A VIKING CRUISE THROUGH GERMANY IN WINTER---JAWOHL!

Having lived in Germany for more than a decade, I can attest to the fact that traveling in winter through this beautiful country has many advantages. First off, the crowds are gone and while you may have to don a winter coat and hat, there's a peaceful aura that descends upon the cities and countryside during the winter months. December brings with it the magic of the holiday season, from beautiful decorations in every city and town, as well as the famous Christmas markets, which are truly unique experiences.

So recently, when Viking announced the Treasures of the Rhine, a new river voyage allowing guests the opportunity to experience Europe’s rich culture during winter, I was all ears. The new Middle Rhine itinerary debuts in December 2023 and establishes Viking as the first line to operate year-round on Europe’s storied rivers, offering guests easier access to landmarks when there are typically fewer crowds.

You'll unpack once, settle back in your comfortable stateroom, and for 10 glorious days watch the enchanting landscapes of the Middle Rhine flow by. You'll see UNESCO sites boasting turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, medieval towns, and holiday markets. Guests can admire the terraced vineyards and taste the region's renowned red and white wines, either on their shore excursions or from the comfort of their cabins or from the restaurant, bar, lounge and library.

Treasures of the Rhine departure dates begin in December 2023 and run through early March 2024, with fares starting at $1,999 per person. From now through May 31, 2023, Viking is offering its 25th Anniversary Sale for residents of the U.S. and Canada, with a $25 deposit for up to FREE airfare and special savings on all river 2023-2025 voyages. Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel advisor for details.

Sail down the Nile and discover the mysteries of ancient Egypt on the Viking Osiris, the line's newest river ship

Viking® today named its newest river ship, the Viking Osiris, with a celebration in Luxor, Egypt. As part of the intimate event, the company’s first ceremonial godfather, George Herbert, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon, offered a blessing of good fortune and safe sailing for the ship—an evolution of the naval tradition that dates back thousands of years.

Designed specifically to navigate the Nile, the state-of-the-art ship was built at Massara shipyard in Cairo and will sail Viking’s bestselling Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary. Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new, state-of-the-art Viking Osiris is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. The vessel features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace.

During the 12-day, Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Beginning in late 2022, guests will also be able to visit the new Grand Egyptian Museum.

Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day, round-trip voyage on the Nile River, featuring Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan.

Guests also visit a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

The naming of the Viking Osiris comes as Egypt marks several key events this year, including the highly anticipated opening of the new Grand Egyptian Museum outside of Cairo on the Giza Plateau and the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb by the world’s most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor and co-explorer, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon.

Viking Osiris docked on the Nile All photos courtesy of Viking Cruises

“Egypt has always drawn curious explorers for its rich history and ancient antiquities, and ever since we first began operating on the Nile River in 2004, our guests continue to be amazed by the country’s many cultural treasures. Today we are pleased to officially welcome the Viking Osiris to our growing fleet on the Nile River, which allows us to welcome even more curious explorers to this incredible destination,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking.

Visit our YouTube channel to view the Discovery of King Tut Exhibition that was presented at the San Diego Natural History Museum.

Sail Down the Seine River to Normandy on an Unforgettable Viking River Cruise

There is no better way to see the wonders of Europe than on a river cruise. This particular Viking river cruise from Paris to Normandy exceeded all expectations. Not only were the cuisine and ambiance exceptional, but we had the opportunity to experience the history, culture, and beauty of this area from the comfort of our suites, with the opportunity to hike, bike, and stroll through some of the most beautiful areas of Europe on stops along the way.

Follow our story on our USATODAY10Best site.

View our original photos of this trip on our PHOTOGRAPHY SITE

Listen to a candid interview with a couple celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary on board had to say about their experience.

We’re always happy to answer any questions from our readers. Just send us a message at joannestravels@gmail.com and we promise to respond.

