To begin with the advertisements of Viking on our local Public Broadcasting Station more than piqued my interest. I did A LOT of research in choosing a cruise line. Our friends cruise every year and they choose another line and love it. I compared several and Viking always came out on top. I have toured western Europe on my own and loved all the meticulous planning. I hesitated having someone else do all the planning because I am very particular about what I want to visit. That was one of the best parts...all I had to do was show up on time!
The organization of Viking and the employees on the Vali was superb. That was probably the most impressive. I expected friendliness, great food, terrific drinks and cleanliness which there was but everyday ran like a clock. Even with Covid testing going on and wearing masks this trip was one in a lifetime.
The included excursions were very interesting and it was great that they were led by the local people. That gave us an insight into their way of life. I spoke with all of the guides and they were extremely knowledgeable. The optional excursions were very important to me. They were just about exactly what I would have planned myself after months of research. One of the best tours was in Nuremberg. Seeing Cologne from the top of the Cathedral is an experience I will NEVER forget. It was awesome.