River Cruising Masterclass

Exploring America's Heartland: A Journey on the Upper Mississippi River

Join Sydney Schellinger, owner and travel advisor at The Poodle Booked It, as she delves into the captivating world of U.S. river cruises. This month, her Facebook group, "Sail the Rivers: Tips and Destinations," focuses on the lesser-known treasures of U.S. river cruising. In this episode, Sydney highlights a fascinating journey along the upper Mississippi River, from St. Louis to St. Paul, sharing insights into the historical significance and unique attractions of each port along the way.
Discover the rich history of St. Louis, from its founding in 1764 to its role as the gateway to the West. Learn about iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch and indulge in local delicacies such as the gooey butter cake. As the journey continues, explore Hannibal, Missouri, the hometown of Mark Twain, and its ties to famous figures like the unsinkable Molly Brown. Sydney shares intriguing historical tidbits and culinary delights, including fried catfish, that await travelers in this charming town.
The adventure extends to Burlington, Iowa, a city steeped in railroad and river port history. Sydney guides listeners through must-see attractions, like the Garrett-Phelps House Museum, and offers insights into optional excursions such as exploring the Church of Jesus of Latter-day Saints' history. Discover the vibrant Quad Cities, home to the iconic John Deere and a hub of cultural heritage and agriculture. Sydney highlights key attractions, including the John Deere Pavilion and the renowned Bix Brodenbuck Memorial Jazz Festival.
Finally, Sydney unveils the allure of Dubuque, Iowa, a city rich in 19th-century heritage and scenic beauty. From lead mining history to modern cultural evolutions, Dubuque offers a unique blend of past and present. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast, or a lover of scenic landscapes, this episode promises to inspire and inform anyone considering a river cruise through America's heartland.

Exploring the Charm of U.S. River Cruising

Join Sydney Skellinger, owner of Poodle Booked Travel Agency, as she delves into the captivating world of U.S. river cruising. This episode offers a comprehensive introduction to river cruises within the United States, focusing on the appeal of these intimate and accessible journeys.
Discover why river cruises are gaining popularity, with only two major companies, American Cruise Line and Viking, leading the market. Learn about the unique experiences offered, from exploring charming small towns to enjoying the local culture and cuisine without the hassle of long-haul flights.
Understand the differences between river and ocean cruises, such as smaller, more personalized vessels, included shore excursions, and the luxury of unpacking just once. Sydney highlights popular U.S. routes like the Mississippi, Columbia, and Hudson Rivers, each offering its own distinct attractions, from Civil War history to natural beauty.
Get a sneak peek into next week's episode featuring Mary from Viking River Cruises, who will discuss the Mississippi cruise. Sydney also shares a teaser of upcoming episodes focusing on holiday-themed cruises in Europe.
Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or seeking a unique travel experience, this episode provides valuable insights into the world of U.S. river cruising. Tune in to explore these hidden gems and plan your next unforgettable adventure.

Exploring the World's Most Exciting River Cruises for 2025

Join host Sydney Schellinger in this exciting episode of the River Cruise Masterclass as she delves into the top river cruises you should consider for 2025. Discover unique destinations like the Magdalena River in Colombia, where you can experience vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes before it becomes a popular hotspot.
Explore the majestic Nile River in Egypt with Uniworld, a perfect way to welcome the New Year amidst stunning ancient temples and luxurious settings. Sydney also shares her experiences from a Rhine River cruise, highlighting the beauty of the Rhine Gorge and the delightful Tulip Festival.
Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the exploration of France's Bordeaux region, while those seeking something different can learn about the fascinating Brahmaputra River cruise in India. Discover new luxury offerings like Riverside Luxury Cruises and Uniworld's sail and rail program, which combines train journeys with river cruising.
For adventure seekers, the Peruvian Amazon cruise offers a chance to explore the rainforest's unique wildlife. And finally, Avalon Waterways presents an exquisite journey through the south of France, featuring cultural and culinary excursions.
Tune in to learn more about these incredible river cruises and find the perfect adventure to add to your bucket list. Share your favorite picks in the comments and join the conversation on river cruising's diverse and captivating experiences.

Discover the Magic of Portugal's Douro River with AmaWaterways

Join us in this exciting episode as we dive into the enchanting world of Portugal's Douro River with Brian from AmaWaterways. Discover why this stunning river is one of the hottest destinations for travelers and why May 2026 is the perfect time to embark on this journey. Learn about the unique experiences awaiting you, from the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto to the serene landscapes of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Area. Explore the cultural immersion offered by AmaWaterways, including exclusive off-ship dining experiences with traditional Portuguese music and wine tasting. Discover the intimate charm of AmaWaterways' smaller ships, designed to offer a more personalized experience with only 100 guests onboard. Get insights into the ship's amenities, including spacious balcony rooms and a pool, perfect for enjoying the scenic daytime cruising. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time river cruiser, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tips for making the most of your Douro River adventure. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn about the warm hospitality of the Portuguese people and the unforgettable experiences that await you on this captivating journey.

Millennials on the River: Daniel's River Cruise Experience

Join us for a fun discussion with my best friend, Daniel Martinez, as we dive into the world of river cruising from a millennial's perspective. In this episode, Daniel shares his experience of his first river cruise trip in Europe, highlighting the pros and cons, and how he's already planning his next adventure.
Daniel talks about what convinced him to try a river cruise post-COVID, the affordability, and the unique cultural immersion that river cruises offer compared to ocean cruises. We explore the ease of travel, the included excursions, the food and drink packages, and the overall experience of exploring European cities from the water.
We also discuss the differences between various cruise lines, the importance of planning extra days at the beginning and end of the trip, and the benefits of having local tour guides. Daniel shares his favorite destinations, the nightlife in Vienna, and some insider tips for younger travelers considering a river cruise.
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip to Europe, this episode offers valuable insights and recommendations to help you make the most of your river cruise experience.

Welcome and Introduction

Step aboard and join Sydney Schellinger from The Poodle Booked It for the inaugural episode of "River Cruising Masterclass." Dive into the enchanting realm of river cruising where the journey is as exciting as the destination. In this educational and inspiring episode, Sydney uncovers the unique appeal of river cruises, charting courses through the picturesque waterways of Europe, the timeless Nile, and the charming Mississippi.Learn what sets river cruising apart from ocean cruising, the rich historical and cultural experiences that await, and the luxurious comforts you’ll enjoy on board. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or a seeker of tranquility, this masterclass offers invaluable insights to help you plan the perfect river cruise.Discover why booking with The Poodle Booked It can elevate your travel experience, with personalized service and exclusive perks. Tune in, get inspired, and set sail on your next dream vacation!