This was my first trip to Europe. I had high expectations for the Viking River Cruise experience and I was not disappointed. The service, from the staff, was excellent. Everyone was super efficient and organized. I felt pampered because the staff was very attentive and accommodating. The environment was intimate and encouraged the passengers to interact with each other. The ship was small enough to allow everyone to become acquainted and large enough not to feel crowded. The cuisine was outstanding and plentiful. The tours were fun and very educational. I was awed by the spectacular architecture of the historical buildings that were built centuries ago and were still standing and, in some cases, still functional. I loved touring the old castles, of which I had only seen pictures, and I marveled at the lifestyle of the people who lived during that era.

The only negative comment I have, about the cruise, is the weather. It was cold and rainy in both France and Germany. April in Paris did not have the mild spring weather I am accustomed to in the U.S. Nevertheless, I would highly recommend taking a Viking River Cruise vacation and I am looking forward to my next Viking adventure.