France, I learned seven secrets to river cruising success

A Viking river cruise on France’s Rhône River was framed around “l’art de vivre,” the idea of savoring life as passengers move from town to town. The weeklong trip aboard the Delling (named after the Nordic god of dawn) offered daily opportunities to explore historic streets, cafés and shops, with optional experiences ranging from a French cooking course and truffle-hunting with a dog to visits to the world’s largest Gothic palace and a nature preserve protecting pink flamingos. The article describes seven lessons for river cruising success: the smaller ship size (just under 200 passengers) reduces crowding; travelers can choose how active to be; and Europe’s river towns reflect centuries of trade and settlement, with expeditions tied to each stop.