Jackie Matthews

Viking does a fantastic job with both their river cruises and ocean cruises. We took a wonderful river cruise on the Rhine from Amsterdam to Basal. We arrive a day early to do some exploring in Amsterdam which is a lovely city. We took the train out to Harlem to visit Corrie Ten Boom's house. Her family helped rescue Jews during WW2 and I was very interested in seeing her home. What a moving story of a very courageous woman and family. We boarded the ship and were blown away at how lovely our suite was- it was 2 full rooms, living room with TV and fully stocked wet bar and coaches and chairs and a nice size bedroom with a queen sized, comfy bed. Our balcony had 2 chairs and a table and we spent a great deal of timing during the cruise enjoying our private space as we cruised past castled and lovely villages. The tours offered by Viking cruises were outstanding. Every day we had a choice of at least 2 tours- one more sedate and more more active. We always choose the more active ones as we love to walk alot (and burn off all that delicious Black Forest Cake) and really get to know the villages and castles. I am a bit hearing impaired (age) so I was grateful for the listening devices they gave us on the cruise so we could hear our tour guide easily...even if we were at the back of the group. Every evening we would get an interesting lecture from a local expert and an explanation of everything we would see the next day and the tours that were offered. Thankfully, it was easy to change our minds and pick a different tour if the lecturer piqued our interest concerning a different tour for the next day. The food aboard ship was delicious and the service outstanding. Whatever we needed or wanted was given to us right away. I love river cruises because they are an excellent way to visit several countries in a manner that is stress free (not having to pack and unpack or race to get a train) and easy. Our boat would simply pull up at the dock and within minutes we were walking off and into the village to begin exploring. We thoroughly enjoined the entertainment and food- wonderful live, local musicians, local experts and lecturers, local food and wines being served with our meals. Viking gave us a very authentic, meaningful travel experience. We will be taking another Viking cruise very soon.