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The hubby and I just got back from our Alaskan cruise, Victoria Island and Seattle vacation on Thursday at the crack of 4am. Despite our crazy flight back, this vacation was one of our all-time favorites and the most relaxing.
We have such crazy schedules where most of our waking hours always seem to inevitably be booked up. When we finally get to treat ourselves to any getaway, our goal isalwaysjust to chill out, make time for ourselves and slow down so that for the most part we won’t have to lift a finger to do much. For that reason, going on a cruise for us is one of the best vacations money can buy without spending too much time being riddled with frustration on actual travel getting to places while hauling luggage around. To us, it’s comparable to doing an all-inclusive vacation, except even better – for the simple fact you wake up each day in a new and exciting city to explore as your heart desires! Furthermore, the excitement of the anticipated itineraries received daily about different events going on aboard the ship while at sea make it that much more thrilling.
Not to mention, we find sailing the high seas on a grand vessel leisurely taking you to these remarkably spectacular destinations to be one of the most romantic, and perfect ways to disconnect. But choosing the right cruise line, even more specifically, the right ship within the fleet, is key to assuring an unforgettable getaway experience of a lifetime. For us, that means excellent service, sunset views unmarred by crowds on a deck, quiet culinary chef wine pairing dinner experiences for two without the noise of whiny kids, cozy lounge spots free of an uncouth populace, great on board shows, and of course an unforgettable voyage itinerary. We thought what better way to celebrate the beginning of summer than on the ocean with Holland America Line ms Amsterdam this time around. Thus far, out of all the cruises we’ve taken, Holland America cruise line has hit the mark.
Opportunities abound to indulge your every sense, from starting your day having a well-presented delicious breakfast served to you in the dining room surrounded by scenic ocean views (or in your room if that’s your preference), to catching up on reading at one of the elegantly decorated lounges and/or cozy nooks throughout the ship, to doing absolutely nothing besides sipping on a favorite bevvy at one of their moody bars as you enjoy the songs of the piano man. In the mood to watch a movie? Rent one from their list of over 1000 movies or catch one in the movie theater on board. Or delight in what became one of my favorite rituals: ‘classic afternoon tea’! But if a moment of pampering at the spa is a more palatable option for you, then there’s a full list of services awaiting for you to indulge in. Honestly, you can do as little to doing everything you love – limited only by your personal desire and preference.
Whether you are looking to refresh body and mind, reflect, rekindle romance with your beloved, an adventure on the high seas, or a culture-enriching experience for your next vacation – a cruise with Holland America (if you haven’t sailed with them already) is a must. We especially loved and appreciated the friendliness of the staff. Their smiles and friendliness were real, not feigned like we’ve experienced on other ships. It’s a cruise line that offers something for everyone and the exceptional service by their attentive staff, is outstanding!
P.S. Stay tuned for my upcoming Alaskan cruise highlights of each city, including the two that were my favorites.