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How to Spend a Port Day in Falmouth, Jamaica

If you are headed to Jamaica on a cruise ship there is a good chance you will be docking at Falmouth. The port at Falmouth was updated in 2011 into a fantastic place to eat, shop, and play. For some visitors, the port area is as far as they go. They find enough shopping (common international port shops and a few craft booths), restaurants such as Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, shaded areas to relax, and a pool area. But, for the adventuresome, there are some great things to discover once you step outside the gates. So, read on and find out a few terrific things to do while you spend a port day in Falmouth, Jamaica!

By the way, these activities are also great for those planning a resort vacation near Falmouth.

Rafting Martha Brae River

Rafting down the Martha Brae River is an hour long rafting trip that is fun for the entire family. You ride down the river on a 10-foot long bamboo raft, which is stable enough for those who don’t swim. The 3-mile journey will take you through a scenic mangrove forest. The river is quiet and peaceful creating a experience your family will remember for a long time.

If you are short on time, this is a great excursion. It is fairly close to the port. You will even be able to visit Miss Martha’s Herb Garden and still return to the ship on time.

Swamp Safari

Do you love crocodiles? How about a snake or two? At Charles Swaby’s Swamp Safari or Crocodile Farm that is just what you will find. So, if holding a baby crocodile or boa constrictor has been on your bucket list then this is the place for you. If you aren’t particularly a fan of reptiles, I will say it is pretty cool to watch them be fed. Oh, James Bond lovers, you will also be really interested. After the tour you get to see a reenactment of a scene from “Live and Let Die,” the one originally shot there.

This excursion is only 5 minutes west of the pier. It’s a nice close activity for those who just don’t want to adventure out too far. This is a great way to spend a port day in Falmouth, Jamaica.

Jamaica Culinary Tours

The Jamaica Culinary Tours serves the best of two worlds: food and history. On the tour you expert guides will lead you through the streets of Falmouth. As you walk you will hear about plantation life, local cuisine, Jamaican cooking methods, and a bit of history thrown in there too. You will also stop along the way with a couple of street vendors for a sample and then in a restaurant for a couple more.

The samples are usually enough to make up lunch. They are able to make accommodations for vegetarians but not for other dietary needs such as vegan, gluten, or dairy-free.

River Tubing the Rio Bueno

The Rio Bueno River is over near Montego Bay so you get to start off your adventure with a ride over there. You will get to hike through the forest before reaching the river. Once at the river, you will get into your tube. Let the fun begin!

Currents propel you down the river past many scenic sights in the surrounding jungle–Old Colonial Bridge, the Bengal Beach, and others. If you really want to up the action you can opt for white-water rafting. Bengal Beach is the ending spot where you can then relax on the beach, swim, or get something to eat. This river tubing adventure is another fun way to spend a port day in Falmouth, Jamaica.

Burwood Beach

Would you just like to relax on the beach in Jamaica? Burwood Beach is only 10 minutes from the port. This beach is one of the only public beaches available. But you will not be disappointed! The beautiful white sands and ocean waves are the perfect place to relax or swim. There is bathrooms, showers and a changing area available. There is even a lifeguard on duty. But, there isn’t a whole lot of shade and the beach can get pretty hot. Don’t forget the sunblock! The cost is only $5 per person which makes this a really affordable excursion.

Have you been to Falmouth, Jamaica on a cruise? How about for a resort stay? If you have, what was your favorite way to spend a port day in Falmouth, Jamaica? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

You might like to read these other articles?

Ama Waterways

Best Sights to See in Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany

Walking the streets of old town is one of the best sites in Rudesheim, German.

Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany is an idyllic German town set on the banks of the Rhine River. This city has so much to offer with its beautiful vineyards, rich culture, and history. Even though Rüdesheim is fairly touristy there are so many sights to see and it is a lot of fun. Let’s get to know Rüdesheim, Germany.

Rüdesheim sits on the Upper Middle Rhine Vally as a kind of gateway. This part of the Rhine river is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its historical significance and beauty.

As you walk through Rüdesheim, you will enjoy the authentic German feel of the old town with the half-timbered houses and castles. The busyness of the town certainly doesn’t detract from this charming town and is definitely worth a visit!

The best time to visit Rudesheim is between April and October so that as many places as possible are open. The other popular time is for the Christmas Markets in November and December.

Now, on to the best sights in Rüdesheim, Germany!

The Sites of Rüdesheim, Germany

An excellen way to visit Rüdesheim is on a river cruise. As a part of a river cruise you will have a few tour options to introduce you to the town. Some of the sites below will probably be included in the tours offered. But, if you have visited before or want to take your time, you might want to head out on your own to explore the sights of Rüdesheim, Germany!

Note to Wine Lovers–Wine is a huge focus of this region and home to some fabulous wines. But, this will be covered in another post. So, stay tuned!

