Q – I am concerned about flooding or drought issues. Would August or September present issues? Which month would be a better choice to avoid flooding or drought issues?
Regarding your overall ratings, would you recommend the Crystal Ravel 7-Day cruise Vienna to Budapest or the 10-day Vienna round-trip on the Crystal Mozart. Thanks for your assistance.
A – We do not recommend that you make a decision based on likely flooding or drought. It can happen at any time – and has. More relevant are the likely heat levels along your route in August. We would strongly recommend departure times in the last week in August, September, or even the first week in October. If you stay outside of that time frame you are increasing your chances of weather-related issues.
The choice between the two Crystal programs is difficult. We like the ten-day itinerary better on the Mozart but the Ravel is a gorgeous, new ship that is setting standards within the industry. Let’s say that the biggest rookie mistake when it comes to booking river cruises, other than being price-obsessed, is the “SIWLT” Syndrone (Seeing if we like it). You will love it – stats show that – so opt for something in the 10-14-Day range. If you are concerned you won’t like it and want to just try it for seven days, don’t go to Europe at all. Visit the in-laws in Secaucus.
