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Why This Eastern European River Cruise Should Be on Your 2026 Travel List If you’ve cruised the Danube through Vienna and Budapest, you’ve seen the classics—but what if your next journey took you deeper? Picture this: cruising past rugged cliffs carved by the Danube through Serbia’s Iron Gates Gorge , sipping wine in ancient Croatian cellars, standing in front of a legendary Transylvanian castle , and starting your journey in Bucharest and Transylvania before sailing the Danube westward. In October 2026, I’m inviting a small group of travelers to join me and my husband on Avalon Waterways’ Danube from Romania to Budapest —a 12-day river cruise and land journey that’s anything but ordinary. As an Avalon Waterways Specialist , I’ve handpicked this itinerary because it offers something truly different—a scenic, story-filled route through five countries that many travelers overlook, all while enjoying Avalon’s signature relaxed luxury and spacious Panorama Suites®. Best of all, if this trip speaks to you, there’s no need to pay in full today. A deposit reserves your cabin now, and final payment isn’t due until summer 2026 . That gives you time to plan, invite a friend, and look forward to something unforgettable. 🚢 Why This Itinerary Is Different (and Better) Most river cruises follow the well-worn path through Germany and Austria. This one dives into the rich, complex cultures of Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania , with overnight stays in Budapest, Bucharest, and the heart of Transylvania . You’ll enjoy: A full-circle experience that begins  with a visit to Bran Castle , forever linked to the legend of Dracula. Scenic sailing through the Iron Gates Gorge , one of Europe’s most breathtaking natural wonders Fortress tours, UNESCO-listed architecture , and open-air museums in towns like Ilok, Vidin, and Golubac Plenty of time for walking or biking tours , cultural storytelling , handcraft demonstrations , and leisurely photo stops CEC Palace, Bucharest, Romania ✨ "The pre-cruise extension in Transylvania was for me the highlight—and anyone considering the cruise should definitely include this."  – Avalon guest review ✨ “We found Transylvania one of the best places of our travels so far!”  – Reddit traveler This journey is tailor-made for travelers who want more than just postcard stops —you’ll get immersive stories, architecture, and flavors in places that haven’t yet been overrun by tourism. 🏨 Avalon Waterways: A Step Above If you’ve cruised with Viking or Ama before, Avalon Waterways will feel refreshingly flexible and modern. Here’s what makes Avalon different: Panorama Suites® —your bed faces an 11-foot wall of glass that opens wide to fresh air and front-row views Multiple excursion options  every day: classic tours, hands-on experiences (like cooking or wine blending), and active hikes or bike rides A casual, social onboard atmosphere—with fewer passengers and no stuffy dress code All the essentials are included: daily excursions, Wi-Fi, beer & wine with meals, specialty coffees, and more ✨ “My husband and I just did a river cruise on the Danube on Avalon…loved it! Food and drinks were excellent. Crew was amazing.”  – Reddit user ✨ “Avalon guide… drove us another two hours to meet the ship… the captain had monitored our progress… Extraordinary effort… unforgettable.”  – CruiseCritic guest review Plus, we’ll have special VIP perks  just for guests who join my hosted group—details to come! ✈️ Is This Trip Right for You? Yes—whether you're new to Europe or already a seasoned traveler. First-timers will love how easy it is: no unpacking and repacking, every stop curated, and your travel expert (that’s me!) there to guide you Seasoned travelers will appreciate that this route includes five countries , unique cities, and landscapes that feel untouched by mass tourism ✨ “Very scenic… with narrow gorges and tall cliffs… something to see everywhere you look.”  – TripAdvisor reviewer on the Iron Gates Gorge ✨ “It’s a well-run taster trip—perfect for travelers wanting to see more, not linger forever.”  – Reddit traveler on Balkan tours This is your chance to explore Eastern Europe in comfort , with a group of like-minded travelers and expert help every step of the way. 📅 Save the Date: October 2026 I’m personally hosting this group, and space will be limited to travelers who are truly ready to plan something extraordinary. If this sounds like a fit, here’s how to take the next step: ✅ Click the blue button below to join the interest list   ✅ Share with your favorite travel buddy  and start dreaming ✅ Reach out if you have points or miles to use —I can help pair this cruise with the perfect award flights or hotel nights on either end! Let’s make 2026 the year you stop saying “someday” and start saying “I’ve been there.” Join me on an unforgettable cruise through the hidden heart of Europe. The Danube is calling—are you ready? ✨ About Your Host Hi, I’m Renee Ward , the travel advisor behind Forward Points + Travel. I specialize in curated trips for couples and small groups who want meaningful travel experiences—without the overwhelm. I’ve planned unforgettable journeys all over the world, and I’ll be personally hosting this 2026 cruise through Eastern Europe. If you value comfort, culture, and a relaxed pace, I’d love to help you experience this side of the Danube most travelers miss.