Drosselgasse

Photo by Gary Bembridge

In the 15th century Drosselgasse was the home for sailors due to its close proximity to the Rhine. Boat-owners would easily be able to haul up their equipment and goods home. Nowdays, this skinny, 2m wide alley is known for its quaintness and a heart of the old town. Along the Drosselgasse’s cobbled streets you will find historic, half timber houses, historic buildings, restaurants, bars, and shops. This area is the perfect place to enjoy regional dishes and, of course, the wine. This street is also where you would head when in search of night life as this is where some of the city’s best entertainment is.

If you are searching for charming German streets, don’t limit yourself to just the Drosselgasse. There are quite a few adjoining streets that would also be very interesting and charming.

Siegfried’s Mechanisches Musikkabinett

Truly a unique experience! Sigfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet houses one of the largest collections of self-playing instruments in the world. Enjoy the sights and sounds of all things musical and mechanical from the fragile music boxes to the gigantic piano-orchestrion. The collection of automated dolls in a band and the violins will surely amaze you.

This quirky museum is sure to delight guests of all ages. But, plan ahead because you must have a guided tour in order to see the music come to life.

Rüdesheim Cable Car

The Cable Car up the hill will provide one of the most breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley. At the top, you can not only overlook the valley, Rüdesheim, and the Rhine but you can also visit the Niederwald Monument. Also from here, you can visit the Neiderwaldtempel, a classic 7-column temple with a rotunda. And you can walk to the chairlift that will take you all the way to the neighboring village of Assmannshausen. You could even visit Neiderwald castle.

The enormous Neiderwald (or Germania) Monument was erected in the 19th century to remember the unification of Germany into a single nation.

When you head back to Rudesheim you can either take the Cable Car back down or you can walk the 2 Kilometers through the vinyards.

This is definitely one of the best sights in Rüdesheim, Germany!

 

Abbey of St. Hildegard

The Benedictine Abbey of St Hildegard sits on the hill above Rüdesheim. As you can imagine, this is another location with stunning views of the Middle Rhine Valley. The monastery was built in the early 20th century but the nuns are part of an order that originated during the 1100s. The building has a Romanesque style along with beautiful frescoes and architectural details.

The nuns run the vineyard and produce delicious wines. You can sample some of their wines in and other products in the abbey’s shop.

Services are held during the week that visitors are welcome to attend. They also provide opportunities to learn more about St. Hildegard. You can also hear them sing vespers in the evening and concerts at the Rheingau Music festival in the summer.

Have you visited Rüdesheim, Germany? Are there sights in Rüdesheim, Germany that you think are must-see sights?

If you haven’t had the opportunity to see Rüdesheim is it a place on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Other posts you might like to read:

Ama Waterways

Relax in the Baths of Budapest Hungary

Relaxing at one of the thermal baths in Budapest, Hungary.

Budapest, Hungary, also known as “The City of Spas” takes bathing to a whole new level! The city of Budapest sits upon thermal springs which bring mineral-rich water springing up from the ground. For centuries people have sought out the springs to not only refresh the body and soul but also to treat arthritis, skin conditions, poor circulation, as well as muscle aches and pains. These waters have been harnessed all over Budapest into beautiful baths for everyone to enjoy. Let’s learn more about the Baths in Budapest, Hungary!

When are the baths open?

The spas are open year-round. So, you can enjoy rejuvenating waters in the middle of summer or in the cold winter with snow sticking to your hair. Both feel absolutely wonderful!

Are they all the same?

You have quite a few different baths to choose from depending on what you are looking for. You might be looking for fun whirlpools, outdoor pools, luxurious pools, a muscle message, or a hangover cure. Different pools have different characteristics to set them apart. Do you want to party at the spa, relax in a wine tub, or a rooftop hot tub?

The baths do have similar layouts. There is almost always a series of indoor thermal pools with temperatures ranging from warm to hot. You can also enjoy steam rooms, saunas, ice-cold plunge pools, and rooms to get a massage. Then some have outdoor pools with fountains, sprays whirlpools, and lap swimming.

Six baths of Budapest Hungary

Gellért Baths

Gellert bath is the most opulent of the baths in Budapest, Hungary.

Those wanting to relax in a beautiful art nouveau environment should head to Gellért Baths which is attached to the Gellért hotel. The baths are open to both men and women in mixed pools. They have six thermal pools including one that’s outdoors. The indoor swimming pool feels like you are in a cathedral with a glass roof providing tons of natural light. This bath is definitely the most opulent spa in the city.

Rudas Baths

Rudas Baths claim to fame is their Turkish octagonal bath chamber built in the 16th century. This bath is unique as they only allow only men bathing in the Turkish steam bath during the week (wearing a little apron that covers very little) except the few times only for women. Both men and women can bathe together on weekends. There is three sections to visit–the Ottoman-era steam bath, the swimming pool and the wellness center. The wellness center and the swimming pool are mixed gender all week long.

The best part of the Rudas Baths is their rooftop hot tub. This pool has gorgeous views of the city and of the Danube. Make sure your ticket allows you to use both the indoor and outdoor pools.

