This was my first time traveling alone. I chose UniWorld because I wanted to be taken care of and they did not disappoint. There were other solo travelers because UniWorld offers single supplement waiver. But even the couples were open and welcoming. I liked the fact that guests were from several English-speaking countries. At first I hung out with New Zealanders, then partied with the Australians.
I flew into Marseilles. UniWorld supplied me with easy-to-follow instructions to call the hotel shuttle that promptly picked me up at the airport and took me to the hotel. The next morning a van picked me up along with some other guests and brought us to the ship. We got to know each other during the drive. They take your photo when you check in and by the second day they know your name. On my cruise there were 56 crew for 88 passengers. In the lounge they knew what I liked to drink and it was in front of me without having to ask. The only "complaint" is that it was easier to get a glass of wine than an iced tea. The liquor flowed freely making for a very friendly atmosphere.
I loved the food onboard. Breakfast and lunch are buffets. The scrambled eggs on the buffet were the best I've ever had. I don't know what they do to them but they are a must eat. The eggs Benedict was also good. At lunch I looked forward to the French cheeses. Hot options, soup, salad, and panini options at lunch. I thought the dinners were great. Just the right amount of food and very high quality. I got to try fois grois. Desserts were a little too sweet for my taste.
My room was beautiful as was the ship's decor. On a river cruise your stateroom is smaller than on an ocean cruise because the ship has to fit in the locks. But they built amazing functionality into the room. I loved the heated marble bathroom floors and towel racks. It was also nice that they supply robe, slippers, and hair dryer - a few less things to pack. I had plenty of room to unpack and be comfortable. Each room has its own climate control to keep the temperature to your liking. The shower was big enough to bath comfortably. For women there is a lighted makeup mirror. The selection of TV channels was interesting. I found channels at night that showed American network programming with German subtitles. CNN International or BBC kept me updated on what was going on in the world. The bed was very comfortable and they will give you the kind of pillow you favor. Towels were always clean and refreshed. Stateroom was always cleaned by the time I returned from the morning excursion. I often took a nap in the afternoon and my bed was remade when I returned from dinner.