Cruise and Travel Specialists

09/08/2024

Lanzarote, known for its volcanic landscapes, hides a surprising fact: it’s home to the world’s first underwater museum, Museo Atlántico. Located off Playa Blanca, this unique attraction features over 300 sculptures submerged at depths of 12-15 meters. Divers and snorkelers can explore this eerie, artistic reef, which also promotes marine conservation. It's a must-see for art lovers and adventure seekers alike.

09/05/2024

Madeira, known for its stunning landscapes, hides a surprising secret: it’s home to one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions. Since the 15th century, Madeira wine has been aged using a unique heating process, giving it a distinct flavor. Visitors can tour ancient wine cellars and taste vintages that date back over a century, offering a rare glimpse into the island's rich vinicultural history.

09/02/2024

The Aleutian Islands, often known for their rugged beauty, hide a surprising fact: they're home to America's most westerly point, Attu Island. This remote island was the site of a World War II battle, making it a rare piece of U.S. history. Today, adventurous tourists can explore the island's wild landscapes, birdwatch, and discover remnants of wartime history, offering a unique and remote travel experience.

08/29/2024

Trondheim, Norway, is famous for its Nidaros Cathedral, but a surprising gem is the hidden Munkholmen Island. Once a Viking ex*****on site, it later served as a monastery, fortress, and prison. Accessible by boat, this island offers stunning views of the Trondheim fjord, fascinating historical tours, and a serene beach for picnics. Munkholmen’s rich history and scenic beauty make it a must-visit for intrepid travelers.

08/27/2024

The White Tower in London is renowned for its royal history and imposing architecture, but a surprising fact is its role as a royal menagerie. From the 13th to 19th centuries, it housed exotic animals like lions, elephants, and even a polar bear that fished in the Thames. Today, visitors can explore the Tower's history and view fascinating exhibits, making it a must-see for those intrigued by this unique aspect of royal life.

08/26/2024

Italy, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is a treasure trove of artistic traditions. Among these, glass blowing stands out as an enchanting craft that has been perfected over centuries. For tourists, experiencing glass blowing in Italy, especially in Venice and Umbria, offers a unique blend of art, history, and hands-on learning.

A Rich History in Glass Italy, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is a treasure trove of artistic traditions. Among these, glass blowing stands out as an enchanting craft that has been perfected over centuries. For tourists, experiencing glass blowing in Italy, especially in Venice and Umbri...

08/26/2024

https://youtu.be/ig9Tnwx63lk
Ken and Lauren discuss five different Europe Christmas markets; what to see and expect plus Lauren has advice for anyone thinking of taking a river cruise to see the markets. Have you been on such a cruise? If so, what were your favorite markets? Post some photos too if you have them!!

08/22/2024

Scotland is famous for its legends, but a little-known tale is that of the Kelpie, a shape-shifting water spirit said to haunt rivers and lochs. These mythical creatures often appear as beautiful horses, luring unsuspecting travelers to a watery fate. The Kelpies are celebrated at The Helix park near Falkirk in Scotland, where visitors can marvel at the towering, 30-meter sculptures.

08/20/2024

Athens is famed for its ancient ruins, but a surprising fact is the hidden Plaka neighborhood, which features a labyrinth of narrow streets and neoclassical houses that predate modern urban planning. This charming area, often overlooked, offers a glimpse into traditional Athenian life, with quaint cafes, artisan shops, and historic architecture. Exploring Plaka provides a delightful, off-the-beaten-path experience amid the city's rich history.

08/15/2024

Victoria Falls, known for its breathtaking waterfalls, hides a surprising gem: the Devil's Pool. This natural infinity pool is located on the edge of the falls and offers daring visitors the chance to swim right up to the precipice. Accessible during the dry season, this exhilarating experience provides a unique vantage point and an unforgettable adventure, adding a thrilling twist to the traditional Victoria Falls visit.

08/13/2024

The Guernsey Islands are known for their stunning coastlines, but a surprising fact is their wartime history preserved in the German Occupation Museum. During WWII, Guernsey was occupied by German forces, and this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life during the occupation. Visitors can explore artifacts, documents, and recreations, providing a unique and educational perspective on this lesser-known chapter of the islands' past.

08/08/2024

Milan, known for its fashion and design, has a quirky side: the "Milan Cathedral's Golden Madonnina" statue. A fun fact is that this golden figure, atop the cathedral, was once the highest point in Milan. Local legend says touching the Madonnina brings good luck. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the cathedral’s roof and partake in this charming local tradition for a bit of Milanese magic.

08/06/2024

Land's End, Cornwall, is famed for its rugged cliffs and ocean views, but a surprising find is the nearby Minack Theatre. This open-air theater, carved into the granite cliffs by Rowena Cade, offers stunning seaside performances. Overlooking the Atlantic, it hosts a variety of plays and musicals. The combination of dramatic arts and natural beauty makes Minack Theatre a must-visit, offering an unforgettable cultural experience at Land's End.

08/01/2024

Vienna's iconic coffee culture holds a fun secret: the city is home to the "Viennese Green Prater" amusement park. Opened in 1766, it's one of the oldest parks of its kind in the world. A hidden gem within is the historic Ferris wheel, offering panoramic views of Vienna. Combining nostalgia with breathtaking sights, it adds a delightful twist to the city’s elegant charm, making it a must-visit for a fun experience.

07/30/2024

https://cruztrav.com/the-fountains-of-rome/
Did you know Rome has more fountains than any other city in the world? There are over two thousand fountains scattered over the city, with fifty standing as major monuments and others varying in size and importance. Have a fountain "scavenger hunt" and see Rome differently!