Lukács Thermal Bath

Lukács Thermal Bath, near Margaret Bridge, is a bit simpler and more low-key than some of the other baths but it definitely has its own charms. Healing is a focus at this spa. In fact, in the courtyard, there are stone tablets throughout with messages of gratitude from healed visitors. You will find hot and cold pool therapy and a Himalayan salt room said to help skin and respiratory issues.

After soaking in the healing waters you can go over to the drinking hall to try the same water as the baths–rich in calcium, hydrogen-carbonate, sulphate, chloride, and sodium and fluoride ions. So chock full of minerals!

Széchenyi Thermal Baths

Széchenyi Thermal Baths are the biggest spa and actually the largest medicinal bath in Europe. This stunning Neo-Renaissance complex is massive with 21 different pools inside and out. They feature whirlpool corridors. steam rooms, hydrotherapy massagers, and Jacuzzis. The plethora of options makes this one of Budapest’s most popular baths. It is so easy to spend a whole day here.

Széchenyi’s claim to fame is their Saturday night “sparties”. These parties are not for the faint of heart with electronic dance music, fire shows, laser lights, and pop-up bars. Make sure you get party tickets in advance and get to know the rules, expectations, and procedures.

Beer Spa

The Beer Spa at Széchenyi is truly unique! A session at the Beer spa lasts 45 minutes. During this time you will soak in a tub of malt- and hop-infused water as well as drink all the beer you can drink. This may seem pointless except to drink beer but there are some true health benefits. The hops, yeast, and malt are high in vitamins and minerals that help skin conditions, blood circulation, and muscle tension.

Király Baths

Király Baths is the smallest and one of the oldest baths reminiscent of the Ottoman empire. The building can definitely do with an update but there is a certain interest to the communist vibes complete with the German and Russian signs mixed with the Turkish. It is a bit of a blast from the past. As a small bath, you will find just a few saunas and steam rooms. Due to it’s smaller, a bit less picturesque atmosphere it is the most economical bath.

Palatinus Baths

Palatinus Baths are the perfect bath for families. This mix of an open-air thermal bath and water park is out on Margaret Island on the Danube River. In addition to the wave pool, waterslides, fountains, whirlpools, and jacuzzis you will also find a playground and sports ground (exercise equipment). So much fun for the whole family!

Where do the locals go?

The locals tend to stay away from Széchenyi, Gellért, and Rudas baths, especially on the weekends. These spas tend to attract more tourists. So if you want to hang out with the local people either go early in the morning or visit one of the other spas.

What to know before you go

  • Bring a swimsuit, sandals and a towel.
  • Visit on a weekday as the weekends get VERY crowded.
  • Early morning is the best time to visit. That’s when the locals go.
  • Be prepared to feel a little lost navigating all the corridors in the bath.

How to visit Budapest on a river Cruise

Budapest, Hungary is either the beginning or ending point for some itineraries on the Danube River. As a part of your cruise you will have an included overview tour of the city. This tour will hit the major highlights. If you want to spend more time exploring Budapest then a pre- or post-cruise extension is perfect for you. An extention gives you a few more days to explore and a few other benefits that are talked about in this article.

Have you ever visited a Budapest bath? Is it an activity you will want to try while in Budapest?

If you are interested in learning more about river cruises that include Budapest, Hungary, please contact me. I would love to help you explore the city of Budapest and the Danube River.

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

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Cruising

Experience the Culture of Costa Maya, Mexico

Costa Maya, Mexico is a great place to experience the Mayan culture. The port of Costa Maya is fairly small and the fishing village of Mahahual is just a short ride (2 miles) away. As you get off your ship you will find yourself in a delightful shopping/dining/entertainment area. Right here there are 3 swimming pools and just a quick walk to a beach. You could easily spend all your time in the port area of Costa Maya but there is quite a bit more out there with just a little bit of planning and a sense of adventure.

Costa Maya is a great place to experience Mayan culture watching the hanging acrobats spin around the very tall post.
Hanging acrobat show you can watch right after exiting your cruise ship

The people of this town are more than ready to show you a little bit about their culture. Let’s explore some wonderful activities to experience the culture of Costa Maya, Mexico.

Visit Mahahual

This fishing village is only 2 miles from the cruise ship port. Many visitors feel this is where you see the real culture of this area. Only about 1000 people live in Mahahual and their living is dependant on tourism. You will find beautiful beaches and beach clubs, restaurants, bars, shopping and people ready to help you learn about their culture.

Cooking Classes

One excursion that many guests love is the cooking classes taught by local residents. Guests are taught traditional cooking techniques of the Yucatecan Mexican people. Guests might learn to cook foods like tortillas, empanadas, flautas, pico de gallo, tamales, coconut helado, jicama salad and even more. This is definitely an excursion that you can take home with you and bring back fond memories when you cook the foods at home. Ask your travel advisor for help finding a great cooking class.

Visit the Mayan Ruins

One of the most popular cultural activities is to visit Myan ruins. You will find ruins from as early as 200 BC.

Chacchoben Ruins

Visiting Chacchoben is a great way to experience Mayan culture in Costa Maya, Mexico.

