Amsterdam, The Netherlands (Embarkation) Sunday, April 19, 2015
Welcome to Amsterdam! The Netherlands's capital is sophisticated and modern, extremely lesbian- and gay-friendly and has a rich and fascinating history. The works of famous Dutch masters can be seen in world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh. Today, you'll meet at the Olivia Host Hotel for your included transfer to the ship at approximately 4 pm and meet your Olivia staff and ship's crew at a welcome reception with dinner.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands Monday, April 20, 2015
There is no better way to see the city than by canal boat, cruising through the elegant grachten-lined canals with stately homes dating back to Amsterdam's Golden Age. This fabulous canal boat tour is included. Afterward, we'll return to our riverboat and set sail for Cologne.
Cologne, Germany Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Cologne is one of Germany's largest cities, with a river skyline dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent gothic cathedral. In 2010, it was the site of the Gay Games. The Germano-Roman Museum located next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs! Try a Kölsch in one of the many taverns and shop for a bottle of 4711, the original eau de cologne. Today's included walking tour ensures you see the highlights of this vibrant German city.
Koblenz–Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim, Germany Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Mosel rivers, 2,000-year-old Koblenz is the cultural and business center of the Middle Rhine region. The dramatic Rhine Gorge is the most beautiful stretch of river. You'll pass the legendary rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs of local beauties lured enchanted sailors to their doom. In Rüdesheim, Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Museum is a real treat! Enjoy a coffee or wine tasting, then explore the Drosselgasse on your own and pick up some souvenirs. The museum and walking tour are included.
Mainz–Heidelberg, Germany Thursday, April 23, 2015
Situated on the left bank of the Rhine, opposite the mouth of the Main River, Mainz is Germany's largest and most important wine town. Gutenberg, the father of modern printing, was born here and today you'll visit the Gutenberg Museum. On your included excursion to Heidelberg, you'll experience Germany's oldest university town. Take pictures of the ruins of the imposing red sandstone castle towering above the city, and enjoy free time to explore.
Strasbourg, France Friday, April 24, 2015
Situated on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg is influenced by the culture of both countries and is the capital of the Alsace region. It is the seat of the Council of Europe and the European Parliament. There is a lot to see in this fascinating city; highlights include the gothic cathedral, the lovely La Petite France district, Place Kléber, and Place Gutenberg. Take an included canal cruise and walking tour of the La Petite France district, or choose an optional excursion to the Alsace wine region.
Breisach, Germany Saturday, April 25, 2015
Located at the foot of Kaiserstuhl Mountain on the French-German border, Breisach is the gateway to Germany's Black Forest region, an area of unrivaled natural beauty with thick pine tree forests. Surely the most well-known products from this region are Black Forest ham and Black Forest cherry cake. Take advantage of an included excursion to the Black Forest and the open air museum, Vogtsbauernhof, or enjoy an optional bike tour.
Basel, Switzerland (Disembarkation) Sunday, April 26, 2015
After breakfast, we'll depart the ship and either return home or enjoy a post-vacation stretcher in Switzerland.
Traveler Info
Being Gay in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a very gay-friendly city. The Netherlands was the first country to legalize gay marriage. You can feel very secure holding hands and being yourself while walking the streets. We often work with "Pink Point," the main kiosk near the Homo monument to let them know we are arriving, and you will see many store fronts with Olivia signs, welcoming you all to Amsterdam!
Food
Traditional Dutch cuisine includes raw herring, meat, potatoes and oliebol (fried dough with currants and powdered sugar). Cheese, along with butter and buttermilk, are in abundance because dairy farms saturate the countryside. Cheeses such as Gouda, Edam and Leyden (cumin-infused) can be found in many markets in Amsterdam. Dutch colonization brought Indonesian immigration and cuisine to Holland and Turkish restaurants dot the city. Along the "walking" route, there are several pastry shops, pizza and Chinese food restaurants. There are also many Indian and Thai food choices as well.
There are few women-owned restaurants to enjoy; one we have visited for the past 4 years, Bistro Bij Ons, offers up local treats like stampot and boerenkool at affordable prices (we suggest you get a local to help you with pronunciation!). Run by Carla and Esther, this popular lesbian spot seems to have more people than tables, so make sure to call ahead for reservations.
Travel documentation and identification
You will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip. If you are not a U.S., or EU citizen, please check with both your country's consulate and the consulates of the countries we will be visiting to make sure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.
Where to fly into/out of
You will need to fly into Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport and out of Zurich International Airport. We encourage all passengers to extend their trip with our pre- and post-trip stretchers to enjoy all Amsterdam and Zurich have to offer, as well as to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.
Suggested arrival/departure times
Arrive into Amsterdam on day of departure prior to 2:00pm. Shuttle from the Amsterdam host hotel - Doubletree by Hilton, to the ship will be at approximately 3:30pm. Two/Three nights Pre-vacation stretchers in Amsterdam available.
Cruise Embarkation – April 19, 2015
Arrive into Amsterdam prior to 2:00pm. Shuttle from the Amsterdam host hotel - Doubletree by Hilton to the ship will be at approximately 3:30pm.
End of Cruise Departure out of Zurich – April 26, 2015
Flights should be for after 10:00am. Post-vacation stretchers in Switzerland also available.
Luggage allowances
While there is no luggage limit on the cruise itself, airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances. For travel in Europe, we recommend no more than one large piece and a smaller carry-on for ease of travel.
Transfers and Meeting up with Olivia
Please note that the docking locations for the ship vary and are not easy for taxi drivers to find. For this reason, we are offering a direct transfer to the ship from our host hotel - Doubletree by Hilton
A taxi from the airport to the hotel will run approximately €40-55. If they do not have a meter, be sure this is negotiated beforehand.
Central City Hotel shuttles are available for approximately €12-15 and can be purchased directly at the airport upon arrival.
Amsterdam has an excellent train system from the airport. Our host hotel is located just minutes from Central Station.
Dining
Fine dining on board offers European cuisine.
Electricity
The cabins have 110 and 220volt electricity. Adapters should be 2-round prongs.
Excursions
A walking and/or city tour is included in each of the ports visited. Optional tours are available to book on board that range from approximately €34 to €50.
Gratuities
Gratuities are included in the cost of the cruise. Gratuities are provided for your cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maître d' and other-behind-the-scenes crew members. Tipping is not included for the local guides. Below is a suggested guideline:
Local Guide: ½ day - €2-€3 or full day €4-€5
Bus driver: €1
Internet / e-mail / fax
There is an onboard Internet center; minute plans are available. Pricing will be posted on board. Guests may also bring their own laptops and use the complimentary wireless Internet plan.
Laundry and dry cleaning
Laundry and pressing service is available. Check on board for pricing.
Medical services
The ship is minutes away from hospitals when we are docked or close to local towns along the river. The ship does not have an onboard Doctor.
Money: Paying for things on board
The currency is €Euros. All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you create when you first check in. Please check with the front office on the ship for further details.
Smoking policy
The ms Felicity has entirely non-smoking interiors and balconies. A smoking area will be designated on the top deck, starboard side.
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