If you are trying to decide which river cruise line for your next vacation it can be a difficult choice. There are many great choices–AmaWaterways, Tauck, Avalon, and Uniworld to name a few. Different lines cater to different guests. This blog has focused quite a bit on AmaWaterways. AmaWaterways is an amazing line for all kinds of guests but especially for families as they have accomodations for up to 4 and welcome younger travelers.
But, today we are going to focus on another terrific river cruise line, Viking River Cruises. Viking caters to a bit older clientele as all travelers must be over 18 years old. If you haven’t traveled on a Viking River Cruise before this is an excellent video! If you have traveled on Viking before then this video will be a great reminder.
The Thinking Person’s Cruise
One of Viking’s specialties is enriching your knowledge and immersing you in the culture of the countries you visit. Viking calls themselves, “The Thinking Person’s River Cruise.” This doesn’t mean that you are required to participate in these events but if you are interested in delving in and learning about the countries they will provide ample opportunity to help you learn and grow.
Before Your Trip
You education can begin as soon as you book your trip (or actually even before). As you search different itineraries you will see a day by day list of the different cities that cruise will visit.
On the right you will see Read More. Click on this and the next page is full of awesome information. From here you can research your shore excursion options AND some great articles and videos about that day’s destination.
Here is a link to the Viking YouTube channel with hundreds of informational videos in case you don’t want to click through all the links on the website.
Filmography
Viking provides an extensive list of films that highlight your destination.
Recommended Reading
Viking makes learning as easy for you as possible. They have curated a list of books that feature your destination. There are books about the history, art, architecture, culture, biographies and autobiographies about influential people, fiction and classics. This is when planning ahead is very beneficial.
During Your Adventure
This is the really fun, much-anticipated part of your Viking, Thinking Person’s River Cruise! There are so many opportunites for you to grow your knowledge of the country you are about to visit.
Viking Curated Library
A London bookseller and Royal Warrant holder, Heywood Hill, put together an insightful collection of reading material specially chosen for the guests to read onboard the ship. Hand selected, these books from art to history to destination-focused materials will enhance your understanding of each port.
Guest Lectures and Port Talks
This feature is key to making Viking a Thinking Person’s River Cruise. Each day you can prepare for the upcoming port of call through a multimedia presentation with information about the history, culture, and must-see landmarks. Guests are also provided an opportunity to participate in a lecture program designed to educate you about the architecture, music, art, natural world, and other interesting features of your upcoming destination. These lectures enhance what you learned while onshore, especially if you go on one of the tours.
Destination Insights
From the comfort of your stateroom you can watch a special series of short films. You will find them very helpful to learn about your destination and some little-known places to visit. This series aids in deepening your understand and enjoyment of your time in port. And, you might find that it help you see things a little differently than before.
Musical Performances
Talented musicians are brought onboard for special performances. Listen to some classical selections as well as some from the region you are visiting. Enjoy the chance to experience the country with all your senses, spirit and soul.
In addition to onboard musical concerts, each Viking itinerary includes a Destination Performance. This performance will represent the most iconic cultural performing art of the region. You might find yourself at a Viennese opera, enjoying a Portuguese fado, or listening to the world-renowned Mariinsky Theater Singers. Truly magnificent events!
Craft and Cooking Demonstration
Diving into the culture isn’t limited to book knowledge and lectures. Viking also provides events for you to encounter the more artistic side of the culture with traditional crafts (glassblowing, lace making, or wooden shoemaking) and regional culinary delights (Austrian apple strudel, Bavarian pretzels, and more).
On Shore Experiences
The Viking Way® of discovering your destination gives you a closer look, even offering behind-the-scenes experiences. Tours will assuredly include the iconic and must-see landmarks and attractions. In addition, Viking strives to provide guests Local Life, Working World, and optional Privileged Access® excursions in locations that are difficult to visit.
As you can see, Viking River Cruises excells at helping to learn all that you can about the countries you will visit on your cruise. This knowledge will give you a better understanding and help you discover things about the people and places that you would not have been able to before.
Happy travels to you…until we meet again!
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