My husband and I were interested in seeing the French Riviera, Spain, and Italy. We signed up for pre-cruise and post-cruise extensions and the whole experience was absolutely lovely. The pre-cruise hotel in Madrid, The Intercontinental Hotel Madrid, was absolutely beautiful. Viking had excursions planned and you also had time to do your own thing. When it was time to get to the ship, Viking had a representative help all the travelers get on the train from Madrid to Barcelona which was most helpful because with the Viking rep, Charles, there was never any confusion about where we were supposed to be at any time. The young man had it under control at all times. The actual cruise ship was beautiful, clean, fun, delicious, entertaining, and comfortable. The people that work for Viking are all English speaking and really good at what they do. Our cabin attendant, Delia, was absolutely the most efficent helpful young lady I have ever seen. She had a young man that worked with her that was as equally excellent. I think his name was Bom-Bom or something like that -- excuse my ignorance. The restaurants were really good in that you could make healthy choices and also have not so healthy choices for food if that's what you want. I was really glad that Viking didn't run their cruise like a food fest. The last cruise I took 30 years ago had a midnight buffet and really heavy meals. I felt bloated when I got home. Not with Viking. They have really healthy food and a gym as well. The shore excursions were all very fun and interesting. It was very warm during the time we were there, but I would not change a thing. The post-cruise extension in Rome was also done very well. Our hotel was lovely and Viking had a representative at the hotel 12 hours a day while we were there. When it was time to get to the airport, Viking had a transport van ready for us, took us to the airport, and when we got to the airport Viking representatives were there to help us get our luggage to the checkin counter for our airline. Viking really takes care of their passengers and I will never take any other cruise line for sure. We also left some of our things we purchased in the room and Viking sent them to us in the mail. Wow. I tell everyone about my experiences on Viking because they need to know how comprehensive their service is. Viking cruises make for a true vacation.