Shows
Europe UnveiledWhen a River Cruise Makes More Sense Than an Ocean Cruise in EuropeIf you’ve ever found yourself torn between an ocean cruise and a river cruise for Europe — or wondered why so many travelers say, “I loved my ocean cruises… until I tried a river cruise” — this episode will help everything click.In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia breaks down the real differences between European ocean cruising and river cruising — not from a feature checklist, but from how the experience actually feels while you’re traveling.Rather than asking which option is “better,” this episode explores when a river cruise makes more sense and why that shift often hap...
2026-02-0911 minEurope UnveiledAll-Inclusive vs À La Carte on a River Cruise: How to Choose What Fits YouWhen travelers start comparing European river cruises, one phrase comes up again and again: all-inclusive.But what that actually means — and whether it’s the right fit — is far more nuanced than most people realize.In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia breaks down the real differences between more-inclusive and à la carte river cruise experiences — not from a brochure perspective, but from how they feel once you’re onboard.You’ll hear what’s truly included, what often costs extra, and why some travelers love knowing everything is bundled upfront while others prefer the flexibility...
2026-02-0212 minEurope UnveiledHow to Compare River Cruise Lines Without Getting Stuck on the Big NameChoosing a European river cruise line isn’t as simple as picking the most familiar name.Many river cruise lines sail the same rivers, visit the same cities, and even offer similar-looking itineraries yet the onboard experience can feel completely different depending on which cruise line you choose.In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia breaks down how to compare river cruise lines beyond brand recognition, marketing, or price — and why style, atmosphere, inclusions, and traveler fit matter far more than the logo on the ship.If you’ve ever wondered why one river...
2026-01-2612 minEurope UnveiledHow to Read a River Cruise Itinerary (And Spot Red Flags Before You Book)How do you read a European river cruise itinerary — and how do you know if two itineraries that look the same will actually feel different?European river cruise itineraries often list the same rivers, ports, and dates, but what looks identical on paper can create very different experiences once you’re onboard. In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia explains how to read a river cruise itinerary with confidence — and how to spot red flags before you book.In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia breaks down how to read a river cruise itinerary with confid...
2026-01-1912 minEurope UnveiledWhat Most First-Time River Cruisers Don’t Expect — And Why It MattersThinking about a European river cruise but still wondering what it’s really like? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia breaks down the things most first-time river cruisers don’t expect — from embarkation and excursions to accessibility, evenings onboard, and why river cruising feels so different than ocean cruising.If you’ve researched, joined Facebook groups, and read the reviews but still feel like there are things no one explains, this episode is for you.In this episode, we talk about:Why first-time river cruisers often feel excited and slightly uneasy at the s...
2026-01-1215 minEurope UnveiledWhat Most People Get Wrong When Choosing a European River CruiseChoosing a European river cruise can feel overwhelming — especially when every search, review, and Facebook group offers a different opinion.In this Season 2 premiere of Europe Unveiled, Sonia explains what most people get wrong when choosing a European river cruise — and why popular advice often lacks the context needed to make the right decision.You’ll learn how to cut through the noise, avoid common mistakes, and choose a river cruise based on your expectations, travel style, and pace — not someone else’s.This episode sets the foundation for Season 2 by reframing how to think a...
2026-01-0510 minEurope UnveiledSeason 2 Trailer — Planning Europe Without the OverwhelmSeason 2 of Europe Unveiled is almost here.If you’ve been dreaming about traveling to Europe — but planning it feels harder than it should — this season is for you.In Season 1, we explored Europe’s iconic rivers and what river cruising really feels like once you’re onboard. Season 2 is about what happens next: applying that knowledge so you can make confident decisions, avoid common mistakes, and design a European trip that truly fits you.Season 2 officially kicks off January 5th.Subscribe now so you don’t miss the premiere — and get ready to p...
