My friend and I were asked to be joint "faculty hosts" for one of the universities sponsoring this very elegant and educational tour of Europe, via the Danube and Rhine rivers. This was a great opportunity, and we enjoyed "hosting" and cruising with the people of our university, as well as many of the other travelers. We arrived in Budapest two days before the cruise began, and thoroughly enjoyed touring this beautiful, friendly city. Most of the passengers arrived on Friday, and were brought straight from the airport to the ship. The instant the first bus load arrived, the dining room doors swung open, and lunch was served.

We had arrived a couple hours earlier than the others, to confer with the travel directors on board. Even though we arrived early, there were ship staff members waiting on the dock, taking charge of our luggage, and seeing to our every question or request. They were entirely professional, warm, welcoming, and efficient. The ship was still in the process of being cleaned, so we waited in the lobby, and were treated most graciously. At the end of the cruise, the leave-taking was quite smooth and efficient, as well, with staff helping with luggage, and announcing the various taxis and rides as they arrived.

Our stateroom was beautiful and designed with every comfort, and every inch put to excellent use. The bathroom was small, of course, but I am a Large Person, and I was completely comfortable with it. There were upper and lower shelves, with plenty of space for all our "stuff." There is space for one suitcase under each bed (standard for cruises), but I had brought a third, bringing gifts for family, and consumables for us. We stowed it between the beds, and gave it away to an appreciative nephew when we got to Vienna three days later!! Very Important Point: Each stateroom had its own thermostat, and could be adjusted to suit the occupants. This is a most proFOUND boon for middle-aged women!!!! :~) Read more