RiverViews Newsletter August 2017

E-NEWSLETTER

You deserve the best

TM

RIVERVIEWS The Uniworld River Heritage Club

2018 FESTIVALS pg 5 UNIWORLD/VIZEAT PARTNERSHIP pg 9 FROM THE KITCHEN OF BEA TOLLMAN pg 11

August 2017

IN THIS ISSUE

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, ELLEN S 360

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Q&A WITH RIVER EMPRESS CAPTAIN, FERDY SAVELKOULS

UNIQUELY UNIWORLD

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VIZEAT & UNIWORLD

2018 FESTIVALS GUEST SPOTLIGHT

11 FROM THE KITCHEN OF BEA TOLLMAN

#ExploreUniworld

August 2017

Ellen’s 360° This month (and this week, especially), there was one topic that you couldn’t turn on the TV or open up your news app without hearing about: the solar eclipse. Many of you were likely in on the excitement, some traveling great distances to get the optimal view.

And don’t get me wrong; while the actual natural phenomenon was pretty incredible, that’s not what necessarily caused all of the hype.

We were drawn to the eclipse because it was a once-in-a-lifetime event and an experience that could be simultaneously shared between millions.

That sounds a lot like why we choose to travel and why our guests choose to travel with Uniworld. We’re all attracted to the rare, extraordinary, atypical. Curiosity is engrained within human nature.

A major goal of ours at Uniworld is to provide guests with personalized experiences and opportunities for cultural enrichment that can’t be found elsewhere. Your voyage may lead to a private tour of a famous museum, or provide the opportunity to visit an esteemed vineyard and learn of the winemaking processes directly from the owners. ‘Unique’ is part of our name, and we want to make sure your cruise is tailored to your tastes and in a class of its own.

Choose from select 2018 sailings and book by September 30, 2017, and you’ll receive up to $1,000 off your cruise fare per person, combinable with your 5% River Heritage Club Savings and our 2018 Early Booking savings, PLUS any of our current offers.* A total eclipse may only come around every 40 years, but in 2018, we’ll have many once-in-a-lifetime opportunities of our own, and they may be just what you need to make your next trip a masterpiece.

Ellen Bettridge PRESIDENT & CEO Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

I invite you to join us in 2018 to take part in an unparalleled experience onboard one of the many ships in our boutique collection. Our team has crafted our best set of itineraries to date, and I am personally excited for what this next year holds.

As a loyal guest, we want to first say ‘thank you’ for your continued support and the encouraging and kind words we hear from many of you following your voyage. When you join us again, in 2018, we’d like to share with you an offer that’s exclusive to River Heritage Club members. *Visit uniworld.com for complete offer details, terms and conditions.

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Uniquely

UNIWORLD

“

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

–Thomas Merton

”

Take a trip with us back to Central Park in Manhattan, New York City during the 1960s. At the intersection of Central Park West and West 66th Street, down a cobblestone road, you spot a horse-drawn carriage, sitting under a red awning that’s painted with the name Tavern on the Green. You stroll in and the maître d’ instructs his staff to prepare a table for you in this famed restaurant. As you’re being seated, you look up to see a stunning 10-foot Strauss Baccarat chandelier, clad in huge blue sapphire crystals. It’s a sight to behold.

Flash forward many years. Our Uniworld design team got word that Tavern on the Green was going through a remodel, and this was music to our ears. After negotiations, we acquired that striking fixture, which now proudly hangs in the two-story foyer of our first Super Ship, S.S. Antoinette.

The former Tavern chandelier is just one of several illustrious light fixtures and statement pieces that can be found on our ships. Every destination tells a story, and so does the décor onboard.

CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES, ALL OVER THE WORLD.

As a luxury river cruise line that prides itself on providing guests with extraordinary experiences, we appreciate the art of throwing a fantastic party. Turns out, many cities and countries around the world value a celebratory get-together, too. Our ships dock in the city centers of amazing destinations at the right time and place for you to take advantage of local events and festivals. Check out what’s on the calendar for 2018 and make the most of your time onshore.

BASTILLE DAY JULY 14, 2018 Location: Paris, France Experience it on: 2018 Paris and Normandy, July 8 cruise

This French national holiday pays tribute to the Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789. The city of Paris celebrates each year with a grand military parade along the Champs-Élysées, a reenactment of the storming, public dances throughout all of France, and an impressive display of fireworks.

Relax in a recliner on the top deck of the S.S. Joie de Vivre and enjoy. It’s the best seat in the house for the fireworks show.

