River Cruise

I have been very lucky to have been selected to go on a Danube River Cruise with one of our suppliers AmaWaterways along with 8 other Travel Counsellor colleagues. It was a 7 night cruise called ‘Romantic Danube’ starting In Vilshofen, Germany a charming Bavarian town and approx. a 2 hour transfer from Munich airport to the beautiful AmaVerde ship. Our stateroom was compact but perfectly adequate with a lovely bathroom with shower and WC etc. We had a Category C, which had a French balcony so lovely to have the fresh air each day. Our first night we were docked in Vilshofen and we were welcomed by representatives from the city (all volunteers) and treated to a performance of Bavarian folk music and dancing, this ‘Oktoberfest’ is exclusive to AmaWaterways guests. We sailed earlier than planned the next morning, as the water was pretty high and the Captain said that we needed to make sure that we had passed one of the lower bridges ahead before the water got to high! Of course this wasn’t a problem as there was plenty on board to keep us occupied. There were early morning core strengthening , stretching and yoga classes, as well as a running track and a small swimming pool on the sun deck, or of course just relax on a lounger! The food is amazing, so much of it whether it be a full a la carte breakfast or just a buffet style, same with lunch you can opt for a full a la carte lunch in the restaurant or have a lighter option in the lounge, which is what I tended to do. Dinner though was always in the restaurant served by the fabulous crew and although usually around 5 – 6 courses they were not massive so not off putting, it was just right! Dinner was always served with the local wine from the region we were in. The scenery was just stunning, lots of castles, monasteries and just beautiful buildings, and it was like this all the way to our final destination – Budapest, Hungary. The route took us through Passau (the City of 3 rivers) , Linz (where I did a fabulous day tour to Salzburg, which I highly recommend – real Sound of Music country). Then onto Weissenkirchen, where there were various excursions to choose from as there were in every destination. On this one I choose the Apricots, sweets and wine tasting (so you can imagine what bought there from the local shops!) Others on our trip though did the Melk Abbey visit or the Durnstein Fortress Hike. On our 5th day we reach beautiful Vienna again it was the walking tour for me and then in the afternoon when we had free time I booked independently the behind the scenes tour of the Spanish Riding School. I’d highly recommend this or even seeing a show if one happens to be on whilst you’re in Vienna. It’s also worth going to an evening concert in Vienna too as my travelling colleagues did and said it was a wonderful experience. Next day onto Bratislava in Slovakia, as normal a choice of excursions. The walking tour again for me took us into the Old Town, where romantic, colorful old buildings showcase the city’s intriguing past and bright future. For those that went to the Bratislava Castle, on a clear day three Countries can be viewed – Slovakia, Austria and Hungary! Our final destination was Budapest, one of Europe’s most regal and storied cities, with many of its most iconic sights visible right off of the banks of the Danube river, at night, the city glitters as these landmarks are awash in lights. Truly a stunning sight to see. Home to several UNESCO World Heritage sights, including the Buda Castle quarter in Castle Hill and Heroes square. Budapest is somewhere that a separate weekend city break would benefit from as there is so much to see! I wasn’t sure whether a river cruise was for me before I went, but I am truly converted. I loved that there was hardly any motion from the ship except when we went through locks (another interesting watch). A fantastic way to see lots of cities without having to pack and unpack. The storage space in the staterooms was more than adequate for 2 people. There were some children on this trip and although I wouldn’t particularly say it was suitable, if they are interested in the history then why not, just bear in mind there are no children’s facilities on this ship, but there are on some of Ama’s other ships, so not to be ruled out and other stateroom types are larger than mine and would take a third bed or get an interconnecting stateroom. No discounts for children though. There was light entertainment each evening, which everyone seemed to enjoy and get involved with, but if that’s not for you, then there are quiet spots you can retreat too. These cruises are as active or gentle as you want them to be, so don't hesitate to try one out for yourself, you won't be disappointed!