Everybody judges the success of a holiday by different measures. For some it is how much they relax, others how much they see and do and for some it is just the special feeling they have while on their trip.
For me, I know a holiday has been a success when upon my return home I find myself craving the foods I tasted.
This explains why my recent weekend was consumed searching for a good European food store here in Southeast Queensland in hope of recreating the mouthwatering dishes I experienced while sailing onboard Viking’s ‘Romantic Danube’ river cruise from Regensberg to Budapest.
The food served onboard Viking was delicious and the produce was extraordinarily fresh. Tasting regional dishes that changed daily as we passed through each region allowed us to savour the local flavours.
As I write this, I can distinctly remember the smell and taste of German sauerkraut, the sausages, Maultaschen, Leberkäse and, of course, the German beer which requires an honourable mention. I am still on the search for the perfect sweet Bavarian mustard like the one I had in Regensburg.
Without a doubt, the highlight of my culinary experience was the apricot dumplings I had in Austria. Visting a magnificent Benedictine monastery, we were treated to a cooking demonstration and tasting.
I don’t even rate apricots normally but this dish was absolutely divine and I can’t wait until apricot season here to make this a regular dessert in our household.
A river cruise was the perfect way to travel through Europe – only having to unpack once and a journey that is just as beautiful as the destinations.
Sailing along the river, enjoying picturesque views of charming towns, historic landmarks and memorable landscapes, as well as the excitement of going through European locks, made for the perfect journey.
Gliding down the river past the Wachau Valley, sitting on the sundeck with a cocktail in hand admiring the beautiful rolling hills, vineyards and fortresses, I realised how much I loved this style of travel.
The Viking Tor was the perfect vessel with a beautiful Scandinavian design, understated elegance, casual atmosphere and the most attentive, professional and friendly staff. With a maximum of 190 guests, it made for an intimate and social atmosphere.
Travelling from Regensburg to Budapest offers something for everyone, with medieval towns, grand cities and impressive scenery.
Stopping at Passau gave us the opportunity to visit Salzburg, the home of the Sound of Music. Next, historic Vienna did not disappoint with its beautiful buildings, a visit to the Schronbrunn Palace and the Lipizanner Stallions.
The evenings filled with a Mozart concert and attending a Heurigen dinner, which is a dinner at a local tavern celebrating the year’s wine harvest with wine tastings and live traditional music.
We ended the cruise in the vibrant city of Budapest, parked right next to the Liberty bridge – the perfect spot to admire the shimmering lights of the buildings and bridges along the river at night.
I loved everything about my Viking cruise – even the apricots. Now to try and find that elusive mustard…
