Wondering what European travel will look like in 2026? In this episode, Sonia shares her top travel predictions — from river cruise expansion and new itineraries to solo travel growth, themed cruises, slow travel, and why Europe will be more popular than ever. Get expert insight on what’s coming, what to book early, and how to make 2026 your best travel year yet.

Season 1 is wrapping up with one of my favorite topics: my European Travel Predictions for 2026. These insights come from real booking patterns, industry trends, conversations with cruise lines, and what I’m seeing travelers crave right now. From rising demand and the boom in solo travel to the expansion of river cruise fleets, more themed itineraries, and the growing desire for longer, slower, more meaningful travel — 2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year for exploring Europe.

Whether you're planning your first river cruise or your next big adventure, this episode helps you understand what’s changing, what’s trending, and how to plan a smart, unforgettable 2026 trip.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why Europe will be busier than ever — and how smart travelers can still win
• How river cruise lines are expanding and preparing for higher demand
• The rise of solo travel and why 2026 is the year to go solo
• Riviera’s solo-only 2026 itineraries and their groundbreaking 2027 solo-only ship
• The explosion of themed cruises: wine, beer, culinary, culture, and celebrity-hosted sailings
• Why slow travel and longer itineraries are dominating 2026
• How hosted group travel is becoming more popular — and why travelers want community
• Why travelers are choosing Europe for comfort, culture, and ease

Why This Episode Matters

Travel is evolving fast. Understanding these trends helps you choose the right destination, the right season, and the right itinerary — and most importantly, helps you book early so you get the best options.

This episode offers a clear, practical look at what’s ahead so you can plan your 2026 European adventures with confidence.

Join my European Travel & River Cruise Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/europeanrivercruises

Join my VIP Facebook Group for exclusive tips, 40+ guides, and first dibs on hosted river cruises:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxuryvacationsbysonia

Get your free Ultimate Guide to River Cruising in Europe:

https://brysontravelgroup.myflodesk.com/yourrivercruiseguide

Download my European River Cruise Packing Guide Bundle:

https://brysontravelgroup.myflodesk.com/ldqgi8tyyw

Schedule your complimentary river cruise planning consultation:

https://calendly.com/brysontravelgroup/45min

Visit my website:

https://srectenwald.dreamvacations.com/

My Campsite Bio Link (all links in one place):

https://campsite.bio/srectenwald

Season 2 of Europe Unveiled officially begins on January 5, 2026, and we’re starting...

Thinking about trading the sea for the river? In this bonus episode, Sonia breaks down the real differences between river cruises and ocean cruises — from ship size and inclusions to drink packages, Wi-Fi, dress code, and onboard vibe. Discover why more ocean cruisers are falling in love with Europe’s rivers and what makes these smaller ships feel like the smartest luxury in travel.

Ever wondered what really sets a river cruise apart from an ocean cruise? In this episode, I’m breaking down the key differences — from ship size and inclusions to onboard vibe, excursions, and overall value. You’ll learn why so many ocean cruisers are falling in love with Europe’s rivers — and how these smaller ships deliver a level of connection, comfort, and culture that’s hard to find at sea.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The biggest difference between river and ocean cruising — and why it matters

• How river cruises feel more intimate, cultural, and calm

• What’s actually included (and what’s not)

• Real cost comparisons for drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions

• How onboard culture and dress codes differ

• Why river cruising is the smart luxury way to explore Europe

This episode is perfect for anyone who’s cruised the oceans and is curious about trying something new. I share insider insight, real examples, a funny story about our first river cruise final bill, and all the little things that make European river cruising such an elevated, stress-free experience.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

Free Guide: The Ultimate Guide to River Cruising in Europe

https://brysontravelgroup.myflodesk.com/yourrivercruiseguide

Book a Complimentary Consultation:

https://calendly.com/brysontravelgroup/45min

Join the VIP Facebook Group: Luxury Vacations by Sonia: Europe, River Cruises, Groups & Custom Travel

https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxuryvacationsbysonia

Follow Bryson Travel Group on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/BrysonTravelGroup

If today’s episode helped you, inspired you, or made you smile, please hit subscribe and leave a review. It helps more people discover the magic of Europe and keeps this podcast growing.

