The Expression Avalon Waterways River Cruise Ship | Full Review for 2024

[@PrincessofErised]

My mother and I were slated to take this river cruise on the Rhine to Moselle Valley. A special trip we had planned for a long time as she loved Germany so much. Tragically, she was diagnosed with cancer and after a long battle, passed away and we never got to go. Please, live your dreams now, travel, love, and enjoy life before it is too late.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes! My dad died from Alzheimer’s and he and my mom never got to enjoy their retirement. Every day is a gift.

[@RebelSol67]

I am so sorry to hear that, I'm taking my daughter on a river cruise soon so we can share that before I'm too old to enjoy it. If you didn't, you should go in her memory.

[@clarkcalabrese5573]

So sorry for your loss, 😪

[@rosella1919]

Don’t wait till you retire to travel. Do it now. Life is short.

[@pamrochon5527]

My mom and dad were supposed to do the same in 2022. Mom died last year, and now I going with my dad. This is his trip, and I’m so glad he is going to see the sights. My deepest condolences, it’s so hard to lose your mom. ((Hugs))

[@pamelacrowell2007]

I love cruising!!! Most restful vacations ever! I don't care if itinerary changes, whether I'm on ship or shore, I just love it all. I've learned lots of hacks over the years to make it stress-free and enjoyable to the max!!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Sounds great! So relaxing but active.

[@brendamorris4232]

We did this cruise with Avalon last July. We added on their extended trip package for 3 days in Lake Como and 2 days in Lucerne before getting on the boat. It was so much fun. I had a better experience on Avalon over Viking. It just seemed a little more laid back and there were many different ages on board including some young families. Highly recommend!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh wow, Lake Como! And Lucerne!

[@Starfish2145]

Fewer people on Avalon too

[@donkiml5805]

Love, love Avalon Waterways. We did a land cruise tour from Prague down the Danube to Budapest. Best time! You do a lot of walking on River cruises so have good shoes for walking on cobblestones. Glad you had a great time.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes and those smaller towns especially had so many uneven cobblestones. But so beautiful!

[@Iusuallydontcommentbut...]

How? Danube is nowhere near to Prague? Pague and Budapest are not connected with any river.

[@monainsandiego]

Buses are used to take you to towns you are not close to. On Viking those excursions are extra.

[@debbiewechter9718]

We traveled on Avalon 6 yrs ago. Going on another Avalon Cruise and can’t wait. We loved Avalon. We sat on our bed looking out the triple patio door watching the world go by. Was wonderful.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes the widest ones of all river cruise ships I believe.

[@KarenAllen-iq4jy]

I have traveled on Viking and I’m happy to see an in depth review of Avalon. I found Viking’s rooms very small and not well set up. Avalon looked much nicer, love the bed facing the window. Avalon seems more spacious overall and has better amenities. Thanks for the review!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yep, we will be on a 10 year old Viking this Fall and I am excited to compare as this Avalon one is 10 yrs old.

[@rroumeli]

I agree. We’ve taken two cruises on Viking and they were nice but this Avalon ship seems to have so much more. I’m curious, Laurie, were the drinks included in the price of the tour or did you have to pay ala carte? And what about excursions? Were there daily included excursions as well as ones you could add for additional cost? How many passengers were on the ship?

[@RebelSol67]

The majority of Avalon's cabins are 200SF which is the largest in the fleet. The swan class cabins are 172 SF. The larger cabins mean less cabins and less people on board! The design of the room also makes the best use of the space and gives you a more functional spacious bathroom.

[@monainsandiego]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie: We loved the heated floors. I keep the temp in our room low ( we sleep better) and if you get up in the middle of the night, the heated bathroom floors are wonderful.

[@monainsandiego]

Woops, that’s Viking that we went on. Lovely, and booked another Viking trip for next year. But very curious about Avalon now.

[@rrl4245]

We also loved the room arrangement - with the bed facing the huge window. A huge difference over Viking, and the other lines. We were disappointed by the small number of electrical outlets. Otherwise, we didn't find much difference between Avalon and Viking ships and services. We did come to realize that almost all of our electronics charge via USB ports. We didn't need, plug converter/transformers...

