My inaugural journey through Europe was a profound experience, a dream vividly lived that I yearn to relive endlessly. Over the span of ten exhilarating days, I navigated four captivating countries and eleven distinct cities aboard a river cruise, and the desire to return is already a persistent whisper in my heart.
Truth be told, the concept of a cruise had never particularly resonated with me. Perhaps it was the apprehension of being part of a large, impersonal crowd, the potential for seasickness amidst powerful swells, or the constraint of limited exploration time in each port. Cruises simply hadn’t climbed to the top of my travel wish list. This perspective dramatically shifted, however, when an incredible opportunity arose to embark on an Amadeus River Cruise. The itinerary promised a spectacular journey from the vibrant canals of Amsterdam all the way down to the picturesque city of Basel, Switzerland. Having harbored a strong desire to explore Europe for the past year or two, this trip felt perfectly timed, an answer to a long-held wanderlust.
My boyfriend, Bridger, and I commenced our adventure from Seattle, taking a direct Delta Airlines flight to Amsterdam. We strategically arrived a full day before our scheduled embarkation onto the Amadeus Silver II for the 8-day, 7-night cruise. Fortune smiled upon us during the overnight flight, granting us an entire row to ourselves. I managed to catch significant rest, while Bridger, impressively, powered through three movies and remained awake for the duration of the journey.
As neither of us had previously visited Amsterdam, our pre-cruise day was dedicated to immersing ourselves in as much of the city’s charm as possible before our departure.
From the moment we arrived, Amsterdam captivated me, swiftly securing a place among my favorite travel destinations. I am already certain I must return for an extended stay. My initial, rather narrow perception of Amsterdam as solely a “party city” of Europe was utterly dispelled. Instead, I discovered a city of unparalleled beauty and profound character. The serene canals, rich historical tapestry, world-class museums, eclectic shops, iconic sites, and the warm, diverse populace collectively painted a picture unlike anything I had witnessed before. Our AirB&B, conveniently situated near the renowned Rijksmuseum and the genesis of the city’s intricate canal system, proved to be an ideal base. Most attractions were comfortably within walking distance, a fact we certainly took advantage of, logging countless steps immediately upon our arrival from the airport.
Day 1: Exploring Amsterdam’s Culinary Delights and Iconic Landmarks
For our very first meal in Amsterdam, Bridger and I headed to Bakers and Roasters, a spot highly recommended by many. Naturally, I gravitated towards my comfort food: avocado toast generously topped with perfectly fried eggs and crispy bacon. It was, as always, a winning combination that satisfies every time. While perhaps not the most authentically Dutch dish, it certainly curbed my cravings while far from home. Our day unfolded with leisurely shopping, extensive walking, and capturing memorable photos in front of the famous ‘I Amsterdam’ sign in the museum district. We also passed by the Anne Frank House. Regrettably, we hadn’t secured tickets in advance, and despite knowing we could queue after 3 PM, we decided against spending three precious hours of our brief trip waiting in line. The Anne Frank Museum remains the one experience I truly wish I hadn’t missed, and it is now firmly at the top of our itinerary for our next visit.
Day 2: Art, Matcha, and Boarding the Amadeus Silver II
Our second day in Amsterdam began with a familiar Seattle-esque drizzle and overcast skies, which felt surprisingly comforting. We enjoyed a brisk thirty-minute walk to breakfast at CT Coffee + Coconuts, an utterly charming café exuding good vibes with its plant-filled interiors, bright décor, and inviting bean bag chairs on the upper floor. Bridger and I both opted for the CT Full Breakfast, a delectable spread featuring avocado egg toast, coconut yogurt with muesli, fresh fruit, and a delightful gluten-free almond and buckwheat flour pancake served with coco whip. It was a heavenly start to the day. Each successful discovery of a healthy café or restaurant also subtly increased Bridger’s tolerance for my adventurous culinary pursuits in foreign cities, a definite win!
Post-breakfast, our cultural immersion continued with a visit to the Van Gogh Museum, an experience I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone visiting Amsterdam. Surprisingly, this marked my first-ever museum visit of this caliber, setting an incredibly high bar for future art explorations. My next mission, however, was a more personal quest: finding the perfect matcha latte.
