional service. Uniworld has been very fortunate to draw upon the incredible knowledge that the family has in owning and operating world-class hotels under the Red Carnation brand. Mrs. Beatrice Tollman has brought her knowledge and passion for design, food and service to Uniworld, which gives us a huge advantage in river cruising.
HOW IS YOUR COMPANY UNIQUE COMPARED TO YOUR COMPETITORS? John Boulding: Luxury Gold is the ultimate in guided vacations. This exceptional collection will define guided vacations, both for today and for tomorrow, bringing our guests exclusive VIP experiences, epicurean dining, an outstanding collection of luxury hotels and a special concierge service unlike anything else available in escorted journeys.
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D E STI NATI O N S P OTL I G H T
MILAN AN INSIDER'S GUIDE TO
A city often overlooked, Milan is Italy’s fashion capital and home to two cultural must-sees, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Guests on Uniworld’s 10-day "Gems of Northern Italy" and 15-day "Splendors of Italy" itineraries will spend two nights in this cosmopolitan metropolis. In celebration of these newly expanded and enhanced cruise/tours, we’ve put together a brief list of travel facts and tips that will come in handy in Milan. Prego!
WHAT TO W E A R Italians are famous for their sophistication and style, and their art, design and fashion, and that’s particularly true of Milan. Gucci, Prada, Armani, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana all have their headquarters here, and during the twice-a-year Milan Fashion Week, fashion industry experts and A-list celebrities flock to the city to see the latest trends. The easiest way to dress like an Italian is to shop like one, and that’s certainly easy to do in Milan. The city has one main shopping area—the Quadrilatero d’Oro (Golden Rectangle)—and 9
you’ll also want to visit Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a huge glass-roofed arcade lined with pricey shops, bars and restaurants. Look carefully at the floor mosaics, which feature symbols of various Italian cities. Not sure what to pack? Just keep in mind Italians tend to be less casual than Americans, opting for well-tailored clothing and high quality shoes. Even at leisure, you won’t find Italians in shorts or sneakers; think trousers and a crisp shirt for men, a skirt or dress for women, a light sweater draped over the shoulders and tied just so. Effortless Italian style.
WHAT TO EAT
W H AT TO S E E
Unlike other cities in Italy, Milanese cuisine is based on rice, not pasta, and some of the city’s best-known dishes include risotto alla Milanese (saffron rice) and ossobuco (veal shank). Steer clear of the tourist traps with multi-lingual menus and seek out authentic places where the locals eat.
The world’s largest Gothic cathedral, Milan’s Duomo took 600 years to build (and it’s still not complete), and has a pink-hued white marble facade adorned with 135 spires and 3,400 statues. Crowning it all is a gilded statue of the Madonnina (Little Madonna), the city’s beloved protector. The interior is equally grand, with the largest stained-glass windows in Christendom and saintly relics in a rock-crystal casket.
A Few Pointers: Italians generally don’t eat much in the morning. To do as the locals do, stop at a coffee bar and stand at the counter to order and enjoy a caffè and pastry. Bonus: Standing at the bar usually costs less than sitting at a table. The Milanese don’t linger over their coffee; they have places to go and people to see. Is it any coincidence they also have the highest per capita income in Italy? Clearly, time is money—better make that an espresso! Never order a cappuccino after a meal unless you want to look like a tourist. Most Italians avoid coffee drinks made with milk after 11 a.m. or so. Pizza in Italy is thin enough to be eaten by a single person, never shared, and picking up a slice with your hands is considered rather rude; Italians prefer to use a knife and fork. An aperitivo is the Italian version of our Happy Hour (which the Milanese claim to have invented). From about 7 to 9 p.m., many bars, lounges and street cafès offer apertivi, a buffet of free appetizers and sandwiches with the purchase of a drink.