[@jurgenpinkpank2257]

My wife and I took the Douro River Cruise with Avalon Waterways from Porto to Spanish border and back,it was the best one yet in September. The crew and food were exceptionally excellent.Excursions were great.

[@Kriswilli]

We've been on 3 Avalon cruises, including the one you are on, and loved all of them. We met people from all over the world and learned so much from them while also learning about the areas we were visiting. We are trying a Viking cruise late next year. So glad you did this video!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Us too!

[@perpetualhoperom]

So happy to find you, again. We are taking an Avalon cruise in a week! I followed you in 2019 and 2020. I love your informative and shortish videos. Thanks.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Have a blast! Expect to be exhausted lol.

[@marilynmccord7571]

Definitely on my bucket list. Video was very informative. Thank you!❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

So glad!

[@pamrochon5527]

Just an FYI, an ADAPTER changes the plug (to fit the outlet), a CONVERTER changes the voltage (Europe is 220V, USA is 120V) so you don’t fry the components of your larger electrical devices). Looking forward to going on an European River cruise in October (Zurich to Paris). Your tips and travel hacks are so helpful. Thank you, Laurie!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@pamrochon5527 eeek so happy for your upcoming river cruise!

[@LaGreekFest]

Hi Laurie- so glad to see that you enjoyed your Tulip Cruise with Avalon! I love all of your videos with your packing tips and always find them so informative, but this was a video I could really relate to...I took my first river cruise last year round trip from Amsterdam through Belgium and chose Avalon Active/Discovery after researching several of the other companies. Having the beds face the window is the best and because of the large panoramic window (and no need for a balcony) the rooms are significantly larger. The bathroom is HUGE and perfectly set up for two people with a fab shower and soap/shampoo products. Lots of storage! I will say that this is a very structured cruise, with one large dining rom, but I found everything to be perfect. Buffet breakfast, choice of lunch in the dining room or in the panorama lounge upstairs. Our cruise featured High tea every afternoon, the Happy Hour then dinner (food was fantastic!). Nightly entertainment was a little sparse but by then we were ready to retire. Another best thing is the choice of 3 included excursions each stop and the way they are conducted-you get a receiver and earpiece to connect to and listen to your guide so that you don't have to be on top of them on your excursion. I highly recommend if you are going to depart from Amsterdam taking the TULIPL cruise, choosing a time of year when Kukenhoff is open so that you can take a trip there to see the magnificent tulips! I am planning another cruise next year from Paris to Normandy and really looking forward to that! My suggestion is to arrive in the departure city a few days early to get adjusted to the time change and to do some sightseeing. Best thing is not having to unpack for 8 days!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Loved only unpacking once. Presently on our 3rd boat on the Danube. Extreme flooding; almost every excursion canceled. Just awful. But Viking did their best-just if we wanted to see a city, we got bussed 2 hours and then it was pouring rain the whole time. Authorities closed the river. Frustrating

[@janetgraf905]

I just put Avalon River Cruise on our travel going to do list. Thanks for the review.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

We were impressed!

[@rosella1919]

I’ve followed you, Laurie, for over a year now and trust your advice on all things ‘travel’. My friend and I are interested in a European river cruise in 2025, so I’m doing my usual research. I’ve got packing down to a fine art, thanks to you. I’m Australian, and have travelled extensively ( I’ve just returned from Japan) and am always ready for another adventure. I’ve thought that Avalon is a good option, so thanks for your help. I’m very impressed that you, an American, have used the word queue. Well done!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

They were wonderful too. I think they all are; we are wanting to try AMA next.

[@monainsandiego]

I bought a clothes steamer in EU voltage only and keep it in my luggage. Now that my mom is gone we will try to travel abroad every year. She always said how much her parents loved traveling the world and that I came by my travel bug honestly. We started taking one trip a year 5 years ago. My sisters wanted me to wait till Mom was gone as we shared ‘Mom-care’❤. She passed at 95, I’m glad I did not wait. We tried to get her to come with us as her mobility was great. But with the beginning of dementia she did not want to leave home for more than a day. But she loved hearing about our trips and seeing the pictures.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh how sweet those cheerleader moms are!!! I bet she was so loved.

