Who Goes On a River Cruise?

When my partner suggested we take a river cruise I thought he was joking. We’re not old. Our holidays are adventurous, occasionally luxurious. I imagined poky cabins, bingo evenings and worse. We were too young to join a cruise.

I asked him if he’d considered who goes on a river cruise. Glamorous grannies and old men in blazers I asserted. Not people like us. But he was persuasive and I found myself cruising from Munich to Budapest.

With regard to the question “Who goes on a river cruise?” the answer is a lot of people you wouldn’t expect, and for good reason too.

The cabins rivalled some of the hotel rooms we’ve had in the past. Beautifully equipped with luxurious queen size beds, flat screen TV, computer with complimentary WiFi. A marble bathroom, complete with bathrobes, slippers and designer toiletries. We even had a balcony with comfy chairs and a little table.

I was delighted with our comfortable cabin. I reasoned it would be easy to relax here in the evening when the older clientele shuffled off to play bridge or whatever they did of an evening.

Well it turns out that what they do of an evening is dine well and have fun!

The attentive staff ensured we were well looked after. There was live music or regional performers each evening. Our cruise companions were a good range of ages and backgrounds, much to my surprise. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the experience. All the benefits of hotels and as much adventure as you want once you reach port. Each day bringing somewhere new and exciting to explore.

All meals were included in our package, and let me tell you that the food was exquisite. Breakfast was a champagne buffet, a beautiful continental affair of fresh bread, little pastries, meats, cheeses, etc and a skilled egg chef making marvellous omelettes.

Lunches were a mouth-watering choice of dishes, always with a hard to resist dessert. Dinner was gourmet quality, traditional dishes that catered for all tastes alongside regional classics, all served with complimentary beverages including wine and beer.

With a choice of dining venues from Chefs table to room service we were spoilt for choice.

All too soon it was over.

Gareth

My name is Gareth Leonard, a Marketing Director turned World Traveler with a passion for slow, meaningful travel. I have been traveling the world full-time for the past 9+ years and document it all on Instagram and YouTube. Come join me!