On Uniworld’s guided tour of the Duomo, guests can look for a curious red light bulb above the altar marking the spot where a nail from Christ’s crucifixion is believed to reside. Head up to the terrazza for spectacular views of Milan as well as the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. Milan’s most famous work of art is Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, tucked away inside the refectory of the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie. Da Vinci ingeniously placed his Judas amongst his fellow disciples, not separated from the group, forcing the viewer to scrutinize each face to find the traitor. Legend has it that Da Vinci searched for years amongst the criminals of Milan for the inspiration for Judas’s face. The mural began to deteriorate almost immediately upon completion, and now is so fragile that your time with the painting will be brief; but as many Uniworld guests can attest, seeing The Last Supper is a “bucket list moment” for any patron of the arts.
HOW TO INTERPRET ITALIAN GESTURES In Milan and elsewhere in Italy, body language says more than words. Gestures are to Italian conversation what mozzarella is to pizza—indispensable. Some of our favorites: Ti prego (I beg you): Used to plead for something that might be hard to get, or to ask favors of friends. Simply clasp your hands chest high and assume an imploring expression. Il conto, per favore! (The bill, please!): Catch your waiter’s eye and pretend to write something on an invisible piece of paper. Eccellente! (Excellent!): Bring your fingers together, raise them to your mouth and kiss them. Commonly used after a good meal or when you see something particularly appealing. Che cavolo…? (What the heck…?): One of the most common Italian gestures, used to indicate “What the heck is going on?” or “What do you want?!” Bring all five of your fingertips to a point, face your palm towards you, and shake your hand up and down.
According to an old Italian proverb, “Rome is a voluptuous woman whose gifts are very apparent, while Milan is the shy, demure girl whose treasures are plentiful, but discovered in time.” Milan is built on a circular plan with no parallel streets, which makes it notoriously tricky to navigate
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E M P LOY E E TR AV E L J O UR NAL
EMPLOYEE TRAVEL JOURNAL / PATRICIA PRADO Patricia Prado is the Manager of Uniworld’s Product Development Department. An employee for 14 years, Patricia and her department work closely with Uniworld’s European office—as well as vendors in Asia and Egypt—to develop Uniworld’s collection of itineraries. Last year, Patricia traveled with her husband and two sons on a Generations family-friendly departure of “Castles along the Rhine.”
Planning The Trip
our staterooms, the excitement built. During a short tour we were
Each year, my husband Sam and I talk about our plans for the
given, it didn’t take long for each of them to decide which
summer. Most years we choose an amusement park vacation, as
stateroom they wanted. As the door closed, the first thing they
we are sure our boys (Sammy, 13 and David, 10) will enjoy it. But
did was throw themselves on the bed, as if creating a snow angel,
last year we thought it was time to do something new,
and say, “This is so soft.” At that moment, we knew the trip was a
adventurous and educational, as the boys are at a good age to
great idea.
appreciate and understand other cultures and their history.
Onshore Excursions
Though I have been with the company many years, this was our
The excursions we took were enjoyed by both our teenager and
first international family trip together with Uniworld. We had
our 10 year old. While in Koblenz, we took the aerial tram to
several Generations family-friendly itineraries to choose from, but
Fortress Ehrenbreitstein. As we were taken up, we had a unique
we decided on “Castles along the Rhine,” sailing from Amsterdam
view of where the Moselle and Rhine rivers meet, which is also
to Basel.
known as Deutsches Eck (“German corner”). Later that afternoon,
First Impressions Sam and I had already been on several Uniworld ships, so we
we were taken to Marksburg Castle—this was one of their favorite excursions. As we were guided through the castle, we saw several cannons, the dining room, bedrooms and even a torture room.
knew exactly what to expect, but the boys had not. As we walked towards the ship, slight smiles formed on their faces. They didn’t
Speyer’s Technik Museum was also a highlight—the museum has a
say a word; they just followed us onto the ship. As they entered
huge collection of fire engines, locomotives, vintage cars and an
the lobby, they said, “Wow! This is cool!” As we were guided to
airplane that the boys could walk up and then slide down. One of
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Click here to view Uniworld's 2016 Generations Family River Cruises brochure
the coolest things they saw was a family of storks in their nest
was plentiful and the kids had their own menu: soup, salad, main
during the Alsatian village tour.