[@patsyguard3572]

My husband & I have done 4 river cruises - 2 Christmas markets (1 on Rhine & 1 on Danube), Seine & Chobe in South Africa. We absolutely loved all them! All of our trips have been with AMA Waterways - which is very similar to Avalon in many ways. The one thing that we really appreciated was how everything was taken care of - from luggage handling to excursions to food. This was especially helpful on our South African trip - a trip of a lifetime! Thank you for sharing your trip!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

So many ways to have these trips of a lifetime! I loved only unpacking once.

[@AnnaRomanowski]

My husband & I went on a Viking cruise for our 50th anniversary & fell in love with that mode of travel!.. so much so that my husband said --"don't ever ask me to go on a Caribbean cruise again!".. in less than 2 weeks we embark on the Viking cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam & can't wait (now 47th anniversary!).. we loved the service on Viking as well..& look forward to being pampered for 15 days!

[@croberts709]

We always get twin beds when traveling, it's nothing to be embarrassed about! I don't sleep well when we travel (but I love to travel) while my husband drops off right away. I don't want to keep him up. It doesn't mean anything about your marriage it's just about getting the best night sleep you can.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

True! He still laughed about it.

[@vegasdestroyer]

Agree

[@lifewithgrandmabev]

We sailed with Avalon. Tip: Never leave your window open during night. We woke up to tons of bugs in our cabin the next morning. We did Amsterdam to Basal direction. Did you by chance take the tiny train up hill from Basal to Mt Pilates? TFS your trip.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

We did not. Ooh that would be awful! Or maybe a seagull could fly in too! Loved our trip!

[@MsRotorwings]

I like when hubby makes a cameo.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

He’s in my pilot questions series videos.

[@marthameyer7918]

My Husband and I are doing this trip in reverse on another cruise line in the fall. It’s our second River cruise and I can hardly wait! Some cruise lines do not allow converters on board. Also, I blew out my travel water pic by not using a converter. I now have one that charges via USB. 😊

[@shelleyarcher1244]

We also did this trip in reverse last August. It was our first river cruise and we loved it! We traveled with Amawaterways , but it is interesting to see the differences. Have a great time!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes be sure to watch the end about converters. You will get an email from your ship with rules and tips too.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes! I would love to compare all, but I am guessing that any will be wonderful. I knew I could swim if we sank lol. No fear compared to an ocean cruise. And so neato meeting so many people.

[@charlottehenry9798]

Just finished an Avalon trip on the Danube, from Vienna to Budapest. The ship was clean and functioned well. Night life with a live singing duo was lots of fun plus karaoke. Their staff including the Director were always helpful. Good excursions too.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

We were not expecting night time activities but they were all excellent. And I danced!!!

[@libbytroy7764]

I always travel with magnetic hooks from Amazon- we use them to hang our jackets, lanyards with room keys, hats or caps. A minimum of 2 each! So easy to find your daily needs.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Love that tip!

[@kapkar61]

Wowzer! Thank you so very much for this great review and taking us on your trip! This cruise line has far more to offer than the larger river cruise lines. Very exciting and as well all your travel hacks really have changed my mind about traveling more on my own. Blessings always, Karen

[@kimbo500]

I'm not one to love the thought of traveling alone - but it's in my wheelhouse. I did it once ages ago as a week long beach getaway to revamp....and I didn't thrill myself! 🤭 😂 I know not to base things on that experience though, since my purpose was to relax - and not tour around. My own fault - I wasn't realistic. I'm pretty good at always keeping an open mind. I now physically can't travel like I used to...so traveling with me isn't 'super fun' anymore! I think I could do a River Cruise solo, or with a friend or two...and it would be a good 'fit'. My sister loves cruising on the massive ships, with the dressing up for dinner and all the bright lights, entertainment and excursions. She has been solo on several > 2wk cruises in the last 8-12 months, and is currently on a month long cruise solo. I don't get the impression she is a super social person, but enjoys the limited interactions that she does have. I really think it just takes some experimenting to find the right balance for the individual. Entertaining myself on the beach for a week was too long for me, but I learned! For me, it's finding the right balance and have realistic expectations.. Happy travels! 👍

[@climbalpinepath13]

This is such a coincidence!! My mom and I bonded over your travel tip videos (thanks to you, we now both travel carry-on only!) and we are going on a river cruise in July! We're covering the Rhine river from Basel Switzerland to Amsterdam. We are taking Viking, but it's nice to see another point of view from another cruise line. Thank you for everything that you do!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes!!! Y’all will have the best time. Start sitting with strangers during the first meal!

