Holland American

In 1871, Holland America Lines began its history as the Nederlandsche - Amerikaansche Stoomvaart Maatwsschappij. Based in Rotterdam in Holland, and service delivery to the Americas, it became known as Holland America Line.

In 1895, the company offered its first vacation cruise from New York in 1910 and his leisure cruise from New York to the Holy Land. In the 1970s, Holland America Line suspended its transatlantic service and sold its shipping division. Holidays became his focus full time. In 1989, Holland America Line became a wholly owned division of Carnival Corporation, the largest cruise company in the world.

Boarding was smooth and easy. Place the bags in the bins outside, walk inside, go see ID and boarding, to complete a health questionnaire, get a check in the short line, show them the credit card you use, smile at the camera, pressing a different image and you're on board. Probably 20 minutes of arrival of the first mojito on the Lido Deck. I've never had a better boarding.

The last time we were on the Oosterdam was in 2003 when it was all brand new and I think someone took loving care of this beautiful boat. She is as beautiful today as it was then. Our balcony cabin was really nice and has more room to move, store all clothing, etc. and relax with a glass of wine as the ocean rolled by.

Ok here we run into one problem of the entire cruise so far. We confirmed with seats behind and a table for 8 people. We arrived at a top 4 with an old gentleman who was also sailing on his first cruise with Air America, and was assured of a large table like minded individuals.

It was ok, but not the most comfortable evening. A quick trip to the waiter the next day we set a table for 6 with two other couples who have been disappointed even the night before. We had great table mates for the rest of the cruise.

The shore excursions we chose to rank right up there have with some of the best shore excursions we experienced around the world. Cabo San Lucas, we went to Todos Santos for lunch at the Hotel California. This is a very interesting player in the desert of Baja California from the Bay of Cabo Sea of Cortez to the Pacific Ocean, where the driver stopped at a place unexpected because There were lots of whales to see.

The town itself is charming and some works of art, most notably Rueben Gutierrez is spectacular. By the way, pottery Gutierrez is a very reasonable price. Then it was lunch at the Hotel California, which had wonderful food.

In Mazatlan, we signed for the shrimp fest. We went to a charming private residence on a hill overlooking the entire city, with beautiful gardens and lovely terraces introduced to the crowd. They served Margaritas and beer and soda all day and a buffet of all the shrimp you can eat in three different styles with rice and beans and guacamole and salsa and tortilla chips and courses.

A gallery of artisans was on the ground and my wife bought the most amazing citrine and freshwater pearl necklace and then met with the designer necklace that has offered him the clip earrings to go with he and his e-mail when she had conceived.

In Puerto Vallarta, we did "Rhythm of the Night" and you do not want to miss this tour! It begins with a ride of one hour by catamaran to a private beach all lit by tiki torches and absolutely beautiful. The catamaran crew put on a show that was very good.

The dinner was truly memorable as each party had a table for the number of people they have nominated. It was a.