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Viking Offers Mississippi River Cruises on Spacious, Innovative Ship

3/30/2020

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Viking Mississippi is due to set sail on Mississippi River cruises in 2022. // All renderings in this post courtesy of Viking
By John Roberts
Viking is set to expand its rapidly growing portfolio of destination-focused cruises with an exciting new custom-built ship and immersive program for the mighty Mississippi River.
Viking Mississippi is scheduled to debut in August 2022. It will carry up to 386 passengers in 193 all-balcony cabins and will feature voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi, sailing between New Orleans and St. Paul, Minnesota.
The announcement of Viking's new ship signals the advent of modern river cruising in the United States. Viking Mississippi offers a sleek design in keeping with the Scandinavian styles and comforts seen on Viking's river vessels on the European rivers, as well as the cruise company's wildly popular 930-passenger ocean ships and the coming expedition fleet that will sail the Arctic, Antarctica and Great Lakes.
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Viking Mississippi will sail to St. Louis and several other cities and communities along the river.
Viking's arrival also represents a major commitment to tourism and economic development in many communities along the Mississippi River. For example, the planned Mississippi River cruise itineraries reach 15 destinations within seven states: Louisiana (Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans and St. Francisville); Mississippi (Natchez and Vicksburg); Tennessee (Memphis); Missouri (Hannibal, St. Louis); Iowa (Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport); Wisconsin (La Crosse); and Minnesota (St. Paul and Red Wing).
"I am pleased to introduce a new, modern way to explore this great river," Viking chairman Torstein Hagen said. "We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we got our start 23 years ago -- first on the rivers of Russia and then in Europe. Since then, many people have come to appreciate the unique exploration that comes with river cruising.
"But currently, there are very few options to do so on American rivers."
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The unveiling of its Mississippi River cruise program continues a Viking trend to bring more immersive options to curious travelers. Viking has been expanding its fleet and destination-focused itineraries for years.
In January 2020, the company unveiled 
Viking Expeditions, with the first 378-passenger purpose-built expedition ship, Viking Octantis, set to launch in January 2022 on voyages to Antarctica and North America's Great Lakes. A second expedition vessel, Viking Polaris, will debut in August 2022, sailing to Antarctica and the Arctic. In the past eight years, Viking has introduced more than 60 new river cruise ships and six ocean cruise ships to become the largest small-ship cruise line -- with a current fleet of 79 river and ocean vessels around the world.
About Viking Mississippi
Hosting 386 cruisers in 193 staterooms, the state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking's award-winning river and ocean ships. Viking Mississippi will feature clean Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces reimagined for Mississippi River voyages. The ship is under construction in Louisiana, and the five-deck vessel's cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities will make it the largest and most modern cruise ship in the region.
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Deluxe Veranda stateroom
Highlights of the new ship include:
All Outside Staterooms
Passengers can choose from seven spacious stateroom categories that range from 268 square feet to 1,024 square feet: Veranda, French Balcony, Deluxe Veranda, Penthouse Veranda, Penthouse Junior Suite, Terrace Suite and Explorer Suite.
All staterooms feature a private veranda or French balcony, king-size bed with luxury linens, large flat-screen interactive TV, mini-bar, large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor and 24-hour room service.
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Explorer Suite
Viking Suites
Viking Mississippi will have some of the largest suites on the river, with every suite offering two rooms and a full-size veranda off the big sitting room. Cruisers who book Penthouse Junior Suites (400 square feet) and Terrace Suites (425 square feet) receive early stateroom access, and the rooms feature expanded double-sink bathrooms, mini-bars with alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water and snacks replenished daily, welcome champagne and laundry, pressing and shoe-shine services.
Passengers in the expansive Explorer Suites (657 square feet to 1,024 square feet) also receive a wraparound veranda and complimentary Silver Spirits beverage package.
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Explorers' Lounge
Explorers' Lounge and The Bow
Frequent cruisers on Viking's ocean ships consider the Explorers' Lounge one of the top onboard public spaces. Viking Mississippi will feature an Explorers' Lounge near the bow of the ship. The sun-filled, two-story lounge offers floor-to-ceiling windows that open to The Bow, a unique outdoor seating area at the front of the ship where you can relax with ever-changing riverside views.
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River Cafe
River Cafe
From American classics to Mamsen's Norwegian specialties, this indoor/outdoor dining venue on the top deck offers alternative restaurant dining in a casual al fresco setting.
