Scenic Canada: First Time Wonders

FIRST TIME WONDERS YOUR GUIDE TO RIVER CRUISING

2016 scenic.ca

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INTRODUCTION

DIFFERENCE

Scenic honours the beauty of time. We’re not here to rush you from one place to the next. We want you to take the scenic route. To meander slowly and appreciate what’s around you – the sights, sounds and scents that are yours to enjoy when you truly take your time.

If you’re new to river cruising, this guide has been tailored to answer all your questions and help you choose the cruise that’s right for you. We’ll show you why luxury all-inclusive river cruising is a great way to see the world, let you know what to expect on board one of our custom-built ships, provide a glimpse into the locations we travel to, and more.

- Travel becomes an art form on a Scenic river cruise. With luxury state-of-the-art ships, handcrafted itineraries and an ever expanding list of destinations, it’s no wonder more and more travellers are choosing river cruising. Astounding locations and extraordinary attention to detail, all delivered by the leading luxury travel company. What are you waiting for?

CONTENTS River or ocean All-inclusive river cruising

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Why river cruising

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Who should river cruise

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Why Scenic

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What to expect on board

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What to expect onshore

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Where and when to travel

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Explore Europe

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Discover South East Asia

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Top 10 reasons to love Scenic River Cruising

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RIVER OR OCEAN River and ocean cruising both provide fantastic opportunities for guests to experience the best travel has to offer. However for those guests looking for a more personalised experience, nothing compares to river cruising.

River cruising is a much more intimate way to see the world, with smaller guest numbers on board at any one time, higher staff to guest ratios and larger cabins, everything is hand-crafted to make your experience unique and personal.

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A Scenic river cruise is truly an all-inclusive experience. All your drinks and shore excursions are included and early reward deals often mean that your flights are included too. Once you board your flight you’ve nothing else to spend.

River cruises offer you the maximum time to explore your chosen destination. You dock right in the heart of a city which means no long transfers or waiting times to reach the sights. You can literally stroll off the ship and you’re there.

“I don’t consider myself sentimental, but I dare you to watch a sunset from the Moselle River; with its beautiful vinelands and castles, and not be swept away by thoughts of love and romance”

Mavis, 59 Moselle River, Germany N 49°49’, W 06°53’

Again because of the size of your Scenic Ship you won’t have long embarkation and disembarkation times. From arriving at the ship you can be in your cabin within minutes. There’s no standing in long queues waiting to get on and off the ship.

Thanks to the gentle nature of the rivers we traverse, along with the engineering excellence of our ships, sea sickness is not something you need to be worried about on a river cruise.

With a river cruise the scenery is constantly changing as you slowly glide down the river. From villages to castles, beautiful landscapes to temples, there is always something new just around the next river bend.

A Dock right in the heart of the city B Scenic Spirit library (artist impression)

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ALL-INCLUSIVE RIVER CRUISING

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BUTLER We know it’s the personal touches that make your cruise special, and so do our butlers. From nightly turndown to laundry service included for all guests, your butler is there to make your Scenic journey extra special. They won’t be happy unless you are.

At Scenic when we say all-inclusive, we mean it.

When cruising with Scenic in Europe and South East Asia, you won’t have to worry about money at all. Everything is included, from experiences and activities to the re-stocking of your in-suite bar to the laundry and tipping – we even include bottled water to take on excursions.

ENRICH Our expert Journey Designers have handpicked and created a range of unique experiences that will be amongst the highlights of your cruise. These are exclusive multi-sensory moments, adding a deeper dimension to your cruise and leaving you with amazing memories to treasure.

FREECHOICE Whether you want a relaxed pace or to fit in as much as possible, Freechoice offers a diverse range of sightseeing and activities for you to choose from. And of course, they’re all included. From history to culture, gastronomy to nature, there’s something for everyone.

TAILORMADE In Europe, our exclusive Tailormade GPS guided tours mean you can explore on your own - on foot or on two wheels with our e-bikes.

Our Tailormade program is available in over 140 locations. We even make sure your chosen tour starts and returns to your ship location.

SCENIC FLEET Luxury focused innovation and design mean Scenic is a world-class leader delivering the ultimate in river cruising on our state-of-theart fleet. Featuring some of the largest suites on the rivers, a high staff-to-guest ratio plus incredible facilities on board, you’ll never want for anything else.