Planning a trip to Prague , the picturesque capital of Czechia, and wondering where to stay without breaking the bank? Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Prague Castle or need easy access to the airport, there are excellent options available where you can make the most of your points. Let's delve into some top choices for your next Prague adventure. 1. Lindner Hotel Prague Castle: Immerse Yourself in History Nestled next to the enchanting Strahov Monastery, the Lindner Hotel Prague Castle offers a five-star experience steeped in history. The monastery dates back over 800 years, so guests can embark on a journey through time while exploring this baroque marvel. Don't miss visiting the nearby Prague Castle, a medieval complex reflecting architectural styles from over 1,200 years ago. From Romantic to Gothic and Renaissance influences, each building tells a unique story of Prague's rich heritage. What's more enticing is that a double occupancy room at Lindner Hotel Prague Castle can be yours for just 3,500 World of Hyatt points per night during off-peak times. This incredible redemption opportunity showcases the value of the World of Hyatt loyalty program, allowing travelers to indulge in luxury without burning through their points stash. Even if you're new to the World of Hyatt program, fret not. Joining is free, and you can earn points staying at Hyatt properties, from a World of Hyatt personal credit card or World of Hyatt Business credit card . You can also swiftly transfer points to World of Hyatt from Chase Ultimate Rewards at a 1:1 ratio. Just remember, once transferred, the process is irreversible, so plan your redemption wisely. 2. Courtyard Marriott Prague Airport: Convenience Redefined For travelers seeking convenience, the Courtyard Marriott Prague Airport emerges as a top contender. Situated within walking distance of both airport terminals, this four-star hotel offers a seamless transition for those arriving or departing from Prague. Plus, with a double-occupancy room available for just 16,500 Marriott Points, it's an excellent value proposition. Earn Marriott points through hotel stays or consider the American Express Marriott Business credit card to boost your points balance. The added perk of complimentary breakfast and modern decor ensures a comfortable stay, making it an ideal choice for travelers with early morning flights or late arrivals. 3. Personalized Assistance for Your Travel Needs Navigating the world of credit card rewards and hotel loyalty programs can be daunting. If you're unsure where to start or need expert guidance on maximizing your points for a memorable Prague stay, consider scheduling a consultation. I can assist you in signing up for the right credit card, booking with points, or exploring cash options tailored to your preferences. Unlock Prague's Charms with Points From exploring historic landmarks to savoring the vibrant culture, Prague offers a myriad of experiences waiting to be discovered. With these top hotel options available on points, you can elevate your stay while keeping your budget intact. Whether you're drawn to the allure of Prague Castle or crave the convenience of airport proximity, there's a perfect accommodation choice awaiting you. Start planning your Prague adventure today and make every moment count.

In the vast landscape of travel rewards, one currency reigns supreme: transferable points. And where do you find these coveted rewards? Look no further than the credit cards issued by Chase, American Express, Capital One, Citi, or Bilt. These financial powerhouses offer the gateway to a world of unparalleled flexibility and value in the points and miles universe. Why are transferable points the holy grail of rewards? It's all about versatility. Unlike locked-in rewards specific to a single airline or hotel program, transferable points empower you to transcend boundaries. With the ability to transfer to around 15 or more flight and hotel partners, the options are virtually limitless. Imagine this scenario: you're eyeing a luxurious journey in an airline's premium cabin or seeking to stretch your points or miles for maximum value. Instead of being shackled to one airline's limited options, you wield the freedom to cherry-pick the best deals across a spectrum of partners. Not only can you book directly with your chosen airline, but you can also tap into its network of partners, broadening your horizons for unforgettable travel experiences. Take, for instance, the flexibility offered by transferring points to British Airways. With British Airways, you gain access to OneWorld partner airlines such as American Airlines, Aer Lingus, Iberia, Qatar Airways, and Japan Airlines. So, if your loyalty lies with Delta but the optimal routes to your dream destination are served by American Airlines or other OneWorld Alliance carriers, fear not. Simply convert your points to British Airways and unlock a world of possibilities. But before you embark on your points transfer journey, it's crucial to heed a few pointers: Know Your Points Requirement:  Check the points needed for your desired redemption. Check