dish with several entrées to choose from, dessert and their very
Onboard Experience The onboard experience was not only great for my husband and me, but also for the kids. Several activities were organized
own “drink of the day.” Throughout the week, they enjoyed schnitzels, hamburgers, fries, chicken nuggets and pizza. They were also able to order off the standard menu if they wanted.
especially for them; they had a baking demonstration and tasting
During dinner, a table was set up so all the kids, if they chose,
with the ship’s pastry chef, and the captain gave them a tour of
could dine on their own with the other kids. This was great for
the wheelhouse and even let them blow the horn, which was quite
them and the adults, as the parents were able to enjoy some
exciting for them. Our boys also took advantage of the bicycles
alone time. The staff was great and made sure the kids had
that were onboard, going onshore to take rides along the river.
everything they needed.
During the week, the kids—along with the Family Host—prepared an end-of-cruise talent show which they presented to the guests.
In the end, Sammy and David loved the trip as much as my husband and me; they were entertained, they experienced new
Cuisine
things, they enjoyed the service onboard and they were treated
I’m sure many parents can relate to me when I say that my kids
like royalty. Best of all, they want to go back! Happy kids mean
are picky eaters. I will admit that I was a little concerned about
happy parents, so our next family summer vacation will definitely
the meals, especially lunch and dinner. Well, that concern was
be another Uniworld cruise in Europe. But next time, we are
short lived. The first dinner was a hit and each breakfast, lunch
hoping to do a 15 day cruise, “Grand European Discovery.”
and dinner after that was met with zero complaints. The selection uniworld.com / 12
S E R E NI TY R I V E R S PA
S E R E N I T Y RI VE R S PA™ River cruising and wellness naturally go together—the peaceful and melodious river provides the perfect backdrop for rejuvenating your mind, body and soul. Whether you choose to work out in the well-equipped Fitness Center or be pampered with one of the many spa treatments offered at our Serenity River Spa™, Uniworld offers an onboard wellness program that emphasizes a balanced approach to your overall well-being. From our Traveling Lite menu with a variety of delicious options, including meals prepared using the freshest produce sourced from local farmer's
Wellness on the water.
markets, to our 24-hour well-equipped Fitness Center, your wellness is in good hands with Uniworld. On select ships, you can swim against the current in heated hydro pools, which even feature underwater music. Plus, daily fitness activities are always offered in coordination with shore excursions, including “Go Active” and “Gentle Walking” options. Led by a certified wellness instructor, these activities include:
• Daily stretching • • Group yoga classes • • Private yoga classes • • Five Tibetans • • Meditation • • Zumba and line dance • • Complimentary bicycles • • Guided biking and hiking with a local Naturalist • • Nordic walking • • Personal trainer hours • • Water aerobics • (S.S. Antoinette, S.S. Catherine, S.S. Maria Theresa)
If you’re more interested in unwinding during your cruise, our Serenity River Spa™ features an enticing selection of therapies and experiences focused on delivering visible results. Delight your mind and body with a spa experience that’s sure to awaken your senses, reduce your stress, soothe your muscles, boost your circulation and indulge you in pure relaxation. Our professionally trained therapists, with an innate sense of touch, will help you escape, renew and relax. We offer a wide array of spa treatments and services, including those listed in the sample spa menu on the next page.
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S E R E NI TY R I V E R S PA™
S E R E N I TY RI VE R S PA™ T R E AT M E N TS
&
SERVICES
SAMPLE MENU
THAI CHAIR MASSAGE 20 minutes Treatment includes: Upper body massage, with focus on pressure points to relieve tension
CLASSIC BACK, NECK AND SHOULDER MASSAGE 45 minutes TREATMENT INCLUDES:
Foot soak and scalp massage Tea ceremony Back, neck, shoulder and lower back massage
HOT STONE BODY TREATMENT 90 minutes TREATMENT INCLUDES:
Foot soak and scrub and scalp massage Tea ceremony Full body massage using pure, natural virgin olive oil and hot Basalt stones
RESTORATION AND REJUVENATION TREATMENT 90 minutes TREATMENT INCLUDES:
Foot soak and scrub and scalp massage Tea ceremony Body massage Foot massage
Uniworld uses RITUALS massage oils made from the highest premium natural and organic ingredients to nourish your body and stimulate your senses. These luxurious and soothing products create the ultimate pampering experience for your entire body.
