I chose this cruise because I had not seen any of the countries visited, except for Germany. Also, I took a Viking river cruise a couple years ago and knew the fine reputation of Viking. I was thrilled with this trip: it will be my trip of a lifetime. The Star is a beautiful and spacious ship with so many things to do, one can hardly get it all done in just two weeks. We loved the shows, the port talks, the history lectures (also shown on in-room TV), the tours given in each port, and of course the fabulous restaurants. We dined in the Italian restaurant two nights and the Chef's Table three nights, and neither should be missed. I had a serious medical problem during the trip, and the ship's doctor arranged that I go to a clinic in St Petersburg for a needed procedure. The doctor and nurses on the ship followed up, and I give high praise to Dr. Dees and the nurses. If you're reading this before you go, take out the travel insurance; I will be reimbursed for every cent I spent.