Up until this point, I had stopped at numerous shops and coffee establishments (and yes, there is a distinct difference between the two), often met with disappointment when the term “matcha latte” drew blank stares. (My stomach struggles significantly with coffee, making matcha my preferred alternative for the past six months). Finally, I found a promising lead: Lavinia Good Food. Their matcha latte proved to be one of the best I’ve ever tasted.
Later that morning, we made our way to the Amadeus Silver II, the magnificent river cruise ship that would transport us on an unforgettable voyage along the Rhine River, from Amsterdam to Basel, Switzerland.
The Amadeus Silver II: A Five-Star Floating Hotel
The Amadeus Silver II was an impressively proportioned vessel for river travel, accommodating approximately 160 guests. It boasted three main decks, topped by an expansive sun deck, offering ample space and amenities. Onboard, we found a spacious main restaurant, a convivial bar, a compact yet functional exercise room, a private lounge, and on the sun deck, a shuffleboard court and a life-size chess table – both of which, surprisingly, saw considerable use from our group. Our stateroom itself was akin to a 5-star hotel room, complete with abundant storage in the bathroom and closet, and featured either a small balcony or a floor-to-ceiling window that could open halfway, inviting the outside in. I was, to say the least, thoroughly impressed by the ship’s design and comfort.
Upon boarding, Bridger, myself, and the other members of our group (approximately twelve people in total) were immediately treated to a delightful canal cruise on a smaller boat. A knowledgeable tour guide pointed out Amsterdam’s iconic sights, providing fascinating historical context. I initially felt a pang of disappointment when a cheese tasting was announced, given my intolerance to cow’s milk. However, to my pleasant surprise, Amsterdam offered some of the finest goat cheese I have ever tasted! This canal tour quickly became one of the highlights of my entire trip, deepening our understanding of Amsterdam and revealing charming corners we hadn’t discovered the previous day. For our first night aboard the cruise, the ship remained docked in Amsterdam, allowing us one last opportunity to explore the city after dinner. Several of my followers had emphatically recommended Café Winkel 43 for its legendary Dutch apple pie, and I can now unequivocally agree – it was absolutely divine! On our way back to the ship, we purposefully walked through the infamous Red-Light District, curious to witness its unique atmosphere. It proved to be quite the spectacle and a significant tourist attraction, with families, guided tours, and even elderly visitors window-shopping. It was certainly an experience.
Day 3: Navigating Dietary Needs and Discovering Hoorn
Waking up to a lavish full breakfast buffet and an à la carte menu was a delightful start to the day. However, my initial joy was quickly tempered by the sight of an entire table laden with freshly baked breads, rolls, and pastries, alongside a buffet overflowing with foods I typically avoid in my daily routine. A momentary dread crept in, envisioning myself gaining a significant amount of weight over the course of the trip. The daily breakfast menu offered only four fixed options—an omelette, blueberry pancakes, and two other items I likely dismissed instantly. It was at that precise moment I realized maintaining a healthy eating regimen throughout the rest of the journey would be a considerable challenge.
Fortunately, Bridger, ever the optimist, reminded me of my “modification abilities” and my knack for “always making things work,” which brought a welcome sense of relief. Not only is Bridger inherently positive, but he was also right; I genuinely strive to find the healthiest options available, adapting meals to suit my needs. I approached our waiter and inquired if avocado and fried eggs—my usual morning fare—were available. To my delight, they were! From that point forward, the attentive waiter remembered my fondness for avocado, ensuring it accompanied every one of my breakfast plates. I was truly seen and understood. I quickly recognized the extraordinary accommodating nature of the onboard kitchen staff, particularly concerning my lactose intolerance. Every meal delivered to me during the cruise was thoughtfully modified to align with my dietary restrictions. Salads arrived sans dressing, replaced with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; cream-based soups were swapped for lighter, broth-based alternatives; and for dessert, I was treated to fresh berries instead of cakes, sorbet, or other menu items. The chef’s culinary skill was exceptional, and every single dish I enjoyed was of the highest caliber.
After breakfast, our group embarked on a bus tour to further explore Amsterdam, visiting two different museums and strolling along more of the city’s charming canals. I took a brief detour to procure another energizing matcha latte from Lavinia, then reconvened with the cruise ship in Hoorn, a quaint town situated north of Amsterdam. From Hoorn, we set sail across the waters until our arrival in Cologne the following day.
Activity Recommendations for Amsterdam, The Netherlands:
- Secure tickets at least a month in advance for the profound Anne Frank House tour.