DINING & BEVERAGES From casual fare to fine dining and degustations, on board we cater for every style. We source from regional suppliers so our food is both extremely fresh and in season. Our chefs draw inspiration from the countries we pass through so you’ll experience true regional cuisine. And of course there’s an extensive selection of complimentary beverages all day too.

SUITES We set the benchmark for the standard of suites on board, the most spacious on the river. Technology and innovation meet to provide your Scenic Sun Lounge, a private balcony at the touch of a button.

Luxury, space, views, they’re all included.

THE NTH DEGREE We’ll greet you personally at the airport and transfer you to and from your cruise, regardless of when you arrive. Onshore, all our transport, whether it’s by coach or rail, is of the very highest standard. We use local guides as we believe nobody knows an area like someone who lives there. Absolutely everything is taken care of, including all the tipping.

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WHY RIVER CRUISING

WHO SHOULD RIVER CRUISE

There are a host of reasons why Scenic river cruising is increasingly the first choice of travel for many guests.

Discernment, curiosity and passion are just a few of the key qualities that many of our river cruise guests share.

Leave the wallet at home

Proof positive

Once you get on the plane you need never reach for your wallet again, we won’t even ask for your credit card at check-in. Everything is included, from activities to meals, even tipping and gratuities.

When you choose Scenic river cruising you’re choosing the first on the rivers for innovation and technology. We have the largest cabins on the rivers, featuring the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge, which converts your suite into a vast viewing deck at the touch of a button. Our e-bikes and Tailormade GPS guided tours are further proof of our commitment to innovation, allowing you to explore on your own.

You’ll meet a range of like-minded people on board a Scenic cruise who are typically interested in exploring the artistic, historical, culinary and cultural aspects of our destinations. They enjoy the laidback pace of river cruising and its appreciation for individual choice and exploration.

The heart of the matter Skip the rigours of finding your own way to a destination. With a river cruise you simply walk off the ship and into your destination. No queues, deciphering maps or ship tenders to deal with.

You call the shots With a range of handcrafted activities and oncein-a-lifetime experiences included across our itineraries, you choose the activity or experience that suits you, at the pace you want. Or simply choose to stay on board and relax. Whatever your interest, fitness or mobility level, you’re in charge.

Ask a local We use local guides as we believe that nobody knows a place like the people who live there. As a result, our tours will not only make sure you see all the highlights, but we’ll also take you in search of the hidden gems known only to locals. The best local food, entertainment and culture, we even invite you into local homes so that you can experience true local hospitality.

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Our guests like to take their time peeling back the layers of the lands we visit, rather than rushing through a crazy itinerary. A mix of independent travellers, couples and small groups, our guests are looking for diverse, culturally enriching experiences.

An appreciation for the finer things in life – great food, music, knowledge, along with a thirst for new experiences drives their journey. With a balance of both working and retired guests, luxury and great service is a must for them, as is the reassurance that everything is all-inclusive, including tipping and gratuities. With the small number of guests on board, there’s plenty of opportunities to make many new friends.

Going solo It’s not just couples and groups who seek out river cruises. A growing number of solo travellers are choosing the delights of a river cruise. Offering comfort, peace of mind and the chance to meet like-minded souls, river cruising is ideal for those travelling on their own. As a solo traveller you’ll have the flexibility to join in Freechoice and Enrich activities or if solitude is more what you crave, simply kick back and relax on board in 5-star luxury.

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A Rhine Loop B Meet like-minded souls

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WHY SCENIC In 2016 we will celebrate 30 years in the business. We’re experts at what we do and we still love handcrafting extraordinary experiences for our guests, just as much as we did back in 1986. Our passion for quality travel is what sets us apart and we would love you to join us for our next voyage.

“With the late afternoon sun warming my bones and a lazy gin sling in my hand, courtesy of our butler, I contemplated life from the luxury of our private balcony.

The Douro River ebbed and flowed quietly beneath the ship and I came to the conclusion that life, in that very moment, life was perfect” Nick, 71 Regua, Portugal N 41° 9’ W 7° 47’

Since 2005 we have taken great pride in delivering incredible river cruises in the most wonderful places on earth. Our Journey Designers spend months researching and refining our itineraries to deliver a truly extraordinary experience for you and your fellow travellers. Our ships are custom built to deliver all-inclusive luxury.

