WOW....What a memory!

She walked in the front door and to her amazement what did she see, but a house full of chaos, kids fighting, chores accumulating, office work looming, everyone’s talking at once in “white noise” harmony, and all she can think about is.... River Cruising take me away! Yes, it is me, and I’m back to reality. Unfortunately, this is the reality the majority of Americans experience on a daily basis. Do you know someone like this? If you do, they are a potential River Cruise client.

Most of us live in the fast paced world, and who doesn’t need an antidote where you can vacation in the slow lane, sailing along quietly, absorbing the scenery, exploring riverside towns, and soaking up different cultures all in one vacation.

My intention of this blog was to try and objectively look at River Cruising and to determine who would like such an experience. I will admit, in the beginning, the idea of traveling somewhere cold (when it is winter here in Ohio), cruising with a bunch of elderly, knitting scarves and building cuckoo clocks really didn’t appeal to me. Now although I was anxious to see Europe, I thought it would be a long, cold and boring week. Oh my....did I get it wrong.

I think if you have been reading my blog from day one, you can tell that my experience heightened each day that passed. Along with self-fulfilling, exciting excursions during the day, the evenings were spent forming some friendships that will hopefully maintain over time. In my blog, I didn’t even share some of the “fun” we had on the ships. From laughing so hard till my sides hurt, enjoying fine dining, relaxing entertainment, a little work and reading in the library, to sharing stories with other cruisers, was some of my “onboard” experiences. But my highlight was getting to see parts of Europe in a non-intimidating fashion.

Where I would like to begin is to discuss the “pros and cons” of River Cruising. So let’s start and talk about what I didn’t like about River Cruising, which honestly was not that much. Please know that River Cruising isn’t for everyone. However, my opinion has completely changed from what it was in the beginning.

So, let’s begin with the negatives to River Cruising.

• Flights to Europe (Russia or Asia) can be expensive. Depending on where you look, the flights can range anywhere from $800 R/T on up. I paid about $1000 for my ticket through one of our Ticket Consolidators, SkyBird.
• There is not much to do as far as “fast paced activities” on a River Cruise ship. The Viking ship (Prestige) that I was on had 3 decks (around 90 cabins) and included the Lounge/Bar, sun deck, and library. During the day, they did have activities planned on the ship, but if we were docked, most were out sightseeing. The Lounge in the evening generally had entertainment and tons of socializing. Some ships have salons, boutiques, and fitness center as well. What you have to remember with a River Cruise, the ship is not the destination. It is basically a floating hotel navigating you down rivers through the heart of the country. It gets you to where the “ocean liners” just cannot get to. However, some of the new modern ships coming out in 2012 have fitness centers, coffee bars, complimentary bicycle use and even on-board pools.
• Catering to older people, the ship did not have elevators. I noticed for some getting up and down steps were a little difficult. However, Viking has 6 new ships entering their fleet in 2012 and all have elevators.
• Although the food was amazing, the breakfast buffet became a little boring after the 3rd day.
• Not enough suites on the ship. The Viking Prestige only had 2 suites. I’m not sure how many suites the other ships offered however. I will check on that.

I honestly cannot think of anything else I didn’t like about the ship or River Cruising in general. But let me tell you what I liked about River Cruising, Viking Cruise Lines, and my revelations overall on the River Cruise experience.

