CaroleLee

Hello All,

 

My wife and I are considering our 1st river cruise for sometime in 2018. For those of you who booked a cruise with AMA Waterways, did you use a travel agent or did you book directly with the cruise line? I usually book our ocean cruises directly with the cruise line but may consider using a travel agent for our first river cruise since it will all be new.

 

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

 

Brian

Hi,

My husband & I did Spain & Provence July 2016 on AMA. They were wonderful. Cabins are very nice & storage is good (shelves yea!)Cruise director (nick) and local guides were excellent. I am surprising him with Paris-Normandy this year.

As for booking- these are my rules - 1. Find the rack rate (booklet) of thetrip you want. Add in port charges and upgrades. 2. If you have a club membership (Sam BJ etc) Airline, AMEX call them and ask for their rates. Also call AMA directly and get their rates. Then do the math and decide. A good TA will get you value for your $- plus sometimes throw in bonus OBC etc.

Enjoy your trip

carole

Does anyone have any info on the AMA Waterways "Happy Hour" program?Carole

With the christening of the new Uniworld vessel, the S.S. Joie de Vivre, coming up in March, I would like to come back to the docking situation in the various ports along the Seine. This topic came up when in 2015 the Viking Rinda was moved to the Seine from the Rhine and was not able to dock in Paris city centre as the older Viking ships had done. The old ships of Viking were to be phased out and all replaced by the longships or new ships on the Elbe, where a different design was necessary - specific to the navigational challenges of that river.

 

The new situation on the Seine with Viking caused disappointment with cruisers and was addressed - among others - in this thread: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2215113&highlight=Le+Pecq

 

So what is special about the S.S. Joie de Vivre? She is the only ship on the Seine with a length of 125m. Seeing that almost all new ships on the "standard" rivers are built with a hull of either 110m or 135m there had to be a reason. Finally I have seen this addressed and plainly explained in writing in the article I am about to link: "The S.S. Joie de Vivre will sail Uniworld’s Paris & Normandy itinerary, and was built at 125 meters as opposed to the standard 135 meters, allowing it to dock in the heart of Paris."

 

http://www.travelagentcentral.com/cruises/dame-joan-collins-to-be-godmother-uniworld-s-s-s-joie-de-vivre

 

Viking will continue to dock in Le Pecq and Arosa who have moved the "Viva" to the Seine will dock there as well as the Viva is 135m long. While Viking clearly states Le Pecq as the embarkation port on the website (you just need to look a bit more closely under ports) ARosa does not mention Le Pecq as clearly.

 

Meanwhile, CroisiEurope, with their policy of 110m boats, continues to dock in Paris.

 

Riviera Travel UK even employs a smaller boat, the Swiss Ruby, for the Seine itineraries.

 

The docking situation on the Seine appeared to be "in flux" for a couple of years, Honfleur needed to sort out the regulations and at Paris it is still not clear from French reports if the 135m boats will be allowed into the Paris boundaries in the next few years. Currently the situation sees two different sections in downtown Paris allowing 125m boats (first section) and 110m boats (second section) to dock (and turn).

 

I will come back to the French reports with a bit more time (and a dictionary) and mention a bit more in this thread.

 

What has been your experience in the ports? Did anybody explain the situation to you?

 

notamermaid

Thx for the update.On AMA Lyra this Summer(2017) any idea if AMA is still @ Quai Andre Citron or Issy les Moulineaux? Anyone having thoughts on Paris-Normandy AMA itinerary I welcome their input

Thx

Carole

Hi all!

I was wondering if anyone has experience bringing a young child (7) on a riverboat cruise. It seems every time I look into one, it's only a cabin for two people. Are there such things as a cabin for three? If so, on which line?

Thanks!

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

AMA has joined with Disney. Check that line. Not sure if a 7 y/o would enjoy a river cruise.

If the Disney option doesn't work for you. Suggest that you consider a driving/train vacation. That way you are in control or food, entertainment and bedtime

Carole

Ladies-Help

Does anyone know of a dual voltage (not fuel cell) curling brush? I have John Frieda (US) one but need a dual voltage unit

Thx

Carole

I have booked transfers with AMA, airport to Paris hotel and Barcelona hotel to airport. It might be a private car since there might not be others arriving at that time. It will be 2 ladies, 2 carry on, 2 checked suitcases.

 

We are not used to using a car service. I. was wondering what we should tip in Euors?

Hi,

Just did this trip on AMA in July- you will have a great time. Tipping for the transfer-if the transfer is part of your hotel package (as was ours)and you arrive early-as we did @ 6:15am most likely there will be a minivan/car waiting for you.We were the 1st to arrive and had a Mercedes to ourselves. That being said as long as the driver assists you with all bags from airport arrival to hotel arrival 5 euros a person will be more than enough. The hotel will store your bags until the room is ready. This is a great itinerary. In Barcelona ( if you are at the Meridien Hotel )walk out the main door and turn right for about 1 block and cross the street for Bar Lobo- very good tapas nice service and 2 ladies will not feel uncomfortable. Also (take a cab) to El Cangreigo Loco -seafood restaurant@ Port Olimpic- Moll de Gregal29-30. Beautiful setting, good wine list and the view is wonderful.

Be sure to go La Boqueria which is 5 min from the hotel. Do NOT eat on Las Rambla-very touristy and way to $$ for bad food.

Have a great time

Carole

I will be AMACello.

 

Is there alarm clock in the cabin or do I need to bring my own?

