Celebrate World Tourism Day

Today is World Tourism Day

September 27th is a day to observe all the wonderful things about travel and vacations.  

A great getaway relieves stress and brings people together.  It can also give us a chance to learn about new cultures, visit historic places, taste exciting foods, and experience new things.  Let us help you see the world.

"Let us work together to maximize the immense potential of tourism to drive inclusive economic growth, protect the environment and promote sustainable development and a life of dignity for all."

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon

Earlier this year, the leading global Travel & Tourism private sector and government organisations - the Global Travel Association Coalition (GTAC) -  launched a commitment for aligned advocacy and action to harness the full potential of the sector to create jobs, drive inclusive growth and foster development.

“Powering Travel & Tourism into the Next Decade: An Agenda for Growth and Development” was launched at a press conference in Madrid on the behalf of the GTAC by three of the founding members: Tony Tyler. Director General and CEO of the International Air Transport Association (IATA); Taleb Rifai, Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization of the United Nations (UNWTO); and David Scowsill, President & CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

GTAC is currently comprised of the following members: Airports Council International (ACI), Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), International Air Transport Association (IATA), International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), World Economic Forum (WEF), World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

When You Travel - You Contribute to Economic Growth

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Viking River Increases Longship Order

ADDING 14 SHIPS IN 2014

Viking Cruises announced that they have increased their Viking Longship order from 12 to 14 vessels for delivery in 2014.  The new ships will sail the line's most popular European itineraries.  The increased order reflects the popularity of river cruising as the fastest growing-segment of the travel industry and the leadership position of Viking, the world’s leading river cruise line.

With the addition of these new Longships,Viking River Cruises will have increased its fleet by 30 ships since 2011.  This is the most rapid expansion the industry has seen.  If one were to add all the ships of their competitors together, they would still rank #1.

“We are working hard to match supply with demand, and with these new builds, we have the best designed, newest and most extensive offer of ships on the rivers – more than double all our competitors combined,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking Cruises. “More than ever, travelers want experiences that bring them closer to the destination, which is why we continue to design ships and itineraries with destinations and enrichment as the focus.”

For those that are unfamiliar with river cruising, it brings an entirely new dimension to the cruise experience.  Due to the size of the vessels, it is possible for them to dock right in the heart of the destination's town.  There is no need for an elaborate pier infrastructure.  The ship could even tie up to a tree, as they due in some of the remote parts of the globe.

Walk off the ship and right into the center of action. In most cases, there is no need for a long bus ride to begin seeing the sites.   Due to the size of the ships, there are much fewer guests onboard as well, making for a more intimate experience as you get to know your fellow passengers during the cruise.

Since the number of cabins is limited on the ships, the only way for Viking River to satisfy demand is by adding additional ships.  If you'd like to try this method of cruising, you need to plan early.

RIVER CRUISING GUIDE - Discover the Beauty of River Cruising Watch videos about the Longships: World Record Ship Launching Viking River Cruises 2012 Fleet Upgrades Viking Longboats Christened Viking River Cruises Longships Update A Cruise Line is Born (Viking Cruises)