RiverViews Newsletter September 2023

ELLEN’S 360°

Hello, River Heritage Club!

I hope you had a lovely summer and if you have any end-of-season barbecues coming up, we have a great pair of recipes for you at the end of this issue.

Flip through the rest of these pages to catch up on the progress we’ve made on our sustainability goals, learn how to experience India’s most exciting festivals during your cruise, meet a 50-time Uniworld cruiser, and more!

I also have one upcoming announcement just for you, an exclusive new offer on bucket-list itineraries for early 2024! Details coming soon!

Bon Voyage, ELLEN BETTRIDGE

CEO, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

SEPTEMBER 2023

IN THIS ISSUE

1 ELLEN’S 360°

2 UNIQUELY UNIWORLD: OUR 2ND ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT

3 THE HIDDEN GEM TOWNS OF THE NETHERLANDS

5 GUEST SPOTLIGHT: MEET MING

7 FOUR INDIA FESTIVALS

9 CHEF ROBERT'S CORNER: BBQ SPARE RIBS BEA'S CHEESECAKE

#EXPLOREUNIWORLD

UNIQUELY UNIWORLD

OUR 2ND ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT

At Uniworld, we’re proud to be part of The Travel Corporation (TTC) family of brands and share its mission to Make Travel Matter ® for people, the planet, and wildlife. We derive so much joy from the communities we visit, and it’s our honor to show our gratitude by giving back in whatever way we can. That’s why we’re the only river cruise line to have established transparent, measurable goals for sustainability with science-based targets.

Click here to read up on the progress we and our sister brands at TTC have made in the past year.

CLIMATE

We've become the only cruise line to join Path2Zero, a research project aimed at reaching net-zero carbon emissions in Europe. We're contributing financial support, advice, and the expertise of our captains and engineers, who are helping test real-world solutions in the program's "Living Labs."

FOOD WASTE

Over the last couple of years, we’ve piloted a comprehensive food waste measurement and reduction system known as Leanpath on a select few ships. In 2022 alone, we reduced food waste by 34% across 6 Uniworld ships, equating to 24,169 meals saved. Now, in 2023, we’ve expanded the program to every ship we own!

ELIMINATING PLASTIC

We’ve eliminated single-use plastics across our fleet by introducing refillable toiletry dispensers, bamboo room keys, cloth laundry bags, and more. Along the way, we’ve discovered that these high-quality, sustainable alternatives also provide a more luxurious experience than their disposable counterparts.

EXPERIENCES

Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences take guests on unique and immersive local experiences that show them how their travels can directly and positively impact the destinations they visit. We already have MTM Experiences on 25% of our itineraries and are striving to reach 100% by 2025.

WILDLIFE

Our trips have been thoroughly reviewed to ensure that our experiences meet strict animal welfare guidelines. We also help support programs such as Wildlife SOS India , which rescues and rehabilitates elephants living in captivity.

THE HIDDEN GEM TOWNS OF THE NETHERLANDS

you didn’t know you needed

Welcome to the hidden gem towns of the Netherlands, where enchanting cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and rich cultural heritage await. Beyond the well-known cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, there are relatively unknown yet equally charming towns that offer an authentic Dutch experience. In this guide, we'll delve into the lesser-explored destinations that showcase the country's unique beauty, local traditions, and warm hospitality.

SCHOONHOVEN

Renowned as the "Silver City" due to its historical association with silver craftsmanship and jewelry making, Schoonhoven features well-preserved narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Dutch houses, and scenic canals. Visit the Silver Museum and admire the intricate silverwork on display.

CUIJK

Located along the Maas River, Cuijk has a rich history dating back to Roman times. The Cuijk Bridge offers stunning views of the surroundings. Boasting beautiful large churches, art museums featuring local artisans, and a traditional windmill, Cuijk may just be the perfect Netherlands town.

LEMMER

Known for its maritime heritage and waterfront, Lemmer is a bright fishing village. The scenic harbor, adorned with Dutch houses and sailing vessels, offers a delightful setting for leisurely walks and relaxation. Nature lovers can also venture to the nearby Weerribben-Wieden National Park.

HEUSDEN

Heusden's impressive fortifications and defensive walls offer a glimpse into its storied past and provide beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Additionally, boat tours, along with local museums and galleries, offer opportunities to delve into the town's cultural heritage and scenic beauty.

DORDRECHT

Dordrecht is nestled on an island surrounded by rivers. The vibrant atmosphere comes from the markets, cafes, and cultural events, giving visitors a taste of the Dutch way of life. The city's mix of modern amenities and historical charm makes it an enticing place to explore.

MAASTRICHT

During the holidays, Maastricht transforms into a magical and enchanting destination. The city's historic squares come alive with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and bustling Christmas markets. Visitors can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit as they explore an array of charming stalls.

MEET MING

If we could live every day of our lives onboard one of our floating boutique hotels, trust us, we would. That’s the dream—and nearly the reality for some of our most frequent travelers. We’d like to introduce you to Ms. Ming, a beloved past guest from Malaysia who reached an incredible milestone this year: 50 river cruises, all with Uniworld!

