30

AMERICA’S WATERWAYS

FROM RIVERS TO LAKES AND THE DEEP BLUE

As we approach 4th July, and American Independence Day, it’s timely to take a deep dive into the cruising experience on off er in American waters.

North America is home to landscapes as varied as they are distinct from towering forests, kilometres of undulating crops, vast deserts, pulsating metropolises and bright urban centres. Even the most hardcore local is often forced to stop and stare at the immense natural beauty that makes up their homeland. And here, adventure has a different meaning for every visitor. Venture on a Canadian wilderness trek, strap yourself in for the legendary road trip along Route 66, cruise mighty lakes and rivers, stare in awe at calving glaciers or explore the hustle of some of the world’s greatest cities. Whatever your travel dreams, North America offers a kaleidoscope of cultures, cuisines, countryside and characters to create memories of a lifetime.

THUNDER BAY, CANADA

LIKE AN EXPLORER

If you dream of sandy beaches, gentle waves and vast stretches of open water, look beyond an ocean-side sojourn. Some of the best water-based escapes can be found inland. America’s Great Lakes are a little-known, unspoiled wonderland, boasting diverse natural beauty, scenic wildlife and some of the most interesting cities in North America. Over 1,000 kilometres across with 16,000 kilometres of coastline, the Great Lakes cover an area about the size of the UK and France combined! Discover the Great Lakes region with Viking on an expedition voyage and kayak the stunning Georgian Bay past families of otters; hike through forests; transit the engineering marvels of Welland Canal and Soo Locks; and view the world–class collection in the Milwaukee Art Museum.

NEW 13-day Canadian Discovery,

from Toronto to New York City or vice versa

Unleash your inner explorer in the remote wilds of Eastern Canada. Discover this region’s rich colonial past amid stunning natural settings. Admire the unparalleled beauty of the rugged coast of the Canadian Maritimes. Cruise along the wide expanse of the St. Lawrence River and marvel at the scenic Saguenay River Valley, with its dramatic cliffs and intriguing wildlife. NEW 8-day Great Lakes Explorer

from Milwaukee to Thunder Bay or vice versa

Discover the maze of granite islands that comprise the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve. Experience Victorian charm on Mackinac Island and venture into the boreal forests of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park on Lake Superior’s northern shore. Explore coastal wetlands replete with bird life and get acquainted with native cultures of the northern Great Lakes. NEW 8-day Niagara & the Great Lakes from Toronto to Milwaukee

or vice versa

From urban skylines to uninhabited islands, discover North America’s wilderness alongside renowned cultural attractions while cruising the striking waterways of the Great Lakes. Led by a team of experts, explore sheltered bays and woodlands to uncover complex ecosystems and hidden treasures.

KETCHIKAN, USA

FOR OCEAN WAYFARERS

If an ocean voyage on the high seas is more to your liking, the Americas and the Caribbean offer unmatched cultural diversity and some of the world’s most magnificent landscapes. From the gleaming white glaciers and remote outposts of Alaska to the soaring fjords and breathtaking vistas of Chile and the sophisticated cities of eastern USA and Canada and the relaxed vibe of the Caribbean – a Viking ocean cruise has it all covered.

23-day North Pacific Passage

from Tokyo to Vancouver or vice versa

Unravel the mysteries of Japan and learn about life in a remote Russian city. Cross the Bering Sea, tracing the legendary path of the first human migration to the Americas, and cruise the glacierstrewn, mountain-ringed bays of Alaska, stopping in former frontier towns to hear stories of trappers and lumberjacks. Settle in for a fascinating journey that bridges the cultures of Asia and North America from glittering Tokyo to Vancouver, British Columbia’s cultural capital. 11-days Alaska & the Inside Passage from Vancouver to

Seward or vice versa

Immerse yourself in a world of Tlingit heritage with hints of Russia, where an outpost atmosphere prevails in charming, mountainringed seaside towns. As you cruise this pristine wilderness of misty fjords, lush forest and gleaming walls of ice, meet local Tlingit who have fished these waters for centuries, and hear tales both tall and true of a region where a Wild West spirit still feels very much alive. NEW 15-day Canada & New England Scenic Shores from

Montreal to Fort Lauderdale

Admire the natural beauty and colourful autumn hues of Canada and New England. As you cruise, learn about the rich history and lively culture of the province of Quebec. Discover the Scottish heritage and seafaring ways of the Canadian Maritimes, then immerse yourself in the striking landscapes surrounding Bar Harbor. Sail the scenic St. Lawrence River and the remarkable Cape Cod Canal, and experience the charm of Newport, one of the oldest cities in the US.