2025-12-2901 minEurope UnveiledMy European Travel Predictions for 2026Wondering what European travel will look like in 2026? In this episode, Sonia shares her top travel predictions — from river cruise expansion and new itineraries to solo travel growth, themed cruises, slow travel, and why Europe will be more popular than ever. Get expert insight on what’s coming, what to book early, and how to make 2026 your best travel year yet.Season 1 is wrapping up with one of my favorite topics: my European Travel Predictions for 2026. These insights come from real booking patterns, industry trends, conversations with cruise lines, and what I’m seeing travelers crave right now. F...
2025-12-2210 minEurope UnveiledRiver Cruises vs. Ocean Cruises — Why Smaller Can Feel So Much BiggerThinking about trading the sea for the river? In this bonus episode, Sonia breaks down the real differences between river cruises and ocean cruises — from ship size and inclusions to drink packages, Wi-Fi, dress code, and onboard vibe. Discover why more ocean cruisers are falling in love with Europe’s rivers and what makes these smaller ships feel like the smartest luxury in travel.Ever wondered what really sets a river cruise apart from an ocean cruise? In this episode, I’m breaking down the key differences — from ship size and inclusions to onboard vibe, excursions, and overall...
2025-12-1509 minEurope UnveiledGenerations on the River — Creating Legacies Through European River CruisesIf you’re planning a family river cruise in Europe — or you’ve wondered whether a European river cruise really works for grandparents, parents, and kids traveling together — this episode gives you everything you need to know. Multigenerational travel can feel overwhelming, but river cruising takes the stress out of planning and brings every age group together in the best possible way.In this episode of Europe Unveiled, host Sonia Rectenwald shares why European river cruises are one of the easiest and most meaningful ways for families to explore together. You unpack once, settle into a comfortable floating...
2025-12-0814 minEurope UnveiledGrand Journeys in Europe: Extended River, Ocean & Land AdventuresExplore Europe’s best extended itineraries — 14 to 80+ day river, land & ocean journeys. Learn about AmaWaterways, Scenic, Emerald & Riviera options and how to plan your own Grand Journey.Ready to go beyond the classic 7-night Europe trip? In this episode, Sonia explores Europe’s most immersive extended itineraries — from 14-, 15-, and 22-day river cruises to multi-week Grand Journeys that blend river cruising, curated land extensions, and even ocean or yacht sailing.Sonia shares real insights from her own experiences, including multiple back-to-back river cruises and why she loved Emerald’s Splendours of Europe so much that she’s...
2025-12-0112 minEurope UnveiledWhat to Pack for Your European River CruisePacking for a European river cruise feels different from packing for any other kind of vacation — and if you’ve ever stood over your suitcase thinking, “I have no idea what people actually wear on a river cruise,” you are not alone.In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what to bring, what to leave at home, and how to pack confidently for any season — spring, summer, fall, and festive winter. You’ll learn why capsule wardrobes are the secret to effortless packing, how to layer for Europe’s unpredictable weather, and which everyday items most travelers forget...
2025-11-2811 minEurope UnveiledIs a European River Cruise Right for Solo Travelers? Here’s What to Know.If you’re considering a solo river cruise in Europe — or you’ve dreamed of traveling solo but want a safe, welcoming way to explore — this episode shows you why a river cruise is the perfect fit. Hosted by European travel expert Sonia Rectenwald, this episode breaks down everything a solo traveler needs to know before stepping onboard.On today’s episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia shares how a European river cruise gives solo travelers the best of both worlds: independence when you want it, connection when you crave it, and zero stress handling logistics, safety, or transporta...
2025-11-2408 minEurope UnveiledThe Truth About Luxury River Cruises in Europe (and Why They’re Worth It)If you’ve ever wondered whether a luxury river cruise in Europe is really worth it — or if river cruising is more “over the top” than your travel style — this episode will change the way you think about exploring Europe’s rivers.In today’s episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m breaking down what luxury on a European river cruise actually means. Spoiler: it’s not chandeliers, tuxedos, or anything stuffy. It’s the kind of luxury that feels effortless — space to breathe, time to savor, and a level of connection you don’t get on larger ocean ships or fast-pace...