SUMMER NIGHT CONCERT IN THE GARDENS OF SCHONBRUNN PALACE MAY 31, 2018 Location: Vienna, Austria Experience it on: 2018 Enchanting Danube and Munich, May 25 cruise/tour

The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra is regularly considered the greatest in the world. Seeing the orchestra perform is a rare treat in itself, but when you get to view it from the spectacular gardens of Schonbrunn Palace, the experience is one of a kind.

This annual free open-air concert hosts many key musicians and conductors each year. For optimal seats, we recommend arriving well before the official entrance of 6:30pm. It’s well worth it.

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BORDEAUX WINE FESTIVAL AND TALL SHIPS REGATTA JUNE 14-18, 2018 Location: Bordeaux, France Experience it on: 2018 Bordeaux, Vineyards, and Chateaux, June 10, June 17 cruises

Wine and ships are two of our favorite pastimes, and in 2018, these two events will come together in Bordeaux for a week of luxurious celebration.

During the wine festival, more than 80 vendors form a 1¼ mile wine road along the banks of the Garonne, and you can sample many different delicious wines from the Bordeaux and Aquitaine regions.

2018 is extra-special, however, as thirty of the most beautiful ships in the world will make their way to Bordeaux from Liverpool. Once there, they’ll recreate the spectacular visit of the Cutty Sark Tall Ships’ Race in 1990, right in the port where we are docked. Before (or after) you taste some of the world’s best wines, you can step onboard these beautiful vessels for a tour.

If we had to choose just one week to spend in France, this would be it.

OKTOBERFEST SEPTEMBER 22 – OCTOBER 10, 2018 Location: Munich, Germany Experience it on: 2018 Enchanting Danube and Munich, September 28 cruise/tour

We’re sure little explanation is needed for the biggest beer festival in the world. Come hungry and thirsty and leave full of new Munchener beer, Steckerl-fisch, or stick-fried fish, tasty sausages of all sizes and shapes and plump chickens and whole oxen, spit-roasted over pan fires. Beer lovers near and far will be attending, so plan ahead and get your tickets as early as you can. Cheers!

CZECH BEER FESTIVAL MAY 11-27, 2018 Location: Prague, Czech Republic Experience it on: 2018 Enchanting Danube and Prague, May 6, May 20 cruise/tours

It’s one of the most popular events in the Czech Republic, and it’s easy to see why, with more than 100 different types of beer and lots of authentic food available. Live music adds some icing on the cake.

*All event and festival dates are subject to change.

Guest SPOTLIGHT Judy Whitmore, Singer, Author, and Explorer Catching up with our guests is one of our favorite activities, and this month, we had the chance to chat with Judy Whitmore. Judy and her husband, and friends went on a Uniworld cruise a couple of years back, but the memories are still just as vivid today.

Hi, Judy. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m originally from California. I’ve lived in Aspen and London, among others, but am currently in Newport Beach. It’s nice to be back home. I’m an author and sing in a trio called Act Three with my brother and our good friend. We’ve performed in many different venues, including Carnegie Hall.

Had you been on cruises prior to Uniworld?

We had never been on a river cruise, but had been on ocean cruises before. One of the things I really loved about river cruising was how relaxing it was. On every ocean cruise you have some anxiety: “Where is my life vest? There’s so much water out there.” But on our cruise, during the briefing from the captain he said two things; if the ship is in dock and starts to sink, go to the shore. If it’s in the middle of the river, go to the top deck, since the ship is taller than the river.

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It really is calming, being on the river. What Uniworld cruise did you take?

We were on the S.S. Catherine, started in Avignon and went on to Lyon.

How was it?

We. Just. Loved. It! Everyone on the ship is so well-trained and kind, and go out of their way to be helpful. All of the people that were traveling with me felt the same way and had the same appreciation for the experience.

I really loved the room. We stayed in the suite and it was spacious, clean and beautiful. It was relaxing. People were dressed up at night, but it wasn’t stuffy at all. “Casual elegance” is how I’d describe it.

What were some of the extra-special highlights?

We were on the trip with friends, who are very into wine, and they wanted to go on a wine excursion, but we wanted to do something different than what was typically offered. Uniworld arranged a private tour and a tasting in Beaune at an old and important winery, just for our group. Uniworld is very great at customizing the experience.

Uniquely Uniworld, some would say. What makes a river cruise different from other ways to travel?

We would go and do the excursions, but if we didn’t want to, we would go into town and hang out or go out to lunch. It’s nice since we are on a river, we are going to towns that are so cute that you wouldn’t get to see if you’re just going there yourself. If you’re visiting France on your own, you’ll probably go to Paris and Lyon, but the attraction is discovering lesserknown places.

