Ready for Asia?

 

 

Julie and I just returned from China.

 

 

While we previously had put our toes in Asia with ports in Turkey, this was our first immersive experience in the orient, and we definitely want to return.

 

 

It is an entirely new world to explore.

 

Shoppers, history buffs, art lovers and port collectors will all find plenty to love in China, as they also will in Japan and many other Asian nations.

 

We chose to take a packaged land tour this time.

 

 

 

 

I would recommend the alternative tour that includes a Yangtze River cruise or perhaps going with a slower paced tour group, because while we definitely saw many fascinating places, we did not come back from this vacation well-rested and rejuvenated as we would from a cruise.

 

 

We loved an included one-hour evening cruise in Shanghai past the incredible illuminated skyline that you may recall from the James Bond movie "Skyfall," which is truly incredible.

 

 

 

 

Several cruise lines including Holland America, Celebrity, Cunard and Royal Caribbean start or end cruises in Shanghai.  Are you ready to go?

 

 

What are you waiting for, Christmas?

 

 

It just so happens that in December, Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas does 4 and 5 night cruises to Japan from Shanghai, so you could check two major Asian countries plus an awesome super-ship off your bucket list on a holiday shopping trip.

 

 

 

Or for a luxurious long voyage, how taking your honey aboard Holland America Westerdam around Asia for the ultimate Valentine's Day present?

 

 

Let's plan your next great vacation together!