(425 Reviews)
99% Recommended

Pam MacIntyre

Maple Grove, MN
Australia & New Zealand Specialist

New Zealand

In all my years as a Travel Professional, I’ve asked countless people, “What’s on your must-see list?” And without fail, New Zealand is always at the top! Honestly, who wouldn’t want to experience this majestic ...
Learn more about me.

Discover River Cruises from Someone Who’s Been

Cologne, Germany
Cologne, Germany

Expert River Cruise Planning & Advice


As a certified River Cruise Specialist, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing firsthand what makes this style of travel so special—and so unforgettable.


I’ve personally sailed with AmaWaterways on the Rhine, Avalon Waterways on the Danube, and Scenic Cruises through France’s Bordeaux region. Each journey has deepened my understanding of the river cruise experience and how to best match travelers with the right itinerary, cruise line, and onboard atmosphere that suits their individual travel style. While I haven’t sailed with every river cruise line, I stay up to date on them all and can expertly guide you to the one that fits your travel preferences, priorities, and budget.


There’s something truly special about river cruising. The smaller, more intimate ships create a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere—perfect for soaking in each destination. You’ll sail right into the heart of storybook towns like Rüdesheim, Riquewihr, Fort Médoc, and Dürnstein, as well as vibrant cultural cities like Heidelberg, Cognac, Strasbourg, and Passau. It’s a way of traveling that feels easy, enriching, and full of meaningful moments.


What really sets river cruising apart is its ease and welcoming vibe. Ships dock in the heart of most towns and cities, so you avoid long transfers and crowded terminals, unlike ocean cruising. Onboard, the atmosphere is casual and friendly—never stuffy or formal—making it easy to feel at home, whether you’re enjoying a coffee on deck or sharing dinner with fellow travelers. Many itineraries include overnight stays, offering a more flexible and rewarding experience in each destination. Plus, it’s simple to add pre- and post-cruise stays to make the most of your time. I’ll be here to guide you through every step.


Most cruises include guided excursions, with optional tours available for those who want to explore even more. Prefer to go your own way? You’ll have the freedom to do that too. With generous time in each port, you can experience each place on your own terms—whether that means sipping a pint in a cozy pub, wandering cobblestone alleyways, or browsing local shops for hidden gems.


River cruising is about more than just the destinations—it’s about the journey. Some of my favorite memories come from connections made onboard: shared dinners, spontaneous toasts, and laughter with fellow travelers who quickly became friends. And if you want quiet, intimate moments—just the two of you or with a small group—that’s easy to enjoy too. It’s your trip, your pace, your story.


Not all river cruise lines are the same—and that’s a good thing. Some offer all-inclusive experiences covering everything from excursions and drinks to gratuities and onboard amenities like butler service. Others provide more flexible, à la carte options for select tours and beverages. The key is choosing the cruise line that fits your expectations, budget, and travel style.


Whether you’re dreaming of sailing past vineyard-covered hills, exploring fairytale castles, admiring timeless architecture, or tasting the best regional wines, beers, or spirits—I’m here to make it all come together. Whether it’s your first cruise or your fifth, I’m committed to helping you plan with confidence and create a river cruise experience tailored just for you.


Whether you’re just starting to think about a river cruise or ready to book, I’m here to answer your questions and help you find the perfect journey. No pressure—just expert advice tailored to you. Feel free to reach out anytime; I’d love to chat and help make your dream cruise a reality.


If a river cruise is something you’re considering—whether in Europe, Asia, South America, or beyond—I’d love to help you create a journey that’s not just a vacation but a lasting memory.


Ready to get inspired? Check out my river cruise travel blogs below or reach out anytime to start planning your next great adventure.

My Travel Albums

De'arra and Ken Travel the World!
Finland - Follow them on Instagram @dk4ltravels
Sailing the Rhine on AmaKristina
Rüdesheim, Germany
Sailing the Danube Dreams with Avalon Waterways
Africa Safari - Client Photos
Photo Credit to Client during Africa Safari's
Kenya - Maasai Mara Reserve Safari Accommodations
Sarova Mara Game Camp - Masai Mara Game Reserve
Tanzania - The Serengeti Safari Accommodations
Serengeti Acacia Bliss Fire

My Travel Stories

Top Tips for Traveling in Europe: A Handy Guide

General Etiquette

  • Start with a Simple Ask: Before jumping into conversation, check if someone speaks English. If not, no worries! Apps like Google Translate are lifesavers and can help you communicate.
  • Polite Phrases Go a Long Way:...Read more.
See more travel stories

My Reviews

140 of 225 people found this review helpful
Had an Amazing Time
Pam was great to work with and she made it super simple to book our honeymoon through her. We mentioned to her a couple of the resorts that we had in mind and she knew about every one of them and was able to answer any questions that we had about the resorts. We were very happy with Pam's service and we would definitely use her again int the future and recommend her to others.
By  Our Honeymoon  from  Minneapolis, MN
Traveled to  Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Pam MacIntyre responded:
Happy to hear your honeymoon was memorable! Thank you again for your business, and I look forward to hearing from you in the future!

