Day 1: Embarking on the AmaWaterways Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps Christmas Markets River Cruise
- Mary Graham
- Dec 3, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 11, 2024
Our journey began in the enchanting city of Amsterdam, where excitement was in the air as we boarded the beautiful AmaMora for AmaWaterways’ Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps cruise, with a festive “Taste of Christmas Markets” twist. Embarkation Day felt like a perfect prelude to the magic that lay ahead.
I was delighted to see the elaborate holiday decorations both outside and inside our ship! Garlands with twinkle lights coated every surface and an enormous Christmas tree dominated the lobby area. This was just a hint of all the magic to come!
After a smooth check-in process, we dropped off our bags and headed straight to the lounge for a light lunch. The casual atmosphere and panoramic views from the floor-to-ceiling windows gave us our first taste of the relaxing rhythm of river cruising. With delicious bites in hand and friendly faces around, the excitement for the week ahead began to sink in.
We decided to head out to explore Amsterdam. Since were were just there in March and had taken in the top sites like Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, we looked for something different. I found 'Fabrique des Lumières,' an immersive digital exhibition housed in an industrial space with projections and music that brought works of Vermeer and Van Gogh to life. I had been to a similar exhibit in Paris, Atelier des Lumières years ago and was excited to have a similar experience. I highly recommend checking this out, especially if traditional art museums are too stuffy for your taste.
Following the exhibit, we walked through Amsterdam, visiting some shops along the way. By 4 PM, we returned to find our room ready and our luggage waiting for us—a seamless and welcoming start. Unpacking didn’t take long in the thoughtfully designed cabin, which offered plenty of storage and a cozy space to call home for the next few days. The view from our balcony hinted at the adventures to come, with the city’s canals sparkling under the afternoon sun.
At 6 PM, it was time for Cocktail Hour, an opportunity to mingle with fellow travelers and sample expertly crafted drinks. The ship’s bartenders were warm and attentive, setting the stage for a convivial evening. By the time dinner rolled around at 7 PM, we were more than ready for the culinary delights AmaWaterways is known for.
Dinner was a highlight, as we sat with other guests and shared stories over a delectable multi-course meal. The chef’s seasonal creations paired perfectly with complimentary wine, which flowed freely and added to the festive atmosphere. The conversation was lively, and it was clear that the bonds formed at the dinner table would make this trip all the more memorable.
The evening continued back in the lounge, where live music provided the perfect backdrop to relax and unwind. The pianist’s melodies created a cozy ambiance as we reflected on our day, sipping on a nightcap. With the soft sounds of the river and music in our ears, we headed to bed early, eager to recharge for the adventures ahead.
Day 1 on the AmaMora was everything we hoped it would be: smooth, welcoming, and full of warmth and connection. We fell asleep dreaming of the castles, Christmas markets, and alpine wonders that awaited us on this unforgettable journey.
Mary Graham has been a Travel Advisor for more than 8 years and specializes in river cruises and travel to Europe. When she isn't traveling the world, Mary lives in North Carolina with her husband. She has two young adult daughters and a dog named Penny.
コメント