Viking Vili Review
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We have done many ocean cruises and did short (1 day) cruises on the Rhine River, and had thought for some time about trying a river cruise. When we finally got around to talking about it and doing it, we decided on the Grand European. Once we have flown from the US, we wanted to stay as long as possible. It turned out we were on the first trip of the season. The shopkeepers in all the towns were happy to see us coming. Because it was early in the year, we had NO crowds in any of the towns. Even the bus drivers mentioned how nice it was with no traffic. We also had weather across the board: rain, sleet, snow and warm sunshine. Nothing dampened our spirits, and most on board enjoyed experiencing four seasons in a day or two! This is a long, but quick review. I’m up to my eyeballs in laundry! Oh, speaking of laundry, if you want to bring less clothes, we both used the laundry service on the ship. It was beautifully and quickly done! We aren’t really shoppers, but managed to find gifts for our kids and grandkids and were happy our suitcases were not too packed. If you have any specific questions about the cruise or the ship, please ask! You are all in for a treat on your trip. I get motion sickness very easily and wear patches on ocean cruises. On this ship, I can easily say 96 percent of the time you didn't even know you were on a ship. The ride was very smooth! You did know a few times when we were going in a lock as the sides would hit a bit, but the locks were fascinating!
Prague
We booked the pre-stay in Prague. We had been before and loved the city. We were met at the airport in a timely manner by the Viking representative, and we never thought of another detail for three weeks! Everything was handled for us, and what a pleasure. We stayed at a lovely hotel, the Art Nouveau Palace Hotel. The hotel was just a few short blocks from Old Town. There were Viking representatives at the hotel if we needed anything. The breakfast room was lovely and the breakfast had everything you could possibly want. It was a large buffet and had great food and service.
Cabin Review
French Balcony
The cabin was small! When we first walked in we were a bit surprised how small it was. We had two large suitcases and one small (I don't travel lightly) and wondered where everything would go. In short time, we had successfully put everything away in a proper place: hung up, shelves in the closet or in a drawer. There was really plenty of room for two people in the room and it was very comfortable. The heated floor in the bathroom was wonderful! There is no fitness and recreation on board, except the walking track ton the sun deck hat is closed several days due to low bridges, but Viking offers hiking and fitness tours for those that are so inclined. We booked a French Balcony on this trip, only because there were no balconies left. I have to say, it was a perfect fit for this trip. Honestly, when you are cruising down the river and going through one of the 68 locks(!), it is much better to be in front of the ship, in the comfortable Aquavit or the regular lounge, so you can see both sides.
Port Reviews
Melk
Dont miss this Abbey!
Regensburg
Try the sausage at the Old Sausage House near the Stone Bridge.
Budapest
DIdn't go on the tour, but the ship parks near a great market (indoors). Fascinating to see all the items in three floors.
Bamberg
Try the smoke beer!
Wurzburg
Go to Rothenburg if it is offered. Our favorite place in German after several trips. We also went to the Bishops Residenz in Wurzberg, again not to be missed!