 

Is there a Kleene tissue box in cabin?

 

Are there bathrooms in the public areas or do you need to go to your cabin?

 

How is the shampoo/ conditioner/body wash? Are they in bottles or plump bottle?

1. Alarm clock -don't remember- used I-Phone

2.Tissues -yes

3.Very clean public bathrooms

4.Shampoo & conditioner & body wash & body lotion- were excellent. Body lotion was very hydrating. All had very subtle, very light scent.

Carole

Hi,

General question does anyone know the (approx) departure time from Paris on the Paris-Normandy itinerary? Trying to plot day 1 with flight, luggage drop off & seeing friends.

Thx

Carole

Good morning to all,

 

Have a "hold" on this sailing-just have to schedule with work & DH ( I usually tell him where and when about 48 hrs prior-see my previous posts & review). This will be our 2nd AMA cruise. We sailed July2016 Barcelona Spain & Provence. Was very impressed by the AMA product. So.. if there is anyone out there who has/will do this itinerary would love to share suggestions ,tips etc.

 

Thx

Carole

Hi,

General question does anyone know the (approx) departure time from Paris on the Paris-Normandy itinerary? Trying to plot day 1 with flight, luggage drop off & seeing friends.

Thx

Carole

Hi Carole,

My husband and I did the Paris & Normandy cruise with AmaWaterways. It was our second river cruise with AMA and it was a wonderful cruise.

 

The itinerary is very good, the ship and crew were attentive, food was great, other passengers friendly and well-traveled.

 

We especially loved visiting Monet's house and gardens. Just beautiful! Also, we very much enjoyed visiting the beaches of Normandy and the cemeteries. It was a very moving experience, and made us even more grateful for the sacrifices made by the valiant soldiers and sailors.

 

We spent several days in Paris (on our own) before the cruise. So much to see and do there. After the cruise, we took the Eurostar (chunnel) to London. We stayed in London for a few days, then took the train to Edinburgh, saw the military tattoo. Then we rented a car and drove all over Scotland, then through the Cotswolds and back to London. It was an amazing adventure.

 

The Seine river wasn't as scenic as the Danube, but there are certainly beautiful sights. The evening sail-in to Paris was really pretty with the Eiffel Tower aglow.

 

Have fun planning and if you have any questions, I can try to help.

 

Bobbie

Thx so much for your response. Just getting pricing quotes so will most likely do Paris on our own as I have status with Marriott and have been to Paris 15+ times-no need for a "panoramic tour" following the cruise portion. A few questions:

1. Did you write a review?

2.Approximately how much actual free time (as opposed to 15 minutes and then get to the vessel) did you have in Giverny and Rouen?

3.In Conflans di you get into the town or just the "stroll along the riverbank" ( I do love brochure talk).

Any other hints suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thx

Carole

Good morning to all,

Have a "hold" on this sailing-just have to schedule with work & DH ( I usually tell him where and when about 48 hrs prior-see my previous posts & review). This will be our 2nd AMA cruise. We sailed July2016 Barcelona Spain & Provence. Was very impressed by the AMA product. So.. if there is anyone out there who has/will do this itinerary would love to share suggestions ,tips etc.

Thx

Carole

Can anyone recommend a good shuttle service to take four adults with luggage from the Gare du Nord Eurostar station to Le Pecq (about 20 kilometers to the west of Paris)

 

 

I know we could take the RER but two of our travelling companions much prefer a shuttle.

 

I had a reference for a service called "INTER SERVICE PRESTIGE" but so far they have not answered my last three emails.

 

TIA,

Ed

Just saw this post. UBER works very well in Paris. Used UBER in July and zero problems (other than Tour de France Street closures ).

If a service hasn't answered 3 e-mails forget them. If you have booked via a Travel Agent- ask them-they may have discounts etc

Have a good trip

Carole

Will be on the Sonata Oct 17 2016. Should I get Euro? What is the best to do for the different countries?

What countries will you be visiting?

cAROLE

The Paris-Normandy cruise. Is there any chance/thought of including a Bayeaux excursion to this cruise?

Carole

I love your report and commentary. Thanks for taking time to post. I guess you didn't care about the Tour de France whizzing by? I would have loved to see that.

Its not that I didn't care but being petite its hard to see anything over the crowds. They really do whiz by 10 sec tops but I did serpentine my way to the front and got some photos.

Carole

I love your report, from one foodie to another! Very vivid descriptions!

Having cruised several times with Celebrity in Aqua Class and its special restaurant "Blu"as well as being an NYC foodie you will be amazed at the quality, presentation and service on AMA.

Cannot get over our 1st RC everyone one went out of their way to make it a wonderful trip. Its excursion intensive-but if you just want to explore on your own no problem. Planning our next trip to Paris & Normandy

Carole

AMA Spain and Provence River Cruise

July 11, 2016 to July 26,2016

Having previously cruised on ocean class ships, this was our first river cruise. It was a much needed vacation and it was also husband's significant birthday. We had points from multiple sources (AMEX,AA,MARRIOTT) and it was time to deploy the points and book .

The River Cruise-Contacted several travel agents specializing in river cruises as well as several River cruise lines. NB: Once you have contacted river cruise lines mail boxes(both e-mail and snail mail) will explode with offers. Use the brochures to select an itinerary, vessel and to get a baseline (rack rate) of the costs associated with the cruise. Be aware of what is included-beverages, transfers, gratuities etc. Use these factors to determine a realistic budget for the trip.

