By Morissa Pawl
Traveling down the Yangtze
President
cruises offer several ships that cruise the Yangtze River throughout the year. They are all either four- or five-star accommodations. Meandering down the Yangtze on a cruise ship is the only way to see the Three Gorges properly. The President 1 has five decks and can take almost 200 travelers. It is complete with a spacious dining hall, gym, massage rooms, full bars and 360-degree viewing decks. This particular ship was renovated in 2004 and is fully approved by the Chinese national tourism administration.
Wows and Woes
Shennon Stream
Wows
This cruise provides an opportunity to see the country of China outside of the bustling cities. Take a side excursion and be pulled up a tributary in a narrow boat by the locals. This is the only way to see the area of the Shennon Stream with 2000-year-old coffins perched on the side of the canyon.
Woes
The ships are small, and there is less to do outside of port and no choice of restaurant. You are a captive audience for food choice, so if rich Chinese delicacies are too much for you, it could be a problem.
Insider Tips
Three Gorges Dam
Make sure you are outside on the viewing decks when the ship goes through the lock system. Despite the tragedy of village flooding caused by the system, it is an amazing piece of engineering and is the world's largest project of its kind. Remember that your cruise must be booked prior to your arrival in China.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
Riverside dreams
I have taken this cruise in both 2000 and 2007. The sights have changed between the two sailings due to the dam, but it is still an outstanding value for your dollar. The cruise was not expensive either trip, and the staff made the experience both educational and fun. On a cruise like this, it is difficult to choose a particular shining moment because if you close your eyes you are sure to miss something.
Bottom Line
This cruise line is top notch for China. You will be treated well, the food is good, the rooms are spacious, and the sights are memorable.
Resources
About the Author:
A professional in the travel industry for 20 years. She has worked with companies around the globe, and has been writing for fifteen years. She is published in travel magazines, Petersen Publications, eHow and Travels to name a few. Morissa has an MBA and teaches at a distance education institution.
