Nippy Sweetie

Oh dear. I bet she found a chilly atmosphere at dinner that evening!

Over tourism is a serious problem. I saw that Norway is fed up with the cruise ships which disgorge thousands of passengers who may buy a few nick- nacks but rush back on board to eat. Certainly where I live, tourists are a blight. Whole parts of town are inaccessible due to crowds and everyday life is harder and harder. I can quite understand why Venice is charging admission.

Coming from Scotland, one of the highlights of a holiday in a slightly warmer climate is the opportunity to wear open toed sandals. I'm really looking forward to that again on this year's river cruise. They're red with lovely flexible soles. I have another pair for evening wear!

I did read your post but gave up at 'walk ware'.

Of course there is fashion but there is also style. Many don't appreciate the difference.

I've shared those links to him. He's a terrific chap and would be an asset on any cruise. Good company and a real old fashioned gentleman.

That's great to know. Thanks all. I'll pass this on.

I was speaking to an elderly neighbour last night who was interested in river cruising. However, as a single man, he found them extortionately expensive as he'd have to pay double. Do any river cruise companies offer single cabins or reductions for single occupancy? Any ideas welcome.

Flights are always included in our bookings with Viking. We've always arrived on the day of the cruise and it's been fine. Better than fine really. Last time our flight was delayed and we worried about getting to the ship. No need to worry. A staff member was waiting for us. Our cases were immediately taken and we didn't see them until in our cabin. Lovely transport with cool water provided and on to the ship. Lovely!

Why not just have the included wines at mealtimes and pay as you go for drinks outside this? Could work out much cheaper and you still have enjoyable drinks.

We've done Cunard dressy cruises and are finished with that sort of thing. However, on Viking cruises , ocean and river, we do change for dinner. I feel the staff has gone to a lot of trouble to present a nice dinner for us and that we should respect their efforts. We're not very dressed up, just showered and changed into a nicer outfit than the one we've worn all day. People can, of course, wear what they'd like and we can draw our own conclusions about them.

@Canal archiveand of course you'd need pocket squares to match your ties. Important to maintain standards!

My DGSs wore ties to school from age 5. Compulsory and smart.

Neither of us even possess any jeans. OH likes to wear a jacket at dinner. Just a linen one and with a collared shirt. I've recently weaned him off the tie habit.

@pontac I remember eating off the ship in a variety of places. They were fine by me and certainly better than on the ship. Just remembered a revolting dish of black pudding mixed through rice. Yuk.