Fellow cruisers,
July is here, bringing with it warm summer days that invite you to relax and escape from the everyday. We're delighted to welcome you to this new edition of our monthly CroisiMag, where we share exclusive news, highlights, and the latest updates.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy this edition of our CroisiMag as we take you on a journey through the world of travel and adventure.
A pioneer on the Mekong, the Toum Tiou I is one of our five cruise vessels navigating this legendary river through Vietnam and Cambodia. Perfect for private groups, it combines modern comfort with an intimate atmosphere, offering a truly unique way to discover riverbanks, remote villages, and bustling towns.
On board, you'll find elegant, spacious cabins, welcoming common areas, and attentive staff ready to ensure your comfort as you take in the magnificent scenery of the Mekong. What's more, cruises on the Toum Tiou I are offered at attractive rates, delivering a premium experience at a competitive price.
A cruise aboard the Toum Tiou offers the perfect opportunity to discover the richness of local culture while exploring the stunning natural landscapes of the Mekong. As you journey along this legendary river, you'll visit traditional villages, experience daily life alongside local communities, and savour authentic regional specialties. This is a voyage where history, tradition, and nature come together in an idyllic setting. The Toum Tiou I offers true immersion into the soul of the Mekong, while ensuring comfort, relaxation, and peace of mind throughout your journey.
This year the Toum Tiou I is undergoing a complete renovation to offer you an even more comfortable, modern, and welcoming experience, all while preserving its authentic charm. The cabins are being redesigned, the bathrooms upgraded, and the classic wood-panelled atmosphere will remain but with a more refined touch. Every detail has been carefully planned to blend local authenticity with contemporary comfort. We look forward to sharing photos of the renovations with you soon!
The name of this boat is inspired by one of the most iconic and tragic tales in Khmer literature. The story of Tum Teav (or Toum Tiou) is a timeless love tragedy, often referred to as the Cambodian Romeo and Juliet. It tells the story of the doomed romance between two young lovers, Tum and Teav, whose love is thwarted by societal pressures and family opposition. The tale has been passed down through generations, adapted in various forms, and remains deeply woven into Cambodian cultural heritage, it is even taught in schools today.
Tum, a poor but intelligent young man, falls in love with Teav, a beautiful young woman from a noble family. Their love is pure and heartfelt, but their differing social status and the firm opposition of Teav's family, who wish her to marry someone of her own rank, make their union impossible. Despite several attempts to escape together and the many hardships they endure, fate ultimately drives them apart. Their lives become marked by suffering and sacrifice. In a final act of despair, Tum dies tragically.
Discover a captivating cruise through Eastern Europe, from Romania, through Serbia and Croatia, to Hungary. This unforgettable journey invites you to explore grand cities, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the echoes of a rich and complex history. Aboard the MS Vivaldi, you'll visit historic landmarks, cultural highlights, and architectural gems, all while cruising along the majestic Danube River. Before your cruise, make the most of a 4-day extension in Romania, tracing the legendary footsteps of Dracula through the heart of the Carpathian Mountains.
Your journey begins in Bucharest, Romania's capital, often called the "Little Paris of the Balkans" for its grand architecture and welcoming atmosphere. You'll stroll along its broad boulevards, relax in leafy parks, and delve into the city's rich and fascinating history. Next, travel to Predeal, a mountain resort famed for its breathtaking scenery, where you'll check into your 4-star hotel. Perched at an altitude of 1,060 meters, Predeal is the perfect base for exploring the Carpathian region, these legendary mountains in the heart of Romania, where unspoiled wilderness meets a storied historical heritage.
A highlight of this journey is Sighisoara, a medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site encircled by imposing walls. It is a place where history and legend intertwine, most famously the legend of Dracula, whose name is inseparably linked to this region. Here, you can visit the house where Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired Bram Stoker's novel, was born. Your exploration of Transylvania continues in Brasov, a picturesque town where medieval architecture harmoniously blends with modern influences. It is home to the imposing Black Church, a masterpiece of Transylvanian Gothic art.
The journey continues to Sibiu, another jewel of Transylvania where history meets beauty. This medieval city, often ranked among the most beautiful in Europe, invites you to wander its narrow streets and vibrant squares. You'll have the chance to visit Brukenthal Palace, home to an art gallery rich in 18th-century works, as well as the Evangelical Cathedral, an impressive Gothic landmark.
A detour to Sibiel, a charming village, offers the chance to discover its Icon Museum, a true treasure of Romanian culture. Not far from there lies Bran Castle, often linked to the legend of Dracula, which promises a fascinating visit.
Built in the 14th century and perched on a rocky promontory 200 meters high, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding region and stands as a major testament to Romania's medieval history, a place where history, mystery, and legend intertwine.
The cruise then continues along the Danube-Black Sea Canal, a monumental construction project dating back to the communist era, which winds through breathtaking landscapes. The ship sails to Constanta, a historic port on the Black Sea, where you can explore fascinating remains from the Greek and Roman eras. Along the way, don't miss a tasting of local wines in Murfatlar, a renowned wine-growing region famous for its award-winning vintages.
The journey continues with a spectacular passage through the Iron Gates, a dramatic natural gorge separating the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. This impressive site is rich in history, featuring landmarks such as the Tabula Traiana, a commemorative plaque from the time of Roman Emperor Trajan, and the striking rock-carved portrait of Decebalus.