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Aquavit Terrace
Aquavit Terrace
A public space beloved by many of Viking's ocean and river cruisers, Viking Mississippi also features a revolutionary Aquavit Terrace on the top deck, providing a casual dining space offering an American barbecue experience.
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Sun Terrace and pool area
Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool
Similar to Viking's ocean ships, Viking Mississippi will have a glass-backed pool at the aft of the ship, offering the chance to take a dip while enjoying the surrounding sights.
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The Living Room
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The Living Room
Clean Scandinavian design paired with American influences, the Living Room on Deck 1 is designed for socializing, relaxing and entertainment. Nearby, in a quiet corner, The Library is a perfect place to discover a new book.
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The Restaurant
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The Restaurant
The main dining venue on Deck 1 serves daily menus featuring delicious regional cuisine and always available classics prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
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The Bow outdoor area
360-Degree Promenade Deck
This refreshing outdoor area allows you to stroll the entire perimeter ship on Deck 1, a delightful way to get some exercise while viewing scenic landscapes and regional wildlife.
Enrichment Programming
Viking strives to connect travelers to their destinations through authentic experiences. Viking Mississippi will feature a focus on cultural enrichment. Passengers can experience "Destination Performances" that represent the most iconic music of the region -- as well as guest lecturers that reveal the region's art, architecture, history, culture, natural world and more.
For examples, on Viking's Mississippi River cruises, passengers may also choose to take a guided kayaking trip in the Louisiana bayou; visit a working farm in Quad Cities; or immerse themselves in Cajun culture during a Privileged Access excursion to the Rural Life Museum of Louisiana State University.
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Viking Mississippi will feature solar panels and other systems that will make it the most sustainable ship on the Mississippi River.
Sustainable Features
Solar panels, LED lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light and an energy-efficient hybrid propulsion system will make Viking Mississippi the most environmentally friendly cruise ship on the Mississippi River.
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The Explorers' Lounge features panoramic views.
Value with Inclusions
Cruise fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals and all port charges and government taxes. You also enjoy many complimentary amenities, including beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service and free Wi-Fi.
A look at more suites and spaces onboard Viking Mississippi
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Aft Explorer Suite
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Explorer Suite living room
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Explorer Suite veranda
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Penthouse Junior Suite
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Penthouse Veranda stateroom
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Terrace Suite
A Look at the Cruises on Viking Mississippi
America's Heartland (8 days; St. Louis to St. Paul) -- From pretty farms situated in the rolling terrain to tributaries dotted with wooded islands, the Upper Mississippi offers natural beauty around every bend. This journey introduces you to the locks and dams that control the flow of the heartland rivers. Hear stories of settlers migrating west; learn about Lewis and Clark, Mark Twain, John Deere and the Amish and Norwegian migrations; experience the regional music like polka and Norwegian folk; and taste regional cuisine showcasing local beer, produce and Wisconsin cheese.
Heart of the Delta (8 days; New Orleans to Memphis) -- This journey on the Lower Mississippi is infused with American history, culture and heritage. Tour the area where the migrating French and Acadians settled; immerse yourself in the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement; discover the music of the South -- jazz, blues and gospel; and experience the life and food culture of the south, from Cajun and Creole to the famed Memphis barbecue.
Southern Celebration (8 days; roundtrip New Orleans to Vicksburg) -- On this exploration of the Lower Mississippi, visit the historic homes of Louisiana and Mississippi; learn about Civil War history, touring sites like Vicksburg National Military Park; and discover the excitement and unique flavors of New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
America's Great River (15 days; New Orleans to St. Paul) -- Experience nearly the entire length of the Mississippi River on this epic journey from the Gulf of Mexico to the northernmost reaches of the United States. Relax and enjoy the variety of scenery, foliage and wildlife on this leisurely voyage. Experience southern charm and beautifully preserved homes in Natchez; retrace the steps of Civil Rights leaders in Memphis; ascend the Gateway Arch in St. Louis; and visit "The Norwegian Valley" in La Crosse.
"The Mississippi River is closer to home for many of our guests, and no other waterway has played such an important role in America’s history, commerce and culture," Hagen says.