- Purchase tickets for the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum; remember to commit to a specific time slot beforehand.
- Rent bikes and leisurely cycle through the expansive Vondelpark, but be mindful as biking is a significant part of Dutch culture.
- Capture iconic photographs in front of the ‘I Amsterdam’ sign, located prominently in the museum district.
- Embark on a relaxing canal cruise to experience the city from a unique perspective.
- Explore De Negen Straatjes (The 9 Streets) for an exceptional shopping experience.
Food Recommendations for Amsterdam (Personal Favorites + Follower Suggestions):
- Bakers and Roasters: Excellent for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
- CT Coffee + Coconuts: A delightful three-story cafe brimming with plants, offering cozy bean bag chairs and an outstanding menu; their pancakes are particularly memorable.
- Lavinia Good Food: The go-to spot for an exquisite matcha latte.
- Winkel 43: Famous for its legendary Dutch apple pie – a must-try.
- Food Hallen: Often likened to Chelsea Market, this vibrant indoor food court offers a diverse array of restaurants and a less touristy atmosphere.
- The Avocado Show: A haven for avocado lovers, with every menu item featuring the beloved fruit.
- Omelegg: Specializing in delicious and creative omelets.
- MarQt: A superb healthy grocery store, where I found the almond and coconut-based yogurts by Abbot Kinney that I brought on the cruise (the coconut flavor was divine!).
- Dignita: Known for its lovely brunch and healthy options.
- SLA: Create your own custom, fresh salad.
- Cold pressed juice: Seek out local spots for truly invigorating, fresh juices.
- Hummus bistro or Sir Hummus: For authentic and delicious hummus.
- Little Collins: A popular cafe for breakfast and lunch.
- Cedar’s: Offers Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Stroopwaffle: Best enjoyed fresh and warm from a street food cart or truck.
- Teds: Another excellent brunch spot.
- Betty Blue: A charming cafe located near Waterlooplein.
- Café Walem: Known for its delectable open-faced sandwiches.
- De Kas: A unique farm-to-table restaurant housed in a massive glass building, offering an exceptional tasting menu.
- Blend: A cozy cafe for coffee and light bites.
- Alchemist Garden: Focuses on healthy, organic options.
- Zest for Life: A plant-based cafe and health store.
- Greenwoods: Popular for its English-style breakfast.
- Roots Amsterdam: Offers healthy, organic, and vegetarian dishes.
- The Pancake Bakery: Indulge in traditional Dutch pancakes.
- Pluk: A lovely spot for coffee and home goods.
- Back to Black: A great choice for specialty coffee.
Day 4: Majestic Cologne and a Culinary Showcase
As is my custom, I woke early with intentions of fitting in a solid workout before the day’s excursions. Little did I know, maintaining my rigorous daily exercise routine during a river cruise would prove to be quite a challenge. At that hour, the small exercise room, equipped with three bikes, one rower, three sets of low-weight dumbbells, a Swiss ball, and floor-to-ceiling mirrors, was already occupied by several of the ship’s older ladies. Undeterred, I decided to hit the sun deck for some laps. It wasn’t until about my fifteenth lap that one of the gentlemen we had been befriending on the trip approached me, looking remarkably exhausted, I might add. He very politely informed me that the “thuds” generated by my running on the deck had been keeping him and his girlfriend awake. Well, that certainly put an abrupt end to any deck-running exercise program I might have planned for the remaining five days! He tried to assure me the noise was likely from another man exercising on the deck, but I remained unconvinced. Thankfully, the fitness room became available shortly thereafter, allowing me to complete a quick circuit workout.
Cologne was the next stop on our itinerary and revealed itself as an incredibly dynamic city. With only a few precious hours to explore before the ship departed for its next destination, we had to be incredibly focused on the sights we wished to experience. Our first, and indeed most essential, stop was the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. Words truly cannot adequately convey the sheer beauty and breathtaking grandeur of this Gothic architectural masterpiece. Its intricate details and towering presence were so picturesque, even when standing mere feet away. It was only after this trip that I learned of a profound personal connection: my grandfather and his division played a role in liberating Cologne in 1945, adding a layer of poignant historical significance to our visit.
