Don't worry about your French. One thing to remember is when you go into a shop, always say Bonjour or just hello to the clerk or proprietor don't just walk in without saying anything.

Merci or Thank You is always appreciated. Lots of times if you attempt to say one of these things, they will immediately switch to English.

Viking will negotiate a lot of things that the individual traveler might have to deal with. They will take very good care of you.

I was doing just fine in a shop (I am often mistaken for French), until we got to how much I owed. I must have give them a deer-in-the headlights look, because when I was told how much I owed the conversation switched to English.

I'm glad you are excited about your trip. It's a great one. Do try to take some of the optional tours that Viking offers. I'd have to dig out my trip report, but if you like I can make some recommendations.

Wish we were going. Would definitely do that cruise second time.

Sue