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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.

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.

CRUISING THE BEAUTIFUL WINE REGION OF BORDEAUX

May 28, 2018

Cruising the wine region of Bordeaux will conjure up mental pictures of France and acres and acres of grape vines; remind you of great evenings by the fire with a glass of wine; sharing a glass of wine with dinner and friends or just relaxing after a long day.

Well, taking a river cruise to the Wine Region of Bordeaux will surpass anything you can imagine.

View of the vineyards at Chateau de la Riviere Estate and Winery

I am the first to admit that before this wine-themed cruise I knew very little about grapes, terroir and the making of wine, but I learned a great deal on this cruise even though I was having a wonderful time doing it. All of our guides were so engaging and enthusiastic, you couldn’t help but soak up some of their great knowledge. For instance, when we visited a vineyard specializing in Sauterne grapes, we learned about the “noble rot” which sounds awful, but is the fungus which produces the great sauternes from that region. I will say that several in our group walked out of there with bottles of wine to enjoy later.

Without being conscious of it, I learned that wines from Bordeaux are a mix of different types of grapes and that each year the mix is different depending on the weather and how it affects the different grape varieties. I found out that all the grapes are hand-picked and that to be an organic wine, they can’t even water the grapes. Mother Nature rules in the vineyards of Bordeaux.

Who Doesn’t Love a Farmers Market?

Cadillac Market

Almost all cities and towns in France have market days and we were lucky enough to be in Cadillac on theirs. We were able to stroll around and buy bread, fruit and cheeses direct from the people who grow and produce them. The people are so friendly and willing to answer any questions you have and the variety of goods is wonderful. I bought some great cheese and fruit to snack on later. A great way to remember Cadillac. There is nothing like spending time at a local market to get a flavor of the area

Did you know they use eggs in wine?

There is a tradition in Bordeaux of using egg whites in the wine casks to help remove sediment during the wine-making process. As you can imagine, this leaves you with lots of egg yolks. The French have solved this problem by creating caneles, which are small pastries made only with egg yolks. I applaud their ingenuity. The cruise director brought several boxes back to the ship and put them out for everyone to try. I had several caneles. Okay, I probably had more than a few.

Not all highlights of a cruise have to be about activity

Here’s a question – how many of us have free time in our everyday lives to just sit back and totally relax. Onboard a river cruise, when you are cruising between ports, you have that opportunity. You can sit in the lounge and just watch the countryside go by, perhaps enjoying a glass of wine from the bar. Maybe you are a card player; there are tables in the lounge set up for whatever card game you would like to indulge in. If you love to read, bring your own book or enjoy one from the library.

There is time for relaxation and reflection on a Bordeaux wine cruise

Early Morning fog as we sail toward another great day on our AMA Waterways wine cruise

Sitting on the sun deck is also an option if the weather cooperates. You could also enjoy that glass of wine in the hot tub or pool. I love early mornings, especially if there is a fog hanging over the river, isolating you from the rest of the world. I shot this picture while standing at the bow of the ship watching a crew member communicating with the Captain by walkie talkie as they steered us safely through this and several other bridges. Our captain was very young, but as you can see, very experienced. What an exhilarating experience to see the bridge emerge out of the fog and to sail gently through. So quiet and ethereal-it was one of the highlights of the cruise.

There are lots of possibilities, but they all have one overriding theme – this is your time to sit back, relax and let someone else steer the boat.

Now is the time to make your dreams a reality. Contact me at www.unique-journeys.com to set up an appointment to book your unforgettable river cruise

THE MAGIC AND WONDER OF CHRISTMAS MARKETS BY RIVER CRUISE

May 16, 2018

Do you Believe in Magic?

I believe in magic and you will too when you board your river cruise and see it decked out for the holidays. The magic and wonder of a Christmas Markets cruise in Europe is one way to re-capture the Christmas magical feelings of your youth and give it as a gift to your children. Take a river cruise to the Christmas Markets of Europe and you can introduce your children to cultures and traditions different than your own. You can expand their horizons and help them understand other societies. You can watch their eyes light up as you wander the various markets with their array of hand-crafted toys, ornaments and delectable treats. This is the true magic of Christmas.

