NOT AT ALL CERTAIN THAT WE CAN HANDLE A RIVER CRUISE AND THE WALKING

Q –  How active are the daily walking tours?  My wife & I are somewhat challenged by long walks.  We can easily do a mile or 2 per day but must move slowly.  My wife wears a “boot” that restricts ankle movement due to multiple surgeries & I have lower back issues that prohibit long walks without periodic rests.

A –  Without knowing your travel profile and health history, we really can’t offer a meaningful recommendation. We will tell you that, based on the information you have provided, we think that you should avoid river cruising unless you are willing to have your advisor arrange private drivers in each of the major ports. Even the slowest walking tours offered by the various lines will be inappropriate for your back and your wife’s “boot”. You will need frequent bench stops that would slow down the rest of the group. You sound like perfect candidates for private driver/guide arrangements that are suited to your specific medical conditions. Our concern is that the amount of walking that forms an important part of ever river boat itinerary is either going to be impossibly difficult for you or injurious to your conditions.

Your advisor may be willing to take on the challenge of private arrangements but this will be a rather significant additional vacation expense. There are firms that specialize in travel programs for guests with impaired mobility issues. You may be a candidate.