The POSITIVE/ADVANTAGES of River Cruising

• Relaxing and quiet - Although there were back to back excursions, guided tours, and sightseeing options, the mood was always relaxing. I would like to also point out how quiet the ship was when cruising. It was like you were floating when the ship was in motion.
• For those of you who have ocean cruised, it gets to a point where each port feels the same.....don’t you think? You have similar looking beaches, similar types of excursions, the shopping is all the same. With ocean cruising, the cruise ship and activities on board is the destination, not necesarily where you are visiting. With River Cruising, each port is different. Different landscapes, different cultures, different food, different languages, different architectures, different history, different excursions and guided tours, and different shopping. Looking for something different in cruising, then River Cruising may be for you.
• River Cruising is intimate and romantic. From the ship to the destination right into your cabin, River Cruising screams “romance”. If you are looking to get away with a loved one or have clients celebrating something special, they will not be disappointed with a River Cruise.
• The service on the Viking Cruise line was impeccable, friendly and always warm. I was extremely pleased with the service overall.
• With River Cruising, you get the opportunity to see Europe in a non-intimidating fashion. If you have always wanted to see Europe, but was nervous about the airports, traveling, currency exchange, the language barrier, then River Cruising will help you feel more comfortable with the experience. Being picked up at the airport, guided on tours, assisting in currency exchange for purchases on land, and English speaking guides and staff will guide you along the way. No need to worry as there is someone there to help you.
• New scenery all day and different almost ever day. Panoramic views in the restaurant, lounge and sun deck taking in the ancient castles, breathtaking countryside, and awe-inspiring monuments. By the way, open-air sliding glass doors in the cabins also provided spectacular views.
  
• English speaking guided tours, assistance in currency exchange, advice on what to do and not do, and much more, allows you to visit multiple destinations without feeling the intimidation of being in a foreign country. Only having to pack and unpack one time, you get to see many destinations all on one trip. Bottom line you spend less time "getting there" and more time “being there”.
• You will enjoy the culture and history at each destination. From museums, castles, cathedrals, charming villages, concerts, cuisine and shopping, you are unlikely to reach these places in any other way.
• On guided tours, I enjoyed that everyone had their own personal headset, so it was no problem listening to the guide. By the way, the tour guides were interesting and entertaining.
• The ship provided free internet allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones.
  
• Attire on the ship is casual. I really like the idea that I didn’t have to dress to the "nines" for dinner. And by the way, seating is where and with whom you like. All meals are inclusive and wine/beer/mimosas served with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Alcohol packages were available as well at a really low cost.
• On board entertainment was of the local music, folklore dancers/singers, wine tasting and informative talks by local experts.
• River cruising was intimate. With less than 200 passengers, you really get to know everyone and the staff really gets to know you as well.

So with everything in mind, who wouldn’t like a River Cruise? Here is my perspective on it being a 40 something (cough, cough) woman. In my opinion, teenagers in general wouldn’t like River Cruising as American teenagers today are so over stimulated by electronics and socializing with other kids, this may not be for them. I will mention, however, on my cruise there were two teenagers aboard. But both seemed to be cultured and very into the experience. I also think young adults that are into partying and going to the disco every night or singles looking for other singles, this may not be the experience they are looking for as well. So, that leaves everyone else. I cannot fathom that anyone wouldn’t love River Cruising despite their age. Now in the past, River Cruising has attracted the older more mature adult. But I believe that is because many just don't know about River Cruising, and most older adults are financially able to afford a River Cruise.

So, what does River Cruising cost? You will be surprised to learn that some itineraries of 8 days really is not that much more than ocean cruising. Eight day itineraries can start as low as $1200 per person (all-inclusive). With itineraries spanning Europe, Russia & Ukraine, China & SE Asia, and Egypt, and even the Galapagos with some cruise lines are also available. What a way to see the World.

Hopefully, I have given you a little taste of River Cruising and you are hungry for more. I would like to invite you to call me personally if you would like to learn more about River Cruising, need assistance in understanding how to “sell” River Cruising to your clients, or find potential prospects that may enjoy River Cruising. Whether you are thinking of a River Cruise for yourself or for a client, River Cruising will not disappoint.

Bis bald......German for “Bye for Now”
Cyndi Hansen
877-220-9260 X161

Last 3 days in Vienna and Budapest

A combination of back-to-back excursions, shoddy internet, and tons of socializing with other travelers means I got behind on the blog. So today I would like to catch up on my last few days of activities and then share with you my overall experience and a final analysis on who would enjoy river cruising. If you are looking for something different to do for a vacation in 2012 or 2013, you may want to read through the entire blog.

On Thursday we spent a day in Vienna before we headed to my favorite stop on the whole cruise, Budapest Hungary. But let me tell you a little bit about Vienna, Austria first.

