Iceland and the Baltic Area was very interesting to me. I found the pre cruise to Iceland and then the cruise itself to be very fulfilling. I found Iceland intriguing. We were disappointed that rooms at hotel were not available until later in the day and there was a fairly large group for this pre cruise. We were able to retrieve our coats and winter type wear from our suitcases. We ventured out to explore and enjoyed the Museum of the Northern Lights. The remaining days in Iceland included bus tour around the island which was called the Golden Circle tour. That was well planned and enjoyed it very much. Next day we did city tour so we were able to really enjoy the time. It was not crowded while we were there. From there we flew to Bergen to meet the ship. The Iceland tour guides helped us through the airport in Reykjavik and we were met in Bergen.

Boarded the beautiful ship in Bergen, then to Flam, Stavanger and the remaining ports. Each evening before the next port, there was preview in the theater of the things we would, could see plus the history. There was the educational aspect to it with interesting lectures by very interesting individuals, the tours were for the most part excellent. Each city had the included tour plus other extra cost tours. The included tours were the more overall type of tour of the particular port. The tour guides were knowledgeable and very pleasant as well as entertaining. The tours themselves were organized and fun to be a participant. There was just one tour that I had paid for extra that I had some disappointment but overall, tours were good. That is one thing that I think sets Viking apart from some other is that there is the option of the tours and not just remaining on the ship. The weather cooperated as well during our time on the cruise.

The ship itself was beautiful, clean and so very inviting. One thing that I thought was a treat was the "lending library" for reading. You were invited to take a book that interested you and then return it or bring one that you had brought with you to add to the little library stash! The afternoon tea was so much fun and a good way to wind down the afternoon. I did go to the different restaurants but mainly went to the Worldwide Café. There was always a wonderful selection and with windows all the way around, you could enjoy your meal and see all the interesting things right outside. The educational lectures were very good as well as the entertainment offered every evening. The service was wonderful. The crew members were pleasant and so willing to help. I feel very fortunate that I was able to travel to this fascinating part of the world and I really would not mind doing it again some day especially with Viking. I was so very impressed with the entire trip. There is always a fascinating experience out there if you look for it.