Exploring the Rhône River on the MS Thomas Hardy: A Luxurious and Exciting Experience

The Journey on the Rhône River

Cruising on the river has become an increasingly popular trend, and after my recent trip on the five-star MS Thomas Hardy with Riviera, it’s easy to see why. My journey was a perfect blend of relaxing luxury and ever-changing landscapes as we gently glided along the stunning Rhône River in Provence.

Luxurious Spaces Onboard

From the moment I stepped aboard, I was struck by the perfect combination of elegance and practical comfort. The MS Thomas Hardy stands out with its luxurious interior design, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Luxurious Suites

My accommodation was a Diamond Deck suite located on the top deck, featuring large floor-to-ceiling windows that opened onto a French balcony. The suites are intelligently designed with spacious layouts, king-size beds, ample wardrobe space, air conditioning, safes, and coffee and tea-making facilities. The modern bathroom included a walk-in shower, and the outstanding housekeeping service made for a memorable experience throughout my seven days onboard.

Common Areas

The public areas of the ship are designed with luxury in mind. The main lounge and bar serve as the social heart of the ship, with large windows ensuring that guests never miss the stunning views outside. Here, you can engage in port talks, enjoy live music, or simply unwind with a good book.

Culinary Delights Onboard

Dining is one of the highlights of the journey. The main restaurant offers high standards with a menu that reflects both international cuisine and local specialties. Breakfast is plentiful, lunch is leisurely, and dinner is elegant without being overly formal. Notably, the free choice of drinks, including wine, beer, and soft drinks, is a significant perk.

Exploring Destinations

Cruising isn’t just about the ship; it’s also about the exciting destinations. We began our journey in Avignon, home to medieval streets and the Palais des Papes. A must-see destination is the Pont du Gard, featuring stunning ancient architecture that leaves everyone in awe.

MS Thomas Hardy Amenities

After sightseeing, the ship provides comfortable spaces for relaxation. Sipping a glass of wine on the sun deck while gliding past vineyards and tranquil countryside is a delightful part of the cruise experience. Moreover, the Riviera tour guides are always available to assist and provide valuable insights about the stops along the way.

Conclusion

The MS Thomas Hardy offers an exceptional cruising experience with excellent service, delicious food, and well-organized excursions. Coupled with the ever-changing landscape of the Rhône River and the Provence region, it creates an unforgettable journey. I highly encourage Vietnamese travelers to try a cruise with Riviera Travel, and I can’t wait to return!

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

To reach Provence, travelers can fly from Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Marseille Provence Airport. The flight time is approximately 14-16 hours (including layover time). Airfare ranges from 15-25 million VND depending on the booking time and airline.

Regarding visas, Vietnamese travelers need to apply for a Schengen visa to enter France. The processing time for the visa is about 15 working days.

River cruises typically run from April to October, with pleasant weather during this period, making it ideal for exploration.

We recommend that travelers book their tours early to secure seats and the best services, and consider all-inclusive tour packages.

This article was referenced and edited from: The Travel Magazine