The Rhine Archives - Unique Journeys LLC

CRUISING THE RHINE AND MOSELLE

Aug 26, 2021

On October 26th I will be cruising the Rhine and Moselle rivers and would love to have everyone join me on this great cruise. Starting in Amsterdam, we will cruise down the scenic Rhine River and on to the Moselle, which has been called the most beautiful river in Europe.

AMSTERDAM

Welcome aboard The AMA Lucia, for the start of our cruise of The Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle.

Enjoy a stroll over many of the picturesque canals in Amsterdam

There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and we will get to enjoy some of them on our canal cruise. View the narrow houses, built that way because of taxes. Be amazed how goods were transported to the upper floors. They say that necessity is the mother of invention and you can see it in action in the homes that line the canals.

After our introduction to Amsterdam, it’s time to set sail. What a great time to meet our fellow travelers and acquaint ourselves with The AMALucia, our luxury home for the next 7 days.

COLOGNE, GERMANY

We start our cruising on the Rhine by going to Cologne. This is the home of one of Germany’s most revered Gothic masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. One of the most interesting sites in the Cathedral is the display which houses the remains of the Three Wise Men. https://www.koelner-dom.de/.

Also on the tour is the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall, the Old Market and the Heumarkt. Most of the ports on this cruise feature wine, but here in Cologne beer is king. Why not make a quick stop at one of the many local pubs and sample the famous Kölsch beer. It’s only made in Cologne While you’re at it, you should sample the reibekuchen, potato pancakes typically served with applesauce.

While I appreciate a good glass of beer, what I love above all else is chocolate. I truly enjoyed visiting the chocolate museum in Cologne. Not only was I able to indulge there, but I was persuaded to bring home something for friends and family. Why not join me in my quest for the perfect piece of chocolate. https://www.schokoladenmuseum.de/en/

RÜDESHEIM

On our way to Rudesheim we will pass through the Rhine Gorge. Arguably this is one of the most scenic passages on the river. We will glide by some of the dozens of castles that line the banks and have the opportunity to take some truly spectacular photos from the sun deck. Once in Rudesheim, we have several choices of excursions.

Drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue, and afterwards, be treated to a wine tasting.

For a more active adventure, we can hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River to admire the Rheingau.

Later in the day, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum charm you. What a delight this tour was. In this age of all digital, it was wonderful to see and hear these mechanical devices still working as they were intended. https://www.smmk.de/pages/de/willkommen.php

On the way back to the ship we can stop at one of the cafes in town. Here we can indulge in one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee. It’s ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee and whipped cream. YUM! A great end to another wonderful day on the river.

Enjoying the view

MAINZ – LAHNSTEIN

As we arrive in Mainz, we can join a walking tour of the many historic treasures. Included is one of Germany’s most important churches, St. Stephan’s Cathedral; home to the famous Chagall stained-glass windows. These magnificent windows were created by Chagall in hopes they would help heal the wounds left by WWII. As you gaze at them, you will see his deep commitment to that. This was the last commission of his life and his lifelong friend Charles Marq was tasked with finishing what he knew he couldn’t.

“For me a stained glass window is a transparent partition between my heart and the heart of the world”

Marc Chagall Quote

Another alternative is a walking tour of Mainz’s Old Town with a visit to the Gutenberg Museum. Here you will learn more about the German visionary’s inventions and have an opportunity to admire two of his original mid-15th century Gutenberg Bibles.

For a more active adventure, go on a guided bike tour through Mainz. (See you back at the ship) Later in the day, cruise to Lahnstein. Cap the day off with a visit to Lahneck Castle.

MOSELLE VALLEY – COCHEM

Spend the morning taking in the beauty of the Moselle on this scenic stretch of the river before reaching Cochem with its half-timbered houses and Reichsburg Castle.

We can join a guided tour through the castle and then walk through its Old Town. If you aren’t in the castle mood, let’s take a different adventure and tour one of Europe’s oldest working mustard mills. We can sample Cochem’s famous mustard. For those of you wishing to have a more active exploration of the area, you can hike up to the Reichsburg Castle or go on a guided bike tour through Cochem.

BERNKASTEL

Walk through Bernkastel’s colorful Old Town center and past many medieval and Renaissance buildings on a guided tour that also includes a winery visit and tasting.