Availability:  Ensure your desired travel dates align with available award seats or hotel rooms. Have a Backup Plan:  In case availability vanishes post-transfer, have alternate redemption options ready. One-Way Street:  Remember, once you transfer points, there's no turning back. Here's a personal anecdote that underscores the potential rewards waiting to be unleashed through strategic points transfers. I recall a time when my husband and I routinely redeemed Capital One Venture miles for travel reimbursements. However, a revelation dawned upon me discovering the ability to transfer these miles to airline partners, opening the possibility of premium international travel experiences for our family. Instead of redeeming 100,000 Capital One miles for a $1,000 statement credit, we could transfer to an airline partner for a lie-flat transatlantic business-class award ticket worth thousands of dollars more. While the prospect of points transfer may initially appear daunting, rest assured, the process is typically straightforward and swift. Should you seek guidance or assistance navigating your inaugural transfer and booking, I stand ready to offer my expertise and support . Ready to apply for a credit card whose points can be transferred to airlines? Here are some of our favorite credit cards with links to apply. We may receive a referral bonus if you apply. Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve Chase Ink Business Preferred CapitalOne Venture CapitalOne Venture X American Express Platinum In conclusion, embrace the power of transferable points as your ticket to a world of boundless travel possibilities. With strategic planning and savvy decision-making, you can transform your points into unforgettable experiences and unparalleled value.

Learn about Foward Points + Travel, and Owner and Travel Advisor, Renee Ward. About Us At Forward Points + Travel, we understand that your travel dreams deserve to become a reality, just like they did for our founder and travel advisor, Renee Ward. Instilled with a love for exploration by her parents, Renee now brings that same passion to helping you discover the world. As a proud member of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and an affiliate of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel, Renee upholds the highest industry standards while providing exclusive travel perks to her clients. Renee has explored 38 countries, flown with 25 different airlines, and sailed on nine unforgettable cruises, gaining invaluable insights and experiences along the way. For the past decade, her family has enjoyed frequent, luxurious travels, all thanks to strategically leveraging airline and hotel points through smart credit card sign-on bonuses. This approach allows travelers to maximize their adventures while minimizing costs—and Renee is here to help you do the same. Renee’s expertise includes booking across a wide range of airlines and hotel chains, including Aer Lingus, AeroMexico, Air Canada, Air France, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Delta Airlines, Hilton properties, Hyatt properties, Iberia Airlines, IHG properties, Japan Airlines, JetBlue, KLM, Lufthansa Airlines, Marriott Properties, Qatar Airways, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. She is also an Alaska Certified Expert with Princess Cruises and a Hyatt Inclusive Collection Confidant to plan all-inclusive vacations expertly. As a proud member of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), Renee upholds the highest industry standards, ensuring her clients receive exceptional service and expert guidance. As an independent contractor with Travel Leaders Network , Renee provides personalized trips complete with extra perks. Travel Leaders advisors can offer exclusive amenities and unique experiences that may not be available when booking on your own. Perks vary, but can include: Hotels: Room upgrades, daily breakfast, welcome amenities, early check-in or late check-out, and free Wi-Fi. Cruises: Shipboard credits, complimentary shore excursions, welcome aboard receptions, dedicated on-board hosts, and private car and driver services. Group Space: Special amenities like shipboard credit and prepaid gratuities. Museums and Venues: Special access. Accommodations : Unique accommodations with special amenities. Moreover, Renee specializes in navigating the intricate world of credit card rewards, transferring points from Chase Ultimate Rewards, Capital One, American Express, and Citi Premier credit cards to unlock unparalleled travel opportunities. Whether you’re a young family yearning for adventure, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, a group planning a collective expedition, or a traveler with unique accessibility needs, Renee tailors experiences to meet your specific desires . At Forward Points + Travel, our commitment is to optimize your resources and time to curate unforgettable travel experiences. Let’s embark on your next adventure together, where every journey is as unique as the travelers themselves. Renee Ward Owner, Forward Points + Travel Certified Travel Professional SCHEDULE A CALL!

