#18: Viking Danube River Cruise

What started as a casual conversation over dinner became an unforgettable Danube River journey for Michele Wirth, founder of Simply Inspired Travel. In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis reconnects with her first-ever guest to explore the refined, relaxed magic of a Viking River Cruise.

Michele shares every detail—from minimalist Scandinavian interiors and glass-wrapped dining spaces to the joy of crowd-free castles and personalized service that feels more like family. With 190 passengers and 53 crew members, this wasn’t just a cruise. It was a seamless glide through Europe, with meaningful conversations, warm pastries, curated excursions, and even a brush with a skull cathedral (yes, you read that right).

For anyone who thinks luxury has to mean opulence or over-the-top extras, this conversation offers a new lens: what if luxury is actually about less—less stress, fewer crowds, more intention?

 

 

About the Guest

Michele Wirth is the founder and owner of Simply Inspired Travel, where she leads a team of 14 dedicated travel advisors. A cruise specialist since 2013, Michele curates unforgettable journeys across the spectrum—from luxury and expedition voyages to family adventures and retirement celebrations. Known for her warm, personal approach and deep industry expertise, Michele helps travelers enjoy stress-free planning and tailor-made experiences that inspire lasting memories.

📧 [e-mail]
🌍 www.travelsimplyinspired.com

About the Host

Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea.

📍 Website: luxurycruising.net
📧 Email: [e-mail]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/krystalsodaitis

👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. 

 

 

Key Takeaways

1. Dinner conversations can lead to river cruises. Always say yes to travel-minded friends.
2. River ships are small—but mighty. Just 190 guests means you get to know the crew and the charm.
3. Minimalist luxury = Scandinavian magic. Think: light woods, sleek design, and glass-fronted lounges.
4. Season matters. March is cool but magical—fewer crowds, better prices, and time to breathe.
5. It's not always about balconies. Sometimes a Princess Balcony is just the right amount of fresh air.
   Exceptional food makes the journey. Michelle compares Viking’s meals to Michelin-star dining.
6. Don’t sleep on the excursions. From Bratislava hikes to eerie skull cathedrals, it’s not your average itinerary.
7. Book early. Seriously. Michelle breaks down how “last-minute deals” can cost more in the end.

Mentioned Episodes

• Michelle’s First Appearance – Episode 2: The Celebrity Retreat
  Get to know Michelle Wirth in her debut episode, where she breaks down the Celebrity Cruises Retreat experience and what sets it apart from standard sailing.
  🎧 Listen to Episode 2
  
   
• Viking Highlights – Episode 9: Luxury Cruise Lines
  Host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis dives into the defining features of Viking Cruises and other luxury lines in this solo episode exploring what truly s