[@invizigirl99]

Thank you for the tip of packing 2 adapters! I never would have thought about that for all the electronics we are indeed addicted to.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I learned that in Belgium traveling solo.

[@awgnaw]

Avalon was my first cruise experience in 2019. We traveled from Amsterdam to Basel. My friends and I got the cheaper E category cabins, so our windows were almost at water level. No way to open the windows. A couple of friends did get category A cabin like yours and it was very nice indeed.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes I do think the large sliding window doors is a must for river cruising!

[@lynnevandewalle3829]

Excellent review! My husband and I took the same route on Scenic River Cruises. Scenic is all inclusive and very similar to what you are sharing. It was one of the best vacations we’ve ever had.

[@jonisorsen]

Looks like a wonderful trip. Thanks for sharing.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I absolutely loved meeting our new friends/viewers too.

[@Gevedon]

Bon Voyage! That looks fantastic! Would love a river cruise , did an Atlantic ocean cruise to Caribbean! This looks way more fun! God Bless you, Laurie and your family!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

You should!

[@spark_6710]

That's terrific to know that they let us choose matress preferences !! That's very important for us to have a good rest !! 👍👍

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

That was a huge selling point.

[@RebelSol67]

I believe they have three "mattresses toppers" that offer soft, moderate and firm support.

[@spark_6710]

@RebelSol67 Oh..!? So,toppers ,not actual mattresses ? I see. Thanks for the info. Either way ,it changes the feels / effects ! It's a game changer ! We all have different tastes in mattresses & toppers can change the effects as they're on mattresses ! It's a cheaper way to get it more to our likings than replacing mattresses . My mom got a real nice ( very,very affordable ) mattress recently from Oliver Smith, but she didn't like tge feel of the surface ,still too stiff for her ,so,she got a soft mattress topper which changed it completely to her preferences ! 👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@RebelSol67]

@@spark_6710 It's an awesome feature. I wish they had sleep number adjustable beds too. I know one cruise line does. I don't like sleeping flat so I love my adjustable bed :). Mattress toppers do make a big difference.

[@janicew6222]

WOW! The room is amazing. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I wish I had more pics of the large closet. Thx!

[@valkyr8]

I sailed on Avalon Impression from Frankfurt to Basel in December 2022. Absolutely loved it and had the best time! Agree with everything Laurie shared. Amazing staff, rooms, food, scenery, everything!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Awesome. We loved the Expression too.

[@annenelson3637]

I am a fan of you and your videos. Thank you, thank you for finally explaining, with pictures, the difference between an adapter and converter. Am a fan and enjoy your videos.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh good! I also have a 3 min video that shows it too.

[@noellegordon5823]

This was so helpful! We are currently looking into taking an Avalon cruise in August.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope you have a wonderful time. We felt like family!

[@sarahfilbey275]

Much of what you said is characteristic of most ocean cruises too. They are there to serve you and make your holiday relaxing. But watch out, cruising is addictive 😉. Germany is beautiful. We always go for twin beds xx

[@kvom01]

Wife and I are going on our second Avalon cruise, this time on the Danube. The Avalon ships are all quite similar. We chose to book cabins on the lower deck as we spend very little time there other than for sleep and showers. The cabins are larger than on the other lines so there are fewer passengers.

[@IRINADELAROSA-cn1ii]

Hi Laurie I asked on Instragram for a in depth video about this Avalon Expression River Cruise and you delivered. Thank you so much !!

[@cindyann9571]

It was great to see a video from you💜 You look great Laurie💜

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi Cindy!

[@scotland99]

What a great review! You think of everything!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Glad you think so!

[@debbiemartell8100]

That was an amazingly thorough and detailed review. Loved this video 😊

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Glad you enjoyed it! You'll love the ship and people!

[@michellelinhoff3736]

Thank you Laurie! We leave in less than a month for this exact cruise and same ship!!! This is our first cruise- this really helped us get excited and remember that convertor. You are the BEST!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I tell you that you will love it! All top notch. And the excursions are easy. Whew we took a day to do nothing though because we had signed up for everything!

