We have been traveling with USA River Cruises for 9 years. Been to
France, Germany,Portugal, Panama Canal, Alaska, Canada, Oregon, and now
the Mediterranean. Every trip has been wonderful and well planned by
Cindy. But, I don't know how this last trip can be topped.
We hadn't planned this one, it wasn't at the top of our list of "have to
see." Cindy wrote to tell us about the good deal that Viking Ocean
Cruises was having and that she was getting a group together. So, we
said "Let's go!" We have traveled with Cindy and Don before (Spain and
Portugal) so we knew we would have a good time.
Everything was above any expectations that we had. From the hotel in
Athens, to the Viking Sky to exploring the canals of Venice, it was
amazing. Even the weather was perfect...don't know how you did that Cindy.
Cindy arranged some private tours in Athens and Venice for us. A perfect
way to get to know a little bit of ancient history, the people, the
food, and the beauty of cities.
The Viking Sky is a beautiful ship. Tours were offered in each port or
you could explore on your own. I was especially taken with the beauty of
Montenegro. The history of Greece and the former Yugoslavia countries
was very interesting. The people are so friendly and welcoming.
The food on the ship was excellent. There were plenty of options on the
menu, although my husband had creme brûlée at almost every meal. They
make all their own bread and gelato. Everything from scratch. It was
open dining so we were able to meet and chat with quite a few of the
other passengers. The cabins were spacious and the crew was fantastic,
from the stewards to the waiters to the bartenders. (Did I mention wine
with lunch and dinner?) there were also two specialty restaurants. Had
delicious meals at both. Afternoon tea was served in the Wintergarden.
Cindy and I spent a lovely afternoon sipping tea and eating lots of
little goodies there.
Our hotels and B&Bs were perfect. In Athens there was a rooftop
restaurant and bar overlooking the Acropolis, absolutely breathtaking at
night. It was easy walking to shops and sights. The B&Bs in Venice were
charming and intimate. We stayed in 3 and they were all very nice. The
proprietors were friendly and helpful. The rooms were spacious and the
breakfasts were delicious, a perfect way to start the day.
The only part of the trip that we didn't enjoy was having to take that
flight home.
We are already planning our next trip, a family get together at a
ranch/spa in Arizona. We are hoping Cindy and her family will also be
able to join in the fun.
Cindy always does such an outstanding job when it comes to planning our
trips. We love working with her. She listens to her clients and
understands what they want out of their travel experience. Her
suggestions are the highlights of our trips. I love all the planning,
and working with the professionals at USA River Cruises makes the
planning easy. Thank you, Cindy!