Hikers can opt to trek up to the ruins of Landshut Castle, which dates all the way back to the 9th century and cycling enthusiasts can choose to join a bike tour along the Moselle.

LUXEMBOURG – DISEMBARKATION – PARIS

All good things must come to an end so we now disembark the ship, bid farewell to our crew and prepare for our return flight home.

BUT WAIT! I’m taking the post-cruise extension that gives me two nights in Reims so that I can indulge my other passion (besides chocolate) – Champagne.

When we disembark in Luxemburg on our journey to Reims we will have a walking tour of Luxembourg and then visit The American Cemetery and Memorial, which is the final resting place of General George S. Patton. Once checked into the hotel in Reims, I think I will set out to explore this ancient city including the Cathedral Notre Dame de Reims, which has seen the coronation of many French Kings. https://www.cathedrale-reims.com/ So much history and beauty.

Today, it is on to driving the route of champagne. Along this route are some of the most famous names in champagne; Epernay, Veuve Clicquot and Moet et Chandon. All this and driving through a beautiful countryside.

After checking out of the hotel, on the way to Paris there is a final tour in Reims of WWI sites such as the Belleau Wood American World War Monument.

We are in a different world today that we were last year and for this reason it is more important than ever to depend on the knowledge and expertise of a travel agent. I am committed to making sure you have the most up-to-date information available to make your vacation what you have dreamed it to be. We have all waited to be able to travel and now is the time to savor the joy of travel with friends and family. To that end, I have created several articles with tips to help you with the decision-making process.

Here is a must-read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. Contact me at Unique Journeys. I 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.

Let’s Get Cruisin’

AMA WATERWAYS = LUXURY ON THE RIVERS

Dec 8, 2020

AMA Waterways = Luxury on the Rivers? AMA means love. Having cruised with them on four separate occasions and sent many clients on their journey of a lifetime, I can say that AMA personifies that. From the moment you decide on your dream cruise, you will experience the values that have made them the river cruise experts.

While the ships themselves are elegant and tastefully appointed, it is the crew that really makes your cruise magical. They go beyond service to make you feel as if you are a valued member of their family. They see it as their mission to make this the best experience you can have. I have experienced this myself. A waiter remembering I like hot tea with breakfast rather than coffee; a crew member walking with a passenger to make certain they can navigate cobblestones; the hotel manager going ashore at a market town to buy local treats for the entire ship. These are just some of the examples of why AMA Waterways = Luxury on the Rivers. You will find your own reasons when you step onboard an AMA Waterways ship and experience that special love.

So, let’s discover all the ways AMA Waterways defines luxury on the rivers!

RUDI SCHREINER IS THE HISTORY OF AMA WATERWAYS : Sometimes an idea comes to you from somewhere you least expect it. A journalism assignment had Rudi designing and building his first ship, which was a raft he then sailed on the Amazon River. From there he decided to go into travel. In 1992 the Rhine-Main-Canal was completed and the AMA story begins. Rudi Schreiner, who has been dubbed “The Godfather of river cruising” is the architect for creating this innovative luxury river cruise company. He teamed up with Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy to make his dream come true. While Jimmy Murphy has passed away, the company is lucky to have his son Gary on board as one of its leaders.

AMA Waterways Luxury River Cruise Co-Owners

Meet the Architects of AMA Waterways Luxury River Cruises

THE SHIPS: There are 17 ships in the AMA Waterways fleet at this time and each one has been designed and created for the rivers and itineraries they will sail on. In addition to their regular fleet, you will see that Rudi is always innovating and introducing new concepts to river cruising.

Some of the elements common to most of the fleet are:

- Panoramic Lounge with bar
- Piano and dance floor
- Walking track
- Whirlpool, fitness room and bicycles for exploration
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Hair salon and massage services (Additional costs apply)
- The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant with glass-enclosed kitchen and tasting menu
- Breakfast and lunch featuring regional cuisine
- Exquisite multi-course dinners made with fresh local ingredients
- Hand-selected wine, beer and soft drinks with meals—plus a Sip & Sail cocktail hour
- All-day tapas menu and afternoon tea, 24-hour coffee station
- Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs
- Dinner, Captain’s Cocktail and Gala Dinner

AMA Magna-

With AMA Magna Rudi realized another of his dreams: to build a larger river cruise ship. She is twice the width of traditional European river ships and offers more personal space, more unique dining venues, and more leisure opportunities. She is redefining the river cruise experience! Most accommodations are spacious suites measuring 355 to 710 sq. ft. with full balconies. In addition to the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table, AMA Magna introduces two enticing new dining venues: Jimmy’s, a family-style restaurant named for AMA Waterways’ late Co-Owner Jimmy Murphy, and the Al Fresco Restaurant, with retractable windows and outdoor seating.