Chacchoben is the closest ruin site to Costa Maya. It is about 50 minutes away. You can schedule an excursion ahead of time or hire a taxi or shttle when you get to the port. Renting a car is also a possibility. The roads are clearly marked.

Chacchoben includes two main temple pyramids dated 200 B.C. to A.D. 700. These ruins are relatively newly discovered as they weren’t found until 1941. The site was opened to the public in 2002 after 8 years of restoration. You can either take a guided tour or explore the area on your own. There isn’t much signage so you will learn a lot more about the history and Mayan culture if you have a guide. The surrounding jungle gives this area a very ancient feel. And, because the nearby jungle is lush you might spot a spider monkey. Note: you are not allowed to climb up the ruins.

Dzibanche and Kohunlich Ruins

These two ruin sites are less traveled as they are a bit farther away. A guided tour will really bring the Mayan history and their culture to life for you. Vegetation enveloped this area at one point so the archeological history is also very interesting. Both sites can be visited in one day.

Dzibanche was a large city between 300 and 900 A.D. There were plazas, palaces, temples, homes, and public buildings that you see remnants of today. The most impressive pyramid is the Cormoranes Pyramid from the 5th Century A.D. You are allowed to climb these ruins to get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding jungle and archeological site. Be careful and watch your footing!

Kohunlich is the largest and most spectacular site. It isn’t as busy as it is about an hour and a half away. You can also climb to the top of the temples here for another beautiful view of the jungle. You are most likely to see those pesky spider monkeys here.

Today was all about the Mayan Culture that you can discover in when your cruise ship docks in the port of Costa Maya. But, this certainly isn’t all there is to do in Costa Maya. Oh no! Stay tuned for a future post about all the adventureous activities available in Costa Maya!

Have you visited Chacchoben? Is this ruin site or one of the others on your bucket list for your next cruise to Costa Maya?

If you would like more information about cruise lines and intineraries that visit Costa Maya I would love to point you in the right direction. Contact me and we can get started planning right away.

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Other links that might be interesting to read:

Ama Waterways

Jazz Lovers Love Vienne, France

Vienne Jazz Festival: One of the most unique and largest in Europe

The Roman amphitheater built in 1 AD is the main stage for the Vienne Jazz Festival in France.
Roman Amphitheater built in 1 AD is the main stage for the Vienne Jazz Festival.

Just a few miles south of Lyon, France, on the banks of the Rhone River, you have the opportunity to attend one of the largest Jazz Festivals in Europe, the Vienne Jazz Festival.

Vienne, France is deeply rooted in Roman history. One of the must see destinations in Vienne is the Roman amphitheater built in 1 A.D. One great way to see this fascinating site is at the Annual Vienne Jazz Festival! The acoustics and history of the setting make this festival very unique.

When is the Vienne Jazz Festival

The Vienne Jazz Festival is held every year in late June/Early July. The dates for the 2021 festival is June 23rd-July 10th.

What’s at the Vienne Jazz Festival

The festival hosts many world-renown jazz and blues artists. Artists such as Miles Davis, Stan Gets, Claude Challe, Sonny Rollins, Bobby McFerrin and Tom Misch have performed on this iconic stage since the festival’s founding in 1981.

Ever year, over 200,000 concert goers listen to hundreds of artist spread throughout 4 stages. In addition to the main amphitheater stage, a smaller stage holds daytime concerts and a couple late night venues hold events for those wanting to listen into the wee hours. If you have young ones traveling with you, they will love the children’s concerts.

Jazz music is not all you will find at the festival. Other activities such as projections, film screenings, book readings, conferences and workshops will educate and entertain guest with everything from gospel music to yoga with jazz. You will also hear music other than jazz such as soul, funk, blues, R&B, folk, hip hop and world music.

While main stage headliner concerts will require tickets most events and activities are free.

Jazz à Vienne means jazz anytime, anywhere for anyone. 

See Vienne Jazz Festival on a river cruise

A river cruise is a great way to enjoy the Vienne Jazz Festival. Vienne, France is a port stop on river cruises down the Rhone River. If you are sailing on AmaWaterways, the Colors of Provence cruise will be perfect. You have a couple of options to work the festival into your vacation.

  • Attend a concert on the day you are in port in Vienne. If you sail on the Colors of Provence itinerary from Lyon, Vienne will be your port of call on Day 3 (the sailings going the opposite direction do not have as much time in Vienne). For 2021 you can choose between two sailing dates, June 24, 2021 (not as much time in Vienne) and July 1, 2021(best option). AmaWaterways Essence of Burgundy and Provence cruise is also an option but the stop is short. Other cruise lines have stops in Vienne in which you could catch a festival concert.
  • Add a couple of days in Lyon, France either before or after your river cruise. AmaWaterways Colors of Provence itineraty either begins or ends in Lyon. Lyon is just a short train ride or drive from Vienne so it makes a great place to extend your river cruise. You can not only attend the festival you can also spend more time eating your way through Lyon, the Gastronomy Capital of France.