2025-11-1708 minEurope UnveiledCulinary River Cruises: Food, Wine & Michelin-Level Dining on Europe’s RiversJoin European travel expert and river cruise specialist Sonia Rectenwald as she explores the delicious world of culinary river cruises—where every meal tells a story. From truffle hunts in Provence to château lunches in Bordeaux and wine tastings in the Wachau Valley, discover how Europe’s top river cruise lines are elevating dining to Michelin-level artistry. Plus, meet the celebrity chefs bringing their talent onboard.Episode SummaryIn this flavorful episode of Europe Unveiled, host and European travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald takes you on a sensory journey through the world of culinary river cruis...
2025-11-1011 minEurope UnveiledThemed River Cruises in Europe: Wine, Beer, Music & MoreWhat if your river cruise matched your passion? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia Rectenwald explores themed river cruises in Europe — from wine and beer sailings to music, wellness, Christmas Market, and heritage voyages that make travel more personal. You’ll hear about Soulful Experiences, Storyteller Cruises with Outlander’s Graham McTavish, and Smithsonian Journeys that bring culture and connection to life on Europe’s most beautiful rivers.If you’ve ever wished your river cruise could match your interests — whether that’s wine, beer, music, or even photography — this episode is for you.In Episode 17 of...
2025-11-0313 minEurope UnveiledDanube Christmas Markets River Cruises: Europe’s Holiday MagicEver dreamed of wandering Europe’s Christmas Markets without the stress of trains, hotels, or logistics? In this festive episode of Europe Unveiled, host Sonia Rectenwald takes you along the Danube at Christmastime — from Budapest’s 3-D light show and Vienna’s grand Rathausplatz to cozy Passau, story-filled Regensburg, and Nuremberg’s world-famous Christkindlesmarkt. Discover how a river cruise turns Europe’s holiday season into one magical, effortless journey.If the thought of Europe at Christmastime makes you smile — twinkling lights, glühwein in hand, snow on cathedral spires — this episode is for you.In Episode 16 of Eur...
2025-10-2721 minEurope UnveiledEuropean River Cruise Extensions: Top City Stays & Hidden Gems Beyond the RiversIf you’ve ever wrapped up a river cruise and thought, “I wish I had just one more day to explore,” this episode is for you. And if you’ve never taken a river cruise before, you’re already ahead of the game — because you’re about to learn what even seasoned cruisers sometimes miss. In European River Cruise Extensions: Top City Stays & Hidden Gems Beyond the Rivers, I’m sharing the best cities to pair with your cruise plus a few off-the-radar treasures — from Amsterdam’s canals to Germany’s Romantic Road. You’ll even hear a personal story from when my famil...
2025-10-2012 minEurope UnveiledFrance by River Cruise — Seine, Rhône, Burgundy & Bordeaux ItinerariesEver dreamed of sailing through France? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m taking you along four of the country’s most iconic rivers: the Seine, the Rhône, Burgundy’s Saône, and Bordeaux’s Garonne and Dordogne. Each itinerary offers its own flavor — from the romance of Paris and Normandy, to the food and wine of Lyon and Provence, the countryside charm of Burgundy, and the world-class vineyards of Bordeaux.You’ll learn:What to expect on a Seine River Cruise from Paris to Normandy — including Monet’s Giverny, Rouen, and Château Gaillard.Why the Rh...
2025-10-1315 minEurope UnveiledDouro River Cruises in Portugal: Wine, Culture & Stunning SceneryThe Douro River in Portugal is unlike any other in Europe. Known for its golden terraced vineyards, authentic wine estates, and intimate small ships, a Douro River cruise is all about wine, culture, and breathtaking scenery.In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m taking you along the Douro to show you what makes this itinerary so unique. From Porto’s colorful waterfront and port wine cellars to the vineyard-dotted Douro Valley and a full-day excursion to Salamanca, Spain, the Douro delivers an unforgettable blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.You’ll discover:Why Douro...
