This was our first cruise so we have nothing to compare it with. However, it was amazing. We met wonderful people, from other on-board guests to the cruise staff and had a great time. We heard from others that once you take a Viking Cruise you will never cruise with another line. We are now afraid to take a chance with another line. We rented a cabin that came with a stocked bar (as part of the package) and did not take advantage of the bar as we wanted to confirm that it was complimentary. So make sure you verify what is included in your room! My husband jokes to friends that "Oprah kept knocking on our door saying she wanted her room back." The dining choices and food selection was great. Be sure to try the various dining areas. We also enjoyed the entertainment, public spaces and talks. Be brave and experience the spa area, including the snow grotto and cold shower. Invigorating and no regrets. Since this was our first trip to Europe, we stayed two nights prior to our departure in Rome and took the train from Rome to the ship. This was a very easy process and the train ride was enjoyable. (It was about an hour ride.) We also stayed two nights in Barcelona, before heading back to the states. We stuck to the City tours for our excursion choices, as this is what we usually do on our first visits to most places. The tour busses were a little cramped for my husband who had a knee replacement, so at two of the Ports we simply took shuttles and explored the City's on our own. We did not worry about getting lost because we usually encountered a Viking tour group on our journeys. We are looking forward to our next Viking journey...