Both a sun-deck pool and whirlpool invite guests to refresh and enjoy the views. AMA Magna’s Zen Wellness Studio is an expansive space with a fitness center, two massage rooms, and a refreshing juice bar.

Golf Anyone? Imagine if there was a way to combine luxury river cruising on the iconic Danube with the opportunity to indulge your passion and play golf. AMA Waterways has created the perfect package to enable you to do just that. On the AMA Magna you can take advantage of the Exclusive Concierge Golf Program. Not only will you have a choice of excursions in every port, you will have the opportunity to play up to 5 rounds of golf at some of the leading championship courses on the continent.

AMA Waterways’ Exclusive Concierge Golf Program is available on select Romantic Danube and Melodies of the Danube cruises sailing aboard the AMA Magna.

AMA Dahlia-

Next year will see the return of AMA Waterways to Egypt with the introduction of the AMA Dahlia. The stunning AMA Dahlia is an inviting 68-passenger ship offering 18 standard staterooms and 16 magnificent suites. There are also a wealth of amenities that will surprise and delight you, including a heated sun-deck swimming pool and bar. These are in addition to the standard amenities throughout the fleet.

Marvel at scenic Nile River views in luxury, enjoy regionally inspired entertainment, and savor the flavors of both local and Western cuisine on board.

THE UNIQUE ITINERARY

AMA has put together an unparalleled 11-night Nile River cruise and land experience that includes exquisite cuisine, authentic experiences, and the extraordinary service for which AMA Waterways is renowned.

On the luxurious, newly designed AMA Dahlia you explore ancient wonders, such as the beguiling Temple of Luxor and the mystifying Valley of the Kings and Queens. Plus, come face-to-face with the last survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Sphinx and the three Pyramids of Giza. This unforgettable itinerary includes exclusive experiences, such as a private tour of the tomb of Queen Nefertari and a private lunch at the Abdeen Presidential Palace. Uncover the many mysteries and secrets that have shaped Egypt’s past and continue to influence the future of this remarkable land.

AMA Dahlia defines luxury on the rivers with AMA Waterways

Sail the Nile on the Luxurious AMA Dahlia

THERE’S MORE: AMA Waterways has put together several pre- and post-cruise packages to destinations in the region. If you have always wanted to see Dubai and the world’s tallest building, you can spend 3 nights there before the cruise. You can also do this and have a post-cruise 4-night stay in Israel.

Another choice is to have 4 nights in Israel with the 3 nights pre-cruise extension in Jordan.

What an extraordinary opportunity to see more of this ancient and historical part of the world.

An extraordinary visit to Petra is yours on the extension of your Nile Cruise with AMA Waterways

Zambezi Queen-

This ship was designed and created in 2009 to sail exclusively on the Chobe River. It’s small size, accommodating only 28 passengers, ensures unobstructed views of the wildlife from anywhere on the ship.

Imagine the photos you can take on your Chobe River cruise.

With AMA Waterways, there are five unique itineraries that include the 4-night cruise on the Chobe. With the Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruise, you can spend time in Cape Town and experience the world renown Victoria Falls on your 10-night adventure.

If you have always wanted to take a luxury rail trip, the Rivers & Rails of Africa tour will start in Cape Town, include your cruise and Victoria Falls and transport you to Johannesburg on the elegant Rovos Rail in an upgraded deluxe suite. You will have 13 nights of exquisite luxury on land, on your cruise and on the wonderful Rovos Rail.

Want to experience life in the bush? You should consider the 13-night Wildlife & The Falls itinerary. It combines Johannesburg, Victoria Falls and 3 nights in Kruger National Park. You will have morning and afternoon game drives, with only 6 guests in each vehicle to guarantee an opportunity for once in a lifetime sightings of the animals in their natural habitat.

If you want to savor this trip for longer, I suggest either the 15-night Stars of South Africa or the 17-night Golden Trails of East Africa.

Whichever option works best for you, this is the trip of a lifetime and now is the time for you to check it off your bucket list.