Balkan River Cruise Interest Request Info About the 2026 Balkan River Cruise An exclusive 12-day hosted journey with Forward Points + Travel First name* Last name* Email* Phone Best for quick follow-ups or text updates Where are you based?* How many people might travel with you? * What’s most exciting to you about this trip? * Do you typically travel in economy, premium economy, or business class? Do you have any points or miles you’d like help using for flights or hotels? Anything else you'd like to share? Submit

Make your milestone dream trip a breeze with expert planning, stress-free booking, and maximizing your credit card points. Adventure Awaits! Plan Now! Make your milestone dream trip a breeze with expert planning, stress-free booking, and maximizing your credit card points! Discover Your Next Adventure With travel experience in 38 countries and a global network through Travel Leaders, our expert travel advisor is ready to design your dream trip. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the soft black-sand beaches of the Azores, let us craft a journey that’s uniquely yours. Explore, dream, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Forward Points + Travel. SCHEDULE A CALL! Europe North America Asia Africa Karina P., TX "Wanting to go to Europe, Renee helped me decide credit cards to sign up for to help with airfare costs. After I earned the sign-up bonuses, we worked together step by step to book a complicated itinerary involving positioning flights to get the best point value, and visiting England, Scotland and Ireland. Renee identified places of interest and activities to add to the itinerary that my family still talks about today. Planning a vacation can be overwhelming, but Renee made the process so easy. She ensured we were able to maximize our time and resources for an amazing trip that fit our budget and exceeded our expectations." Julie B., TN "Renee expertly planned my 35th birthday Caribbean cruise, organizing every detail for my family, including hotels before and after the cruise. She also helped me maximize my Delta points, making it possible to fly to Texas during the pricey holiday season for our departure from Galveston. Her assistance turned what could have been a costly trip into a seamless and affordable celebration." Millie F., TX "This was an amazing cruise experience! Being my first cruise, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but now I can confidently say it won’t be my last. Everything was smooth and enjoyable from start to finish. A big thank you to Renee for her excellent communication and for going above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic time. Looking forward to cruising again soon!" Sheri W., TX "I've always been in awe of Renee's personal trips and vacations, so I knew she would not disappoint. Renee suggested maximizing our credit card points, saving us thousands on our first trip to the Netherlands and Greece! Renee answered my million questions, sent checklists and itineraries, and adjusted arrangements when our first flight had a change - all with patience. positivity, and a smile. I 100% recommend Forward Points + Travel and look "forward" to planning with Renee again!" 🌍 Five Countries. One River. A Lifetime of Memories. Why This Eastern European River Cruise Should Be on Your 2026 Travel List If you’ve cruised the Danube through Vienna and Budapest,... Renee Ward 1 day ago 4 min read Already Booked a Cruise? Let Me Upgrade Your Experience. Transfer your cruise booking to Renee Ward and receive exclusive perks—at no cost to you. WHY TRANSFER YOUR CRUISE BOOKING? Clients who... Renee Ward 5 days ago 4 min read Alaska for Glacier and Nature Lovers: Why Princess Wilderness Lodges Belong on Your Itinerary If you’re dreaming of seeing Alaska’s majestic glaciers, Denali’s towering peak, or reeling in wild salmon from crystal-clear rivers—but... Renee Ward Jun 9 5 min read Stop Missing Out: When (and Why) to Sign Up for Hotel & Airline Loyalty Programs If you're a savvy traveler, you’ve probably heard about the benefits of hotel loyalty programs and airline frequent flyer programs. But when is the right time to sign up? Renee Ward Apr 16 5 min read 🌍 Five Countries. One River. A Lifetime of Memories. Why This Eastern European River Cruise Should Be on Your 2026 Travel List If you’ve cruised the Danube through Vienna and Budapest,... Renee Ward 1 day ago 4 min read Already Booked a Cruise? Let Me Upgrade Your Experience. Transfer your cruise booking to Renee Ward and receive exclusive perks—at no cost to you. WHY TRANSFER YOUR CRUISE BOOKING? Clients who... Renee Ward 5 days ago 4 min read Alaska for Glacier and Nature Lovers: Why Princess Wilderness Lodges Belong on Your Itinerary If you’re dreaming of seeing Alaska’s majestic glaciers, Denali’s towering peak, or reeling in wild salmon from crystal-clear rivers—but... Renee Ward Jun 9 5 min read Stop Missing Out: When (and Why) to Sign Up for Hotel & Airline Loyalty Programs If you're a savvy traveler, you’ve probably heard about the benefits of hotel loyalty programs and airline frequent flyer programs. But when is the right time to sign up? Renee Ward Apr 16 5 min read Experience Luxury & Adventure: CIE’s Most Marvelous Tour of the Emerald Isle River Nore with Kilkenny Castle in the background Embark on an extraordinary journey through Ireland with CIE Tour’s Irish Supreme Tour,... Renee Ward Mar 27 3 min read