If you would like more information about river cruises that include Vienne, France and the Vienne Jazz Festival, please contact me.

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Other reading that you might find interesting:

Ama Waterways

Remembering WWII History in Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg, Germany has a long, robust, 950-year history. It is a marvelous city to visit on a river cruise or for a few days. There are so many things that you can choose to do and see in Nuremberg you could become a little overwhelmed. Since the stories of history are so important to remember, this first post about Nuremberg will focus on the monumental WWII historic places you can visit during your day. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get started learning about the places that you can visit to remember WWII history in Nuremberg, Germany.

The links below have some great historical information and are very interesting to read if you enjoy that sort of thing. ( I sure do!)

Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds

Remembering WWII history in Nuremberg Germany at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and Congress Hall.
Congress Hall–Houses the Documentation Center of the Nazi Party Rally Grounds

In 1933, Adolf Hitler declared that Nuremberg, Germany should be the “City of the Nazi Party Rallies,” so plans were made and construction was begun. Even though these buildings were not ever finished this area stands as a remembrance to this dark time in German history that is not to be forgotten.

The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds (Dokumentationszentrum Reichsparteitagsgelände) is one of the most important museums in Germany dedicated to remembering the Nazi regime. The rally grounds is an absolutely enormous area. The parade grounds alone were designed to hold 200,000. Now, in one wing of the unfinished Congress Hall (designed to seat 50,000), you will find the main exhibit called “Fascination and Terror.” This exhibit chronicles the rise of the Nazi Party, Nazi rallies, racism, anti-Semitism, the German resistance, and the Nuremberg Trials.

Guided tours are available in English if reserved ahead of time. Self-guided tours are also available in English to help you explore this piece of WWII history in Nuremberg, Germany.

Before you visit you might want to watch “The Triumph of the Will,” a propaganda film produced in 1934. The film shows a Nazi Party Rally at the Rally Grounds with over 700,000 attendees, soldiers marching, clips from speeches of prominent Nazi leaders and Adolf Hitler. It isn’t the most exciting film, but it is still very fascinating.

Memorium Nuremberg Trials

Nuremberg Germany remembering WWII history at the Palace of Justice in Courtroom 600.

Another interesting place to visit for WWII history in Nuremberg, Germany is the Memorium Nuremberg Trials. This exhibit focuses on the war trials conducted by the Allies between 1945 and 1949 that tried Nazi officials for crimes against peace, the rules of war, and humanity. You will find this memorial in Nuremberg’s Place of Justice directly above the courtroom where the trials took place.

If you are lucky you might even get to see the actual courtroom, room 600. Access is limited during the weekdays since it is an active courtroom used today. If you happen to visit the Palace of Justice on a Saturday you can experience an audio tour of the room (in English) bringing this sobering piece of history back to life.

River Cruise Tours

Most river cruise lines will include tours in each city and town you visit. These are generally overview tours that help you get a better understanding of the town. So, while in Nuremberg you most likely have the option of a city tour. Your tour will probably include a visit to the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds and possibly even the Palace of Justice. For some, this quick visit might be enough. But, if you are a history buff (and especially WWII) you will want to plan to come back to this area later in the day to fully take in all the exhibits.

Have you visited this part of Nuremberg, Germany? If not, is it on your list of must-visit places? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Here are some more posts you might like to read:

Ama Waterways

Cooking Classes in Bratislava, Slovakia

There are so many wonderful dishes to taste while you are in Bratislava, Slovakia. Now, you can certainly take a tasting tour (complimentary option on your AmaWaterways river cruise) but then you just have to remember the taste. Taking a cooking class in Bratislava will allow you to take the taste of Slovakia home with you! Read on to find cooking classes in Bratislava, Slovakia

Chefparade Cooking School

Do you want to taste the traditional Slovak cuisine and learn to prepare “Bryndzové halušky”?Chefparade has two locations in Bratislava ready to teach you. This cooking school is a contemporary cosmopolitan cooking studio where you can master Slovak cooking. The hands-on courses will give you the confidence to make the dishes at home. Not only do you learn about specific recipes they will also teach basic cooking practices if needed. Their courses are on request so contact your travel advisor to reserve a class.

Bread and Pastry Classes with Tanya Novak

Tanya Novak is a master baker and pastry chef. She teaches classes (in English) in conjunction with Boulanger&Patissiere. She teaches classes for beginners and professionals. You can take a class to make bread and baguettes, macarons, butter croissants, Brioche Feuilletée, and other delectable desserts. Have your travel advisor assist you in booking one of her classes.

Bon Manufaktur Confectionary

Bon Manufaktur is a unique Slovak Confectionary as they turn sugar into art. They sell their own hand made products ranging from candies and lollipops to marshmallos and chocolates. You can go in for some decadent desserts and watch a caramel show but wouldn’t it be much more fun to learn how to make some yourself!

They offer workshops for children and adults from basic to expert skills. A basic class teaches you how to make a somewhat simple lollipop where the upper level classes guide you to creating works of art. Classes are in English.