IT'S OFFICIAL--VIKING CRUISE OPENS RESERVATIONS FOR NEW MISSISSIPPI CRUISES BEGINNING IN 2022

If you are a lover of Viking Cruise Lines, as we certainly are, you’ll be happy to know that a new experience will be available beginning in April 2022—romantic cruises down the mighty Mississippi River.

The company’s first custom vessel, Viking Mississippi, will debut in August 2022 and will sail voyages on the Lower and Upper Mississippi, between New Orleans and St. Paul.  This ship will accommodate 386 guests in 193 outside staterooms. Highlights of the new ship include:

1. Enrichment On Board and On Shore: Connecting guests to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking creating “the thinking person’s cruise.” Take a moment to view this VIDEO PRESENTATION to see what extensive adventures and experiences are offered to passengers as part of this cruise.

• All Outside Staterooms: Guests can choose from an unparalleled seven spacious stateroom categories that range from 268 sq. ft to 1,024 sq. ft: , all featuring a private veranda or French balcony.

• Viking Suites: Viking Mississippi will have some of the largest true suites on the river, with every suite featuring two rooms and a full-size veranda off the spacious sitting room.

• Explorers’ Lounge & The Bow: The sun-filled, two-story Explorers’ Lounge has floor-to-ceiling windows that open to The Bow, a unique outdoor seating area at the front of the ship where guests can relax and enjoy ever-changing riverside views.

• River Café: From American classics to Mamsen’s® Norwegian specialties, this indoor/outdoor dining venue on the top deck will offer alternative restaurant dining in a casual al fresco setting.  

• Aquavit Terrace: A public space beloved by many of Viking’s ocean and river guests, Viking Mississippi will also feature a revolutionary Aquavit Terrace on the top deck.

• Sun Terrace with Infinity Plunge Pool: Similar to Viking’s ocean ships, Viking Mississippi will have a glass-backed pool experience at the aft, allowing guests to take a dip while fully surrounded by their destination.

• The Living Room: Clean Scandinavian design paired with American influences, the Living Room on Deck 1 is designed for socializing, relaxing and entertainment. Nearby, the quiet corner of The Library, is a perfect place to discover a new book.

• The Restaurant: This main dining venue on Deck 1 will serve daily-changing menus featuring delicious regional cuisine and always available classics prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

• Full 360-Degree Promenade Deck: Guests can stroll the entire ship outside on Deck 1, stretching their legs while viewing scenic landscape and regional wildlife.

• Viking Inclusive Value:. Cruise fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, all onboard meals, beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, lectures, alternative dining at no extra charge, self-service launderettes, 24-hour room service,free Wi-Fi and all port charges and government taxes.

  START PLANNING NOW
  

  2022-2023 Viking Mississippi Inaugural Voyages

  • America’s Heartland (8 days; St. Louis to St. Paul)—From pristine farms nestled in rolling terrain to steep bluff rising from tributaries dotted with wooded islands, the Upper Mississippi offers a rich tapestry of beauty upon every turn of the river. This journey introduces you to the unforgettable experience of the locks and dams that control the flow of the heartland rivers. Hear stories of settlers migrating west; learn about Lewis & Clark, Mark Twain, John Deere and the Amish and Norwegian migrations; experience the regional music like polka and Norwegian folk; and taste reginal cuisine showcasing local beer, produce and Wisconsin cheese.

  • Heart of the Delta (8 days; New Orleans to Memphis)—This journey on the Lower Mississippi is infused with American history, culture and heritage. Tour the area where the migrating French and Acadians settled; immerse yourself in the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement; discover the music of the South—jazz, blues and gospel; and experience the life and food culture of the south, from Cajun and Creole to the famed “dry” Memphis BBQ.