Booking the cruise- Selected AMA Waterways Spain and Provence land and cruise. Booked a class B cabin on the AMA Dagio in addition to a pre-cruise three day stay in Barcelona.

Using a Travel Agent who was associated with AMEX, permitted the use of AMEX points towards the final cost.

Flights first- Used American Airlines points to book our flights. The critical time that award seats opened required booking each leg of our trip separately. Booked JFK to BCN first and two weeks later when additional award seats became available CDG to JFK was booked. Used Seat Guru to select seats. Flights and seats confirmed.

Hotel- Having status at a hotel is always a good thing. Used our Elite points at MARRIOTT to book four days at Renaissance Vendome Paris.

The Best Laid Plans-Planning and booking almost a year in advance has its' good and bad points. I am now convinced that any planning must be proceed by offerings to the travel gods. Appeal to the gods of travel for as much good karma as possible so that plans go smoothly.

Weather-There was flooding on the Rhine, Elbe and Seine. The Rhone was alright.

Strikes- Air Traffic Controllers went on strike a few days prior to our departure flight. This being Europe they announced when and how long the strike would be. It did not affect our flights but did cause some anxiety.

Marriott Hotels changed their points per night from 40,000 to 45,000 for Paris. We had the points but still...

Brexit-The market tanked, the GBP was severely down the Euro was also down.

American Airlines- changed the type of equipment and flight time. The so carefully selected seats were replaced by seats chosen by AA. This required a repeat on line search to find new better situated seats. Thank you Seat Guru. The equipment was changed to a 77-2 which had seats in a reverse herring bone pattern. . The AAdmirals Club lounge @ JFK closest to our gate was under construction,but the very nice club agents gave us chits for drinks at the other AAdmirals Club.

Terrorism-Now,unfortunately a fact of life everyone must deal with. There were attacks in Paris, Brussels and Istanbul,Nice and then a coup in Turkey and further attacks in Germany.

AMA Waterways- YEA!!! The upgrade fairy struck and we were moved to a Class A cabin from a Class B cabin.

Oh, and the Tour de France was routed two blocks from our hotel.

And we're off.....

Monday July 11, 2016

Last minutes at work oh, the joy of owning your business.

Darling husband please for the 40th time give me your shoes to pack. Do you have your eyeglasses?

Car service has arrived and we're off to JFK

Flights

At JFK- American Airlines Terminal 8

Business Class Check In- Checked in less than five minutes.Almost no one in line.Priority Stickers for our bags and onwards to TSA.

TSA-PreCheck. Open went very quickly except for a man in front of me who continually beeped and darling husband whose shoes went beep.

AAdmirals Club closest to our gate in under construction. The two very nice Club Agents apologized for the lack of amenities and gave us premium drink chits. We used the other club at Concourse C. Somewhat crowded but the drink chits helped a great deal. Snacked only on veggies and mixed olives. We are starting to decompress.

AA#45 JFK to BCN

Equipment Boeing 772 Reverse Herring Bone Seating

Seats 7A & 8A-Seat comfort, strange angles. The remote control panel is in a eye height fixture and resembles an I-Phone .Cubicle space the idea is privacy which is welcome but it feels somewhat cramped. The seat itself is narrow. When the passenger behind moves there is a jostling of your seat. Carry-on storage- OK nothing unusual.There is small bench/footrest facing the seat.

Pre-Departure beverage Offered OJ, Water and champagne.

Selection of newspapers NY Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal.

Headsets were distributed.The headphone jack is located under the left armrest. It takes a few moments to locate

Meals- Dinner -Hot towels distributed. Nice to refresh after a hectic day. White linen placemat was neatly arranged on our tray table. Pre-ordered beef filet with truffled Mac and cheese for the main course. The meat was a little tough but the sauce was nice. TruffledMac and cheese was pasta but both the truffle and cheese were not present.

Breakfast was ordered at the same time dinner orders were being taken. Requested the strata.

Watched the sunrise as breakfast was served. The strata-an egg and pepper dish was salty to my taste. Coffee and cinnamon Roll were fine.

Service during flight very friendly,professional and competent.

Tuesday July 12, 2016

Arrival @ BCN Our flight arrived 45 minutes early. However the gate was not available this resulted in 15 minutes sitting on the Tarmac . In the end ramps and multiple buses were brought to the plane. We rode the bus to the terminal. Went through immigration (5 minutes) and then to baggage claim. Our bags had Priority stickers which actually worked. Both bags arrived within a few minutes.

Once past the official area of BCN we looked for the AMA representative. Found Cecelia who in turn introduced us to our driver Adolfo. As we were early and the first to arrive we had a Mercedes to ourselves.

AMA transfer service is more expensive than a taxi but more convenient and as we were very early it made things simple.

BCN Hotel

We arrived at Le Meridien Hotel early and of course the room would not be ready for several hours. Our cruise host Nick,whom I am sure we woke, greeted us in the lobby and walked us to reception. Daniella (front desk) took our cell number and promised to call when the room was ready. Our bags were left with the bellman.

Had continental breakfast in the lobby while we decided what to do.

After our coffee we walked down La Rambla and finished at the Maritime Museum.

Room #134 Very nice room King sized bed, shower and bath. Amenities included robes and slippers, upgraded bath products,many towels. Location- room overlooked C. Pintor Fortuny and directly into the bar at Hotel 1898,where we had previously stayed.The hotel that is, OK we also spent time in the bar.

