Viking River Cruises has a fantastic programme of river cruises that explore some of the most fascinating cities and towns along Russia’s Volga river, and the line recently embarked on a massive refurbishment program for its Russian-based fleet that saw decor and amenities refreshed like never before.

Viking Helgi shines brightly along Russia's Volga River at night. Photo courtesy of Viking River Cruises

But Viking wants to help you really experience all that Russia has to offer, and in order to do that, it only makes sense to learn a little Russian!  Don’t worry – there’s no classes or homework involved here; instead, Viking recruited Paulina, one of their receptionists aboard their Russian fleet to give you a brief lesson in this fascinating language:

For more information on Viking River Cruises, their diverse fleet and their Russian voyages, be sure to pay a visit to our complete Viking River Cruises overview here on River Cruise Advisor!

A record number of ships are wanting to give you a close-up look at Europe’s rivers in 2010.

“Attention ladies and gentlemen. We are approaching a very low bridge, and we kindly ask that you vacate the Sun Deck until we have passed.” Floating down Moselle River, Peter Deilmann River Cruises’ Heidelberg is passing under a bridge — a low bridge.

The crew removes not only all tables and deck chairs from the Sun Deck but also the side railings. Even the captain’s pilot house must be lowered so that it is flush with the upper deck.

Welcome to river cruising in Europe, where the experience is unlike any other. With the ability to cruise through the heartland of Europe, river cruises have all the advantages of a bus tour, but without the hassle of having to change hotels or deal with your luggage – or, let’s face it, endure the long bus rides.

River cruises have resonated so well with travelers, in fact, that 2010 will represent a record year for the number of ships offering river cruises.

“River cruising continues to be an in-demand product, as veteran ocean cruisers look for something different,” says Ana Figueroa, director of business development for AMAWaterways. Her company introduces two new ships in 2010.

Joining the parade of ships, Cruise West, a Seattle-based small ship operator, that introduced a new vessel on the Danube River this year. President Dietmar Wertanzl calls his company’s foray into Europe “a natural progression as we continue to provide intimate, up-close experiences not available on larger vessels.”

It’s hard to imagine a more up-close experience. Back on the Moselle, Heidelberg passes under the bridge — with only two inches to spare.

Austria’s third largest city, Linz is a charming town where river cruisers dock alongside the Danube’s banks within walking distance of the city center. Most tourists head for the Hauptplatz, reputed to be Europe’s largest baroque square, where you can take a seat in a cafe to try the famous “Linzer Torte,” a cake comprised of jam and almonds.

On New Year’s Eve, the city celebrated with an opening ceremony commemorating Linz’s role as European Cultural Capital 2009.

Opening ceremony events included an exhibit, Standard Time, where up to 80 workers changed positions of a wooden exhibit each minute to reflect the current time, and the Rocket Symphony, where more than 400 amateur singers complemented with their voices the fireworks over the Danube River.

The year 2009 will see many other events in Linz, including art, movie and culinary festivals throughout the year.

Also, 120 free internet hotspots were installed in Linz, including the entire main square.

In Austria, by the way, the pig symbolizes good luck for the new year. Tables may be decorated with miniature pigs made from marzipan, maple sugar, fudge, cookie dough or chocolate.

People often exchange miniature marzipan, plastic or ceramic pigs as gifts.