No decision on (a) if I will do a river cruise (b) what ship and (c) the itinerary.

After this mad dash through Europe to see ships I will decide. I can go in September but with the October 7 trip I have to either back it up to that trip or give myself some time to fly home in between.

I think the ship and cabins are important.

I will be seeing the new AMA AMACERTO regular double cabins 170, 210 and 235 sq ft. The suite is 350 sq.ft. They have what they call double balconies and so I am really looking forward to seeing this design. http://www.amawaterways.com/ships/amacerto

Uniworld has been getting great reviews BUT on most ships their standard cabins are 150 sq.ft that is SMALL.

The newest ship the Marie Antionette has cabins at 163, 196, 294 and the largest at 391. I will be seeing this ship too.

Got to see these boats for myself, sail on Uniworld to decide.

I'm so glad you're seeing these ships, Ngaire. As you know, I've been looking at several itineraries for next year. Those double balconies on the AmaCerto do look nice, don't they--looks like AMACerto's doing the Danube, but not in September which is when I'd like to go next year. The Antoinette does looks wonderful, if I could be persuaded to do Amsterdam to Basel instead of the Danube. I've been looking at the 196' cabin.

To be the "know" you gotta "go".

Leaving for China/Tibet on Monday another rushed fast one or two night stay at each location trip. Will be seeing areas of China I have not seen yet.

After these two trips I will be ready for SHAMROCK, unpack stay put with great friends and WONDERFUL food that I like.

We'll be looking forward to seeing you too!!