Friends had taken a cruise with Avalon on the Danube and told us how much they enjoyed it so we decided to try a trip. We don't like the big cruise ships so this seemed perfect for us. Two other couples went also, including the couple who took the Danube trip. right from the beginning, Avalon did everything they could to make our booking, airline booking and excursions as easy for us as possible. Once on the ship, they really outdid themselves. The service from all the staff and especially the cruise director was exceptional. The food was fantastic (I wish the chefs would produce a cookbook). The room accommodation was very nicely appointed and had plenty of storage. We especially liked the sliding doors that allowed us to lie in bed and take in the sights as we cruised. The beds were very comfortable and also the bathroom facility. The excursions were well planned and interesting. Our trip was altered just a bit when we came to a place with low water that could not be navigated by our ship. Christine, our cruise director, jumped into action and coordinated with the Imagery's sister ship, the Tranquility so we could go on an excursion and from their be bussed to the other ship. The tranquility passengers were coming from the opposite direction and, of course, ran into difficulties too. So we switched ships and kept on going. It was a very smooth transition thanks to Christine and the other crew members. This is a trip that I've recommended to all my friends. It was wonderful! If we ever have the opportunity to travel like this again, I would gladly take another cruise with Avalon.