I’ve been booking these trips a lot over the last few years, especially as their popularity has dramatically increased.  Every time a client returns home they have spoken at length of how it is the best holiday they ever had, even the well-travelled ones.

So I must say I had very high expectations about cruising for 14 nights from Amsterdam to Budapest and I am pleased to say it even exceeded them.
Firstly, just logistically, if you travel in low season (March or Nov) you get to fly free, I thought great, extra spending money.
On arriving into Amsterdam at 6am we were met at the airport and transferred straight to the ship.  Our cabin wasn’t ready until the afternoon, however in the meantime we checked-in, relaxed in the public areas where complimentary beverages are served along with lovely cuisine (more on that later).  Then I unpacked once and only once for the entire duration of the holiday (my favourite bit) and then sat back as Europe was handed to me on a platter.
I truly believe that when river cruising you see and experience these places precisely as they are meant to be seen – it’s like a red carpet entrance the entire way where each hour we pass yet another amazing medieval castle or historically significant buildings and towns.
I visited six countries in this time, Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary.  At the end of the two week trip my bill was EUR180 ($290), it was so all inclusive with every single meal taken care of, not to mention extras like ice cream served up on deck, nothing appeared on the menu twice with a huge selection of local chef specialties as well as regular fare for those who miss their Caesar salads and steaks.
All the shore excursions were included and we had the freedom to choose from up to three per day.
Lovely, lovely local wines served with dinner and those cheeky waiters filling your glass at every opportunity – very dangerous.
Entertainment nightly, usually with local entertainment brought onboard each night, plus a couple of great lectures about German history, glass blowing demonstrations etc.
Highlights?  All European staff onboard were warm and delightful.  With 120 passengers and 40 crew (nine in the kitchen alone) the service was amazing.  I never received a cold cup of tea.
Our cruise director and tour guides were so knowledgeable, witty and helpful.  In particular our cruise director took care of everyone.  You don’t feel like walking today?  Come with me in the “toy train” or taxi.  She reconfirmed everyone’s flights and at the end of the trip arranged taxis and APT put on buses for all airport runs and people extending onto Prague (next time).
They also had a supply of bikes onboard and on one of the days a few of us cycled from Melk to Durnstein which was 30km, passing through six small towns and numerous wineries (we only stopped at two!).
We had unseasonably warm weather, 16 degrees most days and only one day of rain, which is unusual at this time.
The other highlight?  No crowds in March and also Europe was so much cheaper than I remember, so I only spent half my money – even after sending back two large boxes of shoes and gifts in Regensburg.  APT are now offering trips for 2011 at 2010 prices plus, for the first time, free flights year round, so feel free to pop in and chat to me if you’re interested.

Don’t forget that only Travelscene American Express at Samford lets you travel anywhere, any time and pay with your membership rewards points.  So contact us here at Travelscene Samford on 3289 3700 and let us help you turn your American Express membership rewards points into your next trip.