Alluring Danube River Cruise by Beverly Koval (808) 566-7606 beverlyk@regaltravel.com Traveling on the Uniworld River Beatrice for a 7 day cruise on the river Danube May 1, 2009 from Passau, Germany to Budapest, Hungary was a great way to visit Eastern Europe. The river Danube winds from Germany through Austria, Slovakia to Hungary with views of the country and mountain side, vineyards, castles and city centers. The charm of cruising on riverboats is the personalized service due to the limited number of quests. The friendly and relaxed service was superior starting with a warm welcome from the staff at pier side. The staff was very accommodating and always ready to offer assistance with daily activities and special requests. The fine dinning menus complimented each country with local selections of food and wine to enhance visiting each port.   The daily shore excursions included walking tours of old town, scenic drives, museums and castle tours. My favorite special events were a private cocktail party with the Austrian Princess in Durnstein and a private Mozart concert with ballet and opera performers in Vienna. The daily activities were organized and the guides were very knowledgeable of local history. In the afternoon we had time to visit our own special interest or shop in the local markets.   The slower pace of cruising down the river and through the locks offered more time for local on board activities in the evening. Musicians entertained after dinner with local instruments or songs and even offered Waltz dance lessons. More relaxing options were spa services, library with internet cafe or enjoying the view on the sun deck.   The itinerary options are numerous with different selections of countries, seasons and themes. Extending the cruise with a pre and post package also offered additional time to visit other cities in Eastern Europe.