Tauck is 6 stars -- perfection -- but never again

Of course, we didn't HAVE to take the bus tour in Paris; we skipped the one in Monte Carlo. It is that it was an odd choice for an expensive cruise line. Tauck put everyone, without asking them, on the smoking floor of the Fairmont Hotel. It was usually not possible to get the food with no or less sauce, believe me we asked. I was not asking them to be a taxi to take us to the museums, I know how to call a cab, and used them in France. I was trying to point out that this was not luxury treatment in Nice. We found our own restaurant using Yelp, and it was wonderful.

Sounds like this wasn’t the right cruise for you as you stated earlier.

 

As regards ocean cruising I can say that it would take a lot of convincing to get me on an ocean cruiser. I tend to "extrapolate" what the experience might be like from channel crossings on ferries with slot machines and teenagers and children talking in many languages or in high-pitched voices calling for mummy and cannot see myself on such a ship.

 

notamermaid

There are - many high end cruise lines that you might enjoy, Crystal, Seabourn, Viking, Sea Dream, Silver Seas that cater more to adults - although some may, depending on the time of year and itinerary have some kids on board.

As regards ocean cruising I can say that it would take a lot of convincing to get me on an ocean cruiser. I tend to "extrapolate" what the experience might be like from channel crossings on ferries with slot machines and teenagers and children talking in many languages or in high-pitched voices calling for mummy and cannot see myself on such a ship.

notamermaid

There are - many high end cruise lines that you might enjoy, Crystal, Seabourn, Viking, Sea Dream, Silver Seas that cater more to adults - although some may, depending on the time of year and itinerary have some kids on board.

All of the above would be far, far better than your nightmare -- and here's where Viking Ocean seems aimed directly at your concerns: NO casino; NO children.

Thanks 2SailingNomads and HostJazzbeau. Will remember your suggestions. Not sure what is available of those on the German market, but I am sure I can get round that problem by booking in the UK.

As regards Tauck river cruises, I must say that they do have some interesting itinerary offers. As jwcsr stated, they went to Stuttgart on their cruise. Certainly unusual, have not heard the town mentioned in a connection with a river cruise yet. Worth the one hour bus ride in my opinion, a good idea, I like the town. Nice shopping opportunities, opera house, castle/palace, museums and an architecturally interesting railway station. Need no more to make me happy on a day out. :D And the Christmas market is supposed to be good as well.

notamermaid

As regards Tauck river cruises, I must say that they do have some interesting itinerary offers. As jwcsr stated, they went to Stuttgart on their cruise. Certainly unusual, have not heard the town mentioned in a connection with a river cruise yet. Worth the one hour bus ride in my opinion, a good idea, I like the town. Nice shopping opportunities, opera house, castle/palace, museums and an architecturally interesting railway station. Need no more to make me happy on a day out. :D And the Christmas market is supposed to be good as well.

 

notamermaid

I've heard that they also make cars there... ;)

Stuttgart was on our list for the last trip but we didn't get there.

Aah, yeaah... I had forgotten about that. Those with the star. A great trip for car enthusiasts I am sure, they also have a museum there. Would like to see an old Maybach, or even better be driven around in it. :) Perhaps picked up from the river cruise ship with it, now that would be real luxury. :cool:

notamermaid