If Europe is on your bucket list, there’s an unforgettable option for you to consider: a Viking Rhine River cruise!

Imagine starting in Amsterdam, cruising through the heart of Europe along the Rhine, and ending your journey surrounded by the incredible scenery of the Swiss Alps. Think about all of the breathtaking sights you’ll be able to take in along the way, the mouthwatering food you can experience, and the relaxation that comes from sitting back and taking in the view.

Start in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the perfect place to begin. Picture yourself exploring the canals lined with beautiful buildings, charming streets, museums, and charming cafés. Maybe you’ll want to spend a little bit of time seeing the city by bike – which is very common here – and immersing yourself in the unmistakable European atmosphere.

I like to recommend that my clients spend a little time here before getting on the river cruise because it gives you the opportunity to see the city more in depth before settling into a completely different pace of travel.

Once you board the Viking river ship, you can unwind and take in the views that only the river brings.

River cruising is one of the most relaxing ways to travel. You unpack once and your room stays in one place. moves with you. Instead of hauling your luggage to new train stations in each city you’re visiting and checking into another hotel, you get to settle in and enjoy the journey.

Rhine is spectacular, too. You’ll get to see the one-of-a-kind towns, historic architecture, vineyards, castles and beautiful countryside right from the ship. And sometimes the scenery outside your window is just as memorable as the destination you're visiting. Head out to the deck with a glass of wine and watch Europe pass by.

River cruising also offers the best of both worlds! You have the perfect combination of rest and discovery. You can get off the ship and explore a new destination, walking through historic streets or the magical countryside, visiting a castle, or filling your belly with mouthwatering local food.

Then return to the ship, unpacked and settled in, and let someone else worry about getting you to the next stop. It's European sightseeing without feeling like you have to race through Europe.

Switzerland Next

Just when you think the trip couldn't get much better, you reach Switzerland. The scenery changes completely and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen before! Words can’t really describe the majestic nature of this part of the world – the towering mountains, sweeping valleys, crystal clear lakes, and villages with welcoming locals.

Ending a European river journey here gives the trip a completely different finale. You've gone from canals in Amsterdam, to castles and villages along the Rhine, to the dramatic mountain scenery of Switzerland.

That's what makes this feel like a true bucket-list journey.

Why I Think This Trip Is Special

There are lots of ways to see Europe. But I love the idea of this one because you're not simply checking destinations off a list. You're experiencing different sides of Europe during one trip. You’ll see city life in Amsterdam, the countryside of Europe via the Rhine, castles, a broad spectrum of European food and wine, mountains, and so much more! And you won’t have to worry about transportation and other logistics that come with visiting multiple countries in one trip.

Ready to plan your river cruise?

If you want to see Europe but don't love the idea of constantly packing and unpacking, this could be a great vacation option for you. River cruises are smaller and more intimate than large ocean cruises and focus heavily on the destinations. Your bucket list trip is waiting, and I can help you plan it!

I'll help you figure out what type of European experience is best for you and make sure all the pieces are planned out. That way, you won’t need to stress over the details and can focus on creating memories that last forever.

I just wrapped up an incredible week in Jamaica, and this trip was about much more than sitting on the beach with a rum punch in my hand. While I love experiencing the beauty and relaxation of this incredible island, I also wanted to use this time to explore some of the one-of-a-kind resorts there, so I can continue to match my clients with world-class accommodations.

I experienced four resorts during this trip—and each one was a new experience for me.

And there’s an extra milestone I’m excited to announce: with my stay at Couples Swept Away, I have now personally experienced all four Couples Resorts in Jamaica!

As a travel advisor, that matters to me. It gives me the firsthand experience needed to help each of my clients find the vacation that suits them best. In other words, I work hard to recommend specific resorts because I’ve actually been there and experienced it on the ground. While the pictures, brochures, and website help – it doesn’t replace the actual experience of eating the food, walking the grounds, getting a feel for the culture and atmosphere, and putting your toes in the sand.