The Cologne Cathedral is a testament to human perseverance and artistry, taking an astonishing 632 years to complete. Remarkably, it sustained only partial damage from fourteen bombs during World War II. The stunning windows we observed were originals from its initial construction, having survived because they were meticulously removed by the city’s inhabitants and safely stored outside the city just before the war, then reinstalled once the conflict ended. Upon its completion, it proudly stood as the tallest cathedral in the world, and today, it maintains its status as the fourth tallest.
Knowing that Hommage, a delightful healthy café, was just two miles from the cathedral, I naturally opted out of the beer tasting excursion and gently coerced Bridger into joining me. The café itself was incredibly quaint and charming, and I was tempted by virtually every item on their inviting menu. Ultimately, we decided on avocado bread with a creamy cheese spread, perfectly smashed avocado, a fried egg, and sundried tomatoes, alongside a savory galette filled with goat cheese, honey, and walnuts. To round off our healthy feast, we shared a rich chocolate avocado smoothie. Had time permitted, I would have gladly indulged in their lemon pound cake, vegan cheesecake, crepes, and fresh juices.
That evening brought a truly special event: the showcase dinner. Our cruise director had meticulously arranged this exclusive meal for our small group, designed to highlight the chef’s extraordinary culinary capabilities. It was, without exaggeration, one of the finest meals I have ever had. The chef, with remarkable consideration, created healthier, dairy-free alternatives specifically for me, making the experience even more special. The exquisite courses included salmon carpaccio with dill relish, perfectly grilled shrimp served over couscous and vibrant vegetables, and a refreshing lemon sorbet with rosemary and gin – arguably my favorite dessert of the entire trip. Imagine savoring this extraordinary meal as the sun gracefully set, casting a warm glow over the distant Cologne Cathedral, all while we continued our serene journey down the river.
Day 5: Fitness, Castles, and Rhine River Vistas
The sheer luxury of waking up in a different, enchanting location each day without the hassle of unpacking and repacking made this trip incredibly enjoyable and effortless. It truly eliminated the stress of planning minor details and the constant worry of relocating. Furthermore, the attentive housekeeping staff ensured our room was immaculate daily, beds were made, and they consistently left us the day’s itinerary, two fresh water bottles, and accommodated any other requests we had. The weather was also remarkably cooperative throughout our week on the ship. Despite packing for rain based on forecasts, most days greeted us with glorious temperatures in the 70s and 80s.
Shuffleboard became an unexpected source of entertainment during our downtime on the ship – yes, surprisingly, we utilized it far more than the older crowd! Yet, at no point did the time spent on board between cities feel excessive, which was a perfect balance. One particular afternoon, Bridger, Jeff, Marie, Jess (new friends we made on the ship), and I decided to get a good sweat in. We headed to the back of the upper deck and completed four rounds of a challenging circuit: 25 lunges, 25 burpees, 25 air squats, and 25 pushups. We couldn’t have asked for a more breathtaking and scenic backdrop for our workout, as we cruised leisurely down the picturesque Rhine River!
Our excursion took us to Cochem, Germany, where we embarked on a guided tour inside a magnificent medieval castle. Up until this point, we were all quite awe-struck by the sheer number and grandeur of Europe’s medieval castles and ruins (though this would soon change after we ventured deeper into “castle country”). Following the captivating castle tour, we participated in a wine tasting. I’ll readily admit that I’m not the most ardent wine connoisseur at this stage in my life, and I rarely drink, but I can certainly appreciate a good glass of white wine occasionally. Coincidentally, Germany, and the Rhine region in particular, is celebrated for its exquisite Riesling wines, which were precisely what we had the pleasure of sampling that day. Learning about the fascinating history behind the families who have cultivated grapes for hundreds of years in this region was truly captivating. After the tasting, some of us sought out dinner, but many of the local restaurants were unfortunately unaccommodating due to their closing hours. The specific restaurant we ultimately chose also proved less than supportive of my dietary restrictions (no dairy) when it came to ordering, prompting me to conclude that the ship remained the safest and most reliable place for a meal.
