We chose this cruise for the itinerary, the ship and the overall value. We looked at the other lines, but for the cost, felt Avalon offered the best of what we were looking for. Boy were we right. The ship was wonderful, the staff incredible and the food outstanding. We've been on over 25+ cruises from Celebrity (large ships) to Windstar (small ships) and Avalon is at the top of the list. It's interesting how the ship felt large, yet intimate. The staff gets to know you so it feels like the high end lines (i.e.: Silver Seas) at which point they go out of their way to accommodate you on many levels. In addition, the rooms are wonderful, large and spacious with balconies (we always do a balcony for viewing and fresh air) in which the bed faces the balcony so you can relax while the world passes by. With beer and wine included with lunch and dinner, the cost savings alone at this level is impressive not to mention the hosted local entertainment.
If your next cruise is a river cruise, we would pick Avalon again. This line allows for a worldly experience of culture, wine, food, people and incredible destinations. For us, we'll be back to sail with them in the future.
Excellent. Large spacious with an incredible view. The large bathroom reminded us of the larger ships we've been on in the past. Plenty of space, refrigerator and desk space... with a nice sitting area too. Room was cool air wise and the flat screen and other amenities top notch.
Walked the city first and then went to the Louvre.
Took the tour provided by the ship for the church tours and gardens. They handled everything. Highly recommend letting them handle the site-seeing when you get to a particular city. Well worth it!
Look a bike ride (highly recommend) from the ship, drank great local beers and the wine tasting tour provided by the ship was wonderful.
Take the tour of the castle provided by the ship, see the local town and walk the river.
Be sure and taste the local beers, go to the Brasseire (one of the oldest hotels/beer hall in Europe). Let the ship handle the tours... they do a great job of inclusion.
We did this on our own. We like to take the hop on hop off buses to get to know the area then move around later for things we want to see.
Do as much as you can. The city square is great... it's all walking distance. Do the bridge, the wine tasting, and the local sites. Great great city!
Again, pack in as much as you can... they will show you the sites not able to get to on your own.