It’s often the hidden gems you don’t read about that become our favorites too. You mentioned you had been to France in the past. What made this time unique?

What’s something you always like to do when traveling?

Since I like to cook, I always go to the grocery store, see what items are on the shelves, and look at the different ingredients you can’t find at home. Some people like to visit museums for culture; I like to go to the grocery store.

What are some destinations on your bucket list?

Two places come to mind. One—I really want to go to the Arctic Circle and see the Aurora Borealis. Two—I have never been to the Southern part of Italy, but would love to visit the Blue Grotto, Capri and Naples.

Any last words?

I have told everybody I know just how wonderful a river cruise is. We are looking at doing one in the future, and I suspect Uniworld is at the top of the list.

We sure hope so

. Thanks, Judy!

Even though we had been, we did something on this cruise we had never done before: We went truffle hunting on a farm.

It was a very out-of-the-ordinary experience. We got to walk with the dogs who sniff out the truffles.

We also went to the Paul Bocuse cooking school in Lyon. We had a great meal, but it was very exciting because I had always wanted to learn how to make spun sugar. I had seen it made on a cooking show, but never in person. The cooking class taught us how to make it easily, something I had always wanted to do.

Do you have a story or photos to share from your Uniworld cruise?

Contact RHC@uniworld.com if you’re interested in being featured in a future Guest Spotlight.

The man

BEHIND THE HELM Q&A with River Empress Captain, Ferdy Savelkouls

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River Empress captain, Ferdy Savelkouls, was cut out to command a ship from day one.

Now, he’s living out his calling, and having a great time doing so.

Hi, Captain! Can you tell us a bit about your background and your role at Uniworld?

I was born in the Netherlands and at 14 years old, I went to the maritime academy in the Netherlands.

When I was 19, I started to work on the ships with my dad—he was a captain on the rivers and owned his own ship. My uncle was also a ship captain, and to be honest, my grandfathers were captains on the river!

In 2004, I started working for Uniworld as a sailor on the River Queen! In 2006, I was promoted to second captain and in 2012, I got my own ship as a first captain. I’m currently the River Empress captain.

The River Empress is a beauty. What are some features that make her unique?

All Uniworld ships have a great décor, especially the River Empress! Our gym is well equipped with quality equipment and our sun deck has a lot of shades. In ports, we can put up extra umbrellas.

What are some of your favorite aspects about the itineraries you captain?

The views. We have great scenery when we are working. Every season of the year gives you a different view of the area. Of all the ports you stop, you always make one your favorite. In my case it’s Rudesheim. For 14 seasons, I’ve been going to the same ice cream shop! Sorry, I have a sweet tooth! But I know the owners very well and it’s always great to see them again.

What’s your favorite part of your job and working for Uniworld?

Our guests are the best part of the job. Every person is different with different life stories! One owns a company, the other has a navy or military background. People that are lawyers, or accountants! We have people from different countries. For everybody to hear how their country is or to hear how life is there is interesting.

What makes Uniworld stand out from other cruise lines?

OUR CREW!!!! Of course we have beautiful ships, but crewmembers make or break the cruise. We have the best crew on the rivers at Uniworld.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I like sports, running/fitness (and in the winter time skiing/ snowboarding). My son is 1.5 years old, so he keeps me busy.

I travel a few times per year as well.

Can you share a memorable story from your time on the River Empress?

There are a lot of great stories. But what I like is seeing people in love. Isn’t it great to see two people who have been married for 35/40 years going on a cruise and still hold each other tight when there is a beautiful sunset going on? Or when we sail past areas where you see people crying! Doesn’t sound so nice, but it’s moving, like the Remagen Bridge in Germany. To hear from our guests that this is the bridge where his father fought, and he always told stories about it. Or they say they can finally see the area where their ancestors come from. With a kid at home, you get more sensitive to those stories!!!!!!

Anything else you’d like our River Heritage Club members to know?

Please follow me on Instagram: Uniworld_captain_ferdy. A lot of crew is on Instagram or Facebook or Twitter, and it’s always nice to stay in touch with our loyal guests!

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VIZEAT & UNIWORLD

EAT LIKE A LOCAL wherever your travels take you.

We travel to eat well, to eat often, and to become immersed in culture through gastronomic delights. And as satisfying and authentic as a five-course meal at a multiple Michelin Star restaurant may be, sometimes we’re just in the mood for a home cooked meal. Enter VizEat. We recently partnered with VizEat, a leader in providing immersive food experiences, to take you off the beaten path and connect you with locals who invite you into their homes to share in a culinary experience.