Day 6: CrossFit in Germany, Castle Country, and Birthday Cheers
Our sixth day brought us to the charming German cities of Koblenz and Rüdesheim. Koblenz, a beautiful little city, greeted us with its morning tranquility. I rose exceptionally early with several CrossFit-enthusiast friends from the boat who made it a point to scout out CrossFit gyms at every stop. As I had never tried CrossFit before, what better time or place than in Germany? From my initial understanding, a CrossFit session typically involves a 5-10 minute warm-up, 10 minutes of skill work, a 20-25 minute main workout (WOD – Workout of the Day), and a 10-minute cool-down. Our specific workout that day began with five rounds of kettlebell swings, 30 seconds on, 30 seconds off. This was followed by a 20-minute AMRAP (as many reps as possible) of “Cindy” (a standard CrossFit benchmark workout named after a girl), which included 5 pull-ups, 10 push-ups, and 15 air squats, to be repeated continuously for the full 20 minutes. I absolutely loved it! The coach was fantastic, paying close attention to our form, and the three local participants were incredibly kind to let us join their class. We all certainly worked up a great sweat.
Unfortunately, my time in Koblenz was primarily dedicated to the CrossFit session and my singular mission to locate a matcha latte. (If you’re as passionate about matcha as I am, you’ll undoubtedly understand these urgent quests). I successfully discovered one shop that offered it and proudly became “that girl” jogging back to the ship with a backpack and a hot latte, making it just before departure. It was amusing to explain to our travel companions that matcha holds the same vital significance for me as coffee does for many.
The scenic stretch of the Rhine River between Koblenz and Rüdesheim is widely regarded as one of the most breathtaking parts of the Rhine Valley, affectionately known as ‘Castle Country.’ Dozens of medieval castles, dramatic steep vineyards clinging to hillsides, and charming small villages dotted the landscape. It was all so incredibly picturesque, a continuous feast for the eyes.
Rüdesheim am Rhein is a delightful, small winemaking city characterized by its narrow cobblestone alleyways, an array of inviting restaurants, and cozy, tiny bars. We didn’t have extensive time to explore there, as many shops were already closing for the day, but the leisurely stroll through its charming streets was certainly pleasant. Adding to the joy of the day, two individuals in our group celebrated their birthdays simultaneously, providing a wonderful excuse for a festive evening. And seriously, what better way to celebrate a birthday than by cruising past majestic castles along the Rhine River through Germany? The answer is simple: there is no better way. Sign me up for that every year!
Day 7: Heidelberg’s Charm, Historic Castle, and German Delights
We arrived in Mannheim early in the morning, from where we took a comfortable charter bus along the famous Autobahn to Heidelberg, Germany. This remarkable city, nestled beautifully along the river, presents a breathtaking landscape of red-roofed buildings crowned by a massive, commanding castle. It was here that I discovered what I can confidently say was the healthiest café of our entire trip: Your Good Love. Its extensive menu was a dream come true, featuring everything from freshly pressed juices, delicious pastries, creamy chia puddings, and invigorating acai bowls, to gourmet sandwiches, excellent coffee, and, of course, my beloved matcha. I was in absolute heaven, feeling incredibly lucky to have stumbled upon it, especially since it had only opened two months prior. Bridger and I indulged in a chia pudding, a smoothie bowl, a matcha latte, and a croissant as our “appetizer” before joining the others for a traditional German lunch. At an authentic local restaurant, we feasted on a generous spread of classic German fare: hearty sausage and sauerkraut, crispy Wiener Schnitzel, golden fries, soft pretzels, and more. Our bellies full and content, we then rode the funicular (a charming tram) up to the majestic Heidelberg Castle from the main city, a brief but scenic three-minute ride. This castle proved to be the largest I had ever seen. Once we crossed its impressive bridge, it felt like entering a small, self-contained village. Within its walls, we discovered the world’s largest wine barrel, an astounding structure with the capacity to hold an incredible 55,345 gallons of wine.
I distinctly remember feeling quite dehydrated at this point, likely a combination of the extensive walking under the sun and staying up late celebrating birthdays the previous night. I made a concerted effort to hydrate, guzzling down as much water as I could before we made our way to Speyer, one of Germany’s oldest towns, to rejoin our ship. That evening, the crew had a special treat in store: a lively Pirates-themed dinner aboard the ship, which proved to be a huge hit with the older crowd on board!
Recommendations for Heidelberg:
- Your Good Love café: A must-visit for fresh juice, pastries, chia puddings, acai bowls, sandwiches, coffee, and matcha.
- Heidelberg Castle: Explore its vast grounds and historical significance.