Each resort has its own feel and what I mainly learned is that there is not one ‘best’ resort in Jamaica. This is a personal decision! Each person has an idea of what they want their vacation to be and there is a resort that’s best for you! Maybe you want quiet and personalized service, or you want plenty of entertainment options. Maybe a quiet beach with a book or a nap is what the doctor ordered, or you’re wanting to give your taste buds an adventure at new restaurants.

I got to see the ins and outs of each resort during my trip, so keep reading for my honest feedback. Most importantly, you’ll figure out who I think each resort is best suited for.

Resort #1: Sandals Dunn’s River
A newer, modern Sandals experience with beautiful grounds, incredible water, multiple restaurants and bars, great pools, water sports, and some surprises—including a Rum Bar that is definitely worth visiting!

Resort #2: Sandals Royal Plantation
A completely different experience. Every room is luxury: butler level and the service is highly personalized, the atmosphere is peaceful and refined, and the ocean is spectacular. And if you want more action, you have access to Sandals Ochi and Dunn’s River.

Resort #3: Sandals Ochi
If you want options, Ochi delivers. Pools, games, entertainment, restaurants, bars, a beach club, transportation around the property—and even a speakeasy where you need the password to get in. This was so fun!

Resort #4: Couples Swept Away
This one was especially meaningful for me because it means I’ve have now experienced all four Couples Resorts in Jamaica! It gave me the chance to see what makes the Couples brand different and ultimately, help connect who I think will really love this property.

My conclusion is that there’s no one resort that’s better than the others. Each one is different and has a distinct vibe. That’s where my role as a travel advisor comes into play: I work hard to get to know you and what you’re dreaming of for your vacation. That way, I can match you with the property that makes the most sense for you.

I've done the exploring. Now let me introduce you to an island I love dearly – Jamaica.

If you are looking for a unique way to experience Europe, a European river cruise is one of the most special ways to see different countries. This is a relaxing way to see the breathtaking beauty of Europe without navigating trains, hotels, or flights. Instead, you can settle into your comfortable cabin and wake up in a new place almost every day. If you’re considering a river cruise, here are some important things to know and expect.

#1: It’s Not Like an Ocean Cruise
River cruise boats are smaller vessels, usually only holding 200 passengers or less. River cruises also focus heavily on the destinations, rather than large ocean cruise liners being a big part of the vacation experience. River cruises are also only sailing inland waters, making the experience smoother than some ocean cruises which can have rougher open seas.

#2: You’ll Love How Much They Offer
River cruises offer a quiet, relaxing experience, yet there are many onboard amenities to experience if you want. Personalized service, lounges and bars, private rooms with bathrooms and spacious balconies or verandas are also standard on most river cruises. Meals and daily excursions are the norm, and some luxury lines also include premium drinks, gratuities, and even airport transfers.

#3: It’s Best to Choose Your Itinerary Before Your Cruise Line
It’s common for guests to choose their cruise line first, but I recommend outlining some of your most important ‘must-see’ destinations first. Whether you’re looking to cruise the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, or something else, each river offers a completely different experience.

#4: You Can Experience Cities in a Unique Way
River cruises give guests the experience of docking in the heart of historic towns and beautiful cities. This gives you the opportunity to step right off the boat into the city and you’ll be just steps away from local shops and cafes, cathedrals, and castles. In other words, in just minutes you’ll be able to immerse yourself into the sights, sounds, and culture of the town!

River cruises are very popular and some of the most popular itineraries sell out a year in advance. That’s why I recommend working with me to plan your trip well ahead of time. We can work together to find the best selection at the ideal sailing dates – all within your budget.

Europe is an incredible place to explore and seeing it via a river cruise is something you’ll never forget. This type of vacation is one of the most relaxing and enriching ways to see cities that you may not otherwise see on your own.

Ready to plan your European river cruise?  

My personal experience aboard European river cruises give me the insight needed to help you plan a trip of a lifetime. Contact me to get started.

I look forward to working with you!