Vienna is known as the city of arts, music and good living. Whether it’s the pomp and elegance of former glory, its comparable cultural treasures or the more intimate charms of a traditional coffee-house, Vienna remains one of Europe’s most seductive cities. Unfortunately, we did get a day of rain so I was not able to see as much of Vienna as I would have liked. However, with umbrella in hand, I ventured into Vienna city and hit the Christmas markets once again. There were so many different options for excursions from the Spanish Riding School (which is the oldest and last riding school in the world that classic dressage is still practiced in its purest form) to the State Opera House. Most of us chose to take the guided Vienna tour, where we visited the remarkable Ringstrasse, Hofburg Palace, and the beautiful State Opera House. Although rainy, Vienna turned into a relaxing afternoon. All too soon, though, it was time to board ship again as we set off to Budapest, Hungary.

My biggest regret about my river cruise experience is that I didn’t opt to stay an extra day in Budapest as some of the other travel agents chose to do. Budapest was and will probably always be the most memorable city I ever visited. Really the only knowledge of Budapest that I had was that my families’ great- grandmother came from Budapest as a mail order bride (a story for another time, of course). First of all, I want to say if anyone chooses this itinerary, stay an extra day or two in Budapest. Let me tell you why:

Cruising into Budapest was breathtakingly beautiful and it made up one of the most beautiful riverside landscapes of all. One of the travelers (their fifth river cruise experience) said the beauty equaled London on the Thames and Paris on the Seine River. The Danube River cuts through the heart of the city separating the Buda Hills and the Old City from the elegant boulevards of modern Pest. The city’s oldest bridge, the Chain Bridge, links Buda and Pest.

Views of rolling hills on a magnificent riverside setting (lined with historic buildings) and wide boulevards notable for their grandiose architecture were absolutely breathtaking. Although it was our final destination Budapest was my favorite. Some travelers took the guided Budapest tour where they began in “Pest” and visited the National Opera House, Heroes Square and the Parliament. They crossed the river to the more traditional “Buda” side of the city. This tour highlighted the massive hilltop castle complex and Matthias church. Others, including myself, decided to explore Budapest on my own. My day was spent exploring, eating amazing Hungarian traditional dishes and shopping.

Pest is the livelier side of Budapest, and made me feel like I was walking in downtown New York City. Extremely clean with beautiful historical buildings, the “hubbub” in Pest was quite entertaining. I even saw a traditional Hungarian Sheep Dog walking the streets!

Going through the Christmas markets and watching the locals create their handmade good and foods kept me quite busy and fascinated the entire morning. Since I was in Budapest I wanted to make sure I experienced a traditional Hungarian lunch. Take a look at this meal (which by the way was under comparable to $10 USD). Of course, Budapest would not be the same without live Gypsy music creating a traditional Hungarian ambiance during my lunch.

My shopping highlight was visiting Central Market Hall. This two-level brick building with iron construction inside was a magnet for both the locals and the tourists.

Oh, I could have stayed in Budapest for days, but it was now time to board the ship for our final farewell dinner with an emphasis on experiencing the Hungarian cuisine in true authentic style. A sad evening as many friendships were formed. But we exchanged business cards, email addresses, and I’m looking forward to maintaining some of these relationships and maybe even River Cruising with them again one day. The evening was spent eating then upstairs in the Viking Lounge for Hungarian entertainment. As you can see, my entire week was enlightening and an experience I will never forget.

Along with all my activities, excursions, sightseeing and shopping, there was training on the Viking cruise, where I learned about the different ships and itineraries. So, check back tomorrow, and I will share with you exactly who would enjoy the unique experience of River Cruising. Could it be you?

Tears of Beauty, Seeing God, and Viking Suites!

Today I cried....I will tell you about it later.

This morning we arrived in Melk and it was a walk or shuttle into town. Melk has become one of the finest attractions in Austria and one of Europe’s great cultural heritage sites. Many of the passengers took the guided tour of the dramatic, majestic and imposing 900 year old Melk Abbey while others perused the town and shops. Melk Abbey is a site to be seen. Perched on cliffs high above the Danube, the interior of the abbey’s church is a kaleidoscope of red, orange and gold and shimmering celing frescoes. The tour took a little over an hour and was well worth it. Melk was very small quaint town full of small shops and cafes and displays of their meat and cheeses. What really captured me about Melk was the quiet. It was such a quiet peaceful town and perfect for a morning stroll. A little touring and shopping and I was back on the boat for lunch. It was anchors aweigh again as we left Melk.