NEW ORLEANS, USA

SERENE RIVER CRUISING

Stretching for 3,700km from Minnesota's Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico, our new cruises on the Mighty Mississippi offer a different type of cross-country journey — one that allows you to be immersed in American history and culture. You'll find palatial mansions and pastoral farms; haunting cotton flats and verdant hill country; honey-dipped sand on the coast and serene farmland in the north.

NEW 8-day America's Heartland,

St. Paul to St. Louis or vice versa

On this enlightening journey on the Upper Mississippi, hear stories of pioneers and the Lewis and Clark Expedition; walk in the footsteps of Mark Twain; and learn about the Norwegian migration. Enjoy the view as your ship navigates through the river’s intricate lock system, and experience the region’s many cultural treasures — from ragtime and polka and to Wisconsin cheese and craft beer. NEW 15-day America's Great River from St. Paul to New

Orleans or vice versa

History and culture unfold as you cross the country from north to south on this enriching voyage. Enjoy relaxing scenic sailing and unparalleled bird-watching as the landscape changes from the bluffs of the North to the bayous of the South. Learn about the American civil rights movement and the Civil War. Along the way, tap your feet to the rhythm of American folk, soul and jazz music—and taste a delicious array of regional cuisine. NEW 8-day New Orleans & Southern Charms, round trip from

New Orleans

The Lower Mississippi overflows with charm, history and hospitality. Explore historic estates, and visit notable Civil War sites. Sample the bustling French-flavoured port cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Sway to the tempos of Dixieland jazz, gospel and blues. Join us, and see why local Cajuns say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler” (Let the good times roll).

INTO THE POLAR WILDS

Top 5 Arctic Animals

Polar Bear

A powerful symbol of strength and endurance in the Arctic. The iconic polar bear traverses the polar ice and seas hunting for seals. With paws the size of dinner plates polar bears can reach speeds of up to 40kph; and are the apex hunter of the Arctic.

Beluga Whale

Although one of the smallest species of whales, beluga or white whales are one of the most social mammals living in the high latitudes of the Arctic waters. Travelling in large pods, their distinctive colour and prominent foreheads make them easily identifiable.

Arctic Fox

With its thick, warm fur, that also doubles as camouflage, the Arctic fox has learnt to adapt to the harsh Arctic region. These hardy foxes won’t shiver until the temperature drops below -70 degrees Celsius and are the only canine whose foot pads are covered in fur.

Walrus

The walrus is easily identifiable by its sheer size, distinctive tusks and whiskers. Exceeded in size only by elephant seals, walrus males can measure up to 3.6m long and weigh over 1,500kg. Both male and females have large tusks that can reach up to 1m in length and weigh over 5kg. These giants of the Arctic are a sight to behold!

Arctic Reindeer

Reindeer are a species of deer found in the Arctic tundra and migrate between tundra and forest in huge herds numbering up to half a million. They are the only deer species in which females also have antlers, and as male reindeer shed their antlers at the end of the mating season – it must be the females who pull Santa’s sleigh through the sky.

The opposite ends of the earth provide some unique and wonderful insights into the strength, resolve and survival of some of the world’s most exciting and distinctive animals. Come with us on a journey to discover these amazing animals and to uncover a part of the Arctic and Antarctic that has managed to evolve and survive some of the most extreme conditions on the planet.

Top 5 Antarctica Animals

Adélie Penguin

One of only five species of penguins that live in the Antarctic, Adélie penguins stand 70cm tall with a unique white ring around their eyes. They are excellent swimmers, averaging up to 8km/h; and long distance walkers covering many kilometres, sometimes up to 50km, journeying back and forth to their colonies from the sea.