If you’re planning a family river cruise in Europe — or you’ve wondered whether a European river cruise really works for grandparents, parents, and kids traveling together — this episode gives you everything you need to know. Multigenerational travel can feel overwhelming, but river cruising takes the stress out of planning and brings every age group together in the best possible way.

In this episode of Europe Unveiled, host Sonia Rectenwald shares why European river cruises are one of the easiest and most meaningful ways for families to explore together. You unpack once, settle into a comfortable floating boutique hotel, and wake up each day in a new country ready for shared adventures, smooth logistics, and experiences that appeal to everyone.

Sonia explains how river cruising naturally creates connection across generations — from castle climbs and bike rides to food markets, cultural museums, and walking tours along the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Moselle, and beyond. You’ll also hear why Christmas Market river cruises are magical for families, and how adding a few days in Paris, Amsterdam, Budapest, or Prague can turn an already memorable trip into a true legacy journey.

• How European river cruises simplify multigenerational travel
• Why river cruising works beautifully for different ages, interests, and energy levels
• What families can enjoy both onboard and in port
• Which river cruise itineraries are ideal for family travel
• Why Christmas Market river cruises make unforgettable holiday trips
• How to build pre- and post-cruise stays around cities like Paris, Amsterdam, Budapest & Prague
• Why slow, intentional travel creates deeper family memories

Whether you’re dreaming of a holiday sailing, considering an Adventures by Disney river cruise, or planning a heritage-rich journey through Europe, this episode shows you how to transform a vacation into a shared experience your family will remember for generations.

For European travel tips & inspiration, join our Facebook community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/europeanrivercruises

Want even more travel tips, access to our Travel Resource Hub with 40+ downloadable guides, and first dibs on my hosted river cruises? Join my VIP group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxuryvacationsbysonia

Grab your free Insider Guide to River Cruising in Europe:

https://brysontravelgroup.myflodesk.com/yourrivercruiseguide

Schedule your complimentary consultation to start planning your dream river cruise vacation:

https://calendly.com/brysontravelgroup/45min

My Campsite Bio link:

https://campsite.bio/srectenwald

If you’re ready to plan your family’s legacy river cruise—whether it’s a Christmas Market sailing, a summer adventure, or a multigenerational milestone trip—Sonia can help bring it all together. Visit Bryson Travel Group to begin planning your European journey.

Visit My Website

https://srectenwald.dreamvacations.com/

Explore Europe’s best extended itineraries — 14 to 80+ day river, land & ocean journeys. Learn about AmaWaterways, Scenic, Emerald & Riviera options and how to plan your own Grand Journey.

Ready to go beyond the classic 7-night Europe trip? In this episode, Sonia explores Europe’s most immersive extended itineraries — from 14-, 15-, and 22-day river cruises to multi-week Grand Journeys that blend river cruising, curated land extensions, and even ocean or yacht sailing.

Sonia shares real insights from her own experiences, including multiple back-to-back river cruises and why she loved Emerald’s Splendours of Europe so much that she’s sailing it again soon — this time with her family.

Discover standout extended journeys from:

• AmaWaterways – 14-night sailings + French back-to-back-to-back combinations

• Avalon Waterways – 15–22 day Rhine–Main–Danube itineraries

• Emerald Cruises – the 15-day Splendours of Europe

• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours – limited-edition multi-river journeys + Switzerland + Baltic

• Riviera Travel – Grand Tours & intimate 36–38 guest Adriatic yachts

You’ll learn why slow travel is trending, how to pace a multi-week itinerary, what to pack, and how to plan an extended journey that feels effortless and connected — not rushed.

✨ PLUS: Stay for the outro, where Sonia shares a sneak peek of next week’s episode:

Generations on the River — Creating Legacies Through European River Cruises.

For European travel tips & inspiration, join our Facebook community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/europeanrivercruises

Schedule your complimentary consultation to start planning your dream river cruise vacation:

https://calendly.com/brysontravelgroup/45min

Join the VIP Community and unlock access to Sonia’s Travel Resource Hub — 40+ Europe travel tools, checklists, guides, and planners designed to remove stress from trip planning and help you travel confidently and comfortably.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxuryvacationsbysonia

Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

Packing for a European river cruise feels different from packing for any other kind of vacation — and if you’ve ever stood over your suitcase thinking, “I have no idea what people actually wear on a river cruise,” you are not alone.