[@jamesmortland7784]

My wife and I have been on 4 Avalon cruises. About the Shower, I’m 6’7” (200 cm) and have no problems using the shower.

[@wandrousvindella716]

Laurie you did an awesome review of Avalon. Going to share this with my friend James. Avalon is the only way I'll take a river cruise. They are the best. My bestie & I went on our first cruise the year I turned 50 (Danube, then the Rhone, & Rhine) Now I need a river cruise with Vinnie. You covered everything. Y'all so cute !!!😉

[@RebelSol67]

Really enjoyed your video. We are heading on our 3rd Avalon cruise in August. Germany to Romania with Prague and Transylvania in August. Taking my daughter. Sooo looking forward to it. 4 weeks total and so many amazing countries.

[@clarkcalabrese5573]

LOL, may see you there. Our river cruise is also in August, but Budapest to Munich. Have Fun!!!

[@RebelSol67]

@@clarkcalabrese5573 If you haven't been to Munich before it's wonderful. I lived there for three years when I was in the Navy.

[@marykatherine3582]

My family did a Christmas Market cruise with Avalon this past year and it was amazing! Sadly the river was too high for us to be on the Rhine, but it was still a great experience. The crew was outstanding, the beds were comfortable. It was great.

[@jo-annr.1291]

We too were on the Rhine with Uniworld for the Christmas Markets. It was a fantastic boat. Water level too high to get to Basel, bused to Basel.

[@stephwulff1352]

Did you get to stay on the ship, or did they put you in a hotel? I'm looking into the Rhine River cruise for our 40th wedding anniversary next May. Thank you!

[@RogerGoldman-u5p]

Many thanks for the video. We sailed with Avalon a couple of years ago on the Danube, so know what to expect. We’re taking the Basel to Amsterdam trip in a month’s time and this has certainly wetted the appetite. Thanks again

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh how wonderful! We were exhausted at night b/c we signed up for so much and wanted to do the happy hour and dinner and post dinner activities. Whew but so wonderful!

[@pamelajudson2302]

We must have crossed paths. I just came back from the Rhine river cruise on Tuesday. We were on Viking…and covered the same route as Avalon. It was a super to see all the castles and the towns. It was a great cruise. 😊🧳⛴️

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Such beautiful towns!

[@carolgravius9312]

Hi Laurie. I have never traveled internationally. We're going on a river cruise. Can you do a video on going through customs with multiple plane changes? Should we do checked baggage or carry on. How does all of this work? Thank you!

[@arleneleslie1937]

One nice feature of the Avalon fleet is that all the ships are basically laid out the same, so that if you travel with them multiple times, you become familiar with where everything is. Also, the cabins are quite spacious.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

So much room in the rooms!

[@SMElder-iy6fl]

We went on a Christmas market cruise with Avalon right before the lockdown. It was wonderful and such great memories!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

So cool! Would love another one!

[@margeeframe2848]

We are heading down the Danube on the Envision and can't wait. Thank you for all your tips. Ordered the adaptor, because I have one for Asia and not one for Europe.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@jenharvey8360]

That looks like a fun trip! I have never done one of these river cruises, but it's on my bucket list.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It's a great trip!

[@pammcclain8373]

My husband and I will be taking Avalon View on the Danube in July. I think it’s set up the same. My tip for rooms with few outlets is to bring a small power strip. Then you only need one outlet and adapter for that and several normal American plugs can go in the strip.

[@chervelderman289]

Laurie thanks for sharing this awesome trip! We cruised on Viking down Danube River from Budapest to Amsterdam and it was fantastic. I will say it looks so wonderful to be laying in bed watching the castles however, if there are castles on the other side of the river bank you miss them🙈. We spent most our time either outside or in the lounge area just for that reason. Glad you had a fantastic trip! I agree best trip ever! Trip of my lifetime! Sweet memories ❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh yes! So many to see that we only spent about 15 minutes-notice our shoes are on lol. So thankful for a pretty day too. What excursion did you do in Budapest?

[@kimbo500]

As always, thanks for the great video!! I have never been on a river cruise, and have wanted to for ages! It's really 'my cup of tea' over a massive cruise ship.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I tell you-it’s my new favorite way.

