10 European River Cruise Tips

TRAVELSTORE WE'VE BEEN WHERE YOU WANT TO GO www.TRAVELSTORE.com · EST. 1975 . 10 European River Cruise Tips • 1. PACK LIGHT! Then unpack and pack ag half as much. Not just for the airline requirements, but for convenience. tak only 2. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS Cobblestone streets, walkways and stairs can be a bit tricky to navigate if you are unsteady on your feet. Europe doesn't subscribe to the Americans with Disabilities Act. 3. WINE AND DINE Unlike cruise ships, river boats have "open seating". Stroll into the dining room (7am-9am) for a leisurely buffet breakfast. Lunch is fairly relaxed, too, as it mainly buffet-style dining. Dinner however, doesn't operate the same. Hello! Hallo! Guten tag! Bonjour! Ciào! ¡Hola! Hej! O 4. WHEN IN "ROME..." Nothing garners a warm welcome quicker than saying hello in the local language. Learn to say "hello", "thank you" and "excuse me" in as many of the countries' languages as possible. TATES OF O 5. CASH IS KING Make a list of the countries you will visit and find a local bank that will order your foreign currency. Mainly, you'll need Euros. LIBERTY ARTER DOL • 6. WEATHER REPORTS If you travel on the rivers in the spring or fall, there will certainly be a variance in temperatures and precipitation. Bring that nerdy plastic pancho and a folding umbrella. 7. BRING AN ELECTRIC CURRENT CONVERTER While the front desk on some of the river boats may be able to lend out a few converters, it's always a good decision to bring your own. • 8. GETTING THE BEST SCENIC PHOTOS If you are after the perfect photograph while cruising the river, remember the Golden Hour Rule and adjust your dining accordingly. The Golden Hour is that perfect moment near sunset and sunrise. • 9. STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES At least once on your river cruise, get up and outside just before sunrise. 10. ARRIVE EARLY OR STAY LATE You've come so far for this river cruise, it seems like a waste if you don't spend at least two full days in either your arrival or departure city. Source: Examiner E AMERIC