Located in Central Europe, the Danube River is the continent's second longest river. Spanning 10 countries and flowing for almost 2,000 miles the river becomes the perfect backdrop for an amazing European cruise. The Danube basin was the site of some of the earliest human cultures. The river was part of the Roman Empire's Limes Germanicus and the Romans often used the river Danube as a northern border for their empire.

There's plenty to do and even more to see as you travel along a part of the trans-European waterway. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee and strudel in the mornings as you learn about Hungarian history and soak in the old world panoramic views of Budapest. See some of Vienna's gracious architecture, and then ride along the beautiful Ringstrasse with sights including the Opera House, Stadtpark and Hofburg Theater. In Melk, sail through the stunningly scenic Wachau Valley to the Benedictine abbey at Melk, and join a guided tour through the ornate interior of this baroque architectural gem.

The journey continues as you spend the day in Passau and see the Oberhaus Fortress and visit the impressive baroque St. Stephan's Cathedral with its ornate interior. Inside, listen to a special concert played on the 17,000-pipe organ, considered Europe's largest church organ. In Regensburg see the 12th-century Old Stone Bridge, St. Peter's Cathedral and a number of idyllic courtyards. Walk the streets, shop or visit Germany's oldest restaurant, the Alte Wurstküche.

Set sail with Viking River Cruises for various dates in June, July and September. Don't forget about Viking River Cruises' Thanksgiving cruise dates throughout October and November. If you'd prefer to celebrate the Christmas season abroad, sail during various dates throughout December in both 2012 and 2013. Viking River Cruises offers two itineraries in 2012 and 2013 – The Romantic Danube, which sails for eight days from Budapest to Nuremberg, and the Danube Waltz, which sails from Passau to Budapest for eight days.

Avalon Waterways, AmaWaterways, and Uniworld River Cruises offers various dates throughout the months of June, July, August, September, October and November. With over 30 Danube River cruise options in 2013 and 25 options left in 2012, Avalon Waterways has the perfect option. Varying in length from 4 days to almost 30 days you will be sure to find exactly what you're looking for.

If you're looking to discover Europe in a new way, perhaps a relaxing river cruise down the Danube River is just what you need. Taking a European river cruise introduces you to a variety of different cultures, countries and languages in just a matter of days. Begin your exploration today!

If you've ever dreamed of seeing the world in the lap of luxury then now is the time to book and save. Plan a once in a lifetime adventure aboard the Crystal Serenity in 2014 as it sets sail on an 89-day World Cruise. If you can't dedicate three months, sail on one or more of the five World Cruise segments – ranging from 12 to 22 days.

The full World Cruise sets sail on January 18^th, 2014 in Los Angeles and sails the globe ending in London. If you choose to sail for the full 89 days, you will have the experience of a lifetime. Including two overnight stays in Tokyo, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore and Cape Town providing ample time to become fully immersed in the exotic cultures of these distinctive cities. You'll also experience overnight stays in Honolulu, Osaka, Shanghai, Hanoi, and Bangkok.

By setting sail for the full 2014 World Cruise, you will enjoy exclusive savings and amenities:

• World Cruise Gala and overnight luxury hotel accommodations on eve of departure in Los Angeles
• Two exclusive shore-side events
• Special onboard events
• Specially selected gifts
• All Inclusive: complimentary specialty restaurants, fine wines, champagne, premium spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
• Complimentary gratuities for housekeeping, bar, dining and Penthouse butler staff and so much more
• Complimentary chauffeured private car transfers between your home, airport and Crystal Serenity before and after your cruise

If you prefer to sail aboard one of the five World Cruise segments, you'll be pleasantly surprised with your experience. Choose from Los Angeles to Yokohama for 22 days, Yokohama to Hong Kong for 12 days, Hong Kong to Singapore for 16 days, Singapore to Cape Town for 18 days or Cape Town to London for 21 days. Don't forget, you can book multiple segments to experience more of the world.

Crystal Cruises sets the benchmark of luxury cruising. Extraordinary service, exceptional quality and incredible choices are the hallmark. "Both the Crystal Serenity and the Crystal Symphony offer intimate spaces in understated, yet sophisticated surroundings. Spacious, contemporary staterooms have all the touches of home, plus countless enhancements you will find only on Crystal." Embark on a discovery of amazing destinations and exceptional luxury. When you set sail with Crystal Cruises "even in distant and exotic lands, luxury and value are always nearby."