My husband and I were onboard Viking Orion last November, starting from Bali (Indonesia), ending in Sydney (Australia). Going to Australia was never on our agenda because it was just too far from our home in New York. But Viking had a Flash Sale that included free airfare and free beverage package -- it was too good a deal to pass! We knew this kind of sale usually means limited stateroom selection in less than desirable locations on the ship. We took a chance and booked a stateroom next to the stairs on the 5th deck. We were prepared for noisy hallway, but when we got there, we were pleasantly surprised to find the room to be actually located further down the hallway than was shown on the deck plan.

This is our third cruise with Viking this year. In January, we were onboard Viking Octantis cruising to Antarctic Peninsula. In June, we were onboard Viking Mars cruising to Arctic Circle. We are now onboard Viking Orion cruising to Australia. What a great way to see the world!

GETTING THERE: Read more