View of the AmaLyra, docked in Les Andelys, from a medieval castle.
MAGIC KINGDOM
It's a small world after all when traveling with Adventures by Disney. Written and photographed by Bridget Williams While there is something to be said for the adrenaline rush that can come from inserting oneself into slightly contentious situations in far-flung places, it is not the ideal experience most are looking for in a holiday. Increasingly I've heard of acquaintances who have canceled travel plans based on threats both real and purported. Language barriers, dietary restrictions, physical limitations, and a general fear of the unknown all have the potential to prompt would-be globetrotters to restrict their adventuring to more familiar places that don't require a passport. Enter Adventures by Disney (ABD). Founded in 2005 with just a pair of US destinations, today, this luxury tour arm of the Walt Disney Company now offers full-service trips on six continents. "We're all about creating exceptional experiences for families and couples that go beyond the parks to bring the magic into the larger world," said Yolanda Cade, who directs public relations for Adventures by Disney. A growing number of partnerships, including one with National Geographic
Expeditions, means that Disney's legendary customer service and attention to detail are attainable at every imaginable destination. Curious about experiencing the Disney difference, we joined one of two adult-exclusive Seine River Cruise departures offered in 2019 as part of Adventures by Disney's growing roster of adultonly vacations. For its European river cruises, ABD has partnered with luxury operator AmaWaterways—the first cruise line to be offered membership into the private and prestigious La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs gastronomic society—to ensure guests have a topnotch, ship-shape experience. A care package arrived a few weeks before we set off for France. Along with logoed travel bags of various sizes, there was a spiral-bound, purse-sized travel guide outlining the complete itinerary, along with background information on each destination, a comprehensive packing guide, and answers to frequently asked questions. The latter is a prime example of ABD's ability to stay one step ahead in anticipating guests' needs. slmag.net
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