We chose a Viking River Cruise based on a friend's recommendation. She and her family had previously gone on a Viking River Cruise - I think Eastern Mediterranean. They loved it. As did we. The attention to detail was amazing and delightful. Ship staff even remembered names. Anna, one of the wait staff, was a particular favorite - she's absolutely fabulous! Everyone, from the ship's captain, Marco, to our housekeeping, was amazing. And George... our activities director? Not sure if that's the right title... what a wonderful man! He was awesome. The ship is so beautiful and clean, and the food was AMAZING!!! We loved the ports and our excursions. If we go again, I wouldn't make us as busy as we were on this cruise - we usually had 1-2 excursions per day, and several weren't the ones provided by the cruise and we paid extra. I probably wouldn't do those again, rather I would take more time to relax with new friends and take in my beautiful surroundings. Entertainment on the ship was great, and the friends we made and will stay in contact with just made the whole experience more delightful.