(69 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Janet Stanczak

O'Fallon, MO
Vacation Travel Expert and Group Specialist

As a passionate leisure travel specialist and groups expert, I have dedicated my career to creating unforgettable travel experiences for individuals and groups alike.
With over 40 years of experience in the travel industry, I possess extensi...
Learn more about me.

River Cruising

Eiffel Tower in Paris
Eiffel Tower in Paris

I am a huge fan of river cruising. It's a perfect way to see Europe's finest cities. The river barges usually dock right in the city centers. I loved cruising down the Rhine River through Germany on Viking Cruise Line. The sights were spectacular! Castles, history, pubs, bakeries and so much more to see! As a Travel Leaders agency, we have several preferred River Cruise companies to choose from. Each has their own special spin on making your river cruise an unforgettable experience. If River Cruising is on your bucket list, give me a call and let's make it happen!


One of my favorite river cruise lines: Viking.


Traveling on a Viking River Cruise is a fantastic way to explore the world's rivers and immerse yourself in local cultures and history. Viking River Cruises offers a wide range of itineraries across Europe, Asia, Egypt, and the United States, allowing you to experience diverse destinations while enjoying the comforts of a luxurious river vessel.


Here are some key points to know about traveling on a Viking River Cruise:


Itinerary: Viking River Cruises offer fabulous itineraries that take you to popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations along rivers like the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Mekong, Nile, and more. Each itinerary includes guided shore excursions, giving you the opportunity to explore historical landmarks, charming towns, and cultural sites.


River Vessels: Viking's river vessels are elegantly designed, offering comfortable accommodations, fine dining experiences, and amenities such as observation lounges, libraries, and sun decks. The ships are smaller in size compared to ocean cruises, allowing for a more intimate and immersive experience.


Included Features: Viking River Cruises are known for their comprehensive package that includes many features. Typically, your total cost covers accommodations, onboard meals, guided shore excursions, Wi-Fi access, and wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Additional optional excursions may be available at an extra cost.


Cultural Enrichment: Viking places a strong emphasis on cultural enrichment. Onboard, you can expect lectures, demonstrations, and performances related to the regions you're visiting. There may also be local entertainers, artisans, and experts brought onboard to provide insights into the destinations' culture, history, and traditions.


Dining Experience: Viking offers a variety of dining options, including regional specialties and international cuisine. Most meals are served in the ship's main dining room, and some ships have alternative dining venues like the Aquavit Terrace or a Chef's Table experience for a more intimate and unique dining experience.


Excursions and Free Time: Viking River Cruises provide guided shore excursions at each port of call, led by knowledgeable local guides. These excursions are designed to showcase the highlights of each destination. You'll also have some free time to explore independently or relax onboard, allowing you to personalize your experience.


Pre- and Post-Cruise Extensions: Viking offers the option to extend your journey with pre- and post-cruise land packages. These extensions allow you to spend additional time exploring iconic cities or regions before or after your river cruise.

My Travel Albums

Rhine River Cruise
Amsterdam-Rhine River Cruise

My Reviews

61 of 95 people found this review helpful
The trip was great. Didn't want to leave. Ready to
Jan was very knowledgeable. She coordinated the tours and offered numerous good options for accommodations. Was especially helpful with last minute details.
By  RCT  from  Ofallon, Missouri
Traveled to  Paris ~ France ~ Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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43 of 65 people found this review helpful
WE HAD A BLAST AND CANT WAIT TO DO IT AGAIN
she was very helpful and informative
answered our questions
By  Michelle  from  OFallon MO
Traveled to  Grand Cayman ~ Cayman Islands ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Janet Stanczak responded:
Thank you Michelle for the great review! I know that cruise has been on your bucket list for a while. So glad you two enjoyed it!!

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43 of 69 people found this review helpful
This is the best way to book your travel!
Jan worked tirelessly to get us the best rates on the rooms we requested. She was very helpful when we had to change the dates of our vacation, too. The Now Sapphire Resort she recommended was a wonderful destination.
By  Amy  from  O'Fallon, MO
Traveled to  Cancun ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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38 of 60 people found this review helpful
Incomparable Service!
Service Extraordinaire! I am supremely satisfied with Jan’s service. I admit I am picky and ask for numerous little quirks on vacation, and Jan continually accomplishes everything I ask for and even comes up with perks I hadn’t even thought of. And her prices are always better than I can get on discount travel websites. I ask myself why should I go anywhere else? And the answer is, I don’t!
By  BIgDaddy  from  St. Peters, Missouri
Traveled to  Riviera Maya ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Janet Stanczak responded:
Thank you so much David for the great review! It's rewarding to take care of all facets of your travel since you are so great to work with and so appreciative of all that I do.

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45 of 74 people found this review helpful
Best agent ever
Very knowledgeable and accommodating. Helped with every aspect of the trip. We have been on several trips and to say that the experience was relaxing would be an understatement.
By  LJ  from  Riviera Maya
Traveled to  Mexico ~ Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
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Go to my main profile

Destination Expert:

  • Europe
  • The Alps

Travel Specialist:

  • River Cruises
  • Honeymoons
  • Couples & Romance
  • Independent Travel
  • Castles & Cathedrals

Top Travel Partners:

  • Viking
  • Globus
  • Avalon Waterways
  • Funjet Vacations
  • Celebrity Cruises

Certifications/Awards:

  • CTC
  • Certified Travel Consultant (ICTA)
  • Shamrock Certified (Ireland)
  • Disney College of Knowledge

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Industry Affiliations:

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