AmaKristina is simply elegant, ultimately classy, yet unexpectedly down-to-earth and comfortable. We enjoyed the Christmas Markets on the Rhine from the first moment to the last. Every detail from the excursions, to the stateroom appointments, to the dining choices, to the decor was meticulously thought out, and the personal service along the way from the crew was warm, welcoming, and refreshingly precise. The Christmas Markets were so charming, and the transfers (by bus in most cases) to the Christmas Markets were easy and quite comfortable. We particularly enjoyed the Christmas Markets in Cologne and Riquewier - but each market was very unique and had regional specialties. Fitness classes were offered free of charge each morning, and the availability of bicycles aboard the ship for bike tours provided unexpected fitness options. The Chef's table was spectacular - and is included at no additional charge one night during your 7-night cruise. The Chaine de Rotisseurs (I may have misspelled that - sorry!!) dinner was another special night - offered in the main restaurant for all guests free of charge. The sip-n-sail cocktail hour (free mixed drinks from 6pm to 7pm) was also unexpected, and a nice addition... with regional beers and wines offered each day with lunch and dinner the beverage options are quite inclusive. A few touches that I particularly appreciated: a Christmas wreath on each cabin door, in the bathroom a blue light automatically lights the way to the toilet in the middle of the night when you open the bathroom door, and automatically the blue light dims to shut itself off.

And - amazing but true - NO ONE FROM AMA EVER ASKED ME TO DO A REVIEW. Refreshing!! After being pelted with requests for reviews from over eager staff members and via urgent emails from every hotel, airline, restaurant I visited this week - this review is the only one that I will spend my time doing. And, as I write a review I am hopeful that this review will be found valuable by other fellow travelers.