~ Sail Portugal and Spain’s Douro River Valley with Uniworld ~
Just as champagne must come from the Champagne region of France, Port must come from Portugal – at least to officially be called such. Travel with Uniworld to learn from Portuguese winemakers how they produce the sweet fortified dessert wine associated with this region. Be wined and dined in a rustic family run pousada, feast at a 14th-Century Benedictine Monastery and in an 18th-Century mansion overlooking the Douro, and sample glasses of port and other renowned Spanish and Portuguese wines – along the way.
Uniworld’s Douro River Valley Grand River Cruise begins with a two-night hotel stay in Lisbon before embarking on a seven-night cruise along one of Europe’s most unspoiled rivers with endless vineyards. Stroll the UNESCO World Heritage City, Salamanca, Spain, and lunch on traditional paella with Sangria. Visit Medieval Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo situated high in the hills with its breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the valley below, and along the way uncover a land of unspoiled beauty and charm.
The Douro River Valley package is priced from $1,799 per person, exclusive of airfare. Enjoy a river-view stateroom onboard the Douro Queen, sumptuous meals, lively entertainment, and eight exciting excursions led by English-speaking guides. For additional savings, book and deposit your cruise by March 31, 2008, and save $300 per couple.
Los Angeles-based Uniworld Grand River Cruises, the premier river cruise company, was recently named to Conde Nast Traveler’s 2008 Gold List and voted among the World’s Top 10 Small Cruise Lines. Uniworld features intimate boutique, hotel-style cruise ships designed for the experienced traveler, expertly planned itineraries with custom-blended, included shore excursions, and an all-English speaking staff and crew. It offers 500 departures on more than 35 itineraries sailing on 12 rivers in over 20 countries across four continents.
