'Discover what this podcast is all about—and why now is the perfect time to dream, plan, and explore Europe's rivers like never before.

Trying to decide between a Danube or Rhine river cruise? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, certified river cruise specialist Sonia Rectenwald breaks down the key differences between these two iconic European rivers—so you can choose the one that fits your travel style best.

Curious what it’s like to cruise the Danube River? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel expert Sonia Rectenwald shares what to expect on a Danube river cruise—from top ports like Budapest, Vienna, and Melk to insider tips, excursions, and cultural must-dos.

Ready to sail through storybook Europe? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia Rectenwald takes you along the Rhine River—famous for its castles, charming towns, and world-class wine. Discover top stops like Rüdesheim, Cologne, Strasbourg, and Amsterdam.

'Thinking about booking a European river cruise but not sure what’s really included? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald breaks down what you can expect onboard—from gourmet dining and daily excursions to Wi-Fi, wine, and gratuities—and what extras might come with an additional cost. Learn how inclusions vary between river cruise lines like AmaWaterways, Avalon, Emerald, and Scenic, and get insider tips to help you compare true value before you book. Whether it’s your first sailing or your fifth, this guide will help you cruise smarter, plan better, and avoid surprise expenses.

Ever wonder what an average day looks like on a European river cruise? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald takes you behind the scenes for a full day onboard—from quiet mornings with coffee on the sundeck to immersive shore excursions, chef-prepared dinners, and relaxed evenings watching castles drift by. You’ll discover what makes river cruising the ultimate slow-travel experience, how itineraries flow from port to port, and why life onboard feels both luxurious and unhurried. Whether you’re planning your first cruise or just dreaming of Europe, this episode paints the perfect picture of river life.

Thinking about planning a group trip to Europe? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald shares why river cruising is hands-down the best way to travel together. From unpacking once and exploring new destinations every day to enjoying all-inclusive dining, guided excursions, and plenty of free time to connect, river cruising makes group travel effortless and fun. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, a club, or a reunion group, you’ll learn how to choose the right itinerary, handle logistics like payments and cabins, and make the most of shared adventures along Europe’s legendary rivers.

Dreaming of twinkling lights, mulled wine, and storybook towns straight out of a Christmas card? In this festive episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald takes you on a magical journey along the Rhine River during Europe’s famous Christmas Market season. Discover what it’s really like to sail from Basel to Amsterdam in December—where every port glows with holiday charm. From Strasbourg’s historic Christkindelsmärik to Cologne’s Cathedral market and Rüdesheim’s cobblestone lanes lined with crafts and carols, Sonia shares insider tips, must-try treats, and the best ways to make your Christmas Market river cruise truly unforgettable.

If you love fairytale villages, vineyard views, and centuries-old castles, this episode of Europe Unveiled is for you. Join travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald as she explores three of Europe’s most scenic rivers—the Moselle, Rhine, and Main. Discover why these intertwined waterways offer some of the most breathtaking river cruise itineraries in Germany, from sipping Riesling in Cochem and exploring medieval Bernkastel to wandering the charming streets of Wertheim and Würzburg. Sonia shares can’t-miss highlights, insider tips for choosing the right itinerary, and what makes this region a dream for wine lovers and history buffs alike.

Choosing the right stateroom can make or break your river cruise experience. In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald walks you through the key differences between standard window cabins, French balconies, and full suites—and what really matters when selecting your room. Learn how factors like river level, itinerary, and deck location can impact your views, comfort, and overall value. Whether you’re planning your first river cruise or looking to upgrade your next one, Sonia’s insider advice will help you pick the perfect cabin for your travel style and budget.

Wondering when to plan your European river cruise? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald breaks down the best times of year to sail—from spring tulip season to summer vineyard views and festive Christmas Market cruises. Learn how each season brings its own unique scenery, cultural events, and perks (plus a few trade-offs) so you can choose the ideal time for your travel style and budget. Whether you’re dreaming of the Rhine, Danube, or Douro, Sonia shares insider insights to help you pick the perfect sailing season for your next European adventure.

Want to make your European river cruise even more unforgettable? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald shares how to turn your cruise into a full European vacation with pre- and post-cruise city stays. Discover the best add-on destinations like Prague, Budapest, Amsterdam, and Lucerne—and learn how to plan extra days without the stress of managing all the details yourself. Sonia shares tips on booking extensions through the cruise line vs. independently, what to look for in hotels, and how to get the most cultural value from your extra time ashore.