[@kimbo500]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie I suddenly became permanently disabled at 55 (8yrs ago)...and traveling with others is a bit difficult now because I can't keep up. It's a huge lifestyle change! I used to do a lot of International travel (met my British ex husband while attending my friends wedding in the UK). I never really enjoyed the vibe on the big ships (way over the top for me - where I'd just want to stay in my cabin if I couldn't go on an excursion). Even IF I couldn't join in with every 'excursion' during a river cruise, I really don't think I'd feel the need to stay in my cabin. I LOVE being on the water, the views, and socializing with others. So glad to hear you really like it!! I have to watch the pricing but....I can learn what to watch for ahead of time - and be careful with the planning! Thanks again for the great video!! 👍

[@kimbo500]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie I hope it's ok for me to take this opportunity to ask....Do you have any input regarding River cruises in North America? I did a search within your channel, and don't see anything - but thought I'd still ask. Since I haven't had any additional travel experiences since my lifestyle change, I thought it might be a good 'trial' (prior to jumping into a European River cruise). I haven't done a lot of my own research yet (Alaskan, Canadian, Mississippi), but figured I should go ahead and ask you or any of your subscribers for any input. Thanks so much! 😊

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@kimbo500 Hi Kim, we have not. I would love to do the Canadian ones especially!

[@kimbo500]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Thanks for the quick reply and input. I may be overthinking things. I am not in need of a cane/walker/wheelchair....and can manage steps and ramps - so we'll see! I will definitely look into it further. Thanks so much!

[@spark_6710]

I love ,love this video -!! Thank you so much for the upload !!🙏👍👍 💜

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@clarkcalabrese5573]

We were on Avalon Expression, September 2021. Also, Basel to Amsterdam with extra days in Zurich and Amsterdam. Due to Covid we only had 36 guest our trip. We got to know most fairly well. We did have a Hic-up during our cruise and have to change boats to the Avalon Panaroma due to another cruise boat getting stuck on a sand bar. To stay name less (Viking) and a barge carrying scrape steel also got stuck on the same sand bar blocking the river. Please see my review on Trustpilot or Tripadvisor.

[@judywelday9387]

This was so interesting! We normally see videos of ocean cruises; this makes me want to sign up!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It’s my new fave way to see Europe and beyond.

[@JohnDeb-y9h]

Hi Laurie, My husband and I took our very first river cruise on Avalon in June of 2024. It was also our first time in Europe. We did the Rhine from Amsterdam to Basel. It was wonderful! Met nice friends, food was great, rooms were comfortable and roomy. We did have a disappointment of high water and ended up missing the middle Rhine where the castles are. ☹They bussed us to another ship which was a very smooth transition. Same room, same guests, same cruise director and only a different crew. Both ships were great! They moved our luggage and we didn't have to worry about the change. We want to go back but hoping to find a cruise to fulfill the parts of the Rhine we missed. Just concerned it will happen again. We are interested in the Danube as well. Your videos were very helpful before our first cruise and we are watching them again. I do have a question. Our Avalon travel agent insisted we take a carry on without wheels due to the Globus busses and transportation. Our main bag had wheels but we had to purchase a carry on that went over the shoulder. This was very hard on our backs since my husband had just had heart stents put in the month before and my back is not that good. We actually were picked up by a taxi at the airport due to a busy time for pick ups so we would have been fine with wheels. Everyone had roll on carry on's except us. That is the only problem we had with Avalon, but hope that the next time we can have wheels. We did have a roll on and carry on because we were extending our trip on our own in Switzerland for 2 weeks more. Just wondering if you have experienced that speaking with guests. Thanks again for the great info! Love you videos! PS: Do you know of the best luggage with inline wheels that is very lightweight? We are looking into new luggage for the next trip.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

So frustrating! Some bus tour companies required no wheels last year, and I cannot for the life of me figure out why. We used wheeled carryon on two cruises last year, and Avalon was one. All links are in the paragraph of my videos just below them. But this is my favorite high quality carryon luggage: www.amazon.com/shop/traveltipsbylaurie/list/2MKQ5NLK6NHTN?ref_=aipsflist

[@annejohnson1021]

Incredible review! I’m going to look into Avalon now.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Aw thanks so much! I wish I had taken more closet photos to show all the space that we were amazed at.