AMA Douro-

In 2019 Rudi and his team launched the AMA Douro to sail exclusively on The Douro river and explore Portugal and Spain. While she only has 51 staterooms, she exemplifies the same standards of luxury and service as others in the fleet.

There are two exciting 7-night itineraries: one exclusively in Portugal and another that includes the country of Spain. On both cruises you will experience the Port wine tastings, historic places that have been the destinations of pilgrims for hundreds of years and the wonderful tradition of Flamenco.

AMA Dara-

Envision Vietnam and Cambodia and you think of the exotic Mekong river, ancient temples and a culture very different from our own. You will experience all these and more with an AMA Waterways cruise. I will always remember when Jacqueline Kennedy visited Angkor Wat to fulfill one of her “lifelong dreams”. At that time, it was not something you or I could do. Rudi Schreiner and AMA Waterways have now made it possible for us to make this journey on the intimate 124-passenger AMA Dara.

You will visit rural villages, colorful markets, and a monastery, where you will receive a special Buddhist blessing. Delve into the peaks and valleys of Cambodia’s history in the Royal Palace and National Museums of its beautiful capital, Phnom Penh. Witness skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies, and be treated to authentic experiences, including rides via oxcart, tut tut and trishaw. On this transformative journey, the Mekong truly reveals a vibrant world along its shores.

NOW IS NOT TOO SOON to begin taking steps to find your next exciting river cruise. Unique Journeys is a valuable asset to make certain you get the right cruise at the right time and for the right price. Don’t go it alone and risk not having the best experience possible. Together we will give you the vacation you deserve.

Now that you are perusing river cruises to make the perfect choice, here is a must read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience you will want to contact expert Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assistance 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.

IMAGINE A TULIP TIME CRUISE WITH AMA

Nov 4, 2020

Imagine this: A tulip time cruise with AMA after a long winter, and the other events we have been subjected to. What a great way to celebrate Spring. River cruise ships are sailing now in Europe. When Americans are permitted to travel, there will be a tremendous pent up demand. If you want the best choice of dates and itineraries, now is the time to make your plans. In that vein, what could be better than imagining a Tulip Time Cruise with AMA Waterways. This is the perfect way to usher in spring. Your stop in Amsterdam will include a complimentary shore excursion to the famous Keukenhof Gardens where you can marvel at the acres and acres of beautiful flowers in bloom at the same time.

The garden is only open in the spring, so your river cruise is the perfect chance to experience the brief but spectacular season.

Take a walk and discover nature

Famous Keukenhof Gardens on Tulip Time Cruise

A wonderful view anywhere you look

While Amsterdam is synonymous with tulips, there is a great deal more to see and explore. Amsterdam is home to many sites no matter what your interests are. It is also an easy city to navigate with it’s many canals, bikes or even walking..

HISTORY IS YOUR PASSION?

Dark Times:

Schedule a visit to the Anne Frank House. Here you will see where the Frank family hid from the Nazis for years before being sent to concentration camps. The house is empty now, at the request of Mr. Frank He was the only survivor of the camps. Pictures and exhibits tell the story of a family trying to survive a terrible time. It is a truly moving experience as you imagine how they were able to live undetected for so long, and imagining if you and your family could have done the same.

Be Aware:

This is a very popular place to visit, so if you want to see it when you are in Amsterdam, so you should let our office assist you in making advance reservations, Also, because this house is just as it was when the Frank family was there, it is not handicap accessible and the stairs are narrow and steep. If you want to visit and just see the first floor, which has an informative video and houses the gift shop, you would be free to do so, but you will have to purchase a ticket.

Better Days:

While there are other reminders of a harsh past, there are also many reminders of the storied history of The Netherlands. There are uplifting sites which show the ingenuity and perseverance of the Dutch people. They have managed to reclaim land from the sea, dominate trade and create world-class artists.

If you are fascinated with the sea and trade, why not visit the Nederland Scheepvaart Museum. This wonderful museum recounts Holland’s history of trade and the ships that made them masters of the sea. While there you can see the East Indiaman, a reproduction of the original ship.

Think of this:

Their Nieuwe Kirk (Church) is from the 15^th Century. That’s their “new” church. It’s located in Dam Square, next to the Royal Palace. If you want to see an even older church, just visit Oude Kirk, which was consecrated in 1306.