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WITH UNIWORLD? AND WHAT KEEPS YOU COMING BACK FOR MORE?

I came to know of Uniworld when I joined an Insight Vacations coach tour in 2007. It was only then that I came to know of Uniworld and that's when I fell in love with Uniworld river cruises! It's a love story that has continued to this day! To me, it's the best kind of holiday. A good combination of sightseeing and sailing, very relaxing, and I have the same room for the duration of the cruise. Just unpack once, unlike a coach tour which involves living out of a suitcase!

WHAT OTHER TYPES OF TRAVEL HAVE YOU DONE IN YOUR LIFE? HAVE YOU TRIED OTHER RIVER CRUISE LINES? WHY/WHY NOT?

I started traveling in 1975 and have been on many coach tours around Europe. I have done 7-night stays in places in the Mediterranean countries many times. I've joined many Contiki tours (when I was very much younger), Trafalgar, and Insight Vacations coach tours over the years. In fact, this was not only my 50th Uniworld cruise but also my 80th TTC holiday!*

I haven't tried any other river cruise line. Why should I when I've found the best? My personal log-line for Uniworld is this: 'When you've found the best, you don't have to consider the rest!'

YOU PICKED VENICE FOR YOUR 50TH CRUISE. HOW DID YOU MAKE THAT CHOICE?

Venice is my favorite city in Europe. I went on the first two Uniworld sailings there when the Venice & the Po River cruise was launched in April 2013. I did it back to back again when it was renamed Venice & the Gems of Northern Italy in July 2017 & again back to back in October 2018. This is one of my favorite cruises. I love Venice and will never get tired of visiting it again and again.

BY NOW, YOU’VE PROBABLY REPEATED A FEW ITINERARIES. IF SO, WHICH ONES AND WHY?

To have come to cruise 50, I've definitely repeated many of my favorite cruises. Top of the list is European Jewels, which I've gone on 9 times. Coming all the way from Malaysia, it takes me 25-27 hours from the time I leave my house till I step on the ship. So I do like to go on the longer cruises.

HOW HAVE YOU CHANGED AS A TRAVELER OVER THE YEARS? DO YOU HAVE ANY TRAVEL TIPS TO SHARE WITH OUR RIVER HERITAGE CLUB THAT YOUR EXPERIENCE HAS TAUGHT YOU?

Having traveled all these years, I no longer desire to see more places and new places as much as I did in the initial years of traveling but am perfectly happy and contented to visit the same places over and over again and perhaps discover something new.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DISH?

My favorite dish onboard this ship was the barbecued ribs at the buffet during lunch. Yummy!

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESSERT?

My favorite dessert was, and always is, Bea Tollman's cheesecake.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SHIP?

My favorite ship is the S.S. Maria Theresa.

*The Travel Corporation (TTC) is an award-winning collection of 40 travel and hospitality brands, including Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, Red Carnation Hotels, Trafalgar Tours, and Insight Vacations.

YOU CAN EXPERIENCE ON YOUR RIVER CRUISE

VASANT PANCHAMI

FESTIVAL DATE: February 14, 2024

SAILING DATE: February 5, 2024

Experience the vibrant festivities of Vasant Panchami, a celebration dedicated to Lord Saraswati, the deity of learning, music, and art. This day marks the beginning of new beginnings and is filled with joyous rituals. If time permits, we’ll catch this festival while sailing downstream towards Mayapur, where you’ll hear the captivating Hindu chants performed by skilled priests.

HOLI

FESTIVAL DATE: March 25, 2024

SAILING DATE: March 18, 2024

Holi is a feast for the senses with a rich history and cultural significance—as well as one of the most internationally recognizable of the Hindu holidays, known for the colorful powders celebrants throw. As we welcome Holi on March 25th, we invite you to join us on the Sun Deck for a memorable celebration filled with music and the splash of vivid colors.

Visiting India means discovering a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors, culture, and traditions you'll never forget. Amongst the most exciting of these traditions are the numerous festivals held throughout the country every year. From Diwali to Holi, these are just a few of the festivals you may have the chance to experience during your India’s Golden Triangle & the Sacred Ganges river cruise.

DURGA PUJA

FESTIVAL DATES: October 11-13, 2024

SAILING DATE: October 4, 2024

The vibrant and captivating Durga Puja is an annual Hindu festival celebrated with immense fervor and devotion. It honors Goddess Durga, who symbolizes power and triumphs over evil. This extravaganza takes place in eastern India. People from all walks come together, adorning the streets with dazzling lights and grand temporary shrines.

DIWALI FESTIVAL

FESTIVAL DATE: November 1, 2024

SAILING DATE: October 21, 2024

Diwali, the celebration symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, is India's most beloved festival. As the sun sets, the sky erupts with mesmerizing fireworks. Join us on the opening night for the ultimate Diwali experience in Kolkata. Our Sun Deck will transport you into the heart of the festivities, offering the chance to decorate the ship with glowing lamps and safely ignite crackers.