As a further commitment to excellence in river cruising, we began building our own ships in 2006. By building cabins along with public spaces to our exact specifications, we are able to ensure nothing is left to chance. From the second you step foot on the ship to the moment you leave your cruise, you can be sure that Scenic has thought of every little possible thing to make your trip more luxurious and more awe-inspiring than anything you’ve experienced before.

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WHAT TO EXPECT ON BOARD

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With Scenic, perks and privileges are part of your all-inclusive on board experience.

Largest balcony suites on the rivers Scenic Sun Lounge, your private outdoor balcony Your own butler Complimentary beverages all day, every day Dining options from casual to fine dining On board entertainment Wellness and fitness areas Cruise Directors to guide and assist Complimentary Wi-Fi internet Expert local guides Authentic local entertainment All tipping and gratuities Return airport transfers

European River Cruises also include: Laundry concierge The freedom of our e-bikes (electronically assisted bicycles) Exclusive Scenic Tailormade GPS for self-guided touring and on board commentary

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A Butler service B Spacious suites C Portobellos D Royal Panorama Suite, Scenic Spirit (artist impression)

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WHAT TO EXPECT ONSHORE A range of exclusive, handcrafted experiences are all included when you disembark along the cruise route. With deliberate small group numbers to ensure a personal experience plus everything taken care of, including tipping, you’ll love every minute.

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Scenic Sundowners

Scenic Freechoice is a program of activities created to give you the freedom to engage in those things that truly interest you. You’ll get to choose from a range of diverse activities at your preferred pace, from leisurely to more active. With Scenic Freechoice, it’s entirely up to you.

Scenic Sundowners are bespoke cocktail events for Scenic guests to celebrate the day’s adventures.

What could be better than ending an incredible day, sharing your experiences with friends against a truly idyllic backdrop? That certainly calls for a toast.

Scenic Enrich You can look forward to genuinely handcrafted moments of wonder, curated to bring out the truly wondrous aspects of history, culture and location.

Immerse yourself in the hospitality and traditions of some of the world’s most unique cultures. Whatever Enrich experience awaits, you’ll cherish it for years to come.

Scenic Tailormade Exclusive to our Europe cruises, our Scenic Tailormade device guides you through your own personal excursion on shore, and offers absorbing commentary on major points of interest while you’re on board. With your Tailormade device, you’ll be able to wander on or off the beaten path without any danger of getting lost. And best of all, you’ll miss none of the attractions along the way.

“The shadow-play of bridge against sky was a beautiful contrast in staggering tones of blues and deep charcoal.

Our little boat seemed dwarfed by the grandeur of this, the world’s longest teak bridge. Not just a simple structure, it’s the hub of a vibrant community, a work of art that has survived for over 165 years.”

Joy, 61 U-Bein Bridge, Myanmar N 21° 90’ E 96°05’

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WHERE AND WHEN TO TRAVEL Christmas Markets Europe River Cruises

Christmas Europe River Cruise

Europe River Cruises

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

MARCH – OCTOBER

Europe in the lead-up to Christmas transforms into a happy hive of activity as markets spring to life in every town. A joyful display of trinkets, lights and charm for all generations, this tradition hasn’t changed in centuries.

Everyone should experience an authentic ‘White Christmas’ at least once. Sail through chocolate box towns, sample the eggnog and delight in all the seasonal traditions that have been part of Europe since recorded memory.

There’s nothing more beautiful than watching Europe transition through the seasons. No matter what time you cruise you’ll come across moments of wonder.

From French fields of summer sunflowers and lavender to snow-white mountains and misty autumn mornings, you’ll always have something to marvel at.

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

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JUNE

Christmas Mekong & Irradwaddy River Cruises DECEMBER Indulge in a tropical Christmas as you cruise along the sultry Mekong or the mystical Irrawaddy.

A great time of year to experience South East Asia. Warm your bones, avoid the Christmas crowds and treat yourself. Make it a holiday season you’ll look back on with joy.

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AUGUST

Mekong River Cruises

Irrawaddy River Cruises

Year round except MAY to mid JUNE

Year round except mid APRIL to late AUGUST

After carefully weaving our way around the wet season, there really isn’t any time throughout the year that isn’t good to cruise South East Asia. With a consistently temperate climate and a host of festivals and events year round, there’s always something wondrous happening on the Mekong.

