If there’s anything I’ve learned during this Photo Tour, it’s that there’s never a dull moment when traveling on board a river cruise.
Why do I say that?
Well, if you’ve been keeping up with the blog, you’ll know that the past few weeks have taken me to epic churches, magical castles and yes, even right in the middle of an equestrian show in Hungary. I’ve discovered how small our world can be, how the kindness of strangers can make all the difference, and even had an epiphany along the way!
So, like I said: no dull moments.
Sometimes, I can’t even believe how much fun I’m having! I have to admit, prior to this experience, I always had an image of river cruising in my head that was slow, quiet and maybe even a little boring. This couldn’t be farther from the truth! There is always something happening, and I never find myself at a loss for anything to do.
So here I am to prove that river cruising is not boring at all! I’d like to present you with four reasons why you’ll never be bored on a CroisiEurope river cruise.
Every cruise offers a set of optional excursions that you are able to pick and choose from. This means that, in addition to waking up in a new place every day, you’re also presented with something to do once you get there, whether it’s simply touring the town, or going on full day trips. The best part is: excursions aren’t mandatory, so you can tailor the trip to your own interests. For example, today I went on a city tour of Bratislava, which took me around town in an open-air bus. I had so much fun exploring the city with a guide, but other passengers chose to go at their own pace and discover the city themselves. This flexibility really helps to create a fun experience, regardless of what definition of fun you go by.
On the boat, you’ll find an entertainer (or two) whose sole job is to ensure that you’re having a fun time. Throughout the day, they take care of activities and games, ranging from morning exercises on the sun deck, to quizzes, bingo and even dance parties.
Let me tell you, these activities are absurdly fun. I admit, some games might not sound exciting, but passengers usually embrace them with such enthusiasm that a good time is inevitable. For example, tonight, I witnessed a hilarious game that required players to find various items (e.g. socks) and bring them back to the front before the last player, who would then be eliminated. The fiery competitiveness I witnessed was absolutely terrifying! By the 5th round, the required object was a pair of pants, and without hesitation, passengers raced to unbuckle their pants, all for the sake of winning some game tokens. “Hilariously competitive” is probably the best way I can describe it!
In addition to activities and games, there’s always an on-board musician (who plays in the lounge) and also specialty shows like cabarets and operettas. My personal favourite however is the “crew surprise” that happens once per cruise. Without giving too much away, the crew members get free reign to put on comedic skits of their choosing, and the results are pretty hysterical.
Not into games or excursions? I think the beauty of a river cruise is that you’re never forced to do anything you don’t want to. Instead, you’re given opportunities to enjoy yourself as you wish. With an open bar, board games, magazines and WiFi at your disposal, you can do whatever you want, whether it’s lounging all day on the sun deck or catching up on reading.
Last but not least, I have to say: at its core, river cruising is a social experience. I could sit down for hours and tell you stories about the people I’ve met on this Photo Tour… Truly, you would be shocked at the sheer amount of interesting, funny and warm people that you’re able to cross paths with on these cruises. So, why not grab a drink and get to know your fellow passengers? I promise it’s worth it! After just four cruises, I now have contacts based in France, Canada, the US, England and even Bermuda. Needless to say, I am now dreaming up reunion visits to see all of them!
So, with two months left on this Photo Tour, I am more determined than ever to make great memories and above all else, have a lot of fun. Thanks for reading along on my adventures, and I hope to have fresh stories for you very, very soon!
- Christina