Louisa strongly supports new writing and is a regular reader at Script Tank and is also one of the Liars League short story tellers. Additional information: Louisa can currently be heard on TV on the commercials for Viking River Cruises and was recently on national radio as the fast-talking voice in a comic VW ad.

Whilst designated as an Upper Premium brand, Viking has all the hallmarks of a Luxury Ocean Cruise Line. From the tastefully appointed, modern, beautifully designed, Scandinavian ships to the luxurious all-inclusive amenities, Viking are recognised as a Luxury Brand within the industry.

Yes, the average age of the population on a Viking River Cruise is probably 70. But it's a largely lovely group of well-traveled people who know how to make small talk and do a good job of it. If you're traveling solo, you'll have ample opportunities to make friends and share conversation. It can be very affordable.

Rates for the journey start at $92,990 - or $379.55 per day - but that includes “business class international air, transfers to and from the ship, all gratuities and service fees, three complimentary visa services, free luggage shipping services,” and pretty much any booze you'd like to drink on board, Viking says.

The Birka female Viking warrior was a woman buried with the accoutrements of an elite professional Viking warrior in a 10th century chamber-grave in Birka, Sweden.

Astrid Astrid Played by Josefin Asplund Astrid is a beautiful young woman who has joined Lagertha's court at Hedeby. She is a free spirit who refuses to accept social conventions or recognize any barriers to her freedom: she is on a voyage of self-discovery. Lagertha will train Astrid in the arts of war, and the arts of love.

For every Viking ship they have reviewed - Viking Venus(2021), Viking Jupiter (2019), Viking Orion(2018), Viking Sky(2017), Viking Sea(2016) and Viking Star(2015) - Cruise Critic's team of expert editors has awarded their highest rating: 5 stars.

Dress Code During the day, passengers can wear shorts, pants or jeans and shoes that are comfortable for walking tours and excursions. Itineraries don't include formal nights, and evening attire is classified as "elegant casual" after 6 p.m. in all dining venues except World Café.

Even though Viking knows its demographic clearly, I would still argue that sailing with the company is a wonderful experience for passengers of all ages (those over 18, that is). Excursions were moderately paced, with active excursions like bike rides offered in select ports.

Actually it is wear whatever you want and you will fit in at dinner. There were a few women who changed into a skirt or dress for dinner, some in slacks, some in capris, as some wore jeans. All fit in, none looked out of place. Even at the Captain's dinner - it was free-style.

Rates for the 2025 world cruise aboard MSC Magnifica start at $13,199 per person, though you can also join the cruise for shorter segments if you can't commit to the full 116 nights. Included in that rate: food, beverages, 15 shore excursions (though you can always pay for more), and a 30% discount on laundry.

Prices range from around $20,000 to upwards of $100,000 per person, and all our top picks are more than 100 days (one is even a whopping 275 days), so they're ideal for retired travelers looking for their next big adventure.