Husband decided to nap. I took a walk and went to The Palau Guell, a Gaudi edifice. Admission was free courtesy of our hotel. This hotel and others are participating in a Barcelona culture program. The building was the home of the Guell family and features many of the design elements utilized by Gaudi.

Feeling a bit peckish stopped at La Boqueria and purchased a sandwich. Back at the hotel shared same with husband, who was finally awake.

Dinner on our own at El Congrejo Loco ( The Crazy Crab).The restaurant is located in a marina and we had a great view of the yachts and the setting sun. I had made reservations on line ,in Catalan,advising the restaurant that it was husband's birthday. We had calamari and Pan am Tomat as appetizers and shared a seafood paella as our main as well as a nice bottle of Martin Caxon Albariño . Chocolate and coffee ice cream as dessert. A Tiramisu with a candle and a singing waiter was on the house. For those of you wondering about my use of Catalan I used Google translate.

Wednesday July 13, 2016

Breakfast was included in our pre-cruise package. Le Meridien offers a very complete and very filling buffet breakfast. Coffee is strong and that is my criteria for a good restaurant.

AMA included City Tour of Barcelona (4hr). We were on the regular walkers tour AMA also offers a gentle walkers tour. Point of information if you are not in shape prior to the walking tour you will be by its end. AMA uses a quiet vox system which has individual receivers for each person. We covered the Gothic area on foot and then meet our bus for a driving tour of city highlights with stops at Montjuic and La Sagrada Familia,Gaudi's life work.

The tour ended at Plaza Cataluna . Worn out we went to El Cortes Ingles a huge department store which is a cross between Macy's ,Harrods &Fairway. Their gourmet area food hall was interesting but seating as lacking. We went to the cafeteria on the 9th floor . Self service with everything from hamburgers to sushi. The seating area offers a panoramic view of Barcelona.

Diner on our own at Bar Lobo which was across the street from our hotel. Tapas & mains. appetizers pan am tomate, mussels in cream sauce, gazpacho and rigatoni an a nice bottle of ALBARIÑO.

Then walked half a block to La Rambla for gelato and the sights, sounds and showcase of tourists, gypsies ,tramps and thieves. Back to hotel we are exhausted.

Thursday July 14, 2014 Barcelona

Breakfast -Again a very filling meal.

Private Walking Tour- Barcelona with Urban Culture Tours-Dominique. Fascinating to learn the history of the Jewish community in Barcelona. The current Jewish population is quite small but people such as Dominique are working to research and preserve the culture.

Dinner at Matsuri Sushi,Pl Regomir #1 08002 ,http://www.matsuri-restaurants.com. Good sushi,nice wine list.

Walk back to hotel and get caught in a torrent of rain and arrived back drenched.

Turn on TV only to see news of the terrorist attack in Nice-on Bastille Day.

Friday July 15,2016. Barcelona to Arles

Luggage had to be ready for a 7:00am collection. It was kept inside our room and was sorted according to our color luggage tags. The tags had been part of our welcome package received on the first day. Basically either red or blue. The color coding is also the bus assignment for the transfer.

Breakfast again very filling and good coffee.

Departed Barcelona at 8:30am. Slight delay as bus is wide La Rambla is narrow and delivery truck is stopped in front of us. Once clear we are on our way. Highway drive but `pretty scenery along the way. Bus is good for a nap until our rest stop. There are clean restrooms, cafe and gift shop. Back on the bus and onwards to Pepignan.

Once there we are walked to the Notre Dame gate of the (rather small)castle. As bus cannot park and wait

We walked around the town the it was time for lunch. Lunch on our own at La France restaurant.We had an ocean salad consisting of smoked salmon,lettuce, egg, shrimp and shared a margarita pizza in Perpignan

Trip took hours 8 hours including rest stops until we arrived at Arles.

In Arles where we boarded our river vessel AmaDagio.

Cabin #322

Condition cabin is very clean, compact, storage space in cabin included a double closet and a single cabinet with shelves , bathroom wonderful triple head shower, amenities included shampoo ,conditioner, body moisturizer, shower gel as well as thick terry bathrobes and slippers.

Welcome aboard toast at 6:30. Introduced our captain, co-captain-who is his wife, hotel manager, chef, housekeeper etc. Meet & greet fellow cruisers and then to dinner .Our capt. presents each woman with a rose.

Dinner is open seating, casual dress. Food selection and presentation outstanding. Had an amuse bouche of melon . Mini crab cake appetizer,cream of asparagus soup with mussels,butterfish with risotto and vegetables, cheese platter for dessert. Also we were sharing the table with a couple celebrating their 23rd anniversary and suddenly an accordion player and special cake arrive at the table. Moments later the accordion player returns and a Happy Birthday cake appears for Alan. Throughout dinner wine was liberally poured. Stuffed we walk to our cabin.

Saturday July 16,2016 Arles-Les Baux- Avignon

Breakfast very filling partial self service, coffee, juice made to order omelets.

AMA tour of Les Baux (4 hr) included. Drive though countryside to Les Baux. An ancient city with fortress, castle ruins and reconstructions of war machines from the Middle Ages. The Mistral (wind) is blowing wildly. NB: Ladies forget about your hair and bring a sweater. The wind was so strong & cold that I had to purchase a sweater (ok,it was on sale). After Les Baux we drive to an olive farm to learn about olive oil and associated products. This may sound dull but it was fascinating and the tasting of oils, tapenades, honey, mustards all made from/with olives was yummy. Purchased some tapenades and skin care products. Back on the bus for the ship and lunch.