In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what to bring, what to leave at home, and how to pack confidently for any season — spring, summer, fall, and festive winter. You’ll learn why capsule wardrobes are the secret to effortless packing, how to layer for Europe’s unpredictable weather, and which everyday items most travelers forget (but always wish they had).

We’ll also talk about footwear, laundry service, church dress considerations, umbrellas, tea, walking sticks, and everything cruise lines already provide — so you don’t waste suitcase space.

Whether you’re cruising the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Seine, Douro, or beyond, this episode gives you the practical, real-world advice you need to feel stylish, comfortable, and prepared.

🎁 Download your free Seasonal European River Cruise Packing List Bundle here🎒 Planning a European river cruise?

Inside, you’ll get:

• The essential packing checklist

• A river cruise–specific clothing guide

• My personal “don’t forget these” items

• European plug & adapter tips

• Space-saving packing strategies

• A printable day bag checklist

Make packing stress-free so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

Download your free European River Cruise Packing List Bundle here:

https://brysontravelgroup.myflodesk.com/ldqgi8tyyw

If today’s episode inspired you to slow down and savor Europe in style, follow, subscribe, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—and don’t miss next week’s episode!

For European travel tips & inspiration, join our Facebook community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/europeanrivercruises

Want even more travel tips, access to our Travel Resource Hub with 40+ downloadable guides, and first dibs on my hosted river cruises? Join my VIP group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxuryvacationsbysonia

Grab your free Insider Guide to River Cruising in Europe:

https://brysontravelgroup.myflodesk.com/yourrivercruiseguide

Schedule your complimentary consultation to start planning your dream river cruise vacation:

https://calendly.com/brysontravelgroup/45min

My Campsite Bio link:

https://campsite.bio/srectenwald

If you’re considering a solo river cruise in Europe — or you’ve dreamed of traveling solo but want a safe, welcoming way to explore — this episode shows you why a river cruise is the perfect fit. Hosted by European travel expert Sonia Rectenwald, this episode breaks down everything a solo traveler needs to know before stepping onboard.

On today’s episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia shares how a European river cruise gives solo travelers the best of both worlds: independence when you want it, connection when you crave it, and zero stress handling logistics, safety, or transportation. From waived single supplements to built-in community, you’ll learn why river cruising has become one of the most empowering ways to travel Europe solo.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• Why river cruising is one of the safest and easiest ways to explore Europe solo.
• How small ships, open seating, and included excursions make it effortless to meet new people.
• Which river cruise lines offer waived or reduced single supplements for solo travelers.
• The difference between traveling solo and traveling alone — and how river cruising supports both.
• Why hosted river cruise groups (like Sonia’s) create instant camaraderie without sacrificing your freedom.

If you’ve been nervous about traveling Europe solo — or just want a more relaxed, supportive way to explore — this episode gives you the confidence and clarity to book your first solo river cruise.

Want real advice from experienced travelers? Join my Facebook community: European River Cruise Tips, Planning & Inspiration

https://www.facebook.com/groups/europeanrivercruises

It’s the place to:

• Ask your river cruise questions
• Get solo traveler advice
• See upcoming hosted group sailings
• Connect with like-minded travelers
• Find inspiration for your next European adventure

Resources Mentioned:

For European travel tips & inspiration, join our Facebook community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/europeanrivercruises

Want even more travel tips, access to our Travel Resource Hub with 40+ downloadable guides, and first dibs on my hosted river cruises? Join my VIP group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxuryvacationsbysonia

Grab your free Insider Guide to River Cruising in Europe:

https://brysontravelgroup.myflodesk.com/yourrivercruiseguide

Schedule your complimentary consultation to start planning your dream river cruise vacation:

https://calendly.com/brysontravelgroup/45min

My Campsite Bio link:

https://campsite.bio/srectenwald

🎧 Listen wherever you get your favorite podcasts — and don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and leave a review.

Next week’s episode: Grand Journeys in Europe — 14, 20 and even 40+ Day River, Ocean & Land Adventures. It's going to be epic!

If you’ve ever wondered whether a luxury river cruise in Europe is really worth it — or if river cruising is more “over the top” than your travel style — this episode will change the way you think about exploring Europe’s rivers.

In today’s episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m breaking down what luxury on a European river cruise actually means. Spoiler: it’s not chandeliers, tuxedos, or anything stuffy. It’s the kind of luxury that feels effortless — space to breathe, time to savor, and a level of connection you don’t get on larger ocean ships or fast-paced land tours.

