Crystal Cruises' exclusive land tours on spring 2009 China and Japan itineraries

It seems quite a few cruise updates we have today.

Crystal Cruises are adding exclusive land tours to their spring 2009 China and Japan itineraries.

Crystal Cruises' five-night pre- and post-cruise land program includes a to journey to mystical, magical Tibet and a visit to meet the rare and nearly extinct Giant Pandas at the Chengdu Breeding and Research Centre in Sichuan province.

"Bridging the best of land and sea, the China and Tibet extended land program offers excursions to regions of the world that few travellers will ever have the chance to see," said John Stoll, director, land programs. "A Crystal vacation isn't confined to the port cities and surrounding areas. With great attention to detail and Crystal care, we transport guests thousands of miles inland to expand their experience."

Acupuncture Added To Crystal's Wellness Options

Enriching its portfolio of wellness opportunities, Crystal Cruises is introducing onboard acupuncture, along with a menu of Chinese herbs revered for restoring and enhancing health, beauty and longevity. A menu of optional acupuncture treatments, launching this month on Crystal Serenity, focuses on weight loss, pain management, stress reduction, detoxification, smoking cessation, facial rejuvenation and even sea sickness.

"For many, a vacation offers the freedom to try something new," says Thomas Mazloum, senior vice president, hotel operations. "Whether one is just curious or one wants to pursue new treatments, acupuncture complements Crystal's myriad of onboard wellness activities, which have transformed guests into devotees of disciplines like yoga or reflexology or Spinning®."

Crystal also offers complimentary yoga, Pilates and newly introduced "Tour de Spin" cycling classes, and an exclusive Walk on Water® program utilizing weighted vests to increase resistance.

In December 2008, and in 2009 both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity host Mind, Body & Spirit theme cruises, focusing on general wellness through classes and discussions with guest instructors in Tai Chi, yoga, Pilates and general fitness.

Crystal Cruises has been voted the "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line"

Crystal Cruises has been voted the "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine for a 13th consecutive year. Subscribers, who were allowed only one vote each, were asked to rate cruise lines on cabins, food, service, itineraries/destinations, activities and value.

"We are extremely honored and gratified that the authentic warmth of Crystal's extraordinary staff, our seamless luxury and unparalleled attention to detail make for such a treasured experience for so many discerning Travel + Leisure readers," says Crystal Cruises' President Gregg Michel. "This is a tremendous validation of the continual investments we make in our ships, the meaningful personalized programs we've introduced, and Crystal's winning formula of superior service, choices, space and quality."