ART ABOUNDS IN AMSTERDAM

The newly renovated Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are within walking distance of each other and you could easily spend an entire day visiting them.

If you’ve heard of the great painting The Night Watch, this is your opportunity to see it in person. A picture doesn’t even do it justice. What an amazing piece of art! As I stood in front of it, I was in awe of the genius it took to imagine and create a piece of this magnitude. The Rijksmuseum is filled with many major works of art, a nice restaurant and a gift shop where you might find just the right gift for the art lover on your gift list.

A chance on your Tulip Time Cruise to see the famous painting The Night Watch

The larger than life painting “The Night Watch”

Heading over to the Van Gogh Museum, you will be surrounded by the works of Vincent, from his self portraits to his famous Sunflowers painting. See his progression as an artist and his hope to inspire generations of artists even after his death.

Did You Know? There are actually five versions of the Sunflower paintings. You can learn all about it when you visit the museum.

Just a short canal ride away is the home Rembrandt lived in from 1639 until 1659. Along with an annex, built in 1998, it has been turned into a museum dedicated to his life and work. If you are there at just the right time, you can see a demonstration of printing just the way it would have been done when Rembrandt was alive.

Take a canal ride to Rembrandt’s House

It looks as if he just left

Your time in Amsterdam has been wonderful; enjoying the vibrancy of the city and the people who call it home; the great museums and the wealth of history.

TIME TO SET SAIL ON YOUR TULIP TIME CRUISE:

Your AMA Waterways ship is waiting for you to board so you can set sail for the rest of your cruise to Holland and Belgium. Settle in and get comfortable on your luxury hotel on the water. While seeing Amsterdam has been wonderful it’s now time to relax and meet your fellow passengers over a great meal. Now you can look forward to the interesting ports you are about to explore.

Middleburg is your first stop after cruising the Delta

As with all the ports you will visit, here you have a choice of several shore excursions, such as exploring this medieval city. At one time it was the second largest trading port for the Dutch East India Company A visit to the Delta Works will introduce you to the ingenuity of the Dutch and how they have been able to reclaim so much land from the sea. For the energetic, there is the option of a bike ride. While the country is flat, you must mind the winds.

Sailing on to Belgium

While docked in Ghent you will have several choices of interesting excursions. You can opt for a walking tour with free time. Why not have one of those great Belgian waffles that are so famous? There is also full day tour of both Ghent and Bruges which includes a tour of the Church of our Lady, home to Michelangelo’s magnificent Madonna and Child.

A highlight at the Church of Our Lady in Bruges

If you love chocolate, and who doesn’t, this visit with a master chocolatier is just the ticket. He will share secrets of making Belgium chocolate YUM!

In Antwerp there are tours for every interest; including a walking tour of the city or perhaps a tour to the former home of Rubens, the famous 17th-century painter.

After a fortifying lunch onboard, you have choices in the afternoon as well. If you didn’t overdose on chocolate the day before, you can take an excursion highlighting chocolate, beer and waffles. At least you can indulge, knowing that when it comes to your river cruise, someone else is driving.

Amsterdam isn’t your only chance to see tulips on this Tulip Time Cruise; you now have a chance to visit Floralia, where in the spring you have a chance to see one million bulbs, all planted by hand. Just thinking about it makes me tired.

Our Tulip Time Cruise is winding down as we sail into Rotterdam,

The city is also know as “The Gateway to Europe” and is our last stop before returning to Amsterdam.

For you history buffs, you can visit the place where the Pilgrims set off for the New World to start the long journey to a new life. You can ponder whether they had any idea of the hardships they would endure to secure their future. Perhaps you will find some of the answers on your visit to Delfshaven where it all started.

Another choice is to visit Delft, where the famous pottery is produced. I’m sure they have a great gift shop you can take advantage of to get a head start on your gift giving.

The afternoon takes us to Kinderdijk, famous for having the largest concentration of windmills in the country. What a wonderful way to end this fascinating and leisurely journey. Tomorrow we are back to Amsterdam to make preparations for our return to the real world.

Kinderjdik Windmills on your tulip time cruise

What a wonderful sight and so essentially Dutch

As you can see, there are many choices on how you will spend your time on your Tulip Time Cruise; so your chances of being bored are practically non-existent. Whether you choose the various shore excursions or go out on your own, you will have an exception cruise experience.