07/30/2024

Cartagena, Colombia, is renowned for its vibrant colonial architecture, but a surprising gem is its subterranean Inquisition Palace dungeons. These eerie chambers once held prisoners during the Spanish Inquisition. Now, they house a museum showcasing torture devices and historical artifacts. Exploring these dungeons offers a chilling glimpse into Cartagena's dark past, adding a unique and educational experience for adventurous visitors.

07/29/2024

https://youtu.be/VBqGbV_l330
Uncertain when to river cruise? What happens if the river levels are too low or too high? Stop worrying and go with the flow (pun intended)! Lauren Matthews, real travel expert and travel specialist from Cruise & Travel Specialists in Oregon discusses this issue with host, Ken, on the latest segment of "Just River Cruises".

07/25/2024

St. John's, Newfoundland, is known for its colorful row houses and Signal Hill, but a surprising gem is Quidi Vidi, a quaint fishing village within the city. Home to one of North America's oldest breweries, Quidi Vidi offers craft beer tastings, scenic views, and a rich history. Visitors can explore the charming harbor, enjoy fresh seafood, and immerse themselves in the unique maritime culture of this hidden gem.

07/23/2024

The Falkirk Wheel, a marvel of modern engineering in Scotland, is the world’s only rotating boat lift, connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. A surprising fact is that it uses minimal energy—equivalent to boiling eight kettles. This eco-friendly innovation offers boat trips and interactive exhibits, making it a fascinating destination for anyone intrigued by sustainable engineering and unique design.

07/17/2024

Arles, France, is renowned for its Roman ruins and Van Gogh’s legacy, but a surprising gem is the Alyscamps, an ancient Roman necropolis. Once a major burial ground, it became a medieval pilgrimage site, depicted by Van Gogh and Gauguin. Strolling through its tree-lined avenue and ancient sarcophagi offers a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into history, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique experience in Arles.

07/15/2024

Christchurch, NZ, renowned for its English heritage, has a surprising twist: it’s home to the International Antarctic Centre. This attraction offers tourists a chance to experience Antarctic life through interactive exhibits, simulated storms, and encounters with penguins. Situated near the Antarctic research hub, Christchurch is a gateway to the frozen continent, adding a unique, adventurous edge to its charm.

07/11/2024

Denali National Park, known for its towering peak, holds a lesser-known marvel: the aurora borealis. From late August to April, tourists can witness the northern lights painting the Alaskan sky in vibrant colors. This stunning natural light show, coupled with Denali's pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife, offers a mesmerizing experience for visitors seeking adventure and awe-inspiring beauty.

07/09/2024

Dürnstein, Germany, offers more than picturesque landscapes; it boasts a surprising historic link to the English crown. The town’s castle once imprisoned King Richard the Lionheart in 1192, following his capture during the Crusades. Tourists can hike to the castle ruins, enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube River, and delve into medieval history, making Dürnstein a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

07/04/2024

Boston, renowned for its historic Freedom Trail, has a surprising secret: it’s home to the country's first public park. Boston Common, established in 1634, spans 50 acres and offers a green oasis in the city’s heart. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, frog ponds, and historic monuments. This tranquil space, steeped in history, provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural significance for tourists.

07/02/2024

The Giant's Causeway near Bushmills, N. Ireland, famed for its basalt columns, inspired the legend of the giant Finn McCool. According to lore, Finn built the causeway to challenge a Scottish giant. This myth adds a magical dimension to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tourists marvel at the unique geology while immersing in the enchanting tales that make this Irish coastal gem a true wonder.

07/02/2024

https://youtu.be/5lf8ZTS2kdM
Travel Expert Lauren Matthews, a travel specialist with Cruise & Travel Specialists of Lake Oswego, Oregon, joins Ken of RTE Travel Talk to to dive deep into the world of river cruising, focusing on the two R’s: Riverside Luxury and Rivera River Cruises, and how they stack up against the renowned Viking River Cruises.

06/27/2024

The Grand Cayman, famed for its beaches, hides a unique underwater marvel: the "Kittiwake" wreck. This former U.S. Navy submarine rescue ship was deliberately sunk in 2011 to create an artificial reef. Now a top dive site, the Kittiwake offers tourists an exceptional experience to explore marine life thriving around the shipwreck, making it a must-visit for diving enthusiasts and marine adventurers.

06/26/2024

https://cruztrav.com/hydra-greece/
Nestled in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, Hydra is a gem of the Aegean Sea that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As you approach the island by ferry, about a 90 minutes journey from Piraeus (Athens), the first sight of Hydra’s charming harbor, framed by traditional stone houses and vibrant bougainvillea, feels like stepping into a picturesque painting.

Hydra is one of the famous Greek islands, only 50 square km in area, with a population of a few thousand souls – not counting tourists. It is rocky land, with pebbly beaches, and many high hills. It was, ...

06/25/2024

Andorra, nestled in the Pyrenees, hides a fascinating secret: it has no national bank and no national currency of its own. Instead, it uses both the Euro and, historically, the French Franc and Spanish Peseta. This unique financial situation reflects Andorra's blend of French and Spanish influences. Tourists enjoy this charming principality for its ski resorts, duty-free shopping, and rich cultural tapestry.

06/20/2024

Panama Viejo, also known as Old Panama, is a historic district in Panama City, Panama. Founded in 1519 by Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias Dávila, it was the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. In 1671, the notorious English pirate Henry Morgan attacked and sacked Panama Viejo, causing extensive destruction. The devastation was so severe that the city was eventually abandoned, and a new Panama City was founded a few kilometers to the southwest in 1673. In 1997, Panama Viejo, along with the historic district of Panama City (Casco Viejo), was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.