During your cruise or pre- or post-voyage stay in select European cities, including Lisbon, Madrid, Milan, Paris, Lyon, Venice and Amsterdam, you’ll have the opportunity to sit down to a dinner, cooking class, wine tasting or rooftop party, in the home of a local as you share in the festivities alongside your host. All of our VizEat partners are vetted to ensure they are English speaking, prepare cuisine in the regional or national style, and are easily accessible from where the ship is docked.

It’s the perfect conclusion to a magical day, and the most authentic way to enjoy a taste of your destinations. It doesn’t get more local than this.

Click here to learn more about VizEat.

FROMof Bea THETollman KITCHEN 11 UNIWORLD.COM

SUMMER LODGE SHORTBREAD Summer is on its way out, but before it goes, say goodbye to the season in a sweet way. This Bea Tollman original recipe is light and luscious, and pairs great with an afternoon cup of coffee amidst great company and conversation.

INGREDIENTS: 2 ½ cups plain/AP flour ¾ cup sugar 1 cup butter ½ tsp salt

PREPARATION

Place the butter in the freezer for a few hours before starting to make the shortbread.

Mix the butter, flour and salt together. Grate the frozen butter and mix with the dry ingredients. Don’t over-mix.

This should resemble coarse breadcrumbs.

Line a square 9" baking pan with parchment paper and put the mixture in, pressing down slightly to flatten the top. It should be about 1 ¼" high. Bake at 250oF for 75 minutes.

Sprinkle with a little sugar when it comes out of the oven.

Let the shortbread cool completely before cutting— overnight is best.

Bon appétit!

Uniworld’s River Heritage Club A N E X C L U S I V E C L U B F O R U N I W O R L D L OYA L G U E S T S

Once you’ve cruised with Uniworld, you automatically become an esteemed member of our River Heritage Club, and are eligible for an array of member-only savings and onboard benefits that we offer in sincere gratitude for your loyalty. We look forward to welcoming you aboard as a returning friend on your next Uniworld river cruise!

RIVER HERITAGE CLUB REWARDS INCLUDE: •S ave 5% on any Uniworld cruise or cruise/tour around the globe* • Private members-only cocktail party onboard, hosted by the captain (European cruises)** •R iverViews™ e-magazine** • One (1) category upgrade on ships in Europe and Russia (excludes suites; subject to availability 45 days prior to departure)** • Complimentary in-room fruit platter upon arrival (European cruises)** • Complimentary onboard laundry service once per week (European cruises)**

DID YOU KNOW? Great value comes to those who plan ahead.

It’s never too early to begin thinking about your next adventure, and if you do, you’ll enjoy added savings. When you book your next voyage while onboard, you’ll save an additional 5% (on top of your River Heritage Club 5% reward) for a 10% total discount. The only question now is "Where to?" The world awaits.†

WHERE IN THE WORLD….???

Construction of this Gothic masterpiece began in 1248, but wasn’t completed until 1880. It’s a work of creative genius and a symbol of European Christianity. The iconic bridge leading up to this building adds to its beauty. If you can name the structure (and add bonus points for the bridge), send us an email to RHC@uniworld.com.

The first to answer correctly will be featured in our next issue of RiverViews.

LAST MONTH’S VICTOR Congrats to Pat Lyon for being the first to identify Angkor Watt as last issue’s mystery destination. Pat is a self-described Uniworld fanatic.

“I am a travel agent with Cruise Planners. I have done two river cruises with Uniworld (taken groups) and have another one in November with 34 guests. We love Uniworld!”

The feeling is mutual, Pat.

Visit uniworld.com/river-heritage-club for more information. * River Heritage Club savings and amenities are available to guests after completing their first Uniworld cruise. 5% savings are based on the cruise or cruise/tour-only price (including any upgrades and single supplement) after other cash discounts are applied. Savings are combinable with all current Uniworld promotions. Restrictions may apply. For complete details, general information, and terms and conditions applicable to all Uniworld trips, please visit uniworld.com. **For 2017 cruise/tours only † 10% discount represents 5% onboard booking savings + 5% River Heritage Club discount. This offer is combinable with all other promotions and savings programs. Onboard savings are calculated on the cruise-tour price (including any upgrades and single supplements), after all applicable flat rate discounts are applied. Bookings must be created and full deposit processed while onboard to qualify for 5% onboard savings. Other restrictions apply. See Uniworld.com for complete terms and conditions.