Review of Grand Circle Travel

4 years ago

March, 2016

March, 2016
The Great Rivers of Europe Grand Circle Cruise Line

We cruised on the Aria for 14 days. What a wonderful experience.
The river cruise ship captain, crew and our program directors were outstanding...especially Mihai our appointed Program Director for our group.We returned from our cruise with a greater knowledge of history, culture, architecture and music than we thought possible. The cabins were extremely clean...food was delicious with cultural dishes and a "bon appetit" from our servers every meal. The presentations by our program directors, guest speakers, music from a Shanty Mens choral group, glass blowing demonstration...never left of bored (Is it time for a short nap?).
Walking thru the cities using the earphones was perfect..We heard every word (and breath) of our Program Director...Mihai paced our daily walks over cobblestone streets always telling stories and historical information about our present location...Everything was extremely well planned and coordinated by the Program Director, including having the opportunity to speak with citizens from the city on the street (people Mihai knew). The cruise was 'smooth sailing' unlike anything we have experienced. As we passed villages, castles, ruins information was delivered over the speaker system while we sat in the lobby drinking hot chocolate, tea, coffees and cappuccinos. The upper outside deck provided for perfect photographing. The cruise was a nonstop GO but that is what we traveled through 4 countries to do. (I did go to bed early to re-energize.)
We extended our cruise for 3 days in Vienna and were happy we did. We had our past Program Director, Mihai, exploring the city by bus, day and night, learning the subway system and guiding us on endless walking tours (still the red flag in view). The early hour rising for the (Vienna Opera tour happened to be a personal tour for the 11 of us....) Thank you Mihai...what a fabulous experience..never to be forgotten! I experienced a health issue during the cruise and Mihai located a doctor for me to see and found a 'pharmacy' open on Good Friday and picked up my medication. THIS is Grand Circle. Guests are their top priority, as well as making it through the locks along the way with total ease!
Thank you Grand Circle...we will be back soon! 5 Stars and More!
Mary Ann Olson & Clayton Olson - Florida