If the Caribbean and Alaska s Inside Passage no longer appeal, or if you feel lost among 2,000 other travelers on a cruise megaship, consider touring Europe on a small barge or boat. And if you want to keep your costs to a minimum, you can rent one and drive it yourself for not much more than you d pay for land accommodations.
American tourists seem especially fond of the canals and rivers of France, and no wonder.
This network of waterways covers some of France s most picturesque regions, including Burgundy and the Midi. No matter where you travel, you ll find small country restaurants along the river and canal banks, or you can shop the open air markets and prepare some of your own meals. Many barges and boats include bicycles for easier access to visitor attractions that may be a mile or two from the waterway. Many early canals, dating from the industrial revolution, have been updated to good condition for vacation use. The last time I visited Manchester, I was impressed by the restoration of that city s industrial canals and canal waterfronts.