River Cruises, a Journey to Remember

Aug 10, 2023

River Cruises genuinely create a Journey to Remember

As a seasoned travel agent with an adventurous spirit and over two decades of expertise in the industry, I am beyond thrilled to share my most unforgettable experiences aboard AmaWaterways’ river cruises. Having personally cruised on many of these breathtaking river journeys, I can attest to the unrivaled comfort, luxury, and excitement that awaits you. From the moment you step aboard their elegant ships, you’ll be whisked away on an extraordinary journey that weaves relaxation, indulgence, and captivating discoveries into one extraordinary tapestry. Join me as we delve into the exceptional ship amenities and accommodations that make AmaWaterways the epitome of river cruise experiences. There is a multitude of fabulous cruises celebrating and partaking in different events, such as the wine cruises with 60+ departures and culinary experiences; they have teamed with Ancestry for cruises to research your roots, Christmas Markets (my personal favorite), Tylip Time, which showcases Keukenhof in the spring with over 7 million tulips, they have music Centrix cruises, etc. The options are endless. Let’s have a conversation.

Luxurious Accommodations

Picture yourself in a realm of pure opulence, surrounded by breathtaking river vistas as you embark on your AmaWaterways adventure. Drawing from my firsthand experiences, I can confidently say that their staterooms and suites redefine luxury on the water. As a travel agent who has personally indulged in these lavish accommodations, let me share my genuine excitement about their comfort and elegance.

You DESERVE the BEST!

Personalized Service

AmaWaterways’ dedication to personalized service goes beyond extraordinary – it’s a heartfelt journey of hospitality. From the warm welcome by the crew to the attentive butler service for suite guests, every moment is infused with warmth, making you feel like royalty throughout your sojourn.

Thoughtful Details

Prepare to be enchanted by the carefully curated details that grace each stateroom. The cozy ambiance, well-designed layouts, and modern amenities create a sanctuary of tranquility and elegance, ensuring your river cruise becomes your to escape from the ordinary.

Insider’s Tips

As your seasoned travel agent and fellow river cruiser, I’ve experienced firsthand the hidden gems aboard these remarkable ships. Allow me to be your guiding compass, helping you navigate the many stateroom options and ensuring you find the perfect one that aligns with your dreams and desires.

Onboard Amenities

Hold onto your hats as we whisk you to an experience like no other. The onboard amenities offered by AmaWaterways have a magnetic charm that leaves you craving more.

Cultural Enrichment:

Immerse yourself in captivating conversations with local experts as they weave tales of ages past into the vibrant tapestry of the present. AmaWaterways’ unwavering commitment to cultural immersion will ignite your curiosity, enrich your heart and soul, and awaken a passion for exploration like never before.

Tailored Experiences

My journeys on these floating havens have taught me that each traveler is unique and every adventure should be crafted to reflect your heart’s desires. Together, we’ll handcraft an itinerary reflecting your passions and interests, making every experience a bespoke masterpiece.

Exclusive Offers

Unlock the door to hidden delights secured by my personal connections with AmaWaterways and the travel industry. I’m devoted to ensuring you enjoy exclusive perks and promotions, adding an extra sprinkle of magic to your AmaWaterways river cruise.

With boundless enthusiasm, a wealth of experience, and an adventurous spirit, I wholeheartedly recommend AmaWaterways for a river cruise voyage that will forever be etched in your heart. My journeys with them have ignited a genuine passion for their unparalleled service, luxurious accommodations, and enriching activities.

Join me as we embark on a river cruise adventure that will take you beyond the boundaries of imagination.

Together, we’ll discover a wealth of personalized experiences, handpick the perfect stateroom, and create unforgettable moments that will leave you yearning for more. AmaWaterways’ river cruises transcend the notion of ordinary vacations – they are captivating journeys that will awaken your senses, reignite your love for exploration, and revitalize your spirit. So, let’s set sail on a remarkable river experience with AmaWaterways, and together, we’ll create memories that will dance in your heart forever.

We would love to help you plan your next vacation. Our passion for travel is River Cruises.
Considering taking a cruise, here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience, you will want to contact Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assist you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime. You are welcome to find additional information at AMA Waterways regarding the luxury river cruise experience.

EXPLORING ALASKA – THE GREAT LAND

Jun 29, 2023

EXPLORING ALASKA – THE GREAT LAND

If exploring Alaska – The Great Land is on your bucket list, and it definitely should be, here a few examples of how you can plan a trip that fits your schedule and how you like to travel. The season is short and runs from May through September, so you will need to do your research and planning to get the most out of your trip. Alaska is so vast that no matter how, when or where you choose to go, you will find extraordinary sights beyond anything you have imagined.

