Scandinavia & Russia Cruise: June 2-14, 2009

My wife and I are in our early to mid-60's, but we are both energetic, trim and youthful in spirit. We have lived in Las Vegas NV for about 8 years. This was our 9th cruise; our 2nd aboard the Century; and our 3rd trip to Europe on cruises: 2005-Western Med on the Century; 2007- Eastern Med & Greek Isles on the Grand Princess. We have cruised with Carnival, Princess and HA twice each. We love cruising and international travel...a good combination. We have sailed on a few "mega-barges," but don't like that ship size or large crowds involved. We quite enjoyed this ship the first time around, and we wanted to see the ports in this itinerary (especially St. Petersburg). So, we booked it last July. We were not disappointed in the ports; however, the Century, which is still a fine ship, has slipped a bit in a few categories.

Travel/Hotel: Our flights from Vegas to Chicago, and then to Amsterdam were on time and uneventful. Long day, but it was bearable. Out of Schipol Airport by 10 am without delay. Had $ exchanged for euros in Vegas. We booked our flights separately along with a one-night hotel stay before the cruise. Roughly 50 euros for a cab to Amsterdam Centre, and our hotel, the Golden Tulip Inn-Centre. I had researched a lot of hotels on websites and picked a winner. On sort of a cul-de-sac just off the main street to Central Station, which is about a 15-minute walk. The hotel has almost a plaza in front with adjoining pedestrian side alleys and streets with restaurants/shops of all sorts, including two "coffee shops." Perfect location. Busy, vibrant during the day; quiet at night. Efficient and friendly staff. Cost: 150 euros for an executive (larger) room. They have a bar and a breakfast room that serves a full "English" breakfast (eggs/bacon) with all the trimmings. Expensive at 20 euros each, but good and filling. Clean, modern room and comfy bed. Worth the price. Read more