'Not all river cruise lines are created equal—and the best one for you depends on your travel style. In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald helps you navigate the world of river cruising with insider insights on top lines like AmaWaterways, Avalon, Emerald, Scenic, Riviera, and Viking. Learn how each brand differs in inclusions, onboard atmosphere, excursions, and level of luxury so you can find your perfect match. Whether you prefer a relaxed social vibe, gourmet dining, or five-star elegance, this episode will help you choose the river cruise line that fits you best.

Sail through Portugal’s most beautiful wine country in this episode of Europe Unveiled. Travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald takes you along the breathtaking Douro River, where steep terraced vineyards, charming villages, and golden sunsets create one of Europe’s most unforgettable cruise experiences. Learn what makes Douro River cruises unique—from the local wine tastings and traditional rabelo boats to visits in Porto, Pinhão, and Salamanca. Sonia also shares insider tips on the best time to go, what to expect onboard, and why the Douro is a must for wine lovers, foodies, and culture seekers alike.

Experience France in the most relaxing and immersive way possible—by river cruise. In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald explores France’s most enchanting waterways: the Seine, Rhône, Saône, Burgundy, and Bordeaux regions. From sipping wine in Châteauneuf-du-Pape to exploring Monet’s gardens in Giverny and tasting your way through Bordeaux’s vineyards, you’ll discover what makes each French river itinerary unique. Sonia also shares insider tips on choosing the best cruise line, ideal sailing seasons, and how to combine France’s art, history, and cuisine into one unforgettable river journey.

If you’ve ever finished a river cruise and thought, “I wish I had just one more day to explore,” this episode is for you. In European River Cruise Extensions: Top City Stays & Hidden Gems Beyond the Rivers, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald shares her favorite cities to pair with Europe’s most popular river cruises—plus a few lesser-known gems that often get overlooked. From classics like Amsterdam, Budapest, and Prague to charming alternatives like Regensburg and Lyon, Sonia reveals how to make the most of your time before or after your sailing. Whether you’re new to river cruising or a seasoned traveler, you’ll walk away with insider tips to turn your trip into a full, unforgettable European vacation. 

Step into a winter wonderland along the Danube River in this magical holiday episode of Europe Unveiled. Travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald shares what it’s like to sail through Europe’s most enchanting Christmas Markets—from Vienna’s twinkling Rathausplatz to Budapest’s Vörösmarty Square and Salzburg’s cozy old-town stalls. Discover how river cruising makes it easy to experience multiple festive cities in one trip, complete with mulled wine, handcrafted gifts, and breathtaking scenery. Sonia also shares insider tips on when to go, what to pack, and how to choose the right Christmas Market itinerary for your travel style.

Looking for a river cruise that goes beyond sightseeing? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald uncorks the world of themed river cruises across Europe—from wine and beer sailings to music, culinary, and even wellness-focused voyages. Discover how these specialty cruises add extra flavor to your itinerary with exclusive tastings, private concerts, and hands-on experiences led by local experts. Sonia also highlights cruise lines offering these unique itineraries, like AmaWaterways’ Celebration of Wine cruises and Avalon’s Storyteller Series, and shares how to choose the theme that best fits your passions and travel style.

If great food and wine are the highlight of your travels, this episode is for you. In Culinary River Cruises: Food, Wine & Michelin-Level Dining on Europe’s Rivers, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald explores how river cruising has become a paradise for food lovers. From multi-course dinners paired with local vintages to onboard cooking demos and market tours with renowned chefs, discover how lines like AmaWaterways, Scenic, and Uniworld bring Europe’s culinary heritage to life. Sonia also shares insider tips on themed wine cruises, regional specialties worth trying, and how to turn your next river cruise into a true gourmet adventure.

What exactly makes European river cruising feel so luxurious? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald dives into the details that set river cruising apart—from five-star service and gourmet dining to elegant staterooms, curated excursions, and stunning scenery right outside your window. Learn how river cruise lines like AmaWaterways, Scenic, and Riverside combine comfort, culture, and connection in a way no other travel style can. Sonia also shares how to choose the right level of luxury for your budget and why river cruising is the ultimate blend of relaxation and refinement.

