New to River cruising/Paris>Normandy

[3red7s]

We are used to traveling on RC, large cruise ships, mostly to the carib. We have a river cruise currently on hold.....Viking Rinda, Veranda Balcony, Paris>Normandy, in November. Now I am becoming concerned re: the weather, as we would like to sit on our balcony & up on deck. I have the options of Aug/Sept/Oct/Nov, I know the price will go up...but are your opinions? Also, what will I find very different from ocean cruising??? thanks to all

[nana541]

Brrrrrr bring your woollies!

 

 

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[Hydrokitty]

Yes indeedy, you'll be needing that hoodie and ear muffs and maybe even gloves, especially at Normandy!! We were there in late August and it was windy and cooler than inland. You're in Aurora? Think Evergreen or Vail!:D

[Floridiana]

Does it rain in Vail? In Normandy, it does.

[Got2Cruise]

I would research if Monet's gardens are in full bloom in November. If not I would reconsider November date. Visiting Giverny is one of the highlights of this itinerary.

 

To answer your other question a river cruise is all about the touring. There is little rest and relaxation that you would find on a Caribbean ocean cruise. Don't go expecting it to be similar. There is nothing similar.

[H2Otstr]

I would research if Monet's gardens are in full bloom in November. If not I would reconsider November date. Visiting Giverny is one of the highlights of this itinerary.

 

To answer your other question a river cruise is all about the touring. There is little rest and relaxation that you would find on a Caribbean ocean cruise. Don't go expecting it to be similar. There is nothing similar.

 

 

 

Agree 100%. We went in early Dec and the gardens were closed. I would like to redo this trip and see the gardens. There was another town that essentially closed down after tourist season (can't remember which one). Three shop owners opened their shops for us and that was all; nothing else to do in that town. I would seriously consider changing. Sept. would be a beautiful time to visit.

[nana541]

Ditto for early September! The prices are pretty great in November and there is a reason for that. JMHO

 

 

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[3red7s]

OMG, I never thought about the gardens not being in bloom!!! My husband, being an art major would have been so disappointed...thank you everyone, for your input...it is greatly appreciated!!:)

[3red7s]

LOL...hey group...just an FYI...I live in Aurora, Ohio, which is a suburb of Akron Ohio....none the less....still cold in November!!;)

[nana541]

LOL...hey group...just an FYI...I live in Aurora' date=' Ohio, which is a suburb of Akron Ohio....none the less....still cold in November!!;)[/quote']

 

 

Might want to adjust your profile location just a bit! :)

 

 

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[bobalink]

We just did the Paris & Normandy cruise in July. It was wonderful, and like the others mentioned, Giverny is truly beautiful. The flowers were all in bloom, and it was gorgeous.

 

The Seine river ports were all very special, and summer weather enhanced that. Paris was magical and I will go back someday!

 

I know some folks like the holiday cruises, but I just can't imagine rain, cold and maybe even snow while on a river cruise. For me, that just would not be fun.

 

A river cruise is NOTHING like an ocean cruise. We've done both, and will continue to do both, depending on itinerary.

 

On a river cruise ship you won't find a casino, art auctions, Broadway production shows, endless buffets and lounges, large pools, jewelry and perfume stores on board, luxurious spas, specialty coffee cafes, etc.

 

Speaking from our experience (2 river cruises), we found the smaller river cruise ship with only 130 passengers, a wonderful change. The passengers we met were friendly, interesting and well-traveled. We had a personable crew, including the captain, who was approachable and engaging. The dining experience was just right - enough selections and nice portions. Wine was great and free-flowing, excursions were organized and well done. Our stateroom was spacious and comfortable.

 

Have fun, whatever you choose!

[suspaul]

We too will be doing this river cruise with Viking in early December to see and visit the Christmas markets. If you look at the Viking website, it notes

 

DAY 3 | GIVERNY & VERNON, FRANCE

 

 

† Monet garden not available before April 1 or after November 1; a visit to the village of Auvers-sur-Oise, favored by van Gogh and other artists, will be substituted.

 

Hope you enjoy your cruise.

Edited October 26, 2014 by suspaul

[CWRob]

Was just on this cruise October 5 to October 12. Weather was mostly sunshine, actually hot in Paris to only needing a sweater or light jacket in the afternoon. Monet's gardens were very colourful. Normandy was breezy but comfortable. Also on Sun deck needed a jacket. Overall very comfortable weather wise.

 

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[Hydrokitty]

LOL...hey group...just an FYI...I live in Aurora' date=' Ohio, which is a suburb of Akron Ohio....none the less....still cold in November!!;)[/quote']

 

Oh well nobody's perfect .....kidding of course....#1 son lives in Denver...glad you decided to change your dates...I think you would not have enjoyed France as much in November and to miss the water lilies at Giverney would be tragic especially for an art lover. I've done both river and ocean and love them both for their differences. Kind of like comparing apples and oranges though..... only things they have in common is water and included meals. Depends on the destination and itinerary.