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105 of 165 people found this review helpful
Second Honeymoon
Pam was very friendly and gave us advise based on personal experience. She listened to what kind of experience we were looking for and suggested the perfect place. She called before we left to make sure we didn't have any other questions and give us a couple more pointers before we took off!
By  S&R  from  Mankato, MN
Traveled to  Riviera Maya ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Pam MacIntyre responded:
It's always very gratifying to know that you helped someone find the perfect place, for this once in a lifetime experience! I hope to work with you on future travels!

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87 of 138 people found this review helpful
Bora Bora
We did not feel detailed help was given. Thank goodness I know my way a bit around travel or we would have been completely bewildered
By  Kim & Ryan’s wedding  from  Minnesota
Traveled to  Bora Bora ~ French Polynesia ~ South Pacific
I would not recommend this agent to my family and friends

Pam MacIntyre responded:
Very sorry you felt the information I provide in your personalized Travel Documents and my email with more than 20 pointers for travel in Bora Bora was not detailed. I wish you had reached out to me if you had specific questions not answered in the documentation I had provided. I know travel in French Polynesia is a new experience for most, so am always happy to share my personal experience to help everyone get the most of their travels to this exotic part of the world.

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77 of 119 people found this review helpful
Honeymoon
I have worked with Pam twice and both times had a great experience. I originally decided to try using a travel agent to book our honeymoon. I told Pam our budget and the type of vacation we were looking for. She gave us several location options and we decided on Riviera Maya. She then gave us several resorts to choose from. She was able to tell us the pros and cons of each resort - their proximity to town, pools, spas, etc - which was very helpful. We picked a resort and from there Pam took care of everything. Flights, transportation to and from airport, and the resort were all booked for us. Fast forward to our vacation and we had a fantastic time. The resort was exactly what we were looking for. I saved so much time not having to research locations, looked at dozens of resorts, and get everything booked. It was definitely worth it.
By  Ashlee  from  St. Paul
Traveled to  Riviera Maya ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Pam MacIntyre responded:
Thank you for the kind words, it's great to feel so valued and I look forward to working with you on your vacation next year!

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108 of 181 people found this review helpful
Pam is the Best!!!
Pam is very friendly, knowledgeable, funny, and very very helpful!! We have worked with Pam for all of our vacations since 2009 and we refer our friends and family to Pam as we have had such great experiences with her. Our last trip was to Play Del Carmen Mexico and we stayed at the Paradisus La Esmeralda on Pam's recommendation and we absolutely loved the resort! Pam is very upfront and honest with us about the resorts that we want to stay at as well as dates and months that we want to stay. Pam is great with emailing or calling about our reservations and when we should book and she is great with keeping us informed on any changes.

We will continue to work with Pam and continually refer her to our family and friends. I have talked with family and friends that have worked with Pam and they too will work with her again!! She is the best!!
By  Molly Smith  from  Ramsey, MN
Traveled to  Playa Del Carmen ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Pam MacIntyre responded:
Molly, you've always been one of my most valued clients and friends! You've referred so many to me over the years, and I want you to know that it simply means the world to me that you always think of me immediately when you hear someone "Talk Travel". Thank you and here's to planning many more travel adventures together!

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Go to my main profile

Destination Expert:

  • Danube
  • Rhine River
  • Seine River
  • Nile River
  • Mekong

Travel Specialist:

  • River Cruises
  • Christmas Markets
  • Luxury Cruises
  • European Culture
  • Castles & Cathedrals

Top Travel Partners:

  • AmaWaterways
  • Viking
  • Avalon Waterways
  • Tauck
  • Hurtigruten

Certifications/Awards:

  • Aussie Specialist Agent
  • 100% PURE New Zealand Specialist GOLD
  • 2024 Associate of the Year -Travel Leaders Network
  • 2024 Agency of Excellence - Travel Leaders Network
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