When most people think of cruising huge ships filled with lots of guests come to mind, and I must be honest, it’s not an experience that thrills me. That’s not to say that sailing on cruise ships cannot be fabulous, it certainly can (Give me a river cruise any day, it’s the perfect way to travel). The type of cruise that does get me excited, however, is one that includes amazing culinary experiences, wine tours and a stunning view of the countryside as we float by. Add a few interactive cooking classes with professional chefs, cruising through gorgeous landscapes past fairy-talvillages and exploring historical sites, and I’m in cruise heaven. One of the reasons that I enjoy river cruises so much is that you don’t miss out on all the beauty along the way to your destination, as when you fly. It is like a road trip, only on a ship.
Determining Travelers’ Perfect Cruise Destination
Having said that, the choices are rather overwhelming, and travelers will find that almost all river cruise companies offer staterooms that are similar in size, they all have restaurants and sundecks but that’s about it. So how can travelers choose the river cruise that’s best suited for their taste and budget, especially if they’ve never been on one? The obvious answer is to work with a travel advisor who can help travelers choose the perfect cruise destination based on their budget.
Travelers can start the planning process by deciding what the most important aspect of this adventure is for them. Is their preferred destination Europe? Or maybe a more mysterious one such as the Nile in Egypt.
This decision will also depend on the activities travelers want to participate in. For instance, for myself, since culinary travel and wine tourism is my niche, these activities are a no-brainer. But it doesn’t have to be all about that, I also enjoy exciting excursions such as hiking in a stunning country sides and visiting historical, UNESCO sites and castles. There are many of those along the Rhine River. In Heidelberg or Amsterdam, travelers will experience a mix of both the cities and culture while cruising the Rhine, or they can take a stroll down the “World’s Merriest Street”, the Drosselgasse, to find a Weingarten in Rudesheim, Germany. So, with some clever planning, an advisor can help travelers cover almost all their “wants” on a river cruise.
Favorite Cruise Destinations in Europe
I would recommend that everyone should experience cruising the Danube at least once. Besides the fact that it includes some of the most stunning and historically intriguing cities such as Vienna, Passau, Budapest and Nuremberg, the landscapes are beyond beautiful, and the excursions to UNESCO world heritage sites are quite fascinating. Those dreamy, elegant concerts and waltzes, both on the ship and during evening visits to Viennese palaces, and exploring Vienna’s rich musical heritage, should be on every romantic’s bucket list. The Danube’s course through Europe takes in 10 countries; from opulent and influential cities to breathtaking countryside and runs through some of Europe’s most amazing sights. Austrian winemaking heritage dates to Roman times and there’s nowhere better to enjoy a glass of local Viennese wine than at one of the city’s heuriger – a historic wine tavern.
Another favorite is the Rhône River, and yes, I recommend a tour of my favorite wine-producing region of Beaujolais and Chateau Neuf du Pape. This wine-producing region of Bordeaux is perfect for wine aficionados and history buffs and don’t forget to indulge in the area’s intoxicating mix of culinary delights and old-world charm. If the cruises aren’t enough for you, one can always purchase pre and post land excursions to Paris or the Loire Valley. There are also cruises that will combine multiple river cruises for those clients who are looking for longer voyages and they can book back-to-back itineraries that are connected by high-speed train or motorcoach. 
Cruises for Foodies
For those of us who love French food, there are many culinary experiences to be had in France. Embarking from Paris, a cruise along the Rhône River stops off on delightful places such as Lyon, Avignon and Cote d'Azur, which allows travelers to revel in these stunning landmarks and sample local fare along the way. Cruise-goers can visit a cheese farm, watch pastry demos or try those delicious French Crepes!
Other Considerations
The most important decision travelers will have to make is when they want to cruise. Do they want to see the tulips bloom, the Christmas markets (and no, it isn’t too late to book those) the fall foliage or the grape harvest? Do they like to travel with a crowd or prefer to avoid them? What about the heat?
Right now, I can just imagine myself on a European cruise with a focus on history, music and art as the luxe cruise floats past the breathtaking scenery of the Wachau Valley past the world’s most beautiful landscapes and Bavarian villages. River cruise choices are virtually endless, and to choose the right one, travelers should contact their travel advisor who will know what to recommend based on their needs.
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Until 2023, I wish you safe travels, Happy Holidays and only the very best for the New Year.
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