I really was looking forward to today as we were cruising in the daylight from Melk to Vienna. Bundled up I went to the top deck with a glass of champagne and I think I may have seen God. I have never seen such a beautiful and memorable landscape in all my life. The pictures cannot even come close to its beauty. This traverse valley, along with picturesquely situated villages and numerous craggy fortresses on either side was simply a storybook. And I wanted to know the story. Although cold up there, I stayed for hours as we cruised along the Danube and through different villages like the Wachau. I think it will be my most memorable moment of the cruise, and perhaps in my lifetime. Now those who know me understand I am not a woman that cries easily, but I just couldn’t stop the tears welling up in my eyes as I tried to capture the beauty. I don’t think I have ever been more moved in all my life.

Since today was a day of cruising, I took the time to really get to know the ship, the Viking Prestige and some of the other cruisers. In the Viking Lounge they were offering mid-afternoon snacks from the local vendors like their famous meats, sausages, and cheeses. Many stayed to watch the demonstration on how to make Austria’s famous Apple Strudel. For any of you who would like the recipe....well, I got it now! So, feel free to contact me.

Another interesting presentation they gave were on the 6 new ships entering the fleet next year, and some of the other cruising itineraries. You could hear the travelers already talking about their next River Cruise. I would also like to mention that I appreciated that they ended the presentation by telling the group that it is always best to use a travel agent when booking their next cruise. As travel agents, we know that of course, but the consumer doesn't always know, especially when they don’t pay anymore to use us. The rest of the afternoon was spent cruising.
Many stayed in the Lounge for festivities and entertainment, while others took naps or simply relaxed in a chair to watch the views. The food on the ship has been really good. Unlike Mexico or the Caribbean, you just cannot go wrong with European food. Prepared by their Chef, the presentation of the food is just as good as the taste itself.

I ended up spent another evening with Bill and Pat at dinner (the couple who met on EHarmony whom I told you about earlier) and really got to know them. I’m hoping we stay friends after the cruise as I really enjoyed their company. This is their second River Cruise and they are already planning their third. During conversation they mentioned how they lucked out as they were upgraded to a suite, one of only two on the ship, two days before the ship sailed. They were so kind to show me their suite as I really wanted to get a "birds-eye" view. To put it bluntly, I was jealous when I saw it. Spacious walk-in closet, tub and separate shower, 2 sinks in the bathroom, separate sitting area which is closed off from the spacious bedroom. I asked them how could they ever go back to a standard cabin. Their answer? “We won’t”!.......So, of course, I made sure they have my business card as I am anxious to work with them on their next River Cruise.

Today we have arrived in Vienna......relaxing, sightseeing, shopping, and eating is on the agenda! Check back tomorrow!

Getting the Hang of River Cruising

I'm enjoying a cup of coffee here at the ship's library and reflecting on yesterday's events in Passau. Passau, known as the "City of Three Rivers", is a border town and the last major city on the Danube River in Germany. It was a pleasant walk to the old town with its Baroque churches and patrician houses all crowded onto the narrow tongue of land separating the Inn and the Danube. It was a relaxing morning and everyone took their time and planned their schedule accordingly for a day of sightseeing and shopping.

I left the ship after I enjoyed lunch. I haven't mentioned the food yet, but let me just say I have been quite pleased with the cuisine. Lunch is always a combination of buffet and sit-down menu-style choices as well. I'll talk more about the food later, though - I want to tell you about my day!

Today guests had the option on either taking a guided tour or spending the day on their own. Several of us chose to go off on our own to visit this magnificent city. It was a leisurely stroll into town as I walked along the river enjoying the views. I made a quick stop into the 17th Century St. Stephan's cathedral. What an amazing church built in late Gothic/Baroque style, and it houses one of the world's largest church organs. Words really cannot capture the beauty and architecture of the cathedral. What I thought would be a quick "in and out" turned into an awe-inspiring walk from one end to the other. You couldn't even help but feel spiritual on some level no matter who you are. To say that I was merely moved is an understatement.

