Navigating Waters

There are river cruises that check the boxes. Then there are river cruises that surprise you. Bordeaux, France is firmly in the latter category. Avalon Waterways, known for its relaxed luxury and spacious Panorama Suites, has just joined the select group of river cruise lines offering itineraries in the Bordeaux region. While lines like Uniworld, AmaWaterways and Viking have sailed here for years, Avalon's entrance brings a refreshed approach, especially with their upgraded f

For river cruise travelers flying into Europe, navigating airport layovers  can be one of the biggest stress points of the journey. Some airports are well-oiled machines with efficient transfers, while others are notorious for long immigration lines, confusing layouts, and tight connection times that feel nearly impossible to make. If you're planning a European river cruise , your journey likely involves a connection at one of the major European or U.S. hub airports . Here's

The much-anticipated European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) , initially set to launch in 2024, has now been delayed...

If you're taking a Danube River cruise  and flying into or out of Munich Airport (MUC) , planning your transfers is key. While the Danube River does not flow through Munich , the city is a major gateway to the region and a convenient access point for river cruises. Many itineraries start or end in Vilshofen, Passau, Regensburg, or even Nuremberg , all of which are well connected to Munich by train or private transfers. Easiest Option: Cruise Line Transfers Most river cruise c

Budapest is one of Europe's most stunning and walkable cities, with many top attractions right along the Danube. If you have a full day to explore, you’ll want to make the most of it—but without overexerting yourself. Your river cruise line will likely offer an excursion  to key sites like Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church , so check your itinerary first to avoid doubling up. Here’s a self-guided, leisurely walking tour  that highlights Budapest’s best sights while keep

River cruising in Africa is a journey like no other. Combining the intimacy of small-ship cruising with the awe-inspiring landscapes,...

The Lower Danube River cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of...

River cruises have long been associated with older travelers seeking a leisurely way to explore the world’s waterways. While it’s true that seniors still make up a sizeable portion of river cruise guests, the average age of passengers has been steadily dropping in recent years. By 2025, river cruises appeal to a far broader demographic, from active middle-aged adventurers to multigenerational families. Today’s river cruises are about more than just leisurely sightseeing. They

Budapest, often called the "Pearl of the Danube," is a captivating destination that enchants visitors with its rich history, architectural splendor, and cultural treasures. Divided by the Danube River, the city consists of two distinct halves: Buda and Pest. Each side offers unique experiences, and together, they create a vibrant port of call that river cruisers shouldn’t miss. Here’s why Budapest deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. Buda: The Historic and Scenic Side

Travelers planning international trips in 2025 and beyond will face several new requirements that aim to enhance border security and...

A Rhine River cruise offers more than breathtaking castles, charming villages, and world-renowned wine – it’s also an incredible...

As the gateway to Europe, London offers travelers a perfect stop before or after a European river cruise. Flights within Europe are often...

In the fall of 2023, we found ourselves cruising the Upper Danube with AmaWaterways, and one of the standout stops was Bratislava,...

The Bordeaux region, nestled in the southwest of France, is one of the world's most beloved wine regions, known for its world-class...

Last month, we had the pleasure of visiting Cochem , Germany, as part of an excursion from our Rhine River cruise, docking in Koblenz ....

Unique Riverboat Design Features Across Leading River Cruise Brands River cruises offer a more intimate and scenic travel experience compared to ocean cruises, with ships designed to navigate narrower waterways and dock in smaller, more charming towns. While the size constraints of these vessels mean fewer passengers, cruise lines have found ways to innovate their ships with luxurious and unique features. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top river cruise brands and the

The Upper Danube River, flowing from Budapest through Austria and into Southeast Germany, offers one of the most culturally rich and picturesque river cruise experiences in Europe. As one of the most popular river cruise routes, the Upper Danube immerses travelers in the history, architecture, and local traditions of Central Europe. Varied Itineraries and Destinations Not all river cruises on the Upper Danube make the same stops or follow identical routes. Depending on the cr

Air travel can be stressful, especially when disruptions occur. Thankfully, a new wave of passenger protections is set to roll out in the...

As you sail along the tranquil Mosel River , the lush, vineyard-covered hills begin to surround you, their beauty pulling you deeper into...

Nestled in the French Alps, Annecy  is often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps" due to its charming canals and stunning Lake Annecy...