  • Southern Celebration (8 days; New Orleans–Vicksburg–New Orleans)—On this exploration of the Lower Mississippi, visit the historic homes of Louisiana and Mississippi; learn about Civil War history, touring sites like Vicksburg National Military Park; and discover the excitement and unique flavors of New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

  • America’s Great River (15 days; New Orleans to St. Paul)—Experience nearly the entire length of the Mississippi River on this incredible journey from the Gulf of Mexico to the northernmost reaches of the U.S. Relax and enjoy the variety of scenery, foliage and wildlife on this leisurely voyage. Enjoy southern charm and beautifully preserved homes in Natchez; retrace the steps of Civil Rights leaders in Memphis; ascend the Gateway Arch in St. Louis; and visit “The Norwegian Valley” in La Crosse.

VIKING CRUISES ENTERS A NEW FRONTIER

Last week, my husband Tony and I had the honor of attending the Beverly Hills gala announcing the naming of Viking’s newest ocean ship, the Viking Jupiter. But that wasn’t all that was celebrated that night.

Torstein Hagen, Founder and Chairman of Viking, announced the unveiling of Viking Expeditions, which will begin sailing in January 2022 with its first vessel, Viking Octantis, embarking on voyages to Antarctica and North America’s Great Lakes (Viking’s arrival to the Great Lakes will bring the newest and most modern vessels ever to explore this region of North America).  A second expedition vessel, Viking Polaris, will debut in August 2022, sailing to Antarctica and the Arctic.

The new Polar Class 6 Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris will host 378 guests in 189 staterooms; both ships are currently under construction. The ships are optimally sized and built for expeditions – small enough to navigate remote polar regions and the St. Lawrence River, while large enough to provide superior handling and stability in the roughest seas. 

An unforgettable view from our Viking cruise balcony on the mesmerizing midnight sun as we sailed up the coast of Norway. Click on image to see our USATODAY gallery on this oh-so-memorable experience.

© Joanne DiBona Photography

Excitement was high during the presentation, and no wonder. As seasoned cruise ship travel journalists, Tony and I can personally attest to the exceptional quality of every cruise we’ve experienced on board a Viking ship.

For a first hand look on board our experiences on Viking cruises, please click on the two images at the right and below to be directed to the USA TODAY 10Best galleries of these cruises.

A visit to Prague was one of our many highlights on our Paris to Prague Viking Adventure. Click on photo fo see our USATODAY photo gallery on this incredible travel experience.

© Tony DiBona Photography

There’s no question Viking is a major force in the cruise ship industry. In the last eight years alone, the company has introduced more than 60 new river cruise ships and six ocean cruise ships to become the largest small ship cruise line with a current fleet of 79 river and ocean vessels around the world. In 2020, Viking will launch seven new river ships. Six more ocean sister ships are on order, with options for four additional ships. These options could bring Viking’s total ocean fleet to 16 ships by 2027.

Beginning January 15, 2020 through February 29, 2020, U.S. residents can take advantage of an inaugural offer on 2022 & 2023 Viking Expedition itineraries. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com.

Viva Viking!

USATODAY 10Best Travel Page Featuring the City of Luxembourg, photos by Joanne and Tony DiBona

View on Luxembourg's Old Town district, built on the ruins of an old Roman wall. © Joanne DiBona

Explore the history and beauty of the City of Luxembourg, as highlighted in this USA TODAY/10Best article.

To view all our images of this visit, log onto our PHOTO GALLERY OF LUXEMBOURG

From Paris to Prague on an Award-Winning Viking River Cruise

Viking River Cruises was recently named Best River Cruise Line in the 10Best Readers' Choice Awards – and for a very good reason. The "Cities of Light" tour from Paris to Prague, down the Moselle and Rhine rivers and past some of Germany's most famous and historic cities and towns, is the consummate travel experience. The numerous city and cultural tour excursions, led by informative local guides, as well as the on-board amenities are top-notch. 

USATODAY 10Best.com Slide Gallery

Log onto our VIKING RIVER CRUISE photo show to see a daily gallery of photos highlighting each glorious day of our adventure.