We then moved into town to visit their Christmas markets and upscale shopping stores. I couldn't believe how clean and fresh the town was and the shopping was exquisite. Passau, best known for their linens and 'lids' (hats), I couldn't pass up a few purchases for myself. Who says I don't need another hat? I also took advantage of using this time for some unique gifts for friends and family as well. After a day of sightseeing, shopping, and some fine German beer in the taverns, I made my way back to the ship to start freshening up for dinner.

Every evening has been a delight as I have met some very interesting people. Last night I chose to sit with the couple that met on EHarmony and an elderly couple that I had seen strolling the ship over the past couple of days; their names are Rachel and Kelvin, and were a fascinating couple. Kelvin is a retired Urologist and Rachel is a retired nurse from Rebecca, Georgia. I had actually noticed the couple prior as I thought it was sweet how Kelvin helped and tended to his wife's every need (it seemed that she had a little trouble getting around). The couple, particularly Rachel, was extremely witty. She loved to joke about her husband's profession by letting me know that a Urologist is basically a "pecker checker". She was a delightful woman and I found myself laughing quite a bit during dinner. Now, I want to go back to the notion that River Cruising is for the older more mature adult. And although Rachel and Kelvin fall into the typical age category for River Cruising, I want to say that I have also met couples in their 30's, 40's and on up as well. I'm finding more and more that River Cruising is really for anyone.

What I have found interesting is most everyone I have met this is their 2nd or 3rd River Cruise. And another interesting fact is many of them were ocean cruisers prior, and River Cruising is their vacation of choice. For the travel agent, repeat business is the best! Sending your client on River Cruise can almost guarantee a long-term repeat customer.

This morning, though, we have arrived in Melk, Austria. My scenic view out of my cabin is captivating. The morning will be spent here in Melk, and then a day of cruising as we venture to Vienna. I can't wait....

Christmas Markets, 12th Century Bridges and Various Cruisers

Yesterday was day 3 of the cruise, and I was enthusiastic to venture off the ship. I had several options for activity in Regensberg which included a walking tour, visiting Thurn and Taxis castle, or walk through town and into the Christmas markets. I bundled up with layers: coat, hat, gloves as it is hovering right around 30 degrees. The moment I stepped off the boat, I felt I was walking back in time in one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. It contained an astonishing variety of buildings spanning every imaginable European style of architecture. Add plenty of attractive open-air cafes and traditional taverns for an authentic German beer. Another marvel was the 12th century Old Stone Bridge over 1000 feet long. It made me chuckle how we cannot even keep our bridges in the States in decent shape, but they have found a way to preserve this bridge over 1000 years....Amazing!

Words really cannot even explain the feeling one experiences when in Europe. If you have ever visited Europe, then you know exactly what I’m talking about. The longer I walked, the more beautiful and interesting it got. You really start understanding why they say that River Cruising gets you into the “heart” of a country as I felt enveloped by the warmth of everyone. The Christmas markets are breathtaking and the vendor’s goods are so unique and different. In fact, I have met travelers on the cruise that love River Cruising this time of the year just to experience the Christmas markets. The shopping was amazing as there were so many eclectic and unique items to purchase. I perused the vendors booths for hours while drinking warm spiced wine, ate lunch at a local pub, and even though it was cold and a little rainy, I barely noticed. My only regret for the day is that I didn’t take the Castle tour - everyone that took the tour was so impressed by it. I heard some even “buzzing” about it hours after.

From a travel agent’s perspective, I really don’t see how River Cruising is only for the older adult. I would think anyone that would love to experience and travel throughout Europe on one trip, would love River Cruising. In fact, many of the other travelers I have met find “River Cruising” the ideal vacation of choice. Being a small ship and under 200 cruisers on board, you really get a chance to know everyone. From farmers to millionaires, and even a couple who met on E Harmony were among some of the passengers. I think the other travel agents on board also found it interesting, as I did. Their perception of River Cruises was not what they had originally thought.