[@stephwulff1352]

Happy New Year! My husband and I will be traveling on Amawaterways in May. They have a blow dryer in the room. I'm only bringing 2 adapters. So, do you think I will need a converter?

[@carolyncastino7498]

We did the exact same trip but in reverse,a year ago May. Our 2nd Avalon cruise. We love it!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Such a relaxing yet active way to vacation and only unpack once!

[@nancycronin601]

Fun to watch. Went on Viking cruise last summer same direction. Fun to compare.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I would love to compare them all but wondering if my first trip will always be my favorite.

[@Antarctica-s24m]

Great review and so accurate. We love Avalon, we’ll be taking another one this fall and can’t wait.

[@dc705]

Love your videos. Curious what factors influenced you to choose Avalon over Viking on the Rhine cruise. TY!

[@cherylalexander970]

Me too. We are getting ready to book for May 2025 and Avalon isn’t on our list. Going to add.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yep, it was the dates for my husband's vacation. And we could not find very many videos on it so I could not wait to make a video.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

They have one through Egypt! But we chose Avalon because of the dates.

[@RebelSol67]

Viking wants full payment up front no matter how far out your cruise is. Avalon doesn't require full payment until 90 days out from departure. Avalon has the same size ships BUT the cabins are the largest in the industry. The Panoramic cabin like she was in is 200SF. The Royal cabin is 300. Bigger cabins mean less cabins and less people on the same size ship that Viking has.

[@dealz4me713]

Omgosh, my husband and I are going on this in July!! Love all your tips!!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Have fun! We signed up for every single excursion so be prepared to be tired or take a morning or afternoon off.

[@jenniferparry8709]

I did a river cruise with, another line, on the Danube. It was fantastic. Have booked a Rhone cruise in August. The cabins both have a Juliet balcony and an outside balcony.

[@stephaniefoley5569]

What an amazing adventure! Love the cabin layout and all its features!! Hope you are not currently getting any of that bad weather.

[@pamelagoodson9034]

What a great review with lots of info. Thanks!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Glad it was helpful!

[@andresalgadomarques]

It seems awesome! Didn’t even know that company existed, only heard of Viking for river cruising before. But Avalon seems amazing! Now I want to do a river cruise with them too lol! 😂 Thanks for the video! 👍👍👍

[@missfunkey1]

So you drove past my hometown👍😘😘 I am glad you like the River Rhine

[@sherryschumacher1881]

Excellent video with so much good information!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thanks so much Sherry!

[@stephanieisham65]

Great video. I'm going on my second Avalon cruise in July. Budapest to Amsterdam. I went in 2021 Paris to Normandy. I just love Avalon. I can't wait.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I would love the Normandy one!!

[@WriterSnider]

We cruised the Rhine last year and loved it so much we booked the Danube for this summer!

[@LeToile9]

Lovely informative video. Please advise, is there a spot on board where I may enjoy a cigar?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Probably not

[@margodellicarpini3541]

We just booked a balcony suit on a river cruise in October- I’m looking forward to that!

[@LynnStAubin-od5qe]

I was scheduled for this cruise in April 2020. Needless to say I was unable to travel then. Still on my bucket list, so thanks for the thorough review.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope you will try one day.

[@kathleenzimmerman6139]

Thanks for the info Laurie! I would love a video on what clothing you found useful for the river cruise. Is it jeans and casual items or dressier for dinner?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi it is casual or maybe a nice blouse on one night. Most wore pants and sneakers or flats to dinner but very casual.

[@jennieeakes677]

Doing my 6 th cruise with Viking this fall . They are addicting !

[@spark_6710]

That panoramic lounge !!! Ah~!!!😍😍I'll be staying there for hours !!! I'll be enjoying the views w my cuppa !! Lol.💘

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

We did too.

[@spark_6710]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie I am so~jealous now !! Lol 😍👍👍

[@colleenc5008]

This looks amazing! I love being on water, so I think I'd love a river cruise too. What size room did you have? It looks so comfortable!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi Colleen. It was a regular king size room with the floor to ceiling windows…2nd floor

[@colleenc5008]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Thanks Laurie. Sounds lovely!

