Meredith Carrell
My love for River Cruising began as soon as I joined the Joy of Travel team on October 5, 2017. River Cruising training was my second training module to complete on my training journey as a Travel Agent. In 2017 River Cruising was the fastest growing segment of travel, and it hasn’t slowed down much since.
Two years later in December of 2019 I escorted my first River Cruise Group to the European Christmas Markets. If I was given one word to describe that trip it would be “magical!” The sights and smells of the Christmas Markets are one to remember. The gorgeous decorations, the history regarding some of the town’s displays, the sweet treats, and the wares you bring home make it a truly memorable experience. Each year I recall this wonderful trip when displaying the Nutcracker I brought home from Germany. It was such a memorable journey that I will be escorting another Christmas Market group in December of 2025.
After that cruise I couldn’t wait to get back onboard a River Cruise boat, because literally when I walk thru the front sliding doors, I feel like I am home. The Staff are beyond friendly and accommodating, the cabins are comfortable with awesome views, the daily included excursion and exploring of the towns are the perfect way to stay active, and I love winding down in the evenings at Happy Hour making new friends and enjoying the atmosphere.
My next River Cruise journey would be The Joy of Travel signature event that took place in 2022. We sold out the whole ship in three weeks, and I booked 10 cabins, and then booked two other cabins on the boat going two days before our departure because our ship was sold out when they came to me to book into our group. That cruise was full of memories, and I had several clients approach me and say, “where to next?” Which lead to me escorting an Active and Discovery group on the Moselle in September of 2023. The Moselle cruise was unbelievable with us cruising past 40 castles one morning and having the option to choose from 3 choices instead of 2 choices on the included daily excursion.
In my opinion, River Cruising is an excellent way to visit numerous cities on one trip with only having to unpack once!! I have some memories from these River Cruise experiences that I will treasure for a lifetime. So grab your friends and let’s get you booked on a River Cruise.