There are other cooking class possibilites that you travel advisor can look into for you:

  • Bratislava Cooking Workshop–In this 3 hour class you prepare a 3-course Slovakian meal. The menu changes but you might make potato dumplings with sheep’s cheese or creamy garlic soup. After you finish cooking you get to enjoy the meal you prepared. Yum! This workshop isn’t currently available but might be in the future. Have your travel advisor keep an eye out for you.
  • The Sheraton Bratislava Hotel also offers cooking classes. Have your travel advisor find out more information for you. Here is one woman’s account of her class and a delicious recipe.

Have you tried a cooking class in Bratislava? How about somewhere else? What did you think? Let me know in the comments below!

If you are interested in planning a river cruise that has a stop in Bratislava, Slovakia please let me know. I would love to help!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

Here are some other posts you might be interested in:

Ama Waterways

A Day Guide to Explore Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava, Slovakia is an often overlooked tourist destination. Not surprising with both Vienna and Prague nearby. But, Bratislava deserves a look of its own. She may be smaller than the others but she has a flavor and style all her own and is worth the visit.

Because Bratislava is often passed over for the other larger capital cities this is a great city to visit if you want a quieter visit with fewer tourists. While Bratislava gets her share of tourists the streets and sights are much less busy here. Let’s take a look at a few things to see and do in this day guide to explore Bratislava, this pint-sized capital of Slovakia!

Things to See and Do in Bratislava

While Bratislava does get many travelers who stay for a few days many visitors are there just for the day. Bratislava is a river cruise port for many cruises down The Danube River. As part of your river cruise you have the option of taking an overview tour of the city. This tour will point out the major sites in Bratislava–Bratislava Castle, Michael’s Gate, St. Martin’s Cathedral, Old Town Hall, and a few other landmarks.

Bratislava Castle

But, what if you have already taken the tour basic city tour or want to just venture out on your own? The sights listed above are definitley must-see destinations for first timers to Bratislava. And, you might even want to go back to get a better look after the tour.

  • Climb the tower at Michael’s Gate for a beautiful view of the city
  • Tour inside St. Martin’s Cathedral longer
  • Climb the tower at Old Town Hall for a different view of the city
  • Visit the Bratislava City Museum for a taste of the city’s history
  • Get pictures with the statues around Old Town at the junction of Laurinská and Panská streets
  • Take more time reading the historical plaques and taking in the quirks and architecture of Old Town
  • Visit the University Library Building–a place of historic significance

Touring Bratislava on your own

If you are on a river cruise you will only have a day to tour Bratislava so you will have to make some choices of what to see. But here are some options for touring Bratislava, Slovakia–the pint sized capital that you probably won’t see on the included tours.

Devin Castle

Devin Castle is a great place to explore in Bratislava, Slovakia.

The first stop in this Day Guide to Exploring Bratislava, Slovakia is Devin Castle. The ruins of Devin Castle sit on a hill about 10 kilometers west of the center of Bratislava. The castle overlooks the Danube River so at some point you will sail by and have a view from the river. While Bratislava Castle was rebuilt after it was destroyed (in the early 1800s), Devin Castle was not but it is still an awesome plact to visit.

Perched on a 212m (650+ft) cliff, the castle overlooks the confluence of the Danube and Morava rivers. This strategic location provided control of the trade routes on the Danube as well as the anicent Amber Road. An exhibit in the upper castle and info boards throughout tell of Devin Castle’s story between the 13th and 20th centuries (with archeological traces going back to the 5th century BC).

Slavín War Memorial

This day guide to explore Bratislava Slovakia suggests visiting Slavin War Memorial.

Slavin Memorial was built in 1960 to remember the almost 7,000 Soviet troops killed in 1945 while liberating Bratislava from the Germans. The Memorial auditorium base sits atop the highest hill and is topped with a statue of a Soviet soldier lofted over ten stories. In front are six mass graves, the final resting place of the soldiers.

Residents and tourists alike make their way up the hill to remember the past and sweeping view of the Bratislava skyline.

Grassalkovich Palace

Grassalkovich Palace is the official residence of the Slovak President. You will find this Rococo palace from 1760 just north of Old Town. Since it is the permanent home of the president it isn’t open to the public. But the fountain in front and the formal gardens (now a public park) are worth the trek.

Primate’s Palace

Primate Palace is a great place to explore on a day trip to Bratislava, Slovakia.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons

This Neoclassical style palace constructed in the 1770s was also the president’s residence up until 1996. This palace is open to the public. The highlight is a tour of the Hall of Mirrors, five salons each named after the color of the decor. The Hall of Mirrors is significant because the Treaty of Pressburg was signed in December 1805 declaring Napoleon’s victory over the Third Coalition.

Most SNP and UFO Tower

MostSNP and the UFO tower are fun to explore on a day trip to Bratislava Slovakia.

This interesting structure is a relic from the Soviet occupation of Bratislava. The Most SNP (Bridge of the Slovak National Uprising) is the world’s longest cable-stayed bridge that only has one pylon and single set of cables. The highway/walking bridge over the Danube connects Old Town with the Petržalka borough and is a popular destination for visitors and locals.