Today, we have arrived in Passau, which they say is the city of Three Rivers, and I am anxious the start exploring.

My final day of the blog, I’ll share with you the pros and cons of River Cruising. I will also share with you some of the interesting stories of some of the other cruisers and why they choose River Cruising over other types of vacations. But I can tell you that now on day 3, I have a completely different perspective than I did on Day 1. And I think I may just be starting to relax....a little!

My River Cruise Experience

I laid my head in his lap while he stroked my head and ran in his fingers from my scalp to the very ends of my long hair. Each time I would feel his touch my entire body would begin to tingle. We looked longingly into each other’s eyes, and he cupped his strong hands behind my head and pulled my lips next to his. I began to breathe heavier as....... “Ladies and Gentlemen, we will be ready for the walking tour with your guide through the beautiful historic town of Regensburg”. I was a little disoriented when I woke up, realizing I had fallen asleep reading one of my favorite Romance Novels. Its been years since I actually had time to read, and now here I am in Germany in one of the most relaxed environments I have ever been.

Before I begin, let me just say that River Cruising is not for everyone. If you are the type of individual that has a hard time relaxing (like me), or need tons of adventure and activities, you may not enjoy this type of experience. Some say that River Cruising tends to appeal to the older more mature adult. Probably the youngest person on the ship, I am discovering that River Cruising may also appeal to younger individuals that want to see Europe in a non-intimidating fashion, history enthusiasts, or for those who really need a relaxing stress-free vacation. So, I will hold off my complete analysis and recommendations until the end. If I have intrigued you just a little, I would love for you to join me on my journey through Europe on the Viking Prestige.

The concept of River Cruising has always intrigued me, so when I had the opportunity to cruise with Viking River Cruises, I took it. Really not sure what to expect as I had heard so many things about River Cruising from different perspectives. River Cruising in a nutshell is a “floating hotel” that allows the traveler to visit the heart of beautiful countries like Europe, Russia and Asia. Unlike Ocean cruising where the ship is the destination, River Cruising is the means to get you to the “beautiful destinations”, and to places the big ships just cannot get to.

It has been almost 20 years since I had been in Europe, and I was anxious to visit again. So, here I am journeying through the Main-Danube Canal, the second largest river of Europe. As the Training Director for KHM Travel Group, a host agency for over 3000 travel agents across the country, I felt it was time to start helping our agents learn more about River Cruising. In the past couple of years, River Cruising has become more and more popular and travel agents need to be aware that some of their clients may enjoy this type of experience. River Cruise Lines, like Viking and Avalon Waterways, are building more and more ships every year simply because the itineraries are filling up. In fact, the itineraries on the Viking River Cruise fleets are 70% filled for 2012 already. And by the way, half of their guests are “repeat cruisers”. So, no pun intended....but I didn’t want our travel agents to “miss the boat” , so to speak.

My journey began in Nuremberg, Germany. Getting on the ship was such an easy process. Basically this floating hotel welcomed their guests and within minutes we were directed into the lounge for a cocktail. Shortly after, I was given access to my cabin where I recovered a bit from the long flight over. We stayed in Nuremberg for a day where guests had the opportunity to visit the Christmas markets or take a sightseeing tour. Mid-afternoon yesterday, it was “Anchors Aweigh” and the Prestige navigated through 25 narrow locks as it ventured towards Regensberg. We enjoyed gourmet food, interesting lectures, gorgeous views of the countryside, and live music on the ship until it was time to turn in for the evening.

This morning we are now docked in Regensberg, and I will adventure out for the day to view famous landmarks like the 1000 foot Stone Bridge that was built in the 12th Century and the cathedral of St. Peter. But to be honest, I’m secretly looking forward to fulfilling my need of shopping getting my first “taste” of the beautiful Christmas Markets. I hope you join me again tomorrow. Bis bald.....German for “Bye for Now”.


P.S. Here's a picture of the Prestige, the ship I'm traveling on!

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