Our past experience with Viking was excellent. The price was comparable to other lines. We like the Viking takes care of us in every aspect from the time we step off the plan to the boarding to return home. The itinerary was well planned giving us enough time to enjoy the ship and the stops and yet not boring. The commentary while traveling through the countryside was very helpful and interesting with history and folklore mixed in. The timing of our entry into Budapest was spectacular. It was such a wonderful surprise. Our cabin was small but adequate. The balcony type window made it possible to get fresh air and see the passing scenery while lying in bed. There was sufficient variety in the menu with a combination of buffet and service. The variety of items was quality rather than quantity. We preferred that. The dinner service was excellent. One evening we returned late to the ship because we had been visiting relatives. When the kitchen staff learned we had not eaten past the dinner hour, they provided a meal for us. The evening entertainment was modest but enjoyable. We are not "night people" so this was fine. The included shore excursions were good and well planned. The local guides and tours contracted were informative, and experienced in pacing the tours. The bus drivers were fabulous in their skill. We had no complaints about any of the arrangements Viking made. We did both the pre cruise and post cruise packages. Both were well worth the time and expense. We were introduced to things we didn't know existed! We love history and art, culture and food. This filled the bill.