My Traveling Panda

16/04/2025

River cruising has arrived in Colombia!

“We are overjoyed to announce that AmaMagdalena has officially begun her maiden voyage along Colombia’s stunning Magdalena River. This isn’t just a cruise – it’s a celebration of Colombia’s vibrant culture, breathtaking beauty and the incredible warmth of its people.

As the first river cruise line to embark here, we couldn’t be prouder to bring this one-of-a-kind destination to life for our guests and to share in the joy and passion of the local communities who have made this possible.”

Get ready to fall in love with Colombia like never before. Who’s excited to join AmaWaterways on this unforgettable journey?

16/04/2025

What do the photos in this image have in common?

14/04/2025

Some from from my clients who recently returned from a custom trip to Japan. #🇯🇵

13/04/2025

Thinking about exploring the world on your own? There's no better option than an all-inclusive, luxury river cruise with Uniworld. Visit a multitude of enticing destinations with a friendly group of fellow travelers, all while being completely taken care of aboard our Floating Boutique Hotels™.

Book now to save big with Reduced or Waived Single Supplements* on select 2025 departures—with new fall dates and itineraries added. Here are some of the included itineraries:

03/04/2025

On our last night aboard the Avalon Impression, our Captain treated us to an illumination cruise on the Danube in Budapest. The city is so stunninng lit up at night.

This something Avalon Waterways tries to do on all sailings into/out of Budapest, either as they depart or on the final night of the itinerary. Let me know if you’d like more details about river cruising.

02/04/2025

Budapest: The perfect start or grand finale to your river cruise! 🇭🇺✨ Explore historic Buda Castle, soak in the famous thermal baths, and take in stunning Parliament views along the Danube. Is Budapest on your travel list?

01/04/2025

📍 Discover Bratislava, Slovakia – A Hidden Gem on the Danube! 🚢

One of the most charming stops on a Danube River cruise, Bratislava seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern flair. Wander through the picturesque Old Town, where history comes to life around every corner.

Keep an eye out for the city’s playful and unique statues—like the Napoleonic Soldier, casually leaning on a bench, or Čumil the Working Man, a whimsical figure peeking out from a manhole cover! These fun sculptures add a touch of humor and personality to the city’s historic streets.

Whether you’re exploring Bratislava Castle for stunning views of the Danube, savoring local delicacies (like rich hot chocolate with spicy chili pepper flakes), or simply strolling through cobblestone alleys, this capital city will capture your heart.

Would you add Bratislava to your travel bucket list? Let us know below!👇

31/03/2025

✨ Český Krumlov, Czech Republic – A fairytale town that feels like stepping back in time! With its winding cobblestone streets, colorful medieval buildings, and the majestic Český Krumlov Castle overlooking the Vltava River, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a highlight on any river cruise. 🏰 Stroll through the charming old town, visit the castle’s Baroque theater, and soak in the magical atmosphere of one of Europe’s best-preserved historic towns. Or do like I did and enjoy a lunch with local cuisine along the banks of the river. 🌟

30/03/2025

Avalon Waterways📍 Melk, Austria – A gem along the Danube River! This charming town is best known for the stunning Melk Abbey, a breathtaking Baroque masterpiece perched high above the water. 🏛️✨ Explore the abbey’s ornate library, grand frescoes, and sweeping views of the Wachau Valley—a UNESCO World Heritage site (no photos allowed inside). A must-see on any river cruise! 🚢💙 Avalon Waterways

29/03/2025

28/03/2025

I have clients traveling in Japan. Look at the photo they sent me of a panda they spotted in Tokyo! 🐼 🇯🇵

27/03/2025

Krems, located along the Danube River in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley, is a charming and historic stop on many river cruises. Known for its well-preserved medieval old town, Krems offers visitors a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Guests can explore cobblestone streets, visit the 15th-century Steiner Gate, and tour the Kunsthalle Krems, a contemporary art museum. The region is also famous for its vineyards, making a wine tasting of the local Grüner Veltliner or Riesling a popular excursion. Krems serves as a gateway to the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its picturesque landscapes and historic monasteries.

26/03/2025

Sailing into Vienna on a river cruise is like stepping into a living postcard! From the stunning Vienna State Opera to the majestic Schönbrunn Palace, the city blends imperial history with vibrant culture. Stroll through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or savor a slice of Sachertorte at a traditional café. Don’t miss the grand St. Stephen’s Cathedral or a magical classical music performance. A river cruise offers the perfect way to experience Vienna’s elegance—right from the heart of the Danube!

25/03/2025

Starting May 7, 2025, travelers 18 and older will need a REAL ID compliant Driver’s License or an alternative form of identification ,such as a Passport, to fly domestically

Here are examples of a REAL ID: compliant licenses:

16/03/2025

My Traveling Panda with Kristin Karst, co-owner, co-founder and Chief Brand Ambassador for AmaWaterways.

13/03/2025

The Panda and I are at the 2025 ASTA River Cruise Expo in Vienna.

Is a river cruise something on your travel radar? Do you have questions about a particular cruise line, itinerary or river cruises in general?

Please let me know in the comments below and I’ll get the answers for you this week when I meet with reps from the various lines.

25/01/2025

My clients are taking an active approach to their Italian holiday! They will take a bike ride through Tuscany, kayak down the Arno River and hike along the coast of Cinque Terre!