The “UFO” structure at the top is what really catches people’s attention and is why it is in this day guide to explore Bratislava Slovakia. It sits 240′ above the river and has a 45-second elevator up to the observation deck, restaurant, and bar. If you eat at the restaurant you don’t have to pay a fee for the observation deck but the restaurant is kind of expensive. The views of the city from the UFO are spectacular. Note: the elevator is quite small and hot in the summer so if you are very claustrophobic you might want to pass.

Kapitulska Street

Photo by Dennis Jarvis

This street is only a few block from Old Town. It is definitely a trip back in time with its colorful midieval buildings. It’s just a short walk you might want to see if your tour doesn’t take this street.

Bratislava Transport Museum

Photo by Spasimir Pilev

The Bratislava Transportation Museum is located inside the first railway station on Šancová Street. In 1848, the first steam train pulled into the station, and the station is just as it was back then. There are also a few steam engines on display. And then there are the cars! They have Czech-made cars from the early 20th century (Pragas, Tatras, and Škodas). They also have a Soviet-era ZIL_115 limousine, common transportation in the 70s and 80s. Motorcycles from the 20s and 30s are on display as well This museum is a haven for car lovers and those who like history of all different sorts.

Hopefully you found this day guide to explore Bratislava, Slovakia helpful for planning your next trip!

Have you spent a day in Bratislava, Slovakia? What was your favorite thing to do? If you haven’t been to Bratislava yet, is it on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below!

If you would like more information about river cruise itineraries that include Bratislava, please contact me. I would love to help you book the river cruise just for you!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

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Alaska

Discover the Difference of an Alaska Cruise!

Almost every cruise line has a cruise that visits Alaska. That’s because Alaska is AWESOME! No really, it is. It is so different from most places. A beauty that is unmatched and begging to be explored. But, a cruise to Alaska is quited different from one to the Caribbean or other warm destination. Read on and find out the difference of an Alaska cruise!

The Alaska Cruise Difference

The weather

The rainy cold weather of Juneau is one difference of an Alaska cruise

Alaska is much colder than many travelers are used to. Plus, there is no predicting what the weather will be like when you cruise. Some years July is beautiful and August is rainy. Other years June will be spectacular and July is just so-so.

Be prepared for anything! Pack that pair of gloves and warm coat. Bring along a raincoat and waterproof shoes. You might be very glad to have them when you want to be out on the windy or rainy deck viewing the glacier.

Something to look at all the time

On Caribbean or other cruises (probably not European) you spend a lot of time looking at the wide open ocean. Miles and miles of blue sea. Not so on an Alaska cruise. Once you hit the coastal waters of Alaska there is beautiful scenery to watch go by. Sailing the inlets toward the different towns are a treat and the fjords headed to the glaciers are nothing short of breathtaking.

It’s about the ports not the ship

On an Alaska cruise it’s all about the ports. You certainly don’t want to be hanging around the ship when you could be out discovering Alaska. Each port along the way has its own character. Juneau is a thriving small city. Skagway is a frontier town. Icy Strait Point (Hoona) is a typical native fishing village on the coast. Ketchikan has a wonderful Native Alaskan flavor. Each one is too diverse to miss.

The focus on the ports like frontier Skagway is a difference of an Alaska cruise.

Every port has awesome, once in a lifetime, Alaskan experiences. Land in a helicopter on a glacier. Go halibut or salmon fishing. Ride a dog sled. Eat fresh salmon at a salmon bake. Take a flightseeing tour in a bush plane. Ride a train following the treacherous path miners hiked during the Gold Rush.

There is one thing I hate to mention but I feel I must. As much as I love Disney Cruises I am not sure that an Alaska cruise is the best time to sail a Disney ship. Especially if it is your first Disney Cruise. There is so many amazing things to experience on a Disney ship and a limited amount of time to do them on a Disney Cruise. You might find yourself torn between the ship and the Alaska port. Clearly, this is just my own experience and opinion. There are many people who would disagree with me and that’s okay!

The pool deck might be quite empty

Since the outside temperature isn’t very warm already the movement of the boat can make the pool deck downright chilly. Generally a hot day in Alaska is around 70 degrees. On a really hot day it might go closer to 80 degrees but that is rare (unless the summer is like 2019 and there were quite a few days hovering around 90 degrees). But most likely the weather you will experince on your cruise will be somewhere in the 60’s. Beautiful for walking around but on the verge of chilly on a swiftly moving ship and even chillier in a swim suit.

The pool deck is a less utilized space (well at least by swimmers and sunbathers) on many Alaska cruises. It does make a great spot to have some quiet relaxation as long as you have a warm coat or blanket. Definitely a difference of an Alaska cruise!

You will possibly have cell service

When you are on a most cruises you are always out of the country. Not so on an Alaska cruise. Now you might not have any service while in Canada. But, once you get into Alaskan waters you might get coverage once in a while. You’ll know if texts start pinging your phone. And then if you have a nationwide plan you will have plenty of coverage while in port. Three cheers for being connected!