We’ll talk about:

• What luxury river cruising really is — casual elegance without the formality.
• How small ships, thoughtful design, and attentive service create a deeper experience.
• Why slow travel is the ultimate luxury (and why river cruising is the easiest way to embrace it).
• How luxury river cruises are often more affordable than people expect, with flexible deposits and pay-over-time options.
• The kind of meaningful moments, conversations, and cultural immersion that stay with you long after you’re home.
• If you’re curious about upgrading your travel style without the pressure, or you’ve wondered how luxury river cruises compare to other ways of seeing Europe, this episode gives you a clear, honest look at why so many travelers fall in love with this way of exploring.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

For European travel tips & inspiration, join our Facebook community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/europeanrivercruises

Want even more travel tips, access to our Travel Resource

Hub with 40+ downloadable guides, and first dibs on my hosted river cruises?

Join my VIP group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxuryvacationsbysonia

Grab your free Insider Guide to River Cruising in Europe:

https://brysontravelgroup.myflodesk.com/yourrivercruiseguide

Schedule your complimentary consultation to start

planning your dream river cruise vacation:

https://calendly.com/brysontravelgroup/45min

My Campsite Bio link:

https://campsite.bio/srectenwald

If today’s episode inspired you to slow down and savor Europe in style, follow, subscribe, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—and don’t miss next week’s episode, Solo Travel on a River Cruise: What to Know Before You Go.

Join European travel expert and river cruise specialist Sonia Rectenwald as she explores the delicious world of culinary river cruises—where every meal tells a story. From truffle hunts in Provence to château lunches in Bordeaux and wine tastings in the Wachau Valley, discover how Europe’s top river cruise lines are elevating dining to Michelin-level artistry. Plus, meet the celebrity chefs bringing their talent onboard.

Episode Summary

In this flavorful episode of Europe Unveiled, host and European travel advisor Sonia Rectenwald takes you on a sensory journey through the world of culinary river cruises—where food, wine, and culture flow together on Europe’s most scenic waterways.

From the Rhône to the Danube, the Rhine to the Douro, Sonia reveals what makes these gourmet voyages so special. You’ll step behind the scenes at AmaWaterways’ Chef’s Table, join truffle hunts in Provence, taste Rieslings along the Moselle, and experience the art of fine dining aboard Riverside Luxury Cruises, Avalon, Scenic, and more.

You’ll also meet some of the world-class chefs who’ve brought their talents to Europe’s rivers—like Top Chef finalist Bryan Voltaggio, MasterChef’s Monica Galetti, and Top Chef Canada winner Dale MacKay—proving that river cruising isn’t just about where you go, but what you taste along the way.

• How river cruise dining has evolved into a fine dining experience rivaling top European restaurants.
• What to expect on AmaWaterways, Riverside Luxury Cruises, Scenic, Avalon, and Emerald Cruises when it comes to food and wine.
• The best culinary-themed excursions across Europe’s rivers—from truffle hunting in Provence and cooking classes in Vienna to château lunches in Bordeaux.
• Celebrity chefs who’ve partnered with Europe’s leading river cruise lines.
• The best times of year to sail for food lovers (spring freshness, autumn harvest).

• The magic of dining at AmaWaterways’ Chef’s Table—where cooking becomes theater.
• Michelin-level menus onboard Riverside Luxury Cruises.
• Scenic’s partnership with Top Chef finalist Bryan Voltaggio in Bordeaux.
• Avalon’s hands-on culinary classes and AmaWaterways’ Celebration of Wine sailings.
• Festive favorites like glühwein and gingerbread on Christmas Market cruises.

Whether you’re a food lover, wine enthusiast, or seasoned traveler looking for your next unforgettable experience, this episode will inspire you to savor Europe in a whole new way. Culinary river cruises offer more than just meals—they’re moving feasts, connecting you to the culture, landscape, and heart of every region.

For European travel tips & inspiration, join our Facebook community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/europeanrivercruises

Want even more travel tips, access to our Travel Resource

Hub with 40+ downloadable guides, and first dibs on my hosted river cruises?

Join my VIP group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/luxuryvacationsbysonia

Grab your free Insider Guide to River Cruising in Europe: