We have been on many ocean cruises, but never experienced a river cruise before. We have been to many countries, but never had been to France before. The Viking experience was a top notch way to experience both of those firsts! The peacefulness of the river cruise allowed us to settle in and enjoy our surroundings and see the many different sides of France, from the excitement of Paris to the charming small villages. The tours were so well done and much was learned of the icons we have heard so much about all our lives. The guides were attentive, but wasted no time in getting their charges to see all that was possible in just a few hours.

We had many favorite stops, but the two that have stayed with us since we disembarked 3 months ago, were the beaches of Normandy and the tour of Giverny and Monet's home and gardens; The former so very moving and the latter a delightful sensory experience. The crew on board the Viking Spirit could not have been more accommodating and the intimacy of the small ship was so very pleasant. The food was very good and chef Adam did an amazing job of serving his guests out of such a small kitchen. We have highly recommended Viking since, and hope to experience another part of the world through Viking someday soon.