As we approached our 50th anniversary, we decided to make good on a promise to ourselves to take a river cruise in Europe. Upon recommendation of our travel agent, we chose Uniworld's Maria Theresa, European Jewels, embarking in Amsterdam and concluding the trip in Budapest.

We chose to arrive in Amsterdam two days early to view museums and tulip fields, then, joined our ship around noon on a Sunday to 'settle in.' The process was as 'smooth as silk' with no delays with warm welcome at the reception desk and an orientation to our stateroom by a charming staff person (Lucas). We enjoyed a sumptuous lunch and went up to the deck for the 4:00 pm departure. As it was quite chilly (this was mid-April), we were provided warm blankets--and champagne--as we watched the scenes go by on the Amstel-Rhine canal.

The next 14 days were a wonderful experience in every way. Uniworld's assertion that the cruise is 'all inclusive' is no exaggeration. Food, drinks, shore excursions, service--exceptional in every way. Every staff person went out off their way to accommodate every request. Every stop provided a selection of two or three tours to choose, and local guides provided excellent info about their towns and regions. We enjoyed each day's activities, capped off with a delicious dinner accompanied by regional wines, and music and dancing in the lounge. Read more