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PODCAST

Europe Unveiled

Sonia Rectenwald

Dreaming of a European vacation that’s seamless, immersive, and unforgettable? Welcome to Europe Unveiled—the podcast dedicated to European river cruises, group travel, and custom itineraries across Europe. Hosted by travel advisor and river cruise specialist Sonia Rectenwald, each episode pulls back the curtain on what it’s really like to explore Europe by river and road. From Rhine River castles and Danube Christmas markets to curated wine cruises, cultural tours, and hidden-gem European

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All Episodes

15:28

What Most First-Time River Cruisers Don’t Expect —...

Europe Unveiled ·

2026/01/12

Thinking about a European river cruise but still wondering what it’s really like? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia breaks down the things most first-time river cruisers don’t expect — from embarkation and excursions to accessibility, evenings onboard, and why river cruising feels so different than ocean cruising.If you’ve researched, joined Facebook groups, and read the reviews but still feel like there are things no one explains, this episode is for you.In this episode, we talk about:Why

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10:52

What Most People Get Wrong When Choosing a European...

Europe Unveiled ·

2026/01/05

Choosing a European river cruise can feel overwhelming — especially when every search, review, and Facebook group offers a different opinion.In this Season 2 premiere of Europe Unveiled, Sonia explains what most people get wrong when choosing a European river cruise — and why popular advice often lacks the context needed to make the right decision.You’ll learn how to cut through the noise, avoid common mistakes, and choose a river cruise based on your expectations, travel style, and pace — not

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01:09

Season 2 Trailer — Planning Europe Without the Overwhelm

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/12/29

Season 2 of Europe Unveiled is almost here.If you’ve been dreaming about traveling to Europe — but planning it feels harder than it should — this season is for you.In Season 1, we explored Europe’s iconic rivers and what river cruising really feels like once you’re onboard. Season 2 is about what happens next: applying that knowledge so you can make confident decisions, avoid common mistakes, and design a European trip that truly fits you.Season 2 officially kicks off January 5th.Subscribe now so

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10:53

My European Travel Predictions for 2026

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/12/22

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

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09:40

River Cruises vs. Ocean Cruises — Why Smaller Can...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/12/15

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

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14:25

Generations on the River — Creating Legacies Through...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/12/08

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

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12:23

Grand Journeys in Europe: Extended River, Ocean &...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/12/01

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

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11:16

What to Pack for Your European River Cruise

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/11/28

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

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08:44

Solo Travel on a European River Cruise: What to Know...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/11/24

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

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08:01

The Truth About Luxury River Cruises in Europe (and...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/11/17

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

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11:12

Culinary River Cruises: Food, Wine & Michelin-Level...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/11/10

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 SummaryIn this flavorful episode of Europe Unveiled, host and European

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13:25

Themed River Cruises in Europe: Wine, Beer, Music & More

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/11/03

What if your river cruise matched your passion? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia Rectenwald explores themed river cruises in Europe — from wine and beer sailings to music, wellness, Christmas Market, and heritage voyages that make travel more personal. You’ll hear about Soulful Experiences, Storyteller Cruises with Outlander’s Graham McTavish, and Smithsonian Journeys that bring culture and connection to life on Europe’s most beautiful rivers.If you’ve ever wished your river cruise could

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21:09

Danube Christmas Markets River Cruises: Europe’s...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/10/27

Ever dreamed of wandering Europe’s Christmas Markets without the stress of trains, hotels, or logistics? In this festive episode of Europe Unveiled, host Sonia Rectenwald takes you along the Danube at Christmastime — from Budapest’s 3-D light show and Vienna’s grand Rathausplatz to cozy Passau, story-filled Regensburg, and Nuremberg’s world-famous Christkindlesmarkt. Discover how a river cruise turns Europe’s holiday season into one magical, effortless journey.If the thought of Europe at

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12:18

European River Cruise Extensions: Top City Stays &...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/10/20

If you’ve ever wrapped up a river cruise and thought, “I wish I had just one more day to explore,” this episode is for you. And if you’ve never taken a river cruise before, you’re already ahead of the game — because you’re about to learn what even seasoned cruisers sometimes miss. In European River Cruise Extensions: Top City Stays & Hidden Gems Beyond the Rivers, I’m sharing the best cities to pair with your cruise plus a few off-the-radar treasures — from Amsterdam’s canals to Germany’s

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15:15

France by River Cruise — Seine, Rhône, Burgundy &...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/10/13

Ever dreamed of sailing through France? In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m taking you along four of the country’s most iconic rivers: the Seine, the Rhône, Burgundy’s Saône, and Bordeaux’s Garonne and Dordogne. Each itinerary offers its own flavor — from the romance of Paris and Normandy, to the food and wine of Lyon and Provence, the countryside charm of Burgundy, and the world-class vineyards of Bordeaux.You’ll learn:What to expect on a Seine River Cruise from Paris to Normandy — including

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09:38

Douro River Cruises in Portugal: Wine, Culture &...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/10/06

The Douro River in Portugal is unlike any other in Europe. Known for its golden terraced vineyards, authentic wine estates, and intimate small ships, a Douro River cruise is all about wine, culture, and breathtaking scenery.In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m taking you along the Douro to show you what makes this itinerary so unique. From Porto’s colorful waterfront and port wine cellars to the vineyard-dotted Douro Valley and a full-day excursion to Salamanca, Spain, the Douro delivers an

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17:02

How to Choose the Best River Cruise Line for Your...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/09/29

Choosing the right river cruise line can feel overwhelming — brochures all look beautiful, past guests all swear their line is the best, and Google searches leave you with 34 open tabs. The truth? There’s no single “best” river cruise line. The real question is: Which one fits your travel style?In this episode, I compare the big players:AmaWaterways – casual luxury with flexible excursions and heart-felt serviceViking – sleek, structured, and destination-focused (with an older crowd)Avalon –

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10:12

How to Turn Your River Cruise into a Full European...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/09/22

Your European river cruise is only the beginning. ✨ In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m showing you how to transform your sailing into a full European vacation with pre- and post-cruise extensions.Whether it’s sipping hot chocolate in a Paris café, strolling across Prague’s Charles Bridge at sunrise, or wandering Lucerne’s cobblestone streets before heading home, these extensions add depth and unforgettable memories to your trip.You’ll learn:Why adding a few days before or after your cruise

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12:31

When Is the Best Time of Year to Take a European...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/09/15

When’s the best time to take a European river cruise? The truth is, there’s no single answer — because each season has its own magic. In this episode of Europe Unveiled, Sonia walks you season by season down Europe’s rivers. From tulip cruises in the Netherlands to wine harvests on the Moselle, summer festivals along the Rhine, and Christmas Markets on the Danube, you’ll discover what makes every time of year special.You’ll also hear about itineraries worth bookmarking from AmaWaterways, Avalon,

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19:22

River Cruise Cabin Guide: Window, French Balcony, or...

Europe Unveiled ·

2025/09/08

Your cabin isn’t just a place to sleep on a river cruise — it’s your private retreat on the river. But with so many stateroom choices, how do you know whether to book a window, balcony, or suite?In this episode of Europe Unveiled, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about river cruise cabins. From entry-level window staterooms to French balconies, step-out balconies, and full suites that feel like floating hotels, you’ll learn how each category compares — and which one is right for your

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