As the cruise enters the heart of the Balkans, you'll discover the iconic cities of Serbia, Croatia, and Hungary. Belgrade captivates with its eclectic architecture, where Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences meet. Explore its historic centre on foot, taking in landmarks such as Kalemegdan Park and the Belgrade Fortress. The journey continues to Novi Sad, often called the "Serbian Athens," a charming city known for its cultural vitality. In Osijek, Croatia, you'll encounter a wealth of Baroque heritage along the tranquil banks of the Drava River. The cruise concludes in Budapest, the majestic Hungarian capital, famed for its iconic bridges, historic thermal baths, and grand architecture that reflects centuries of rich history.
This cruise is a true voyage through the culture, history, and landscapes of Eastern Europe. Sailing the legendary Danube from Romania to Hungary, via Serbia and Croatia, every stop reveals the authentic charm of lesser-known destinations, each brimming with heritage, natural beauty, and cultural treasures.
Are you a wine lover? Join us for five exceptional days aboard the MS Cyrano de Bergerac, cruising through one of France's finest wine regions on a journey dedicated to wine tasting.
Between prestigious terroirs and scenic vineyards, let our onboard sommelier guide you through an unforgettable sensory journey. Sail through the heart of the Médoc with an exclusive visit to a classified grand cru château, then continue to Blaye to admire its majestic UNESCO-listed citadel while tasting the wines of the Côte de Blaye.
Finally, immerse yourself in the authenticity of Saint-Émilion, where a special meeting with a winemaker will reveal the secrets behind exceptional vintages. This wine-themed cruise is an invitation to discovery, sharing, and celebrating the rich heritage of a legendary wine region. Get ready to raise your glass to memorable moments, where every sip is a journey in itself.
India is a country where every street corner, river, and temple tells a story. Among its most captivating treasures is the Ganges, the sacred river that winds through breathtaking landscapes and places rich in spirituality. Here are six must-see sites along the Ganges, each offering an immersive journey into India's history, culture, and spiritual heritage.
Benares, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is a place where time seems to stand still. On the sacred banks of the Ganges, pilgrims gather for ritual ablutions, performing gestures that date back thousands of years. At dawn, the scene is almost surreal in its beauty, with the morning mist slowly lifting over the ghats, where water and prayer merge in a spiritual dance. Visiting Benares means immersing yourself in the very essence of Hindu culture, where every stone and every ritual is an expression of devotion.
Majestic Jaipur, known as the "Pink City," embodies the splendour of India's royal past. The Palace of Winds (Hawa Mahal), with its 953 intricately carved windows, is one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture. Built as a retreat for royal women, it allowed them to observe the bustling city while preserving their privacy. Steeped in the history of Rajasthan, this monument stands as a testament to the elegance and grandeur of Indian royalty.
Kalna, a small town in Bengal, is home to an extraordinary collection of terracotta temples, considered among the most beautiful in India. The 108 temples dedicated to Shiva are adorned with incredibly detailed carvings depicting divine and mythological scenes. This spiritual and architectural site offers a unique atmosphere, where each temple seems to tell the story of past devotions, all set in a peaceful landscape far from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Calcutta, now called Kolkata, is a vibrant city where spirituality and creativity meet. It is a center of devotion, with impressive temples like the Kali Temple that embody the religious fervour of its people. But Kolkata is also a cultural hub, alive with bustling markets, colourful festivals, and thriving arts scenes. Artists, musicians, and poets find endless inspiration in its dynamic energy.
Visitors can also pay respects at the home and tomb of Mother Teresa, a serene place where she lived and worked for the most disadvantaged. From sacred sites to artistic neighborhoods, Kolkata invites discovery, blending spirituality with the vibrancy of urban life.
The Taj Mahal in Agra is one of the world's most iconic monuments, a timeless symbol of love. This white marble mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, is an architectural masterpiece that leaves visitors speechless.
At dawn, the gentle light caresses its marble walls, creating a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The Taj Mahal is not only a triumph of design and craftsmanship but also a moving testament to human love, forever etched in stone.
Amber Fort, perched on a hill just outside Jaipur, is a true masterpiece of Rajput architecture. Dating back to the 16th century, it immerses visitors in the history of Rajasthan with its imposing ramparts, lush gardens, and splendid rooms adorned with mosaics and precious stones.
Within the fort lies the Amber Palace, a marvel of design with elegant pavilions, shaded courtyards, and spectacular views of the surrounding valley. This site transports visitors to a time when rajas travelled by palanquin and royal ceremonies unfolded beneath intricate frescoes and carved arcades. Amber Fort is a symbol of the grandeur and power of Rajasthan's royal heritage, a place where history and beauty come together in an idyllic setting.
These six exceptional sites bear witness to India's rich history, culture, and spirituality, making them unforgettable highlights of our cruise along the Ganges. From the architectural splendour of the Taj Mahal to the spiritual serenity of Benares, each stop offers a unique experience that reveals India in all its many facets. Whether you're passionate about history, culture, or spirituality, these places will take you on a fascinating journey into the heart of the Indian soul.
Set Sail for the Jewels of the Mediterranean!
In our latest video, step aboard La Belle de l'Adriatique and discover sun-drenched landscapes,
timelessly charming cities, and the gentle pleasures of cruising in style.
Ever dreamed of exploring Belgium from a whole new perspective? Step aboard the MS Raymonde, one of our intimate 22-passenger barges, and discover historic towns, peaceful canals, and plenty of charm along the way. We're excited to share this fantastic video from In The Loop Travel who joined us for this brand-new barge cruise itinerary and captured the full experience, from fascinating stops to delicious onboard dining and slow travel at its finest.