We're extremely excited to try out this ship. What Mississippi River cruise itinerary would you choose? I think the longer the better.

Thanks for reading,
JR
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A Quick Cruise Port Guide for Malaga, Spain

3/28/2020

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By John Roberts
Port Guide: Malaga, Spain
Malaga is a gorgeous beachside city in southern Spain. The town is a part of the stunning Costa del Sol community in the Andalusia region of the country.
This region and its charming communities are a haven for beach lovers, with numerous towns and villages lining the coast along the Mediterranean Sea. The city is within a short walk from the cruise pier, and aside from the beautiful beaches, attractions include museums, restaurants and offers something for everyone.
Malaga is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. The Museo Picasso Malaga features almost 300 works donated by the family of the famous artist and pride of the city. Moorish architecture is a highlight and is featured prominently in castles and structures around the city.
Cruisers who visit Malaga can easily pack a lot of activity into their days. Maybe you want to visit gorgeous cathedrals, spend time at a beach, hit up the shops or settle into a cafe or tapas bar to savor some Spanish wine and food while enjoying the weather and people watching.

What We Enjoyed

Beach and Boardwalk. The cruise pier is about a 10-minute walk to an adjacent bustling beach area that extends for about a mile along the coast. The boardwalk and beach complex offers dozens of restaurants, bars and shops. We saw hundreds of people sprawled out and enjoying the sunshine and splashing in the water -- tourists, residents and families. The boardwalk is a wide and well-developed path, ideal for jogging, walking and biking.
This area is a definite highlight because it is such a convenient location for passengers arriving on cruises to Malaga who seek a relaxing day in the sun.

Gibralfaro Castle. The Moorish fortress dates to the 14th century. This structure is an iconic landmark and one of the most-visited attraction in Malaga. It sits high on a hill, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. There are amazing views from up here. This fortress was considered the most secure on the Iberian peninsula, and it features two long walls and eight towers. You walk the entire perimter of the fortress during your visit.

Also Known For

Alcazaba. This structure was built during an era in Malaga that marked the Moorish rule of the region. Alcazaba is Arabic for citadel, and this complex is regarded as one of Malaga's most important historic sites. It's built on the hill in the center of the city and is secured by two walls. The Alcazaba is home to the Museum of Malaga.
The Cathedral. Malaga's cathedral is a stunner and easy to reach. From the Plaza de la Marina, head along Calle Molina Larios into the Old Town area. You'll see the cathedral's twin-towered facade as a beacon. The 16th-century church was constructed on the site of an earlier mosque. It's easily one of the most beautiful cathedrals in southern Spain.
Mercado Central de Atarazanas. The bustling city market is housed in a refurbished shipyard facility that features the original, centuries-old marble archway entrance and stunning stained-glass windows. Vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and more. This is a nice place to stop by for a snack or lunch.

