Recommend March 2015 - (Page 22)

ALASKA THROUGH A PORTHOLE onboardreview J U LY 2 0 14 sergio ortiz The landscape of Alaska, America's treasure chest of unparalleled natural wonders, is best mirrored in the sliver of land that makes up its southeast cornerCrystal Serenity. inlets, bays and where astounding Penthouse aboard the mountains offer a glimpse of the storied wonders lying beyond. This is a two-ﬁsted zone awesome in its beauty-and for the cheechako, as outsiders are called in these parts, there are few better ways to experience it than from the cabin of the many cruise ships hugging the coast. showcasing alaska Holland America Line (HAL) does it with luxurious, modern vessels that belie the ﬂair of a company with a long pedigree: HAL marked its 140th anniversary in 2013. Today, as a wholly owned subsidiary of Carnival Corp., it carries more than 800,000 passengers a year and a considerable number taking to sea to see Alaska in its midyear glory. With a ﬂeet of 15 ships (a new ship is slated for delivery in February 2016; the MS Koningsdam), HAL currently offers more than 500 cruises to 415 ports-of-call For information on in 98 countries, territories, or HAL's Explore 4 dependencies a year. savings promotion for But it's in Alaska where it 2015 and 2016 sailings, cuts a deep wake. This is visit recommend.com. a seasonal destination that sparkles, especially in the 22 march 2015 22-23 CRNA Hal.indd 22 Inside Passage, the destination of HAL's 7-day cruise that hoists anchor in Seattle, slices across Canadian waters and ventures into the magniﬁcent shoreline of the 49th state-a place unmatched in natural beauty with the possible exception of the storied Norwegian fjords. According to Sally Andrews, HAL's v. p. of public relations, "Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime destination and very popular. The attractions here are very strong: wildlife, scenery and culture are all available during a relatively short window of the year. The diversity of our land and sea packages makes it a very strong selling destination." aboard westerdam The sterling vessel for the line's Alaskan adventure is the MS Westerdam, a medium-sized luxury liner holding 1,916 passengers and known in cruise circles for its edgy shows, ﬂawless service and laid-back atmosphere. This is a world-class cruiser with excellent public areas, passageways accented with Dutch-style art that pays a nod to its roots, modern shops, and a casino that sways to the whir of slot machines late into the night. The ship itself manages to blend a traditional cruising experience with modern amenities and is well regarded for its entertainment and for the creative cuisine that ﬂows from its galleys. The Pinnacle Grill restaurant has the feel of an oakpaneled onshore eatery. It has been recognized for its Paciﬁc Northwest fare with portions that are as generous as they recommend.com 2/24/15 8:06 AM http://www.recommend.com http://www.recommend.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Recommend March 2015

Editor’s Notes
Hotel Happenings in the Caribbean
GOGO’s Gone and Increased Commissions
Liverpool
Alaska: What’s New
Holland America’s Westerdam in Alaska
Turtle Bay Resort, Hawaii
What’s New in Hawaii
Miami’s Cultural Side
“Ahlan Wa Sahlan” Says Egypt’s Welcome Sign
Family-Focused Caribbean Escapes
Atlantis, Paradise Island
China’s Got It Going On
Parks & Recreation = Family Travel Highs in Costa Rica
Club Med Cancun Yucatan
Los Cabos

Recommend March 2015