While imagining a Tulip Time cruise with AMA was the foremost reason for wanting to take this cruise, you will find that it will give you much more than experiencing the beautiful flower of the Netherlands.

On this cruise you will gain insight into a region that produced some of the greatest artists the world has known; a country though small in size dominated world trade; a country that has fought and continues to fight the sea to protect their land, a populace who in their small way sought to defeat the Nazis and has created a society that is tolerant of different lifestyles and cultures; something we can all aspire to.

NOW IS NOT TOO SOON to begin taking steps to find your next exciting river cruise. Unique Journeys is a valuable asset to make certain you get the right cruise at the right time and for the right price. Don’t go it alone and risk not having the best experience possible. Contact me and together we will give you the vacation you deserve.

Now that you are perusing river cruises to make the perfect choice, here is a must read article on avoiding river cruise booking mistakes. For the best river cruise experience you will want to contact expert Nancy at Unique Journeys. She will assistance you in finding the perfect cruise experience where you will create memories for a lifetime. You are welcome to find additional information at my co-branded website with AMA Waterways regarding the classic river cruise experience.

AVOIDING RIVER CRUISE BOOKING MISTAKES

Oct 14, 2020

Avoiding river cruise booking mistakes sounds complicated, but with the help of an experienced travel counselor to help make decisions, will not be. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Every trip is different, but this should help you get started on having a truly remarkable river cruise experience.

Avoiding River Cruise Booking Mistakes will guarantee a better river cruise experience

Docking in the city center

Ignoring the Destinations

If you have been on one of the larger ocean cruise ships, you know that there are so many venues on the ship, that going ashore sometimes seems unnecessary. On a river cruise ship, the destinations are the main focus. River ships don’t have casinos and grand stage shows. They focus on the towns and cities that have grown up on the river with their history, regional cuisines and culture. They dock mostly in the heart of the town, so you are only a gangplank away from seeing the sites.

Therefore to ensure you’ll enjoy the stops, take some time to read through the itineraries offered. Then select one that lines up with your interests and hobbies. Whether you want to take a themed cruise such as wine, golf, history and art, there is a cruise out just made for you.

Even though there are plenty of things to see and do, just relaxing on the ship can be one of the highlights of your trip. You will not be bored, but can pick and choose activities and leisure time.

Skipping an Extension

Many river cruises start and end at spectacular cities, such as Budapest, Vienna, Amsterdam or Paris. To make the most of your trip to Europe, consider arriving a few days early to the port city where your cruise begins — or stay longer at the place where your trip ends. This will give you some unstructured time to explore on your own.

All river cruise companies offer pre- or post-trips that you can easily connect to your cruise (many of these also include transfers to the ship). You can also arrange an extended stay on your own before sailing.

An added bonus: If you arrive a day or two early, you’ll have a built-in safeguard. If your initial flight to Europe is delayed and you arrive late, you won’t miss the cruise departure.

Avoid Over Packing and Packing the Wrong Gear

To pack the perfect suitcase, start by checking the average temperature for the places where you’ll travel. On many cruises, you’ll need a sweater or light jacket even during the summer months, as an evening breeze could create a chill on the boat.

River cruises are mostly casual with only one night that might require you to dress up and that’s the last night with the Captain’s farewell.

Keep in mind that all river cruise ships also have laundries so you can have a clean change of clothes overnight and this will save room in your suitcase for items you will surely bring home.

Since you’re likely to get in thousands of steps during the excursions, bring comfortable shoes that you can wear all day. Also pack a raincoat and compact umbrella so unexpected rain showers don’t catch you off guard.

As you fill up your suitcase, remind yourself that your cabin will likely be smaller than what you’d find on an ocean cruise ship. The less you bring, the less you’ll have to unpack in your space. Picking a main color will also help, since you can mix and match outfits.

To make the most of your clothing, think in layers: You might be able to dress up an outfit with a simple scarf or coat.

Power adapters are a necessity in the electronic age and you can easily find them at most stores such as Target, Walmart and Best Buy. Some even have multiple ports so that you can charge more than one device at a time. Extra batteries are also a great idea. Even if you don’t need them, I bet someone on the cruise will and you can save the day.

Not Double-checking Documents

To travel outside the United States you must have a valid passport. Most countries require a passport to be valid for at least six (6) months from the day you depart their country. Also, passports must be in good condition with no rips, tears or other issues. Make copies of your passport and keep them in separate places while you travel, so that if your passport is lost or stolen, it can be easily replaced. You should also leave a copy at home with a relative or friend.