More on Malaga

It's Perfect for Beach Bums. The city is a true beach town, with 15 sandy spots located in and around Malaga. The beaches are a hot spot for fitness fanatics, too, with jogging and biking paths and "fitness stations" installed along the way. La Malagueta Beach is easily accessible for cruisers, as it is located near the city center and pier.
Bull Fights Still Happen. At the center of the city, the large bullring, Plaza de toros de la Malagueta, is designated as a cultural asset of Spain. Many around the world object to the sport, but bullfighting season at the 14,000-seat stadium is from April to September.

Thanks for reading. We hope this helps you during your visit to Malaga.

JR
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Stuck at Home? Use the Time to Prepare for Your Next Adventure

3/23/2020

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By John Roberts
One of my favorite travel companies, Backroads, offers a whole range of expertise and tips for how you can use your time at home to get in better shape for you upcoming active-travel vacations.
Backroads' ProTips were created by the company's trip leaders, fellow travelers and industry experts. These tips are designed to help people prepare and train for a biking or hiking vacation.
Backroads has created a website as a resource so that you can access all the tips and workouts, as well as shop for the best gear and learn about nutrition and other topics to help you get prepared for an active travel experience.
You can access Backroads' ProTips here.
I have taken three separate trips with Backroads and had an amazing time pushing myself through physical challenges while exploring some of the most beautiful and enriching places in the world.
Read more about my Backroads trips:
15 Things to Know Before You Visit New Zealand
Seven Things About a Biking Trip with Backroads and AmaWaterways
A Biking Cruise on the Danube River
The Joy of a Hiking Cruise in Europe with Backroads
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Now, here are some suggestions from Backroads to help you plan for your upcoming adventures.
Training for a cycling trip:
Whether you're out riding in the neighborhood, or training on a stationary bike, here are some tips to help with training.
Build up mileage. You can effectively build up endurance by layering on mileage gains over time. Start with low mileage and then incrementally add on additional miles week by week. For example, start with 25 miles in the first two weeks. Then, rest, and up the mileage to 30 miles and eventually 35 miles. It's important to make rest days a part of your training plan to allow your body to recover.
Ride intervals. Alternating periods of "all-out" effort and then easier riding helps with getting faster and stronger on the bike.
Cross train. Varying exercise helps build other muscle groups. Adding different forms of cardio as well as resistance training (weight lifting) or yoga helps you gain strength and prevent injuries.
Stretch. It's beneficial to stretch before and after a bike ride or spin class.
Try these pre-ride stretches: shoulder rolls, neck and wrist stretches and lower back twists. 
And post-ride stretches: chest opener, forward fold, standing hamstring stretch, standing figure-four stretch and quad stretch.
Hydration. Drink water or a sports drink throughout your workouts or rides and always take an extra bottle along or refill your bottle often.
Stay energized. You need proper fuel for your workouts. Eat energy bars, stop for a healthy lunch, or eat almonds, candy or other snacks to keep energy up. To avoid bonking, don't overeat before a ride.
Ride at your own pace. Avoid burnout by cycling at a consistent pace that is right for your ability.
Preparing for a hiking trip:
Hiking is a beautiful way to enjoy nature and get exercise at the same time. Preparing for a hiking trip -- short or long -- is important so that you can have a wonderful time without getting injured or feeling overwhelmed.
Food. Trail mix, energy bars and fruit all make great snacks. Make sure to put plenty of snacks in your packs because you will work up an appetite during your hikes.
Water. Hydration is always important, no matter the weather conditions. Bring plenty of water along and sip frequently from your bottle.
Stretching. Stretching before and after your hike helps you enjoy a greater range of motion and flexibility. It also lessens the amount of soreness after your hike.
Try these pre-hike stretches: calf stretch, standing quad stretch, shoulder rolls, hamstring stretch, wrist stretch and neck stretch.
And post-hike stretches: standing saddle stretch, lunges, rag doll pose and ankle stretches.
You can also find information a range of other topics, such as choosing bike seats, how to set up your bike properly and buying hiking boots at the ProTips section of the Backroads website.

Thanks for reading and always travel fit, travel happy, travel often.
JR
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