BE HER BEST SUPPORT
Does your friend have a toxic partner? Expert DR LURVE explains how to help
SPEAK UP
If you’re concerned about your friend and her relationship, talk to her privately and explain that you’re worried about them. “Be sure to give your reasons why,” says relationship expert Dr Lurve. “Approach your friend in a welcoming manner for a relaxed conversation that won’t go sour.”
EXPECT A DEFENCE
Despite having the best intentions in helping your friend, be prepared in case she doesn’t see her relationship the way you do – there could be some kickback. “Remind your friend you’ll support and respect her decision no matter what, let her know you’re always there for her when she needs you,” advises Dr Lurve.
OFFER SUPPORT
Be their friend, not their therapist. “Let them know you’re there, but if their mental health is in jeopardy encourage them to seek professional support,” says Dr Lurve.
There are those that argue river cruising has remained relatively un untouched for decades. A And while there’s nothing wro wrong with that (they do say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!), sometimes hitting the refresh button on tradition can make a world of difference.
This is especially true in the case of cruising, given new research has found of those interested in a cruise holiday in the next five years, the majority are actually Gen Y!
So what’s changed to get a younger crowd on board?
Well, that’s exactly what I found on my U River
millennials and the young at heart – with the general age on their ships varying from 27 to 55, but anyone 18-plus can join.
Hearing this, I knew there was going to be a fun, fresh vibe on board, but I was still a tad nervous because I was travelling solo. However, from the moment I stepped on board everyone, including the staff, was so friendly I felt completely at ease.
THE SHIP
There are 120 rooms on board this ship dubbed “The A”, four of which are extra-large suites if you want that extra VIP feel. I wasn’t in one of these quarters, but my balcony room still had plenty of space.
Now, I have to give a PSA about the beds on board – they feel like I’m on a cloud! Honestly, if it wasn’t for the incredible destinations we were visiting, I probably wouldn’t have got out of mine the entire eight days.
There’s also an incredible top op deck on board where you can sit and sightsee without lifting a finger. On one day, we cruised d past more than 20 castles – so good! There’s also exercise classes like yoga and TRX held up there some mornings – if you can manage to get out of your cloud bed, of course.
THE DESTINATIONS
During our eight-day sail through the Netherlands and Germany we stopped off in Amsterdam, Haarlem, Dusseldorf, Cologne, Koblenz, Rudesheim and Frankfurt. While the schedule was jam-packed with amazing sightseeing and food and wine tasting activities, the fact we were cruising between destinations meant it didn’t feel rushed.
The scenery on this cruise, in small sections, was a little industrial given the Rhine is somewhat of a boat highway, but for the majority of the trip the scenery was breathtaking.
Then there were the on-shore sights. From visiting the stunning Cologne Cathedral to boating down the flower-lined canals of Amsterdam and sipping wine in a former Rudesheim monastery’s candlelit cellar, every activity on this cruise was a memorable one. Most activities are included in your fare, but there are optional activities you can sign up for – such as biking through Frankfurt – at an extra cost.
And, of course, you can share all the lustworthy pics you’ve snapped once back on board using the free wi-fi. Just bear in mind that internet access may not be provided pre-check in and post-check out on the ship, ip, so you may want to BYO.
THE FOOD
I’m always a little hesitant when en it comes to buffets (and the lukewarm food that’s been sitting out for hours), so when n I heard The A had the helpyourself y option p for breakfast and dinner daily I wasn’t entirely sure whether I’d be a fan. Proved wrong again!
The food on this cruise blew my mind. There was a huge variety of different goodies every day, from prosciutto-stuffed croissants and build-your-own omelettes at breakfast to BBQ pork ribs and arrabbiata pasta for dinner.
You can also buy an optional drinks package for $499, which means free-flowing cocktails, spirits, wine and beer for the entire e t et trip. p. y