Christmas is still very much a religious and family-oriented holiday in the countries you will visit. While shopping is a theme of your shore excursions, intertwined with every market are Christmas concerts at the beautiful churches and areas for the children to play and have fun.

You and your children will be exposed to traditions that have been handed down in families for hundreds of years and you will be learning about different cultures while you are having the time of your life.

Caroling

When you board your river cruise ship, you are surrounded by energetic crew members excited to help you enjoy and get the most out of your cruise, a ship that has been transformed into a Christmas fantasy, and the promise of a great experience in some of the most iconic European cities and towns. However, there is one element that is waiting for your special touch – the passengers get to decorate the tree.

WHAT’S A PICKLE GOT TO DO WITH IT?

Another fun activity onboard the ship is the hunt for the pickle. The Legend of the Pickle is hundreds of years old in Germany and your family will learn the legend and will get a chance to “hunt for the pickle”. Will you be the one to find the pickle? Even if you aren’t, it’s a great family activity, that you can take home with you and start your own tradition.

LET’S TALK ABOUT THE INTRIGING CITIES YOU CAN VISIT

Your floating hotel will enable you to see many of the cities you have always heard about at a magical time of year when they are decked out for the Holidays. Some of the greatest cities in Europe are on the rivers, such as Vienna, Budapest, Strasbourg, Amsterdam and many others.

FEAR NOT FOODIES AND PICKY EATERS – YOU ALL CAN “HAVE IT YOUR WAY”

Breakfast and lunch can both be buffets or you can order off the menu. At lunch, you just want something quick so you can make that afternoon shore excursion? There is a shortened lunch menu in the lounge. Tired from all that shopping, exploring and absorbing history, how about a small assortment of sandwiches and desserts to keep your strength up until dinner. While you have been enjoying family time, your chef and his group of talented cooks has been creating food almost too good to eat. I managed and I’m sure you will too. Now, go rest up for dinner – where you have lots of menu choices.

While every city and town is celebrating Christmas, there will be regional specialties in each destination which are steeped in the history of the area. You and your family will learn the traditions that have been practiced for hundreds of years and handed down from generation to generation. Take Regensburg for example. It is the oldest town on the Danube and home to one of the oldest sausage shops, Wurstkuchl. This is a must stop before you start to explore this town which has over 1,000 historic buildings.

DO YOU HAVE A SWEET TOOTH?

Along with the wonderful treats created onboard your ship, you will find great regional specialties in each city. Take Nuremberg for example. Along with one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe, they are famous for their gingerbread. Smelling it is almost as much fun as tasting it, but not quite. And, you will get to taste it everywhere.

While in Vienna, you can taste Sacher Torte. While not a Christmas specialty, you can learn how it originated at the Sacher Hotel. Pull up a chair and you can enjoy it where it was first served. You should also order one of my favorites while there, hot chocolate MIT SCHLAG. This is one of my special treats. In German, Mit Schlag means with cream and in Austria, you get a lot of Schlag when you ask for it.

HOW TO EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC AND WONDER OF A CHRISTMAS CRUISE

If you want your family to experience the magic and wonder of a Christmas Market cruise this year, you need to call me. The earlier the better to insure your family get the perfect accommodations on your first choice of dates. Many times the early you book the better the price. The first step is up to you. I’ll await your phone call.

WHY I LOVE RIVER CRUISES-AND YOU WILL TOO

Apr 5, 2018

SIZE DOES MATTER: Most river cruise ships only hold around 160 people. Just enough fellow passengers to give you an opportunity to get to know them over the course of the cruise, but not overwhelming. THIS IS WHY I LOVE RIVER CRUISES-AND YOU WILL TOO. On large cruise ships you might not see the same person twice; not so on a river cruise with less than 200 people. On a river cruise there is a certain camaraderie among the passengers and the crew which I find comforting.

Ever get lost on a large cruise ship? It can’t happen on a river cruise ship. While there are several areas to relax in, such as the lounge or the sun deck, they are easy to find.

DIET? Of course you can maintain your diet on a river cruise. There are always healthy choices and vegetarian options available on river cruises. Just don’t look at the beautiful presentations of the breads and pastries.

However, if you do indulge you can reassure yourself that you will be taking one of those walking excursions soon, so all will be well.

BOWLING ANYONE? (more…)