You’ll want to make sure you have all your cruise documents in place before heading out. If you have booked your travel with a travel agent, they will have gone over them, but it never hurts to check them yourself.

Bring your driver’s license if you plan to rent a car during part of your time in Europe. Also take medical insurance cards, a copy of your prescriptions and a list of the medicines you’re taking.

A good idea is to print out an extra copy of your itinerary to leave at home so that if someone needs to contact you, they will have the information to do so. River cruise lines typically print a list of contact points with the documents you receive.

Erring On the Season

The peak cruising season for European rivers generally runs from April through October, but there are cruises on the Danube and Rhine through December for the Christmas Market cruise season.

The shoulder season months can give you the best bargains, but the weather can also be chilly. If you’re cruising Europe in April and May or October and November, make sure you pack plenty of warm layers and a rain jacket. Outdoor activities might be less fun than museum visits, so if you’re set on biking your way along the Rhine, take your cruise in the summer when you are more likely to have better weather.

Water levels can also fluctuate depending on the time of year. If you’re concerned about high water levels which can make it difficult for boats to pass through certain areas, avoid cruising in the springtime. Very low levels can happen in the heat of the summer, in August or September.

Planning for Quiet Days

As noted, river cruise ships dock for the most part in the center of the town or city you will be visiting. This gives you an opportunity to explore on your own. You can take part in a walking tour and then stay in town if you wish to do a little exploring on your own.

Also, most ships have shore excursions of varying activity levels, so you might choose a “gentle walker” shore excursion for the morning and maybe a more active one in the afternoon.

Most ships also carry bicycles so that you can ride around the area if you like. They also have bike tours led by members of the crew if you want company.

If you choose to stay one the ship, there is a library with books and games and you can relax in the lounge or the sun deck. If the weather is warm enough you can also take a dip in the pool or sit in the whirlpool. All the comforts of home.

Overlooking the Fine Print

Just like other cruises, you’ll want to read through the details before booking a river cruise.

While most cruise lines offer all-inclusive packages, it’s best to find out exactly what is covered — and what is not — in these deals.

Check to see if shore excursions, dinners and drinks, such as wine and beer are included, or if they come a la carte.

To properly plan your trip and budget, look carefully at all costs listed. Make sure the cruise offers features that appeal to you and sights you are longing to see.

After doing your homework, you’ll be ready for one of the most engaging ways to tour Europe.

INSURANCE

One of the biggest river cruise booking mistakes, and potentially the most costly is not taking out insurance on your trip. There are several ways to protect your trip; the cruise lines have insurance plans that cover all elements you have booked with them. However, if you book a pre-cruise hotel, your own air, etc. those would not be covered.

If you choose a third-party insurance, your pricing will depend on several factors, your age, the cost of your trip and the state you live in. Your travel agent will be able to research this and give you a price.

In these uncertain times it isn’t prudent to not have insurance to protect this major investment.

NOW IS NOT TOO SOON to begin taking steps to find your next exciting river cruise. Unique Journeys is a valuable asset to make certain you get the right cruise at the right time and for the right price. Don’t go it alone and risk not having the best experience possible. Contact me at Unique Journeys so you can start planning to give you the vacation you deserve.

WILL YOU BE BORED ON A RIVER CRUISE?

Aug 19, 2020

WILL YOU BE BORED ON A RIVER CRUISE? The activities on a river cruise are plentiful and varied; you will only be limited to what you have time for. Your days can be filled with as many activities as you want or no activities at all. Sometimes it’s enough to sit by a window and watch the world go by.

How can you be bored when sharing a cup of Gluwine on your Christmas Market Cruise

Visit the Magnificent Melk Abbey on your cruise on the Danube

Many of us are guilty of falling into a dreary work week routine that has us counting down the minutes until Friday.

On an Ama Waterways river cruise, you’ll say goodbye to your standard routine and hello to outdoor activity, fine dining and relaxation. The goal for activities on a river cruise is to give you the flexibility to do as much or as littles as you want.

When you’re not touring a destination, you’ll be enjoying the many amenities offered on the ship, as well as breathtaking views from the Sun Deck. With a smaller number of passengers on board, you’ll have more time to enjoy the amenities in a more personal way.

