We were expecting the same or better experience on the Viking Forseti in France that we had with Viking on the Yangste in China. However, it turned out to be nothing like the china experience. it was hard to believe it was the same company! The cabin service was the worst we have had in over 10 cruises of various sizes and companies. The steward never introduced herself or said a word to us. We had to call for towels, soap, hangers, everything. The ship itself is lovely in terms of décor, cabin appointments, bedding,etc. although the cabin and especially bathroom was very small. The guides on the excursions were very good and the cruise director Suzi did a very good job with what she had which was a lack of staff...she was carrying luggage,etc. and a crowded ship with way too many passengers in a very small space. There were days with only one excursion and no lectures. There were opera singers one night and an attempt to discuss Bordeaux wine one evening in a crowded, noisy lounge so it was virtually useless. The food was edible but basically like the Olive Garden , not what you would expect in France. No French cheese except a hard basic brie at breakfast, no chocolates and the same wine at every meal on a "wine" oriented cruise! Wait staff was pretty good...much better than cabin!.