 Thinking about taking a European river cruise on your own? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald shares everything solo travelers need to know before they go. From single-friendly cruise lines and cabin options to onboard social life and safety tips, Sonia breaks down how river cruising makes solo travel easy, comfortable, and incredibly rewarding. You’ll also learn how to find itineraries with reduced or waived single supplements, what to expect when dining or joining excursions solo, and how to make genuine connections with fellow travelers along Europe’s legendary rivers.

Packing for a European river cruise doesn’t have to be stressful. In this episode of Europe Unveiled, travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald shares her expert packing tips to help you travel lighter and smarter. Learn what to bring for comfort, style, and changing weather—plus what you can safely leave at home. From dress codes and plug adapters to layering for shore excursions and organizing small cabins efficiently, Sonia covers it all. Whether you’re cruising the Rhine, Danube, or Douro, this episode will help you pack with confidence and enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey from start to finish.Wondering when to plan your European river cruise? 

🎁 Download the free Seasonal European River Cruise Packing List Bundle- Your complete guide to packing for any season — spring, summer, fall, and the magical Christmas Markets.  The link is in the show notes.

Ready to go beyond the typical seven-night river cruise? In this episode, Sonia explores Europe’s most immersive long-form itineraries — from 14-day extended river cruises to multi-month Grand Journeys that blend rivers, land tours, and even ocean or yacht sailings.

Traveling with parents, kids, and grandkids doesn’t have to be complicated. In this episode, Sonia breaks down why European river cruises are one of the easiest and most meaningful ways for families to explore Europe together. From walkable towns and history-rich excursions to flexible onboard life that works for every age, you’ll learn how these journeys create the kind of memories that last for decades. Perfect if you’re planning a family trip, multi-gen celebration, or simply want stress-free travel that brings everyone closer.

Think ocean cruises have it all? In this episode, Sonia breaks down why the intimate scale of European river cruising can actually feel bigger — more connection, more culture, more time to explore, and far less stress. You’ll learn how ports, excursions, onboard life, and overall vibe differ, plus why river cruising offers an upscale-but-relaxed experience without the crowds. A great listen if you’re deciding between the open sea and Europe’s iconic rivers.

Wondering what European travel will look like next year? In this episode, Sonia shares her expert predictions for 2026 — from new river cruise ships and emerging destinations to what travelers can expect with solo travel, group travel, and the evolving cruise landscape. If you want to stay ahead of trends, plan smarter, and understand what’s changing across Europe’s rivers and beyond, this is the episode to listen to..

Season 2 of Europe Unveiled is designed to help travelers move from information overload to confident decision-making. This season focuses on European river cruising, slow travel, and how to choose experiences that truly fit how you travel—without relying on brochures, trends, or guesswork.

Many travelers choose a river cruise based on brand familiarity, marketing, or price alone. This episode breaks down the most common mistakes people make when selecting a European river cruise and explains what actually impacts the experience—so you can choose the right river, itinerary, and cruise line with confidence.

First-time river cruisers are often surprised by how immersive, structured, and personal the experience feels. This episode explains what most travelers don’t expect about pacing, ports, daily routines, and onboard life and why understanding these details ahead of time can dramatically shape your enjoyment of the trip.

River cruise itineraries often look similar at first glance, but small details can make a big difference. This episode teaches you how to read itineraries more critically, understand pacing and logistics, and spot potential red flags—so you can avoid booking a cruise that doesn’t match your expectations.

Not all river cruise lines deliver the same experience, even when sailing the same river and visiting the same ports. This episode explains how to compare cruise lines beyond brand recognition; looking at atmosphere, inclusions, onboard style, and traveler fit so you can choose based on experience, not marketing.

What does “all-inclusive” really mean on a European river cruise and when does an à la carte option actually make more sense? In this episode, Sonia breaks down how river cruise pricing works, why upfront cost can be misleading, and how inclusions, flexibility, and onboard atmosphere affect the overall experience. Learn how to evaluate value, avoid surprises, and choose the river cruise style that truly fits how you like to travel.

River cruises and ocean cruises offer very different ways to experience Europe — and many travelers find their preferences change over time. In this episode, Sonia explains when a river cruise makes more sense than an ocean cruise, especially for travelers who value pacing, walkable cities, cultural immersion, and ease. This isn’t about which is better, but how to recognize when your travel style has evolved.