We wanted to see more of the United States. Have been to California and seeing Oregon and Washington finishes the West Coast for us. There is so much of the U.S. to see here that we are only putting a small dent in it! The American Empress is a perfect ship size to meet most of the passengers, it's small enough that you don't get lost trying to get to anything. The food is elegantly delicious! I love there ON-OFF excursion buses--make it very easy to spend as much time in each area of the port as you want. The Riverlorian talks onboard are very interesting and entertaining. The only thing I miss is a pool onboard or at a hot tub--I enjoy swimming and doing my PT (Physical Therapy) exercises which are a must since I've had knee replacement surgery on both knees. But the excursions are perfect for the walking exercise that I'm supposed to do.