A European river cruise has been on our "bucket list" ever since visiting Europe a few years ago. We thoroughly enjoyed restful travels without having to unpack every other day, fabulous culinary experiences, eventful tours and sites, and making so many international friends. Our staff and crew treated us like royalty; everyone was so kind and gracious. We especially enjoyed the guided tours at our different shore excursions along the rivers and the ability to explore on our own many afternoons and evenings. Our housekeeper who cared for our room was so helpful not only in keeping our room intact, but also answering many questions for us. My husband and I enjoyed being able to visit and explore additional sites and areas on our own, such as hiking up to the fortress at Durnstein, biking in Amsterdam, exploring the catacombs in Salzburg, and enjoying an Austiran meal with friends in Vienna. We would most certainly travel with Avalon Waterways again!