This was the first overseas vacation (and cruise) my wife and I have ever taken, so we really don't have anything to compare. But we truly can't imagine how it could have been any better.

This trip was scheduled to celebrate our 30th anniversary in 2020, so was booked in 2019. Of course, the pandemic delayed those plans but we were eager to go as soon as river cruises and countries started opening up. The trip was ultimately taken in August, 2021 as one of the earlier trips the Lif had taken. The boat was a little over half-full (something around 110 passengers) which allowed us to get to know staff and the other travelers a little better.

We were pretty excited when we arrived in Budapest, even with little to no sleep on the flight over (we were just too wound up to sleep!) Program Director Leonard (THE BEST) greeted us when we arrived and got us headed toward our room. We opted for the French Balcony and found the room very efficient. Everything was pretty tight, but we didn't spend much time in the room so it was fine. We thought the boat was laid out very well. The restaurant was spacious with floor to ceiling windows. The lounge provided a great atmosphere, again with floor to ceiling windows. The buffet area and Aquavit Terrace were a great place to have lunch and see the sights as we floated by. Overall, the design of the ship was fantastic. Read more