The Danube River is over 2,000 miles in length. It flows through no less than ten different countries. It is the European Union’s longest river that starts in the Black Forest in Germany, flowing all the way down into the Black Sea where it empties.

The Danube has been divided into three main sections. The “upper section” runs from the start in Germany down to the Devin Gate. Then there is the “middle section”, which flows from there on to the Iron Gate. Finally, the “lower section” flows all the way down to Romania’s Sulina. Each of these sections has something interesting to give and some fascinating experiences and adventures are to be had.

You can enjoy the Danube to learn about the history of Vienna’s classical music. You can learn about the culture, tradition and architecture of Budapest. You can feast your eyes on the medieval town of Nuremberg. Everything is possible on the Danube and when you book on the Romantic Danube Nuremberg to Budapest Viking River Cruise, you will be able to experience some of the river’s greatest highlights. It is a true opportunity to discover real magic.

About the Danube River

As stated, the Danube is Europe’s longest river. Along its 2,000 mile flow, it passes through four different capitals. One of these capitals is Budapest, which is known in popular culture as the “Pearl of the Danube”.

The heritage of the Danube is so long that entire books can be and have been written about it. It was a vital part of the Roman economy and archaeological evidence shows us that it was important even before then. The Danube has always been a river that facilitated not just trade, but also migration. Furthermore it remains to this day a working river, which means millions of people get their water from it. The river has many faces and it has endured wars, diseases, famines and periods of extreme wealth alike. You will be able to see all of this first hand on a cruise.

Some Danube Facts

• The river has inspired art and culture for thousands of years. Strauss’ Blue Danube Waltz is a clear example of this.
• Passau, known also as the three rivers city, sits on the river. This is a truly unique location as it is the meeting point of the rivers Ilz, Inn and Danube.
• Vienna is the birthplace of classical music and the Danube flows straight through it.
• Budapest is known as the Pearl of the Danube. The city is made up of traditional Buda, which is one of the banks, and the cosmopolitan Pest, which is on the opposite bank of the Danube.
• If you can cruise the Danube and go through the Wachau Valley, make sure you also stop at the Melk Abbey. This Benedictine abbey has been operational for over nine centuries.
• Durnstein also sits on the bank of the Danube. Durnstein was once a majestic castle, now in ruins, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned.

Image by archer10 (Dennis) under cc license

As a city with a long history of accepting people who identify as outside of the mainstream, San Francisco is one of the best cities worldwide to celebrate LGBT Pride. With this year being the 45th anniversary, enthusiasm will be at an all-time high, and you’ve got plenty of options for exciting activities to take part in. With that in mind, here are some of the events for Pride 2015 that you won’t want to opt out of.

SF Pride Celebration, Sat., June 27th, Sun., June 28th

Pride main events include these afternoon-long festivities happening at the Civic Center, located next to City Hall. 300+ vendors, artists, and other exhibitors will be on hand to celebrate this year’s theme of Equality Without Exception, in addition to music and comedy performances on the main stage. Twenty plus additional stages will also showcase entertainers, and pavilions representing groups such as Asian and Pacific Islanders, Soul of Pride African American, Leather Alley, and more will be there. Saturday’s main stage performers will center on local musicians and cultural talent, whereas Sunday’s entertainers will be more all-inclusive and well known. Past performers on the main stage include Solange Knowles, Margaret Cho and Lady Gaga.

Dyke March, Sat., June 27th

The SF Dyke March has a longstanding tradition of uniting the dyke communities in order to raise consciousness, create visibility and exalt the community’s unity. An annual event, the organizers’ goal is to advocate on issues such as discrimination, poverty, and many others. Starting at Dolores Park and proceeding around the Mission neighborhood, the park will also host live music as well as other performances for the duration. Don’t miss out on the Dykes on Bikes Pre-Pride Party, the evening of Dyke March, generally held at El Rio in the Mission.

Trans March, Fri., June 26th

SF’s largest transgender Pride celebration is also one of the largest trans events worldwide. Attended by thousands of people each year, the first one was organized in June 2004. Bustin’ Out: the Official Trans March After Party Benefit will be held at El Rio in the Mission for partiers 21+.

Pride Parade, Sun., June 28th

With a procession of 200+ parade contingents making their way down Market Street right in the heart of downtown SF, this is one of the must-see events of Pride weekend. Get there early to secure a good seat, or purchase a seat in the grandstands for prime viewing.

Mass Sundays, Sun., June 28th

If you’re not too tired from Pride activities, you’ll definitely want to check out Public Works’ after-Pride dance party starting at 8pm. With three stages of music, cuddle puddle, art, face painting and more, you’ll definitely feel like you’ve made the most of Pride 2015.

With everything going on for SF Pride 2015, you’re sure to find plenty of amazing things to do. Your only problem will be wishing you could be in several places at once!