2025-10-0609 minEurope UnveiledHow to Choose the Best River Cruise Line for Your Travel StyleChoosing the right river cruise line can feel overwhelming — brochures all look beautiful, past guests all swear their line is the best, and Google searches leave you with 34 open tabs. The truth? There’s no single “best” river cruise line. The real question is: Which one fits your travel style?In this episode, I compare the big players:AmaWaterways – casual luxury with flexible excursions and heart-felt serviceViking – sleek, structured, and destination-focused (with an older crowd)Avalon – flexible, active, and immersive, with panoramic suitesScenic – ultra-luxury, all-inclusive, and exclusive eventsEme...
2025-09-2917 minEurope UnveiledHow to Turn Your River Cruise into a Full European Vacation: Pre- & Post-Cruise ExtensionsYour European river cruise is only the beginning. ✨ In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m showing you how to transform your sailing into a full European vacation with pre- and post-cruise extensions.Whether it’s sipping hot chocolate in a Paris café, strolling across Prague’s Charles Bridge at sunrise, or wandering Lucerne’s cobblestone streets before heading home, these extensions add depth and unforgettable memories to your trip.You’ll learn:Why adding a few days before or after your cruise makes such a difference.The most popular river cruise extensions in Paris, Prague...
2025-09-2210 minEurope UnveiledWhen Is the Best Time of Year to Take a European River Cruise?When’s the best time to take a European river cruise? The truth is, there’s no single answer — because each season has its own magic. In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia walks you season by season down Europe’s rivers. From tulip cruises in the Netherlands to wine harvests on the Moselle, summer festivals along the Rhine, and Christmas Markets on the Danube, you’ll discover what makes every time of year special.You’ll also hear about itineraries worth bookmarking from AmaWaterways, Avalon, Scenic, Emerald, Riviera, and Riverside — plus insider tips like shipping tulip bulbs home fro...
2025-09-1512 minEurope UnveiledRiver Cruise Cabins: How to Choose the Right StateroomYour cabin isn’t just a place to sleep on a river cruise — it’s your private retreat on the river. But with so many stateroom choices, how do you know whether to book a window, balcony, or suite?In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about river cruise cabins. From entry-level window staterooms to French balconies, step-out balconies, and full suites that feel like floating hotels, you’ll learn how each category compares — and which one is right for your travel style.We’ll cover:The difference...
2025-09-0819 minEurope UnveiledMoselle, Rhine & Main by River Cruise: Castles, Wine & Storybook TownsFrom Luxembourg’s medieval fortifications to Würzburg’s baroque palace gardens, the Moselle, Rhine, and Main rivers deliver castles, vineyards, and storybook towns at every bend. In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia takes you on a journey along three rivers connected by the Danube Canal. She walks you through the ports of call — Bernkastel, Cochem, Rüdesheim, Wertheim, Miltenberg, Würzburg, and Bamberg — sharing stories, hidden gems, and insider insights into the wines that make each region unique.This itinerary is beautiful in every season, but in the fall harvest it truly shines: golden vineyards, lively wine...
2025-09-0114 min
Europe UnveiledChristmas Markets on the RhineThe Christmas Markets of Europe are more than places to shop — they’re living traditions filled with history, food, music, and community. In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m taking you port by port down the Rhine to show you exactly what it’s like to experience the holidays this way.From Amsterdam’s twinkling canals to Cologne’s seven markets, from Rüdesheim’s International Market of Nations to Strasbourg’s centuries-old festivities, you’ll discover the highlights, insider tips, and magical details that make a Christmas Markets river cruise so special.What You’ll Learn in Thi...
2025-08-2516 minEurope UnveiledGroup Travel Made Easy: River CruisingIf you’ve ever tried to plan a trip for a group — whether it’s your family, a reunion, or a bunch of friends — you know it can quickly feel like you’ve taken on a part-time job in herding cats. Between juggling personalities, managing reservations, and trying to please everyone, it’s enough to make you wonder why you didn’t just vacation alone.That’s where river cruising comes in. It’s the group travel solution that takes away the stress, builds in shared experiences, and still leaves plenty of room for personal downtime. In this episode, I’m...
