Introductions

So who are Paul, Shirley, Bob, Anna, Loren and Pam?  And how did we come together on this cruise?

Paul and Shirley live in Chattanooga Tennessee and are long time Viking patrons.  Their first River Cruise was in 2022 from Munich to Budapest on the Danube in September. Their other Viking cruises were Ocean cruises in Europe, Alaska, and South America. Some things we learned from these experiences informed our choices this time. Like time of year to cruise a river, what cabin to choose, what cruise line to choose, what excursions to choose, and whether or not to book a pre and post excursion.

First of all, Viking is the transport of choice because of past experience, ratings, and how their offerings fit our niche. We are lifelong learners and this is primarily what Viking does best.  We are immersed in each of the ports of call’s culture and history.

River cruises in May seem the best because of river levels and close to off season so the crowds are less bothersome. 

Our cabin is a Veranda Suite, like the one we had when we went down the Danube. This cabin has a bit more room and the Laundry is complementary.  Although the boat has laundry facilities, the complimentary service is SO convenient.

The excursions we booked is a matter of good and better.  Of the places we have not been, the included tours provide the introduction to the places. We have booked a pre-cruise extension ever since we almost missed our cruise the first time we went on a European cruise in 2006. Also, the Pre and post extension are so stress free.  The minute we deplane we are in the competent hands of Viking.

Ann & Bob live in Madison Lake, MN. We’ve gone on ocean cruises (most with Viking), but not a river cruise. We had booked this cruise with Paul & Shirley years ago and then Covid happened. We got a good deal on the postponement and booked the South Atlantic Crossing, a 3 weeker. We have found Viking to be our chosen cruise line. It checks all the boxes. I like the casual, yet very professional feel and treatment you get with Viking. You can book everything with them, air, pre and post extensions. You pay a premium, but they take care of everything and they don’t nickel and dime you. They do a good job, but like everyone, they run into bumps on the road. Most cruises we’ve been on have had port call or itinerary changes. These were due to political issues, weather or medical emergencies. Things no one can control. I’m amazed at how they can re-arrange the cruise stops and the day’s schedule for just under 1,000 people at a moment’s notice. I talked about this with one of the staff. He said in the old days you had to go into port and maybe bribe officials with alcohol and cigars just to be allowed to dock. So they were really flying by the seat of their pants. 
We love to travel and see how things are done elsewhere. It’s a big world. I’ve really enjoyed the lecturers that the Viking ocean ships had. They gave us history and much more about the regions we were visiting. I found them all a good listen and also very approachable. They are also on vacation. Like most guests, they seem generally glad to talk with you. 
Now on to parts of Europe that we haven’t visited before. Both Ann & I have ancestors from this area. Loren and my great-grandparents emigrated from the Wurtemberg region along the border of Germany and Switzerland. My namesake came from Holland 13 generations ago.

Loren & Pam are a retired couple living in Windsor, WI. We are first time Viking travelers. We previously planed to do this trip but it was at a time when COVID was starting to heat up and so the trip was canceled. We have read many good accounts of Viking trips so decided this was the one we wanted. Last year I was invited to play a game of golf with Bob and Paul. During the round they began discussing the trip and were kind enough to invite Pam and I to join them for the Rhine cruse. So we did.

We booked our trip directly with Viking and found it to be a good experience. Since the original booking we have been in touch with various Viking agents to book extensions and modify air travels. They have all been knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. I would book directly again. 

We're anxiously awaiting our May departure date.