Staff stories: From Vienna to Budapest

After our arrival on day one in Vienna onboard Emerald Star, it wasn’t long before we sat down to a beautiful three-course dinner. The service from staff at dinner was just as good as the food itself. 

After dinner, we were then transferred from the ship to a spectacular music venue where we had the pleasure of watching a live orchestra perform music from greats such as Beethoven. 

After the show, we were transferred back to the ship where we found the kitchen staff had prepared a traditional Austrian beef stew as a late-night snack which went down a treat.

After awaking on day two, we again went down to the Reflections restaurant where there was a beautifully laid out breakfast waiting for us. There was also the option to have omelettes and other food made on the spot in front of you. 

Our first of two excursions on day two in Bratislava was to visit a Slovakian home where we met a wonderful woman named Jane. Jane treated us to some traditional Slovakian cake and coffee, alongside some homemade lemonade she made especially for us. We had a fantastic chat with Jane where she discussed her upbringing and family life (she even got family photos out!) It was truly fascinating to hear about the cultural differences and varied traditions.

We got back to the port in time to freshen up and have some lunch, of which there was a buffet and an A La Carte menu to choose from. Included in the buffet was a pasta dish that was made in front of us. 

The afternoon consisted of an EmeraldACTIVE walking tour of Bratislava with a guide. This was a great way to explore the wonders of Bratislava with a local expert. The evening started with a port call, including the captain’s speech followed by an exceptional five-course farewell dinner. After dinner, entertainment included a trivia night where the dancing was in full flow. 

Day three in Budapest started with a buffet-style breakfast before getting ready for an EmeraldACTIVE hike up Buda hill with views of both sides (Buda and Pest). Next was the buffet lunch which once again was fantastic. The afternoon offered free time for us to enjoy the delights of Budapest. Firstly, heading to the Great Market Hall, and then getting some e-bikes to see more of Budapest. 

In the evening, we had a stunning three-course dinner followed by a traditional Hungarian folklore dance. Once complete, we had an evening cruise to see the majority of Budapest lit up. A real highlight of ours was seeing the Parliament building lit up in all its beauty. We then stopped in Budapest ready for our overnight stay in the city before disembarking the next morning.