[@the-red-ghost]

For some reason i watched titanic again and i had hatd time sleeping but watching your vedios made me feel so much better

[@Lynneviolacat]

This was so helpful! You answer all the questions I would have and more! I wasn’t clear if you were saying that they provide a hairdryer in the room or not… And I also wonder if it’s a good one because I love my Dyson hairdryer and need a good quality one. Can you let me know if they provide hairdryers? I never thought that I would want to go on a river cruise, but this ship looks so beautiful and clean and upscale and the floor to ceiling windows just can’t be beat. My husband wondered if you checked your luggage when you flew and if so, where did you store those larger suitcases?

[@cherylalexander970]

Same question. I love my Dyson!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi Lynne, I talk about storing near the end. Hair dryers are in the bathroom and were great for my hair lol. We did not check bags but I was ready to. And this ship was 10 yrs old and this was top notch!

[@AnnaRomanowski]

The Viking longships have a 15" clearance underneath beds. This is very sufficient to store most larger sized luggage .

[@satokumasmom5348]

How was the food? Did you do any great tours…? The boat is absolutely beautiful 😍

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

So good! I was worried about Germany but each meal was divine!!

[@clarkcalabrese5573]

I cannot speak for Laurie, but I have been on an Avalon cruise (also Basel to Amsterdam). You do get a daily tour included with your booking, mostly historic walking tours. Plus, in some port of call you also can do an extra tour for a fee. Example wine tasting, foodie tasting, deep site seeing tours, etc. FYI, there plenty info on KZbin. Just type in Avalon Waterways or any of the cities you would like to visit along the Rhine River. Example: Basel, Breisach, Kehl, Mainz, Cologne, as well as Amsterdam. Booked a trip and have fun!!

[@LIN-wt8dk]

We have cruised Avalon and Viking! Both times were amazing! Next cruise will be the Mediterranean with Viking! But river cruising is my hands down favorite!!

[@briancoursey886]

Was the dress code the same for both?

[@LIN-wt8dk]

@@briancoursey886 Yes! Casual but in the evenings I would call is casual dress up. Nothing over the top. When you are out and about all day you want to freshen up for the evenings.

[@denisemayer51]

Great content! More like this please!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

If you buy me room and board on these ships, I’ll make more😂

[@Jdid3036]

Hi Laurie. Love you travel videos. I’m getting ready to take a short trip - only away for two days. Do you have advice for packing as little as possible? I see a lot of carryon travel garment bags that look like they could hold everything and wondered what you thought. Thank you!

[@heidibeechuk9203]

Hi Laurie, did you have any problems with mosquitoes with the windows on the boat open? 😊

[@theresac1983]

What a super secret suprise! Probably wouldn’t have found the upper deck! Thx

[@conniebrown4039]

Avalon looks wonderful!😊

[@cindynelson4824]

This was very helpful. Thanks

[@PlantPerson58]

I’m a HUGE fan of Uniworld. Outstanding service, luxury and comfort.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thx

[@pammcclain8373]

We are cruising on Avalon View on the Danube in July. You said no irons. What about a steamer? Also, your favorite phone prop- do you get the regular or XL size? Thx. Love your videos.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi Pam, our ship was 10 years old so you may want to ask them. I have never noticed a size lol. I like the one that fits my phone. It's super strong. Here is my fave: amzn.to/4aJkR1M

[@GaryBarber-tz1nv]

We are making the same trip next year in April on AMA and I enjoy your videos. How cold was the temperature?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh it was 37° in the morning and maybe 55 in the afternoon the first few days. Later in the week it got to upper 60s near Amsterdam. But two weeks prior it was 80° in Zurich!

[@jilltodd622]

Are the hair dryers the crappy small travel ones? Those do not work on my hair so I usually bring my own. Leaving for RC in three weeks!🎉🎉🎉

[@spark_6710]

What a view !! 😍 👍👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶🏞⛴️💕💞

[@txteach]

You have sold me, Laurie!! Are there late night snacks available if you get hungry?

[@cherylalexander970]

Good question. I watched a review of another line that said there were no snacks.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi there are always snacks in that little lounge in the back and of course room service.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi there. They are in the back in that lounge.

[@txteach]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie I love the room service option for “just in case!”

[@susanmarinov1257]

Hi Laurie, great and informative video, thank you! Do you know if they have a choice of a suite with a king-size bed?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh yes did you see the pic?