Day 8: The Enchantment of Strasbourg and Final Locks
Strasbourg, without a doubt, emerged as one of my absolute favorite stops of the entire trip. France in springtime is nothing short of gorgeous. We began our exploration with a brief but informative bus tour around the city, followed by a delightful stroll through a bustling fresh market. We captured countless photographs in front of the awe-inspiring Strasbourg Cathedral, its Gothic architecture dominating the skyline. Walking the cobblestone streets, we absorbed all the charm and history Strasbourg had to offer. It was precisely as one imagines France to be: a street musician skillfully playing an accordion, bicyclists gracefully navigating the ancient lanes. Truly a magical place.
During our time there, I savored my very first macaron – a delicate, sweet perfection. I also indulged in yet another wonderfully soft pretzel from the market, which proved to be dangerously delicious, and wandered through many, many exquisite French bakeries, each one a treat for the senses. I would return to Strasbourg in a heartbeat!
After four hours of thoroughly touring Strasbourg, we made our way back to the ship, with only one final cruise stop remaining: Basel. We made the most of the warm weather by relaxing on the upper deck as the Amadeus Silver II navigated its last several locks. Over the course of the eight-day journey, our magnificent vessel passed through a total of eighteen locks, a testament to the intricate engineering of Europe’s waterways.
Day 9: Basel, Switzerland, and a Return to Germany
On our last day aboard the ship, we arrived in Basel, Switzerland. From here, Bridger and I boarded a train, heading north to Dusseldorf, Germany, where we planned to meet up with some friends from home. I must admit, Basel wasn’t my favorite city of the trip. We unfortunately arrived on a national holiday, which meant most shops were closed. I struggled to pinpoint any healthy restaurants, the language barrier proved quite challenging, and Switzerland, generally, is famously expensive. To add to this, the staff at the restaurant we ultimately chose was unaccommodating to my dietary needs. Perhaps my experience would have been different on another day, but I was quite content to have only a few hours to spare before catching our train.
Bridger, bless his soul, thoughtfully purchased first-class train tickets to Dusseldorf. The added legroom and air conditioning made for an incredibly comfortable five-hour journey, winding back along the very same river we had cruised down just days prior.
Upon arrival in Dusseldorf, we settled into our AirB&B, then met our friends for a lovely dinner, marking my final evening in Europe.
Day 10: Dusseldorf Departure and Reflecting on a Lifetime Trip
The following morning, Bridger and I navigated the streets of Dusseldorf with our luggage, heading in the general direction of the airport. Given that Dusseldorf lacks Uber, which tends to be the easiest and most economical form of transportation in many parts of the world, we decided to try finding a taxi, bus, or tram to get us there quickly. I’m certain we walked at least a mile, bags in hand, before finally hopping on a bus that dropped us off conveniently near the airport.
The journey home proved to be significantly more exhausting than the flight over. I flew from Dusseldorf to Atlanta, a nine-hour and ten-minute flight, followed by an hour and a half layover, and then another four and a half hours to Seattle. Restless leg syndrome became a very real and unwelcome companion by the end of this extensive travel day! I made sure to get up and stretch every few hours to mitigate the discomfort.
All in all, this European river cruise was unequivocally the trip of a lifetime. I had the privilege of immersing myself in new cultures across diverse cities, forging wonderful new friendships, and experiencing the unparalleled joy of traveling Europe with the love of my life. The only question now is: when can I possibly go back?
My Favorite Cities of the Trip:
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Dusseldorf, Germany
- Cologne, Germany
- Koblenz, Germany
- Heidelberg, Germany
- Strasbourg, France
How I Maintained a Healthy Lifestyle While Traveling Europe
As someone who thrives on a daily routine, beginning each morning at 6 AM with a gym session followed by a wholesome breakfast at home, I understood and accepted that my usual exercise routine and everyday eating habits would be impossible to maintain on this trip. To be candid, had I embarked on this journey even a year ago, my preparation would have been drastically different; my suitcase would have been at least three-quarters full of carefully prepared snacks. It has taken me a considerable amount of time to finally feel comfortable embracing a life where my next meal isn’t meticulously planned. For so long, I was incredibly strict about what I allowed myself to eat away from home, experiencing a genuine sense of anxiety if I was unsure about the availability or type of food wherever I went. Coming to the profound realization that life should not be wasted worrying about artificial boundaries has lifted an immense amount of stress from my life. My focus now is simply on eating a diet rich in diverse plant-based foods (emphasizing a variety of colors for different nutrients), wild-caught fish, organic meats, healthy fats, and low sugar—a framework that provides enough structure for me to live a truly happy and balanced life.