Chef Robert’s Corner: MS. MING’S FAVORITE MEAL

If you read our introduction to one of our most frequent river cruisers, Ms. Ming, you’ll remember that she let us in on a pair of her all-time favorite Uniworld menu items: BBQ spare ribs and Bea Tollman’s famous cheesecake. Now we’re sharing these recipes with all of you—and just in time for any late-summer parties, because these two are definite crowd-pleasers!

BBQ SPARE RIBS

INGREDIENTS

1 rack of pork ribs

¼ cup salt

1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite)

1 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp honey

½ cup Port wine

1 cup apple juice

2-3 garlic cloves

PREPARATION

1. Mix all of the marinade ingredients in a small bowl until combined. Marinate the ribs in the refrigerator for at least 1 day. Keep a reserve of the marinade for basting.

2. Preheat the oven to 250° F. When ready, place ribs meat-side down, on a baking sheet lined with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Prick the back of the rib rack several times with a knife.

3. Bake until tender and cooked through, about 2 hours.

4. Take the ribs out of the oven and increase the temperature to 350° F.

5. Remove the foil, drain and discard any accumulated juice and fat. Spread about a quarter of the reserved marinade on all sides of the rack.

6. Return the meat to the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush with another layer of marinade on the meat side only. Repeat baking and brushing with sauce 2 more times. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before cutting and serving.

BEA’S CHEESECAKE

FILLING INGREDIENTS

3 lbs cream cheese, softened

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

6 eggs, separated (room temperature)

1 bourbon vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped out

1 tbsp vanilla extract

Pinch of kosher salt

2 cups sour cream

CRUST INGREDIENTS

1 ¼ cup finely ground graham cracker crumbs cup white sugar

1 ½ sticks butter, melted

¾ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

PREPARATION

1. To make the crust, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until well blended. Press the mixture into an 8-inch springform pan, ensuring a thin, consistent layer, and bake at 375°F for 7 minutes. Allow to cool, and then chill for an hour.

2. Whip the cream cheese and half of the filling sugar together. Add the egg yolks, vanilla bean seeds, vanilla extract, salt, and sour cream, then whip thoroughly, scraping the bowl as you go.

3. Whip the egg whites with the rest of the sugar, then fold the whites into the cheese mixture and very gently pour into the prepared springform pan.

4. Wrap the bottom of the pan and place it in a water bath. Bake in the oven for an hour at 350°F, then turn off the heat and allow to remain in the oven for another hour. Remove, cool on a rack, and then refrigerate for 12 hours before serving.

DID YOU KNOW:

The ancient Roman version of cheesecake was made with fresh goat milk ricotta instead of cream cheese. Dating back to the third century B.C., it is believed to be the real ancestor of modern American-style cheesecake.

Bring a piece of your Uniworld river cruise home

Find authentic, handmade items from our destinations and exclusive Uniworld merchandise in our online shop, including these charming weather houses. With origins tracing back to 18th-century Germany, weather houses are a delightful combination of art, tradition, and meteorology. The little houses are often carved to resemble Alpine cabins, featuring a pair of tiny figurines on a balance beam. Through a simple yet ingenious mechanism, whether the air is humid or dry will determine which of the two figurines emerges from their door. Start shopping here

AN OUTSTANDING LOYALTY PROGRAM FOR OUR EXCEPTIONAL GUESTS

To show our appreciation for our past guests, we automatically enroll you in our River Heritage Club loyalty program, so you can begin receiving exclusive benefits, savings, and rewards reserved exclusively for our loyal guests.

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS ON ALL CRUISES, COMBINABLE WITH ALL PROMOTIONS

plus

An exclusive WELCOME GIFT to commemorate your membership

Complimentary IN-ROOM TREAT waiting onboard upon arrival

Complimentary LAUNDRY service

Can you name this ship?

Members-only onboard COCKTAIL PARTY

PRIORITY NOTIFICATION on new cruises and programs

Dedicated PHONE NUMBER

Exclusive RIVERVIEWS

E-NEWSLETTER

Special MEMBERS-ONLY OFFERS

ADDITIONAL SAVINGS when you REFER FRIENDS OR FAMILY

Each ship in our fleet is a floating boutique hotel, designed to be an extension of the destinations it sails through. If you can name which Uniworld ship this is, email us at RHC@Uniworld.com. The first to answer correctly will be featured in our next issue of RiverViews

LAST ISSUE’S VICTOR

Congratulations to Cora Fanning for being the first to identify the June 2023 Mystery Photo, Mekong Jewel Grand Suite

Visit UNIWORLD.COM/RIVER-HERITAGE-CLUB for more information.

*River Heritage Club savings and amenities are available to guests after completing their first Uniworld cruise. Exclusive savings are based on the cruise or cruise/tour-only price (including any upgrades and single supplement) after other cash discounts are applied. Savings are combinable with all current Uniworld promotions. Restrictions may apply.