This cruise, "Romantic Rhine (northbound) with Paris and London extension", was a gift to me; a dear friend of many years came along. We wanted to cruise the Rhine and Avalon had the perfect itinerary. Although the airline lost our luggage (mine for 4 days, hers for the entire trip), our cruise was simply marvelous.

We embarked as smoothly as one can, only having what we were wearing and a few personal items. Our cabin was just right---glad we sprang for the French balcony with sliding door---kept clean and serviced by the crew exactly to our liking. The food was phenomenal---the Eggs Benedict for breakfast was the best I have ever had anywhere, and several people on board said the salmon was delicious.

The majority of guides provided for the included excursions were knowledgable and led their groups with flair. We opted for the "extra" excursions of the Alsace wine tour and Monet's home at Giverny once we were in Paris, and were not disappointed. Read more