Always pack your prescription medication and valuables in the hand luggage
First and foremost, we want to emphasize the importance of packing all your necessary medications in your hand luggage when traveling to Europe. If you have prescription medication, it is crucial to keep it with you in your hand luggage. In the unfortunate event that the airline misplaces your checked-in luggage, having your medication with you will prevent any difficulties in obtaining it in Europe.
If, for any reason, you find yourself without your prescription medication, there are a few options available to you. You can make an appointment to visit a doctor or hospital, or you can request a doctor to come onboard the ship to assist you. However, it’s important to note that these services may come at a cost, which can be up to 500 euros depending on the country or city you are in. Please keep in mind that in most ports, it may not be possible to arrange a doctor’s visit onboard, and you may need to visit a local hospital instead. It’s also worth mentioning that medications in Europe may differ from those in your home country, so using a prescription from your home doctor may not be possible. It’s always best to be prepared and have your necessary medications with you to avoid any complications during your trip.
Your health and well-being are our top priority, so please take these precautions seriously and ensure that you have all your medications readily available in your hand luggage. We want to make sure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Laundry services onboard
While laundry services are available on the ships, it’s important to note that they can be quite expensive. Unlike ocean liners, most river cruise ships do not have self-service laundry facilities. Additionally, finding public laundries in the ports you’ll be visiting in Europe is not very common. You can avoid the high costs of ship laundry services and the hassle of searching for laundromats in the ports if you bring some small washing detergent packs and wash some of the smaller items in your bathroom. You can also buy the items from local shops, it will be cheaper than using the onboard service.
By taking these simple steps, you can save some money and make the most of your time exploring Europe without worrying about laundry.
Tax returns
If you’re planning on doing some shopping during your European adventure, it’s worth considering claiming a VAT Tax return. VAT, or Value Added Tax, is the tax you pay on goods purchased in a European Union country. However, if you’re traveling back to a country outside of the European Union, you may be eligible to claim a refund on those taxes, all those purchases can really add up at the end of your trip and you can save good money!
To claim your VAT Tax refund, you’ll need to do so at the last airport or border where you’re leaving the European Union. For example, if you disembark the ship in Budapest and then fly to Amsterdam for your connecting flight, you’ll need to fill out the tax refund form in Amsterdam. It’s important to keep all your original receipts from the shops where you made your purchases and ask for a tax refund form at the time of purchase. Without these receipts and the completed form, your claim will not be valid, and you may lose out on that money.
If you have any further information about VAT Tax refund process and don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help make your shopping experience in Europe as smooth and rewarding as possible!
Booking rooms with a balcony
When considering a stateroom with a balcony, it’s important to keep in mind the possibility of double docking with another ship. This occurrence is becoming more common in the river cruise industry as companies continue to expand their fleets. Inevitably, you may find yourself docked alongside another ship in most European ports, which means limited access to your balcony during these times. However, don’t let this deter you from choosing a balcony room. While sailing, having a balcony provides a wonderful opportunity to relax and take in the scenic views. Whether you prefer to unwind on the balcony or simply open the curtains and enjoy the sights from your bed, the choice is yours.
If the balcony is not available during port stops, you can always head to the sundeck for a full view of the surroundings. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences.
The River Cruise Ships docks very close to the shore, sometimes right next to pedestrians walking paths. Always make sure to lock the balcony doors when the ship is docked and close your curtains during the night, you know why!
Transfers
Most cruise companies provide a free transfer to the ship or airport as part of their package. However, sometimes this transfer may be an additional option that comes with a high cost. In these cases, it’s often more affordable to use taxis or public transportation, which are easily accessible at the embarkation and disembarkation ports.
When using taxis for your transfers, it’s important to be cautious and aware of potential scams. Some taxi drivers may try to overcharge you by quoting a higher price or refusing to use the meter. To avoid this, always use official taxis and insist on using the meter. If a driver refuses, it’s best to find another taxi.
We have organised many transfers over the years and can help you find the best and most cost-effective option.
Pre-book excursions, Beverage Packages or Gratuities
We recommend that you pre book excursions and different packages before you come onboard as the prices back home might be lower and you can save some money. For example, if you book several Optional Excursions, the Beverage Package and Gratuities Package(if applicable) and all together costs 1000$ per person(it can add up to be a lot more than that), you will find that once onboard, you will have to pay this amount in Euros, as that is the onboard currency. With todays rate, purchasing all these items onboard will cost you approx. 1100$,if paid in Euros, so you will save 200$ if you pre-book everything home.
This suggestion might not apply for all companies on the river but keep this in mind when booking your cruise and ask for more details about pre-booking versus booking onboard.
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