2025-08-1808 minEurope UnveiledRhine River Christmas Market Cruise: What to Expect & How to Join UsImagine cobblestone streets lined with twinkling lights, steaming mugs of glühwein, and the scent of roasted chestnuts in the air — this is the magic of a Rhine River Christmas Market cruise.In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m sharing what makes these holiday sailings so special and why the Rhine is one of the best rivers to experience them.We’ll cover:The must-see markets along the Rhine, from Cologne’s cathedral market to Strasbourg’s ChristkindelsmärikWhat to expect on a Christmas Market river cruise — food, shopping, and festive traditionsInsider tips for making the...
2025-08-1507 minEurope UnveiledA Day in the Life on a River CruiseEver wonder what a real day on a European river cruise looks like? Not the brochure version — the actual rhythm of life onboard?In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m giving you the full behind-the-scenes experience, from:Slow, scenic mornings with coffee and castle viewsGuided walking tours with local experts (and tips for exploring on your own)Gourmet meals — plus light bites and sweet treats throughout the dayScenic sailing that will have your camera working overtimeEvenings of connection, entertainment, and slow-travel blissI’ll walk you through what makes river cruising feel so differen...
2025-08-1111 minEurope UnveiledWhat’s Included on a River Cruise (And What’s Not)What’s Included on a River Cruise (And What’s Not)Have you ever ended an ocean cruise with a bill that made your jaw drop?You’re not alone — and you’re definitely not the only one who’s felt nickeled and dimed by the time you disembark.In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m pulling back the curtain on what’s actually included on a European river cruise — and just as importantly, what’s not. Whether you’re a first-time river cruiser or just trying to figure out what all the hype is about, thi...
2025-08-0413 minEurope UnveiledDanube River Cruise Guide: What to Expect on a Danube CruiseThinking about a Danube River Cruise? From Budapest to Nuremberg, Sonia takes you through the ports, excursions, and special experiences that make this one of Europe’s most popular river cruises. If you’ve been dreaming of castles, vineyards, and historic cities along the Danube, this episode is your guide.This episode is your behind-the-scenes look at what makes the Danube River Cruise so magical — and so popular with first-time river cruisers and seasoned travelers alike.From Budapest’s glittering skyline to Vienna’s elegant palaces, wine towns like Dürnstein, and hidden gems like Regensburg...
2025-07-2816 minEurope UnveiledRhine River Cruise Guide: What to Expect on a Rhine CruiseCurious about a Rhine River Cruise? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia shares insider tips and highlights along the Rhine — including the Rhine Gorge, medieval towns, and vineyard-filled landscapes. If you’re planning a European river cruise, this episode shows you why the Rhine is one of the most magical rivers to sail.We’ll explore what it’s really like to sail the Rhine — from the bustling canals of Amsterdam to the cultural elegance of Basel. I’ll walk you through the must-see ports, food and wine you’ll want to try, and those pinch-me moments that m...
2025-07-2813 minEurope UnveiledDanube River Cruise vs Rhine River Cruise: Which Is Right for You?Are you planning a European river cruise but can’t decide between the Danube River Cruise and the Rhine River Cruise? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia breaks down the highlights of both rivers — from castles and vineyards to cultural capitals — so you can choose the cruise that fits your style.One of the most common questions I get:Danube or Rhine — which river cruise is right for you?While both are breathtaking, they offer very different vibes—from wine country castles and timbered villages to imperial cities, palaces, and classical music halls. If...
2025-07-2110 minEurope UnveiledWelcome to Europe Unveiled – River Cruises & European Travel TipsHey traveler — I’m so glad you’re here! I’m Sonia Rectenwald: European travel expert, group trip guru, certified river cruise specialist, and founder of Bryson Travel Group.I’ve lived in Europe, traveled its cobblestone streets for over 30 years, and helped hundreds of clients plan unforgettable trips across the continent. And now? I’m sharing it all with you.Welcome to Europe Unveiled — the podcast that takes you beyond the guidebook and into the heart of Europe’s most magical destinations.In this quick teaser, I’ll tell you:Who this podcast is fo...
2025-07-1402 min