While my suitcase wasn’t entirely packed with food, I still brought along some of my essential healthy necessities:
- Primal Kitchen Collagen Bars
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptide packs
- RXBARS
- Bulletproof Brain Octane oil
- Brazil nuts
- Roasted sunflower seeds
- Eating Evolved chocolate
- Multivitamin
- Probiotic
Life, even on vacation, is ultimately about balance. You have to consciously choose what you wish to indulge in. On this trip, I consciously began each day with a breakfast high in healthy fats, fiber, and protein. This approach kept me energized and sustained until lunchtime, typically consisting of several eggs, a generous portion of vegetables, half an avocado, and a few Brazil nuts. By no means was I going to deprive myself of the rich tapestry of European cuisine during this vacation; I simply made sure not to go overboard. I ate as healthily as I could on the boat for the most part (though the chef’s culinary brilliance meant I absolutely had to indulge a few nights!). During our explorations of the different cities, I allowed myself to savor whatever local delights they offered, such as exquisite goat cheese, warm soft pretzels, authentic Wiener Schnitzel, hearty German sausages, delectable pizza, and delicate macarons. The philosophy is simple: if you commit to eating a wholesome diet the majority of the time, your body will be far more forgiving when you decide to treat yourself on special occasions.
Exercise on a European River Cruise
Despite the constraints, I made a concerted effort to stay active. I utilized the ship’s small gym on three of the seven days, performing my own programmed circuit workouts. One day, I attempted jogging on the sun deck, which, as detailed above, was a short-lived endeavor. I also embraced a unique opportunity to take my very first CrossFit class in Germany, a memorable experience, and completed one additional circuit workout on the sun deck. The rest of my physical activity was enthusiastically dedicated to extensive walking and exploring the beautiful cities we visited. As a personal trainer, working out is a deep passion and has become an integral part of my morning ritual. It not only energizes me for the day but also helps maintain my sense of routine, which is precisely why it doesn’t require much effort for me to actively seek out opportunities to be active even while on vacation.
More Insights into Amadeus River Cruises
Our specific cruise was only about 60% full with guests, the majority of whom were above sixty years old. However, Bridger and I were fortunate enough to connect with a fantastic younger crowd on the ship, including corporate event planners, fellow CrossFit enthusiasts, and travel agents. I can certainly understand the appeal these types of cruises hold for older individuals, offering comfort and convenience. Yet, simultaneously, I foresee river cruises gaining significant popularity among millennials seeking to explore the world without the burden of meticulously planning every detail or constantly switching hotels every few days. Initially, the idea of a river cruise didn’t pique my interest in the slightest. However, after experiencing this incredible journey down the Rhine River, I am immensely grateful for the opportunity and am already eagerly anticipating another cruise in a new, exciting location! The Amadeus Silver II truly felt like a five-star hotel and restaurant gracefully floating on water, and I could not have been more impressed with every aspect of the entire trip.
Amadeus River Cruises are renowned for their exceptional offerings, which include delicious local cuisine, complimentary free-flowing local wine and beer with lunch and dinner, reliable Wi-Fi, and unparalleled hospitality from their dedicated staff and crew. They provide bicycles on board, allowing guests to explore cities independently, along with thoughtfully planned excursions. Notably, Amadeus is the only company operating river cruises on European waterways to be awarded the prestigious “Green Certification” seal of approval, a testament to their commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
Their itineraries typically span 8, 10, and 15 days, offering a range of options for diverse travel preferences.
*Exciting Opportunity: Host a River Cruise with Me!*
I am absolutely thrilled to announce that I have been given the incredible opportunity to host a river cruise next year, similar to this very trip, through Amadeus River Cruises! The location is yet to be determined, but it will most likely be somewhere equally enchanting in Europe. I need you to let me know if you would be interested in traveling with ME! I will be personally planning the entire menu with the chef, hand-selecting the captivating cities we would stop at, and curating all the engaging activities we would do both on and off the ship (including exciting workout sessions!). This unique cruise will be specially catered to healthy, like-minded individuals who are eager to explore new destinations around the world and connect with others who share a passion for wellness and adventure. Please comment below if this sounds like an experience you would love to be a part of. If there’s enough interest, I can begin planning this dream trip right away!
If you have any questions or further feedback about the trip, please don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below!