Viking River Cruise during COVID Delta peak

Part 1 

During the last two years with so much free time, I have closely studied the changing protocols of my travel partners. There is so much to consider. From their cancellation policies to health&safety and the support they offer the Traveler, Agent and their own staff.
After a few of my personal trips had been cancelled I decided to try something new. France was welcoming travelers and Viking was high on my list of suppliers. It was time to see for-myself  how difficult leaving the country was. 
Prior to leaving home we had to get our approved COVID tests and upload the documents with our Passports and Vaccine Cards. The level in France had changed from 3 to 4 and back again a few times prior to our trip. Similarly the US had also had increased numbers. 

There are 1710 steps in the Eiffel Tower

Arc de Triomphe

Eiffel Tower has 5.5 Million visitors each year.

We arrived in France early morning. After gathering our luggage, we were greeted by Viking's concierge who notified our driver of landing. The driver came in and assisted with our luggage and took us to a Luxury SUV for the short drive to our ship. Our room was ready even though we were very early.

I like to unpack immediately. After I was finished we had lunch as the others were arriving.
Later we went for a short guided
walk to get acquainted with the city. 

We had a perfect view. Looking out at the Eiffel Tower all lit up from our dinner table on the Aquavit Terrace. 
Nightly before dinner we visit and share drinks before a short discussion by the Program Director of the upcoming activities. The Chef also gives a brief description of what is being served. After Dinner, time for more drinks and a little music if you are not exhausted. 
Each evening we travel up the canal to our next port.

***   La Rouche-Guyon France   ***

Each morning everyone must turn in their daily COVID test. This was no added cost to the passengers. I love the proactive approach and felt much safer.
The entire country mandates their citizens to either get vaccinated or be tested every 3 days at their own expense. 
We grabbed a quick Breakfast and bundled up. Every day has been mid 50's and breezy. When leaving the ship you will find complimentary water and umbrellas.  

Overlooking the Valley from outside the Dovecote.

The tower above is known as The Keep.

The Chateau de La Roche-Guyon

The Dovecote

The troglodytic staircase

This fortress was built in the middle ages and later occupied by the Germans in World War II. During the Renaissance it was turned into a country house. In 1659 it was purchased by the La Rouchefoucauld Family which still owns it.

If you have traveled around Europe, you already know they are on their own time. Since they were late in opening the day of our arrival we only had an hour to look around. To see every part of the property you need at least three hours.
I would estimate less than 1000 people living in this unique tiny village. 

 What a nice surprise to arrive back to the
 ship where our Captain and staff are outside              to greet us with complimentary hot
​chocolate  and rum.

---

Next we will be heading to Vernon