River Cruising

One of the questions I hear most often — and I mean most often — is: “Sheila, which river cruise line is the best?”   My honest answer is always the same: it depends. And I know that sounds like a dodge, but stay with me.   Let me give you a concrete example.   […]

Everyone asks about the castles, the wine, and the excursions. But after sailing the Rhine, Danube, Rhône, and Seine, Ottawa river cruise expert Sheila Gallant-Halloran says there’s one thing that surprises clients most — and it has nothing to do with the itinerary.

One of the highlights of attending the River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam this March was sitting down with Michelle Palma, Executive Vice President of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, to talk about what truly makes Uniworld different.   And honestly? You feel it almost immediately when you step onboard.   From the moment you enter, Uniworld

One of the things I love most about river cruising is the feeling. Not the checklist. Not the “must-see” attractions. Not rushing from place to place. The feeling.   The quiet morning light over the Danube. A cappuccino as castles drift by on the Rhine. A glass of wine while vineyards roll past your balcony

I’ll be honest—“bike and barge” hasn’t always been a glowing recommendation from me.   I’ve had clients come back from trips in France with stories that were… memorable, but not in the way you want: Bathrooms where the toilet and shower were basically the same space Bunk beds so tight you could touch both walls