Almost all the ports are US ports

You will probably have to tell yourself over and over again–I am in the United States. When we cruise we have a tendency to fall into the mindset of exploring other countries. Just another way an Alaska cruise is different. You are in the magnificent 49th state of the United States almost the whole time!

Alaska is not international. Alaska uses the same currency. There is no exchange rate. Alaskans speak English. Our food is American but there is probably better salmon and halibut here. You will notice houses not igloos, and cars not dog sleds (just having a little fun with you).

September cruises are an excellent time to get great deals

The cruising season in Alaska is only from May through September. In September things start winding down. Pretty soon all the tourist shops will close up and many of the people will leave for the winter. That means great sales for you! Want that special piece of jewelery at a great price? Just plan a September Alaska cruise!

By the way, Alaskan ports have the required Dimonds International and other jewelers you find in any other cruis port destination throughout the world. In addition there are many local people who own tourist shops and tour companies. Please, shop local!

Have you been on an Alaska cruise? What did you think was different from other cruises? Is an Alaska cruise in your future for the first time or a repeat trip? Let me know in the comments below!

If you would like to explore booking an Alaska Cruise please contact me! I would love to get you started and on your way to Alaska!

Happy travels to you…until we meet again!

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Ama Waterways

5 Unique Things to do in Lyon, France

Find unique things to do in Lyon, France situated on the Rhone River.

As you know, I think river cruising is a fantastic way to see Europe and France’s Provence region is no exception. Sailing down the Rhone River is a perfect way to view the countryside and visit the towns. Lyon, France is often a beginning or ending point for Provence river cruises. But what is there to do? Well, aside from the food (Lyon is considered the Gastronomic Capital of France) there is so much to see and do in this easy to navigate city.

See this post: Lyon, France–the Gastronomic capital of France

If you are traveling by river cruise then you will have an overview tour of Lyon included. But, what if you have already been on that tour or want to venture out on your own. The tours usually visit the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the St. Jean District and Cathedral, Palace of Justice, and Lyon Old Town. Let’s discover more of Lyon, France. Read on for some unique things to do in Lyon, France!

Navigate the Traboules

The Traboules are one of the things to do in Lyon, France

Winding their way throughout the city, the traboules are a perfect way to experience the city’s colorful and hidden past. There is thought to be more than 400 traboules but only around 40 are open to the public. If you don’t want to hunt for the passages yourself then head to the tourist office on Place Bellecour for a self guided map or guided tour.

The passages are mainly located in Vieux Lyon, La Croix-Rousse, and in La Presqu’île.  Originally they were used to help the silk workers get to the riverbank quickly. Later they were used to aid the resistance in WWII. Most all the traboules are on private property so be respectful.

Picnic in Parc de la Tête d’Or

This park sits atop the ritzy 6th arrondissement on the east side of the Rhône. Along with beautiful grounds for a picnic, you can visit a beautiful botanical garden, paddleboat on the lake, or see animals at the zoo. In the spring don’t miss the rose garden! With lunch from one of the delicious charcuteries or boulangeries, this is a wonderful way to spend a couple hours.

Visit the Croix-Rousse

This neighborhood sits atop the other hill in Lyon. To get there you can walk up La Montée de la Grande Côte which is a pedestrian path with boutiques and cafe’s on either side. The buildings are a sight to be seen from below and on the way up the hill. And at the top there is a small park which has a beautiful view of the city.

This is also the location of the largest outdoor market in Lyon. Open early in the day Tuesday-Sunday, this is another perfect place to get some lunch and picnic in the park!

Musée Miniature et Cinéma

Lyon, France is the home to many museums but the Musée Miniature et Cinéma is one of the most unique things to do in Lyon, France. In fact, it is the only one of it’s kind. Located in Vieux-Lyon this museum is dedicated to two things: miniatures and film props. The main attraction is the over 100 different miniature scenes created by Dan Ohlmann. The attention to detail and craftsmanship is astounding!

The other section of the museum houses more than 300 authentic movie props, artifacts and models from the last 50 years. A truly unique experience!

The Murals of Lyon

Exploring the murals is one of the things to do in Lyon, France.

Discover the distinct culture of Lyon, France through the more than 100 murals painted on walls around the city. These huge murals are painted in the trompe l’oeil style. The paintings depict historical events, important people, or just the everyday moments of life in Lyon.

The most famous mural is La Fresque des Lyonnais. Located near the Quai Saint Vincent on 2 rue de la Martinière, this painting depicts many famous people of Lyon.

The oldest mural is Le mur des canuts.  You can find it on Boulevard des Canuts near the Henon metro.

Otherwise, just keep your eye out and your camera ready as you tour the city!

Have you done something in Lyon, France that was unique or off the beaten path? Let me know in the comments below!

If you would like more information about river cruises that have Lyon, France as part of the itinerary please contact me. I would love to help!

Happy Travels to you…until we meet again!

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