Lunch-freshly shucked oysters, mussels as a cocktail or in a saffron cream sauce, fresh salmon, assorted salads,cold meats, grilled shrimp THEN we first order lunch there is a choice of appetizers ,soups and mains. Husband had pasta I had sautéed pike with rice and grilled vegetables. Rose wine is poured liberally along with beer, red and white wines. There is an ice cream bar with all the fixings. I had the cheese.

Included walking city tour of Arles was at 3:00pm. We toured the Roman walls, arena, baths, St. Trophime church and interacted with the locals as a wedding was in progress. All the women commented on the bride's beautiful gown, the men were checking out a vintage wedding automobile. We visited the Hotel Dieu (hospital) where Van Gogh was taken after that ear incident. The interior is a riot of flowers with a beautiful fountain in the center of the cloister

Slow walk back to the ship

Forgot to mention the local recycling plant caught on fire and blacken the sky for several km.

When we were ready to weigh anchor and leave there was an announcement to keep all exterior windows, doors closed and no one was allowed on the sun deck. The ship's company washed/watered down the ship to make it totally wet as we had to pass the fire. Never a dull moment when you cruise with Carole.

At 5:30pm we had a Wine Lecture- bubbles from the World: Champagne,Prosecco, Cava and California this is a wine cruise after all.

Dinner- we reserved the Chef's Table (alternate restaurant) for dinner tonight. Unlike ocean cruises AMA includes this dinning venue at no additional charge. The Chef's Table was a multi course tasting menu. Starting with an amuse bouche of goat cheese with prune purée and progressing with three different appetizers, soup with side of escargot, main of cod with mashed potato, scallop, beef all with wonderful accompaniments. Both white and red wines were continuously poured. A triple tasting of desserts concluded the meal. As we ate we cruised and went through the first of twelve locks for this trip. We finally ended our travel when we docked in Avignon.

Sunday July 17,2016 Avignon to Viviers

Breakfast- Omelets, coffee juice

AMA included tour of Papal Palace (2 hr) which I chose to do while husband went to

Pont du Gard (2hr 30min).

Pont du Gard- Per husband fantastic historical Roman aqueduct.

Avignon was having its arts festival and is crowded with street performers, musicians. The walking tour of Avignon included the Popes Palace, the wall of Avignon ,and where to shop if so inclined.

Lunch- Again an amazing meal. Carving station was a side of roasted pork. Multiple salads and sides. Then ordered off the main menu. I had the John Dory which was perfect.

AMA included tour or Chateauneuf du Pape, which is slightly misleading as this is the name of the region. There were three wineries to visit and we were divided into groups.

On board nougat making demonstration. I'm allergic to almonds so I skipped this.

Dinner- Special Chaine de Rotisseurs Dinner Classic onion soup, Rack of lamb, Rouget (fish),cheese, assorted sorbet. Excellent wines.

Monday July 18,2016 Chateauneuf-du-Pape- Viviers -Le Pouzin to Tournon

Breakfast Coffee etc

AMA included tour of Grignan-We walked up to the castle and walked its terraces. Lovely view of the countryside,a maze honoring Mme.Sevigne. The castle was the property of her son-in-law.

Truffle Farm-this sounds dull but was very educational. The owner of the farm M. Gilles Ayme, offered a detailed explanation of how truffle dogs, usually Labradors, are trained, how they hunt for the truffles. The manner in which the truffles are used, preserved and shipped.

We had several tastings of Truffles on bread, truffle oil, more truffles with truffle oil and sea salt.

As always we exited through the gift shop and purchased some truffle oil.

Short ride to return to the ship which had sailed to Le Pouzin.

On board Wine Lecture Deconstructing Gloria: Chardonnay+ Pinot Noir= Royal Cuvée

Lunch- Paella,pasta with cream sauce and truffles. The truffles were shaved for each individual portion and was as much as you wished.

Dinner- Duck L'Orange,mushroom soup,salads, cheese, sorbet lemon tart. Very nice wine freely poured. Sat next to and conversed with Eva Bertran, our wine host /lecturer and her husband David for the cruise.

Evening tour- Wine and Chocolate Tasting (1hr 45min)In a castle (of course) unfortunately the chocolates contained nuts and as I am highly allergic I just drank (pas problem).

Tuesday July 19,2016 Tournon-Vienne

Breakfast- Eggs,assorted bakery items-rolls, pastries, fruit. Could also have English breakfast including the ubiquitous baked beans.

AMA included tour of Tain-l'Hermitage-wine tasting . Three vineyards are offered we went to M. Chapoutier. Had a tasting of three wines- a white. "Invitation", a red Les Meysonniers

and a second red Sizeranne. All the wines and the explanation were very good.

Short but very sunny walk back to the ship, turned in our safety cards and group color cards. Happily accepted a cool towel and cool drink

Lunch as usual very good and very filling.

Followed by an ice cream party-we are all three year olds at heart

We sailed to Vienne during our meal.

WINE LECTURE. The 12 Lagos of Bacchus by guest sommelier Laurent with wines from the Côte du Rhone. An interactive wine quiz.

Special wine pairing dinner with wine host Eva Bertran

After dinner entertainment was Paolo Nassi with songs from every corner of the world.

