Hello, Fellow Travel Enthusiasts!
I hope this message finds you well and filled with wanderlust. Today, I am thrilled to share with you the unforgettable experience I had on a Danube River Cruise with Avalon Waterways. As soon as the invitation arrived, my heart raced with excitement, and I knew I had to seize this opportunity. After all, river cruising is one of my favorite ways to travel. So, without hesitation, I RSVP’d with a resounding “YES”!
We embarked on our adventure in the mesmerizing city of Budapest, Hungary. Before setting sail on the luxurious Envision, I had the pleasure of exploring this enchanting city for three delightful days. Budapest’s charm and history captured my heart as I strolled through its ancient streets, indulging in delectable local cuisine and immersing myself in its vibrant culture. You can read all about it here if missed my last newsletter.
One of the highlights of our cruise was an evening sail on the Danube through Budapest. As dusk settled, the city’s illuminated landmarks, including the majestic Buda Castle and the magnificent Parliament building, cast a magical glow over the water. It was an awe-inspiring sight, and I relished every moment, capturing photographs that will forever encapsulate the beauty of Budapest.
Our journey continued, taking us to the hidden gem of Bratislava, Slovakia. This charming city, nestled along the Danube River, perfectly balances old-world charm with a touch of modernity. Exploring the well-preserved historic center, with its pastel-colored buildings and narrow cobblestone streets, felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The friendly locals, the quaint cafes, and the captivating architectural details made this visit truly memorable.
Next, we arrived in Vienna, Austria, a city that effortlessly marries grandeur and elegance. I marveled at the Imperial Palace complex, admired the Vienna Opera House, and gazed upon the awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Of course, no visit to Vienna would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. A food tour allowed me to sample open sandwiches at a shop established in 1902, Vienna beer and wine, sausages, and heavenly handmade chocolates. Each bite was a celebration of Vienna’s rich gastronomic heritage.
As we cruised through the scenic Wachau Valley, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the captivating beauty of the vineyards, castles, and charming villages. Bonus: You can enjoy the view from your bed! Our visit to the Saffron farm in Durnstein provided a unique and immersive experience that deepened my appreciation for this precious spice. Learning about its cultivation and then purchasing saffron salt to take home felt like a cherished connection to the land and its traditions.
At each port of call, Avalon Waterways offered a variety of excursions, catering to every interest and passion. Whether it was immersing in history at the Melk Abbey, exploring the fairy tale town of Cesky Krumlov with its well-preserved medieval architecture, or paying homage at the Mauthausen Memorial, there was something for everyone. The options were as diverse as the travelers themselves, allowing us to personalize our journey and create unique memories.
Our journey reached its conclusion in the picturesque town of Passau, Germany. Known as the “City of Three Rivers,” Passau’s convergence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers creates a mesmerizing backdrop. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Passau was the perfect ending to our remarkable voyage. I strolled through its charming streets, marveled at the splendid St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and reveled in the warm hospitality of the locals.
I would be doing a disservice if I didn’t tantalize your taste buds with the incredible culinary journey we embarked on aboard our ship. Each day, we were treated to a mouthwatering array of delectable delights, leaving us in a perpetual state of culinary bliss. What truly set this culinary experience apart was the commitment to sourcing the freshest local ingredients in each port we visited. Our talented chef embarked on a quest to embrace the flavors of the town, ensuring our taste buds were transported to the heart and soul of each destination. And boy, did they deliver! With every evening meal meticulously crafted from the freshest produce and ingredients, we found ourselves immersed in a symphony of flavors that celebrated the very essence of our surroundings.
As I reflect on this exceptional Danube River Cruise, I am grateful for the opportunity to witness the beauty of these European gems. From Budapest to Vienna, each destination left an indelible mark on my heart. The onboard experience with Avalon Waterways was exceptional, with luxurious accommodations, delectable dining, and world-class service. The attentive staff went above and beyond to ensure our journey was nothing short of extraordinary.
If you’re yearning for a river cruise experience that combines enchanting destinations, cultural immersion, and culinary delights, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on a Danube River Cruise with Avalon Waterways. Let the timeless beauty of the river guide you to new wonders, indulge in the flavors of Europe, and make memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Until our next adventure…
Sara is the owner of Platinum Travel and specializes in creating luxury, customized, stress free vacations for people who want to see the world and all things Disney.
She also owns Autism Friendly Vacations where she helps families who have a member on the Autism spectrum get the vacation they deserve. Visit AutismVacation.com for more information.
You can reach her at 414-377-8611 or Sara@PlatinumTravelWI.com to start planning your vacation today.
I love that Flat Joey made the trip! The good looked amazing.
He had a great time!