knoxclone

Yes! that was him!

Agree - I was not really interested in visiting -but the guide (a young man dressed in tux tails, & top hat) was outstanding and the excursion ended up being a fascinating and enjoyable afternoon.

Wonderful photos - thank you for sharing!

We prearranged a taxi in Budapest - it was about 30 minutes from airport to our hotel - the Marriott. Driver was prompt and gave us a running commentary on what we were seeing as we drive. The tram system is quite easy to use and quick and efficient - the tracks were just along the river and visible from both the ship - and the hotel. We rode it several times, once down to the Parliament for our tour and once "just to experience it". We were able to buy the tickets from the hotel desk - although that was in 2018, so they may have upgraded the system by now.

Agree with @Roz Budapest is definitely worth more time. Passau is a lovely city in its own right, but there is so much to explore in Budapest.

While I love Viking, I would suggest you look at AMAwaterways as well, they cater to solo traveller, and actually have 5 and 7 top tables in the dining room to accommodate solo travelers to join a table.

That may be true..luckily, I have not had that experience. My suggestion is if there is a "must do" I would ask the guide prior to leaving on the excursion.

Viking has always offered the "Gentle Walkers" group on the past four cruises I have taken. You cover the same territory, just at a slower pace, and often avoiding inclines or stairs w/o handrails. Only difference is that sometimes your free or shopping time was shortened

Akershus Fortress also has a very interesting resistance museum.

AMA Lucia had a refrigerator in the stateroom as well as an ice machine near the reception desk and ice bucket in the room. or simply ask your room steward to make sure you have ice each afternoon.

The other surprising excursion was Sigfrieds Mechanical Music Museum in Ridesheim. Totally charming and unexpected - it was fascinating...

The provided hair dryer was very good - and not one of those mounted to the wall. There are a variety of "american" and European outlets in the room - as well as two usb ports on each side of the bed.

Several people raved about the Technology museum in Speyer, and remarked that they could have easily have spent an entire day there. My favorite excursion was probably either Riquewihr as it was a beautiful sunny day, very few people and some we enjoyed some great pastries... or the visit to Dusseldorf, which had some interesting history, outdoor art sculptures some beautiful churches. I had no idea what to expect and really enjoyed it.

Yes, AMA allows you to drop luggage and come back later as cabins are usually not ready until mid afternoon. They served a light lunch - soup.salad sandwiches on embarkation day.

Yes, the AMA & Uniworld elevators both stop at all the levels ( with the exception of the sun deck), while the Viking elevator only reaches the 2 middle decks where the restaurant and lounge are located.