Wednesday July 20,2016 Vienne-Lyon

Breakfast-Filling and fabulous

AMA included tour of Vienne (3hr 15min) or Hiking to Mt Pipet or Vienne Bike Tour. We choose the city tour walking tour. Our guide Jean (John) was knowledgeable and passionate about the city of Vienne. The Roman temple of Augustus and Livia is well preserved. The small Roman wall and park was highly photogenic. Short stroll to a museum housed in a former church. This museum is a small but has a highly interesting collection of Roman statues, mosaics,assorted artifacts .Short stroll back to the ship and lunch.

Lunch again beautifully presented and delicious( bouillabaisse,chicken, steak). Wine is being poured like water and it's very good.

Lunch was followed by an on board wine lecture and tasting.This was followed by a nap which was definitely need. Whilst we napped we cruised to Lyon and we're off the ship and on our excursion by 3:30pm. We did the panoramic (coach) tour combined with walking tour of the city of Lyon. The highlight was driving up the hill to the cathedral of Fourviere. This cathedral is filled with mosaics and is a photographers dream. Outside the view from the hill of Lyon is spectacular. The next portion of the tour was a drive down the hill-kudos to all bus drivers in France for negotiating the hills and narrow streets. We arrived in Vieux Lyon (Old Town) and walked it's cobbled streets. Our guide took us through several Traboules. These are covered passages that connect houses to houses and are a maze that only native Lyonnaise, originally knew. The passages were originally used by the silk merchants to transport their wares without being effected by weather or street urchins. During WW2 resistants used the Traboules to hide as well as to pass information without venturing onto the streets and chance of being intercepted by the ****s. Had free time to wander and stopped at a bar for a cool

drink and a beer for husband. Drove back To the ship and got ready for the Captains Cocktail reception and Gala Dinner. At the reception we enjoyed a glass of champagne, the parade and introduction of crew As well as another outstanding meal.

Thursday July 21,2016-Lyon-Collonges-Belleville-Lyon

Breakfast - Buffet and menu. Captain announces that we are making a" Small maneuver" as he repositions the ship. The musical chairs of small maneuvers is made as one ship docks and another disembarked.

Lyon- free time In the morning we rest, some leave the ship for a walk

Lunch is French themed. There are the usual selection of wonderful salads, breads, cheeses. In addition there are frog's legs, escargot, Desserts include crepes, creme brûlée great wine. All as we cruise to Collonges-almost. The ship pulls into the Rhone past some fascinating modern architecture and then we stop. We hardly notice as the food and wine make for wonderful lunch time conversation. Captain finally make an announcement that we are returning to our dock in Lyon and we are not cruising to Collonges. The river is too high and the ship is too high and cannot fit under a bridge.

Alternate plans are made and coaches are laid on. The brave depart for the drive to the Pay D'Or. We have been warned that traffic is congested due to tunnel repairs and we could be stuck for hours. However we are brave and really wanted to see this area and so we board our coach. We are stuck in traffic for all of six minutes on the way out. We do not visit Collones instead we drive through the Pay D'Or. Golden stones area so called because the building stone are high in iron context and the sun turns then a golden color. The area resembles Tuscany.

We visited the beautiful hill top town of Oingt which is pronounced "Wah" think Charlie Brown. The town holds the coveted title of one the most beautiful in France which is an understatement. The building are either original or restored. We visit a church and one of the guides sings the Ave Maria there is a wonderful sense of peace. Wander the town and stop in an artist's workshop. Purchased a watercolor. Back to the bus and onwards to the

Oingt-wine tasting and vineyard tour We are technically is Beaujolais country. The vineyard of Domaine de Fond Vieille, Dominique Guillard is lovely. The tasting presents one white and two red Beaujolais along with bread, sausages and cheese. We are all feeling very content as we drive back to Lyon.

Once back in Lyon we walked down to the very last position on the quay where we had left the AmaDagio. Only it wasn't there, it has made a small maneuver and was now docked behind us. We walked some more and boarded. Quick stop to refresh and to dinner.

Dinner is multi course but everyone is bemoaning the weight gain and so just have salad and wine.

Back in the cabin I pack careful to leave out clothes etc for the morning. Suitcases have to be outside the door by 7:30am. Cabin must be vacated by 9:00am. And so to sleep.

Friday July 22, 2016 Lyon to Paris

Breakfast Juice, coffee, eggs etc. farewell to a wonderful wait staff. Back to cabin for a last minute refresh and to get our rain gear as there have been some drizzles.

Disembark our River vessel at 10:15 am and are bussed to our cooking demonstration. We the cooki an appetizer, smoked salmon called Roulette de Saumon a la Cerebral de Canut (silk weaver's brain). This a cream cheese, garlic,herb stuffing of a slice of smoked salmon which is then rolled,cut into sushi style prices prior to being dipped into toasted sesame seeds. The we make Boeuf sauté a la Lyonnaise a simple but delicious dish so sautéed beef made with onions and red wine vinegar. Poires a la Beaujolais. Diced pears,peaches in a caramelized sugar glaze made with sugar and Beaujolais. It was served over cubes of brioche.

After the lesson we had slightly over an hour to wander ,eat lunch etc.

1:15pm on coach to SNCF train station and the TGV. Arrived a few minutes later, used the escalator to reach the waiting room and waited for our platform to be posted.(NB: Rest rooms are one florr below and charge.50 euro,there is a booth where you pay-the restrooms are clean and well kept.) Platform posted we proceeded to "B" of course we are in the first carriage which is basically walking distance to Paris. Find our seats and we are off. There are a few stops along the way and we arrive in Paris at the Gare du Nord. Short walk to our coach and we drive to the Pullman Hotel to collect our luggage

Our luggage traveled via truck directly to the Pullman Hotel. Upon arrival at the Gare du Nord we were bussed to the Pullman Hotel. From the Pullman we took a taxi to our hotel,as we booked our Paris hotel independently.