Make the most of the wonderful climate in South East Asia and cruise any time of the year that suits you. We have scheduled our departures to ensure we miss the wet season, leaving you with plenty of options to explore the mystical wonderland that is Myanmar’s Irrawaddy River.

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DECEMBER

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EXPLORE EUROPE Rhine, Moselle & Danube Rivers The Rhine, Main and Danube rivers flow through the heart of continental Europe. Through the engineering genius of their namesake canal and onward to the Danube these rivers are lined with extraordinary architecture and incredible scenery. As you travel through countries like The Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Hungary you’ll experience the magic of rich traditions and fascinating cultures. Flowing through France, Luxembourg, and Germany, the Moselle River is a charming waterway renowned for its quaint medieval architecture and wonderful vineyards.

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Waterways of France History, culture, art and gastronomy combine along the beautiful Seine, Saône and Rhône rivers. In the south, the Bordeaux waterways will astound with their natural beauty and delicious fare.

Experience the joie de vivre that is France from city to sea.

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Portugal’s Douro River Packed with wonders, from the archaeologically significant Coa Valley to the rolling vineyards of the Douro Valley. Authentic traditions and warm local hospitality, a cruise along the Douro River will remain in your heart forever.

Russian Waterways Imperial treasures and rich cultural history juxtaposed with traditional village life ensure that a cruise down Russia’s Neva and Volga rivers will have you revelling in the beauty and complexities of this incredible country.

A Budapest B Saint-Émilion C Moscow D Douro Valley

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DISCOVER SOUTH EAST ASIA

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Mekong River Travelling nearly 5,000 kilometres through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, the Mekong River carries with it many stories of these complex and beautiful lands. One of the most biologically diverse rivers in the world, second only to the Amazon, the mighty Mekong will capture your imagination and sense of wonder. From floating markets to traditional sampans it is mesmerizing to see how so many cultures live in harmony with this giant waterway.

Irrawaddy River The mystical Irrawaddy River will entrance and beguile as it makes its way through the hidden gem that is Myanmar. The river traverses a unique and rare land only recently accessible to westerners.

Age-old traditions, astonishing temples and enchanting locals, this river will transport and delight.

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A Bagan temples B Scenic Spirit, Mekong River (artist impression) C Scenic Aura pool (artist impression) D Scenic Spirit lobby lounge (artist impression)

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TOP 10 REASONS TO LOVE SCENIC RIVER CRUISING 1. All-inclusive, nothing to pay

From the moment you step onto your flight you won’t need to spend a thing.

Whether on board or onshore it’s all taken care of.

2. Majority of suites on board have balconies

Our ships feature the largest and most luxurious suites on the rivers, with no inside cabins - everyone has a view.

3. All beverages complimentary

Enjoy your favourite cocktail on the sun deck or the finest red wine at dinner, all included. With our impressive selection of complimentary beverages, the choice is yours, all day, every day.

4. All meals complimentary across a range of dining options

From café-style to our fine dining degustation menu, there’s gourmet fare for every taste and craving. Drawing inspiration from the regions travelled through, all our food is seasonal and freshly prepared.

5. Handcrafted and comprehensive range of activities and experiences

Our onshore Scenic Enrich and Freechoice programs offer everything from history to culture, cuisine to nature - there’s something for everyone to discover, at your own pace.

Absolutely everything is included, even fees, tipping and gratuities.

6. Dock in the heart of towns and villages

You simply walk off the ship right into the centre of beautiful towns and villages along our routes. Less commuting, more exploring.

7. Small number of guests on board

By keeping numbers small we can provide you with an intimate, exclusive experience. Our ships in South East Asia even have a 1:1 staff ratio.

8. Butler service

Our butlers are experts at ensuring every need is taken care of. From the first warm greeting to remembering your personal preferences, our butlers are always on hand. They won’t be happy unless you are.

9. Local guides

Thanks to their inside knowledge, our local guides ensure you’ll get to experience both the highlights and hidden gems of your destination.

10. No seasickness

The combination of cruising gentle river routes and the world-class engineering of our fleet of ships ensures nothing but smooth sailing.

“Leisurely morning. Deep river dreaming. As I look around, I’m reminded anew of the opulence and sheer size of my cabin. Book open and coffee ordered. I’m staying right here.”

Sarah, 64 Sagaing, Myanmar N 21° 54’ E 95° 57’

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Call a Scenic reservations agent today or Contact your local travel professional Visit scenic.ca