Chinstrap Penguin

Chinstrap penguins are distinguished by the narrow band of black feathers which extends from ear to ear just below the chin and cheeks which makes it appear like a helmet. These unique penguins like to toboggan on land by laying on their stomachs and using their flippers and feet to propel themselves forward.

Leopard Seal

The second largest species of seal in the Antarctic, the Leopard seal is one of the most easily recognised. Leopard seals are solitary animals that are considered the greatest wanderers of the Antarctic seas with sightings in Tasmania and even Heron Island in the southern part of the Great Barrier Reef.

Humpback Whale

Frequently breaching, slapping their tails and fins, Humpback whales are quite active and popular with whale watchers. Migrating up to 25,000km each year, they feed in polar waters before heading to tropical waters to breed and give birth. Watch their spectacular feeding methods including the bubble net technique where whales come together as a group to feed.

Black-browed Albatross

Mostly white with yellowish-orange webbed feet, grey highlights, a bright yellow beak, and a conspicuous black eyebrow, the Black-browed Albatross is a wonderful sight. They are known to live over 30 years and generally have the same breeding partner each season.

Iconic Souvenirs from

AROUND EUROPE

There is something undeniably appealing about collecting souvenirs as a memory of your global travels. Join us on a virtual wander across Europe and see what iconic souvenirs we can find.

The joining of two Danish words “Leg Godt”; Lego was born in 1932 and has come a long way over the past 85 years. Twice named “Toy of the Century”, picking up a piece or two in the place where it all began is a must.

Denmark

Dating back to the early 13th Century and known as klompen; clogs or wooden shoes have been used in the Netherlands since medieval times. Originally designed to protect the feet of artisans, farmers, fishermen and other trade jobs, they gained popularity and lavishly decorated clogs were even worn to churches and weddings.

Netherlands

Create your own perfume in the French Riviera and savour your visit to France. Famous for its designer perfumes such as Chanel, Clinque, Lancome and Jean-Paul Gaultier, try your hand at making your own signature scent.

France Switzerland

A symbol of faith, good luck and justice based on a legend about a Spanish pilgrim who when suspected of committing a crime, pointed to a roasted rooster and claimed it would come back to life and sing his innocence. Much to everyone’s surprise, the roasted rooster stood up and crowed. The judge rushed to the gallows to free the man.

Portugal

Chocolate production in Switzerland dates as far back as the 17th century. In 1875, Swiss confectioner Daniel Peter, developed the first solid milk chocolate using condensed milk. Today world-renowned chocolate brands that originated in Switzerland include Nestlé, Toblerone, Lindt, and Sprüngli.

Sweden

An authentic symbol of Sweden, Dala were carved by men working in the forests during long winter evenings and brought back to the village for the children to play with. Dala became famous around the world in 1939 at the World’s Fair in New York when a giant painted Dala horse was placed outside the Swedish pavilion causing a sensation among visitors.

Russia

Architect Erno Rubik from Budapest came up with the idea for the cube in 1974. After some twisting and turning of the cube to solve a different problem, Rubnik gave rise to the global Rubik’s Cube sensation. The first nesting doll, the Rooster Girl has fast risen to fame as a classic folkloric item and today Matryoshka dolls are symbolic of Russian history. With vibrant colours and a large variety of designs, the dolls which stack inside each other are a symbol of fertility.

Italy Hungary

Be part of Venice’s centuries old tradition with your own Venetian Mask. Originally designed to hide the wearer’s identity and social status, the masks allowed society to interact more freely. Today stand out with a brightly coloured mask such as gold or silver. One of the most ancient sweet dishes in the world, Turkish Delight is known to have been produced in Turkey as early as the late 18th century. Known as lokum, the small jelly cubes are Turkey’s most beloved sweet. One theory behind its creation is that confectioner Haci Bekir Effendi created the delight, eventually tweaking his recipe in the 19th century when cornstarch was invented to give it its distinct chewy texture. Reaching the Ottoman Palace, the sweet treat soon became famous around the world. The shop still operates today!