We choose Avalon because of the cabins on the boats. They are larger than most of the other river boats. The outside wall is literally glass from ceiling to floor. The glass slides so you can open your room to the river, sit in a very comfortable chair and enjoy watching the scenery as you cruise. The space that other river boats put in an outside balcony is extra space in your room and you can still feel like you are outside. The bathroom is also larger than other river boats. Food was excellent and the staff was friendly, efficient and very helpful. The shore excursions were above average. We liked all the stops and they covered a variety of sights, sizes of towns and each had its own charm. Our only glitch was an Vueling airline strike which coincided with French bus and train strike. Captain Luc and Nancy our cruise director went the extra mile to help us arrange transportation to Barcelona. None it the fault of Avalon cruises. We think Avalon Waterways is a great cruise line that cares about its clients.