After their river cruise, John and Debby say Ama Waterways “is a first-class operation and we felt more like honored guests than passengers.”

Interested in what a typical day may look like on your river cruise? All cruises offer the below amenities for you to take advantage of throughout the day, thus keeping boredom at bay.

Fitness Center & Classes

No matter your usual activity level, each ship offers a fitness center to help you stay active between excursions. And if the treadmill isn’t your preference, there is also a professionally trained Wellness Host offering daily classes. Start your day with a yoga session on the Sun Deck or a light stretch class, and set the tone for a relaxing day.

No need to forego your exercise program-just meet on the Sun deck

Fun in the sun!

Award-Winning Meals

No boring meals on a river cruise! You can go with your old favorites or explore regional classics.

Enjoy coffee and breakfast each morning, starting with an early bird selection in the lounge or a cooked to order breakfast in the restaurant. If you are preparing to go on an excursion, have a light lunch in the lounge or sit down to a full menu in the main restaurant. During the day you can find coffee, tea and hot chocolate in the lounge along with light snacks. Save some room for tea time each afternoon with exquisite desserts set out in the lounge.

you can't be bored while enjoying tea time onboard your river cruise

One lump or Two?

The challenge will be what to choose. You will experience exquisite meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients for dinner. Don’t forget-lunch and dinner come with both red and white wine of the region you are cruising through. Ama Waterways is especially known for its fantastic meals on board.

You can book and experience The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant for at least one evening. These multi-course meals including wines to match each course are prepared in front of you by the ship’s chef. Below is a review by someone who has experienced the marvelous experience.

No boredom here-just great company and a fantastic meal

A great night at the Chef’s Table.

“The Chef’s Table was an evening to remember! Watching the preparations throughout the evening, and then getting to enjoy them was great fun! We have actually re-created a dressing that he used on the Watermelon and Seared Goat Cheese salad!”

Salon & Spa

No vacation is complete without a bit of pampering. The spa on board offers massages throughout the day so you can relax on your own schedule. With fewer guests on board you won’t have to fight for an appointment.

Feel like going out for the evening while the is in port? Let the stylists at the salon give you a new look or simply help you look and feel your best before heading out.

Deck Pool

You may not choose a tropical cruise, but that doesn’t mean you can’t relax and enjoy the sun on the top deck! All ships have a heated pool (some with a swim-up bar for optimal enjoyment) or a jacuzzi, perfect for relaxing any tired muscles while cruising past the graceful, castle-filled countryside of Europe.

Put yourself in this picture relaxing with friends and family

Feel free to come back out when the sun goes down. As you cruise past larger cities, the views of bridges full of lights or cathedrals lit up under the stars are extraordinary.

This is the perfect atmosphere to socialize with your party and other guests. Many cruisers have truly built long-distance and lasting friendships and even return time and time again to cruise with people they met on previous sailings!

Excursions

Regardless of which cruise itinerary you choose, you’ll have a variety of excursions to choose from. Activity level varies to suit your preference for the day and bikes are available on the ship for you to take into town. There is even a tour option for “late risers” if you’d like to take advantage of your lush bed and catch a few extra zzzs.

During some stops, you may prefer a mild hike; on others, wine tasting or touring a Kölsch brew pub. Alternatively, you may wish to take on some free time with your group and explore the city. Some clients’ favorite days are strolling through the cobblestone streets of obscure cities, feeling out the local culture.

So unless you really try, you won’t be bored on whichever river cruise you decide to take.

Best in Class Service

If there is anything that could make your time on board the ship better, let the Ama Waterways team know! The only thing better than the dining experience is the service. The team truly prides itself on building relationships with each guest and creating a family-like feel for your journey.

“Service was awesome. The crew was great. Truly for us, it was the “trip of a lifetime” kind of thing…”

So, what are you waiting for? Will you be bored on a river Cruise? The ships are great, the scenery and ports are amazing, the food is delicious and the crew is focused on making this the trip of a lifetime. I don’t think boredom is an option. It’s time to book your next European vacation. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have about traveling through Europe by river and get your end-to-end travel confirmed. All you need to decide is when you want to go and who you’d like to travel with!

Contact Nancy at Unique Journeys for assistance with finding just the right cruise experience. You can also find more information regarding the AMA Waterways luxury river cruise experience at https://www.amawaterways.com/agent/uniquejourneys