We had booked a fantastic European river cruise for September, 2021....and then cancelled because of the pandemic and fears of being "stuck" overseas if one of us became ill. So--what to do. The Columbia and Snake Rivers were unknown to us...except what we knew about the explorations of Lewis & Clark. And we would be in the US! The trip was beyond our expectations in every way, starting with the boat itself. Our stateroom was spacious and the bathroom quite amazing compared to our European riverboat experiences. The public rooms were inviting and comfortable. The conveniences--centrally located elevators, laundry room (with dryer sheets for the taking!), deck seating, individual climate control in the staterooms, immediate response from staff for specific needs---all made for a relaxing trip. The historian, who was actually substituting for someone on vacation, was outstanding. His daily lectures were not to be missed! The excursions enhanced the trip. Some we took were included; some that we chose were nominally extra in cost. The region we explored was beautiful and truly fascinating; going through the Columbia River locks was just one of the highlights...along with seeing the cliffs lining the rivers, long-horn sheep climbing the sheer slopes, etc, etc.... And one more thing--everything on board is included. No last night statements left in your stateroom! If you choose to tip someone, you just give that person cash.

Our experience was generally so positive that we booked another cruise for November on the Mississippi..and hope to book one of the America Cruise Line New England or southern East Coast trips for next September.

So--to summarize--STAY HOME and enjoy our country from the rivers of the US!