Dinner at Le Souffle 36 Rue du Mont Thabor which was a three minute walk from our hotel. Husband had escargot,lamb chops, Grand Marnier Souffle for dessert . I had a flight of asparagus with asparagus Souffle, duck breast and creme brûlée Souffle. We had a bottle of Rose. After dinner we took a short walk on the Rue de Rivoli then back to our hotel for a hot bath, the news and sleep.

Saturday July 23, 2016

Paris

Had (included/comped) breakfast at the hotel and thence walked two blocks to the Rue Rivoli.

Visited the Musee Arts Decoratif . Enjoyed the furniture collection especially the Art Deco works.

Then we walked further down the Rue Rivoli to the Louvre. We had been there previously and this time we stayed in the Medieval, Greek and Egyptian collections.We were totally fascinated with the remains of the excavated walls of the then Louvre and Paris city fortress. Had a light lunch in the cafe and continued to the Egyptian collection.

Sunday July 24, 2016 Whoops forgot to check the sports page it's the end of the Tour de France and Paris is mobbed. We leave our hotel after an early breakfast determined not to be caught in the mob. Too late..The streets surrounding the hotel have been blocked off. Multiple police officers are stationed in the street. We had requested an Uber to take us to the Bateaux Parisienne but our driver had gotten caught in the spider web of traffic closures. What follows is a Marx Brothers worthy chase scene as the driver calls husband's cell phone which is barely audible above the street noise and husband speaks approximately the same amount of French that our driver speaks English. I am interpreting as we walk and finally we find each other at the corner of Rue St. Honore and Place Vendome. Basically two blocks away from our hotel but a fifteen minute production. Now we drive in a giant circle to get to the left bank and to the boat.

Almost a half hour later we arrive at our destination. The Bateaux Parisienne is a one hour Seine River cruise . There is prerecorded commentary but I prefer to watch the scenery and (hopefully) take some decent photographs.

We are staying away from the Right Bank and so we proceed to the Musee Arts et Métiers.But first lunch. It's hot and don't want anything heavy. Stop at the Cafe des Arts et Métiers and share

A very nice deconstructed salad niscoisse and Perrier. The on to the museum. Interesting exhibits of technological inventions and advancements. We are tried and cab it back to our hotel. The streets are still closed off and we have to pass through security to be check to get to our hotel.

We drop off a few things and then back on the street. Security check again. Police are hyper vigilant and are heavily armed: an unfortunate sign of the multiple attacks both in France Germany these past few days. Unbelievably we locate two chairs and a table,in the street,at the Cafe Royale. Have Rose and beers and await the arrivals of the bikers. Before the teams arrive the sponsor cars, trucks and floats enter. The Vittal truck has a firehouse and sprays the crowd with Vittal (mineral water). The teams were to arrive at approximately 5:15pm- 5:30 pm. However they are running late but we are not ceding our table to anyone. Finally at 6:30pm a roar goes up as SkyTeam Support vehicles and the bikers and the leader of the Tour whizz by us. We finish another round of drinks and return to the hotel

Monday July 25, 2016

Paris

Breakfast is included. Then we walk to the Hop On Hop Off bus starting point on the Avenue d'la Opera. We present our Paris Pass and receive tickets. We take the bus to its first stop "Notre Dame" from there we walk to Musee Cluny to view the Lady and the Unicorn tapestries. We also see the Roman Baths and some beautiful stained glass. We had sushi and bento box for lunch-have we gotten "Frenched Out"? Then we walk to Shakespeare and Company

so I can pay homage to Hemingway, Fitzgerald etc. Walk back to the bus stop and continue the ride for the entire loop.

I had made reservations for dinner but when we arrived at the restaurant husband decided that 1. No air conditioning and 2 tables are very close together does not make for dining enjoyment. We walk to a bistro, also no air conditioning but there is a breeze from fans and an open door. I have another deconstruction of salad nicoise. Question does a constructed salad nicoise still exist?

Then back to hotel for the joy of packing, sorting charge slips and trying not to make each other too crazy.

Tuesday July 26,2016

Awakened early, showers, last minute packing. To restaurant for breakfast . Had arranged for a car service a 8:00 am so it's to the lobby at 7:50am to wait and wait.

Finally several men enter the lobby and they start to call out names. Our driver is amongst them and had arrived early and asked the hotel to call Mr. Alan, which is why he appears late but isn't.

Drive with usual workday traffic to CDG. Airport is slightly chaotic. We join the queue for Business Class check in as we are checking our heavy bags. Asked for Priority tags and then it's on the the AAdmirals Club with a short stop for Johnny Walker Platinum for husband.

Have a light meal of juice, mini turkey sandwich. Read the WSJ and then our flight is called. Proceed to gate. Our boarding passes and passports are rechecked.Security is very strict due to recent events. Then it's down a staircase to a bus. Sit on the bus for ten minutes while others join us. Finally we are driven to our plane. Up a ramp and get seated. Pre departure beverage service juice,water is offered and soon we are airborne. Meal service was salad, tomato and mozzarella and a main of beef with ox tail ravioli. Note to airline-pasta should never be attempted.

At JFK- Landed at JFK used the automated kiosk to check our. Passports and customs declaration. Onwards to baggage claim .The our car service and home

Home, journey's end and so many memories and laundry. Reality is a mood killer

Last time I went to Europe, I bought SAS runners and they were excellent.

