Author Description

I recently retired and realized that I hadn’t taken a non-work-related vacation in over 30 years. I saw the Viking River Cruise on PBS during a Downton Abbey commercial break. My dad had given me the money for a cruise after my mother had died, but I think he forgot I get seasick. But a small river boat looked very gentle and relaxing compared to an ocean cruise. Viking is unusual; no kids are allowed, no pools, spas, waterslides, etc. No forced activities. But taking my husband on anything that involved other humans was a risk. He is an introvert and a fussy eater. He agreed to this cruise for two reasons; he wanted me to be happy, and it started in Basel, Switzerland. This is a city of high interest for us as we get older. I explain that at the end of the book. But after I started to book the cruise, I found the decisions overwhelming. When to go? European rivers had level problems all summer during the drought. Where do we go? How do we get there? What do I pack? Which deck is better? How do I feed my husband when he will not sit at a table with 8 other passengers and eat an elevated meal? It took a lot, but I figured it out with the help of a few Facebook groups. I kept so many notes that I put them in a free e-book on my website, but so many wanted a printed copy to take on the cruise. I agreed to publish this book to help others make the tough decisions that I did. This was the most significant travel expense I had ever spent; in the end, it was the best trip! We had many mishaps; missing luggage, a hurricane, and an airport closure – but we got through everything thanks to my careful planning and the wonderful people at Viking Cruises. I hope this book can help you along the way, no matter which cruise line you pick. It is not a very good book - but you can also get it for free! https://www.sandrajerome.com/contact It is a lot of cut and paste and has my personal thoughts about assisted suicide - BUT it is free. If you do buy the book on Amazon - please don't