How was the weather (heat) and the crowds?

We lucked out with weather but the heat was a different story. Highs of 105F, which is much better than what was going on in France where my brother was visiting. We were on a 2 week Viking River cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, which made us privileged with air conditioning. Low water and ship changes as well, which the crew did well, but unfortunately resulted in more bus time than wanted. Was just reading about a "cruise" on the Elbe, where they are being bused from ship to ship. We happily only changed ships once. Because AC is not typical in Europe, many places were closed due to heat. Perhaps the heat kept the crowds down.

Viking does their best, but I was left wondering if the viability of the river cruising industry has been compromised by it's popularity and the piling on of more and more ships crowding the ports. It was fascinating, and I am glad we went, but glad to be home.

Were you flying coach?

Yes. Our legs are not long.

IP