 

Ladies: Looking for recommendations on comfortable shoes for traipsing on those cobblestone, etc. Found references earlier on CC, but can't seem to find them now that I'm in the mood to go shopping

I walked all over Spain & Provence in a pair of Kate Spade sneakers(much nicer than regular sneakers) However the best thing I did was use a pair of Dr.Scholls inserts-the type that you measure for at the Dr.Scholls machine (Bed Bath etc). The inserts fit my casual and dress shoes.

Carole

We did the Paris-Normandy cruise on rhe Ama

 

 

Sent from my iPad using Forums

Did you post a review? any suggestions? Hints? etc

Carole

I may just be being paranoid, but I am wondering if I should rethink the cabin location for two reasons. (1) Any smoke drifting down from the smoking area on the Sun Deck immediately above these cabins? (2) Any engine rattle/motion/noise?

 

Myself, I would probably just roll with whatever, because I don't anticipate being in the cabin very much. But I'm in charge of making and managing the reservations for our entire family, so I don't want to screw it up. 8-o

 

Thanks for the advice of those who have sailed in the last -- or nearly last -- cabins on the Violin Deck of one of AMA's boats.

As the Den mother for all our travels and having sailed on the AMADAGIO in Cabin 322 never had any smoke or odors from the sun deck.I also feel that fewer people are smoking today. So relax and enjoy your cruise

Carole

Can anyone tell me what A+ 225 sq ft cabin consists of? IE. Does it have a sofa and chairs, shower and tub or any other info you might know?

 

Thanks

Go to the AMA waterways website and click on your vessel-staterooms. A diagrama a generic picture of the cabin will appear

Carole

My wife and I are doing this itinerary in April 2017. Our first river cruise. If you search this forum you can find some info but Rhine and Danube cruises seem to predominate. Check the reviews as well. We too would like to hear some feedback from those who've gone.

We sailed on AMADAGIO in July. The ships have similar layout. Looking for info on Paris & Normandy ship's excursions , hints etc.

As this is your 1st RC with AMA be sure to book (free) Chef's Table the food (throughout) and service on AMA was outstanding. Dress code is neat casual. Bring good broken in walking shoes. You will have a great time

Carole

Hi to all,

Having done our 1st RC (Spain & Provence) this past July with AMA we are in research mode for AMA Paris & Normandy.

Would appreciate any & all suggestions, reviews etc on this itinerary.

Many thx

Carole

hello, I am going on my first cruise ever with AMA Waterways to Europe. I have anaphylactic food allergies to all fish, peanuts and kiwi. I will be bringing my epipens and Benadryl. They know about my allergies. Has anyone had experience with this cruise line and food allergies?

Hi,

I have a peanut allergy. Told AMA prior to trip and once on board informed wait staff. They were terrific about making sure no peanut/peanut product came near my meals.

Relax they will take GREAT care of you. Planning our next AMA trip for 2017. Incidentally the food was incredible- make your Chef's Table reservation as soon as you get on board

Carole

First, I am a very experienced big ship cruiser and have taken the time to read the stickies and have become familiar with the river cruising differences and welcome the changes.

 

I am in the midst of planning my "bucket list" river cruise for 2018. Even though the itineraries are not available yet, I am sure they will not be that much different.

 

I believe have narrowed down my list to GCT, Vantage, AMA, and Viking. Now it is getting a bit more difficult to choose as the information I am getting is conflicting. So ... being a long time member of cruise critic, I am asking for your informed and intelligent opinions and responses... I know I will have more questions, and appreciate any and all decent responses. (I am also aware of the troll responses as I am not a newbie to this form of communication. If you plan to insult or make snide comments, please move on).

 

We are not the "luxury" type of people (I am diamond plus with royal carib and take advantage of some things, but we prefer relaxing over fou fou). I am much more interested in seeing things than sitting in a hot tub or getting a massage :) We are not foodies, but enjoy a good meal...

 

For all the lines I am looking at a 15/16 day Rhine cruise...

 

Grand Circle - I am bit enthralled with their excursions and the attention to the ports. I am less enthralled with twin murphy beds, and wonder about their comfort. I am also curious as to the age range, since it seems at 58 I might be the kid on the block. Does this "older" pax affect the level of excursions? Is tipping included in pricing? how many "extras" will all of sudden be a factor to cost?

 

Vantage - I am just starting to research them, so all opinions of prior passengers is welcome. I believe I have read they have open bar all the time - is this true? we are not big drinkers by any means, and usually stick to beer as wine is not real important to us.

 

Viking - Just out of the sheer volume of ships and apparently inexpensive cost they are on my list. I am unsure of comfort with the higher passenger count. I have read there will be more extras I'll need to pay for - is this true? Tips included? on excursions is it little groups are all 200 pax on one trip?

 

AMA - I have read some good things on this line, and even though they will be significantly higher in price I still have them on my list. Again - what extras will I have to pay for? how are they on excursions?

Hi,

We are also experienced ocean cruisers. Just had our 1st AMA river cruise ( Spain & Provenience)this July.The only extras were drinks at the bar-not during meals_& tipping. The food was outstanding ( we usually do Aqua Class-Blu Restaurant) on Celebrity and AMA food & just blew us away. The taste, quality and presentation were excellent. Service was amazing on all levels- housekeeping, dining room, cruise manager and tour guides.

I'm starting to look into either Paris & Normandy or Bordeaux on AMA.

Carole