CRUISING

ADVANTAGES

The major cruise lines send some of their ships to Alaska for the summer. Two of the most well-known are Holland America and Princess. They have been cruising Alaska for many years and have a variety of itineraries.

Depending on your time frame, they have cruises for 7 days, 10 days and even longer. The obvious answer to why take a cruise is the fact you pack once and stop at many of the favorite stops in Alaska. You take your hotel with you. You can choose a basic cabin or one with a balcony. There are different levels to fit all lifestyles.

There are multiple venues for meals and snacks, so you can find something at almost any time of day. If you choose not to ashore, there are options for things to do on the ship also. There are pools, both for everyone or adults only. Some ships have climbing walls, basketball courts and skating rinks.

DISADVANTAGES

Your time in every port depends on the ship’s schedule. If you don’t want to take their shore excursions, you must be disciplined enough to be back on the ship when you are told to do so. The ship will not wait for anyone who doesn’t conform to this and will leave at the appointed time.

While it is mostly like an all-inclusive resort, you will still have to pay for your individual drinks (unless you sign up for one of their drinks packages).

There is a charge for wi-fi and depending on the package, you will have to pay for each device.

In making phone calls from the ship, I learned this lesson personally. When you are in international waters, the cost for a phone call is extremely high.

Did You Know – Juneau is the only state capitol in the United States you can’t drive to. Taking a cruise that includes this stop enables you to visit this isolated state capitol. It’s also your opportunity to see Mendenhall Glacier. While you are there you can see a real result of climate change as it is pointed out how far the glacier has retreated. It gives you pause as to how we have altered nature.

Visit the Mendenhall Glacier and explore the Visitor Center

View from the Visitor Center to the Mendenhall Glacier

Even on a rainy day as it was the day I visited; you can’t help but be in awe of something as magnificent as what nature has created.

SMALL SHIP CRUISING

ADVANTAGES

There are also cruise companies who specialize in more educational cruising. They don’t feature all the activities of the larger cruise ships, but specialize in getting up and personal with wildlife. They go ashore in zodiacs and explore areas the larger ships can’t access. An example of this type of experience is https://www.nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/destinations/north-america/ocean/alaska-cruise/

DISADVANTAGES

They don’t have the facilities of the larger ships with activities for all ages. This is a cruise more suited to older children and adults who won’t miss the multiple food venues, pools, etc.

CRUISING AND LAND PACKAGES

These are the longer cruises which incorporate some type of 7-day cruise with land packages including Denali, The Yukon and other places in Alaska. These cruises are not round trip as the shorter cruises. You will depart from say Vancouver and return from Anchorage. These itineraries enable you to see more highlights since you will not have to return to your embarkation point.

They are, by definition, longer. If you have the time, these cruises are excellent options to see more of The Great Land, both from your ship and from travelling on land.

Did you know – Denali is the highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet and the northern most mountain over 19,685 feet in the world.

Alaska - The Great Land home of wonderful sled dogs

Sled Dogs of Alaska

LAND-BASED PACKAGES

If setting sail doesn’t float your boat, there are land packages out there to give you a great Alaska experience. Two of the best suppliers who have been doing this for years are Tauck and Collette.

Making memories with family

Tauck has many different programs in Alaska, but one of the most popular is a program geared for families called Bridges. On their Alaska tour, they guarantee:

“Alaskan family fun sunrise to sunset… meet champion Iditarod sled dogs… take a flightseeing tour over Denali National Park… go jet boating, wilderness hiking, kayaking… take a rail trip… spot Alaska’s magnificent wildlife…. learn about native Alaskans and their rich cultural heritage…”

This adventure can be shared by multi-generations and the memories will last a lifetime, especially for your children sharing this experience with their family.

Collete, while they don’t have tours geared toward families, they have their exclusive Small Group Explorations. These tours are limited to around 16 passengers, so you can Access places you’ll never forget – like destinations that larger groups can’t always reach. You will stay in culturally reflective accommodations. There is also the promise built-in free time.

I have done the cruising and land options. Every port or stop held numerous opportunities to explore and learn about our largest state. On my next journey, I will be able to choose different options and get to know Alaska that much better. I guarantee when you go once, you will want to return. I DID!

Contact me at https://unique-journeys.com/ and together we can start you on a path to your next great adventure.