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I NTE R ACTI V E
immersive insights
Uniworld’s recently updated video library features behind-the-scenes looks at our operations. These immersive SHIPS Creating vessels as majestic and inspiring as the destinations they visit is a long process that begins with a vision. Learn more about our one-a-kind luxurious ships.
insights allow you
With the highest staff-to-guest ratio
to discover what
of all river cruise lines, our staff is able
makes Uniworld
every guest has the absolute best
the most unique river cruise line in the world.
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SERVICE
to go above and beyond to ensure
travel experience possible. Meet some of our wonderfully dedicated team members as they share their views on guest hospitality.
CULINARY
“WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES”
VIRTUAL REALITY app
Farm-to-table freshness is
Beyond the iconic sites and world-
Uniworld just launched our very
the cornerstone of Uniworld’s
famous landmarks, a destination does
first Virtual Reality app, available for
culinary experience. Hear
not truly come alive until you meet the
download now. With the app, you can
from our talented team of
people that call it home. To travel deeper
take an immersive 360-degree tour of
chefs as they share their
into a destination, you must intermingle
the S.S. Maria Theresa, our newest Super
vision and philosophy about
with locals, tasting their way of life and
Ship. The ship’s beauty is on full and
Uniworld's award-winning
forging deeper connections with them.
vivid display—you’ll feel as though you
culinary program.
Learn how our destination experts bring
just stepped onboard and were greeted
the culture to life for Uniworld guests.
by your own personal in-suite butler.
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E XCE L L E NCE
A Tradition of Excellence AWA R D S O F D I S T I N C T I O N
Uniworld is proud to be consistently awarded top honors by respected organizations and publications within the travel industry. This year alone, Travel + Leisure recently rated Uniworld the “World’s Best River Cruising for Families” for the fourth year in a row, the readers of Condé Nast Traveler ranked our ships among the “Top River Ships,” and SAVEUR Magazine readers ranked our cuisine among the “Finest Cruise Line Dining” in the Good Taste Awards. Further, we received three prestigious awards from the Editors of Cruise Critic last year, which was the first year the Editors introduced river cruise line-specific award categories. We were also rated the top cruise line among both ocean and river cruises by the Cruise Critic community, based on guest reviews.
2015
2015
Editors’
Editors’
BEST RIVER CRUISE LINE
BEST RIVER LINE SHORE EXCURSIONS
BEST NEW RIVER SHIP S.S. MARIA THERESA
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17
2015
Editors’
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RIVER H E R I TAG E CLUB
Uniworld’s River Heritage Club PA S T G U E S T P R O G R A M
When you travel with Uniworld just once, you’ll
UNIWORLD’S RIVER HERITAGE CLUB REWARDS INCLUDE:
automatically become a respected and highly
• $150 savings per person on 7- to 12-night cruises
regarded Member of Uniworld’s River Heritage Club.
• $250 savings per person on 13-night or longer cruises
As a valued Member, you’ll be treated to extra savings and benefits. In addition, if you should wish to stay at
• Exclusive River Heritage Club Cocktail Party hosted onboard by the Captain*
one of Red Carnation’s superb hotels or embark on an
• One category stateroom upgrade, if space is available*
Insight Luxury Gold escorted journey—you can be
• Complimentary fruit platter in your stateroom upon arrival
treated to their Past Guest Member savings as well.
• Complimentary onboard laundry service (once per week)*
*Visit uniworld.com/river-heritage-club for more information.
CST #2075415-20
uniworld.com / 18
