Too soon to plan your Christmas vacation? Bah humbug. Savvy travelers already have their sights set on the holidays—and in particular, the Seine, where Viking has unveiled a new yuletide itinerary. The eight-day tour ushers revelers from Paris to Normandy for an architecture immersion in Rouen, then back to the City of Light. Guests on the route will also have the chance to experience Viking’s latest vessel, Viking Nerthus, so named for the ancient goddess of fertility and earth. Like all Viking vessels, its interiors are a feat of Nordic design, with comfortable yet understated cabins (in this case 84 outside staterooms, including nine suites) that uphold modern Scandinavian principles. Think: clean lines, blond woods, and utmost attention to detail, form following function.
Rivers are, of course, where Viking first set sail in 1997, later expanding in Europe, Africa, and Asia. Today, Viking Nerthus is one of several new river vessels from the brand, with others embarking on the Danube, Rhine, Main, Douro, Nile, and Mekong. But whether you’re cruising past Egyptian pyramids or French pastures, Viking’s core ethos remains, that being great food and modern design for adults only. Merry Christmas indeed. www.viking.com