My husband and I started with the pre-stay in Madrid and it was absolutely fantastic--hotel accommodations and the Viking staff there were amazing. Their travel accommodations were also amazing and so easy to navigate. Our cabin was very spacious and comfortable--the Viking staff even sent us an "Anniversary" cake on the date of our 5 month anniversary. Room service was available 24/7 and was delicious. The food was so good that it actually made it difficult to enjoy the food at all the port cities (although we definitely managed in Italy). We went on an excursion at every port and would not have changed a single thing. Even though it was a lot of exploring, we got to see parts of the countries we traveled to that we never would have otherwise. The guides that were hired were all so knowledgeable and patient with everyone's questions, and made the excursions that much more enjoyable. The bartenders even remembered our drink order every evening. We also did a day at the spa on our last day on the cruise and I wish we had done it sooner or booked two! It was relaxing and so much fun to try out the different things there. Everything was so easy and special, we will absolutely be going on another Viking ocean cruise.