Highlights | Independent Tour & Cruise Package Includes - Round trip flights NYC-Amsterdam
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 10 nights First Class accommodations
- Hotel to port transfer
- 23 meals: 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Also Available
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Itinerary | 
DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart USA
Depart USA for Holland. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for the journey
DAY 2, Friday - Arrive in Amsterdam
Arrive and transfer to your hotel on your own. Balance of the day at leisure. Perhaps cruise the canals in a glass-top boat and view historic homes, and charming churches with bell towers. Take time to view the harbor, gabled mansions, and the "Skinny Bridge."
Overnight: Amsterdam
DAY 3, Thursday - Day at Leisure
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Amsterdam. Perhaps make a stop in a local café to sample cheese or enjoy a walk along the canals
Optional: Amsterdam City Tour by Bus & Boat (AM)
Overnight: Amsterdam
Meals: Breakfast DAY 4, Friday - Day at Leisure
Enjoy another full day at leisure in Amsterdam
Optional: Half Day Marken, Voldendam & Windmills (AM)
Overnight: Amsterdam
Meals: Breakfast DAY 5, Saturday - Embark Cruise
Enjoy this morning at leisure in Amsterdam before transferring to the port. Take a stroll through Amsterdam to enjoy the museum district where you can see the Royal Palace and Dam Square. The ship sails at 4:30 pm. Sail overnight to Norway
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner DAY 6, Sunday - At Sea
Enjoy a day at sea aboard the ship as you sail across the sparkling sea. Take advantage of your ship's many unique features including the rock climbing wall and a volleyball court, or simply relax by one of the pools. Visit the shops and boutiques, or try your luck at the casino this evening
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 7, Monday - Full Day in Alesund, Norway*
This morning at 9:00 am, arrive in Alesund. Enjoy this small fishing center in the middle of Norway's popular tourist region between Bergen and Trondheim. Although its history dates back to the Viking period, you'll notice that the architecture throughout the city has an interesting art nouveau style. This is because after a massive fire in 1904, the entire city was rebuilt. This evening at 6:00 pm, sail to Geiranger
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 8, Tuesday - Full Day in Geiranger, Norway*
Arrive in Geiranger this morning at 7:00 am and enjoy a full day at leisure. Experience the true beauty of this fjord county. Thundering waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, crystalline glaciers, and still blue lakes make this a truly unforgettable area. Tonight, set sail at 4:00 pm for Olden
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 9, Wednesday - Full Day in Olden, Norway**
This morning, arrive in Olden at 9:00 am. Olden is a beautiful fjord town with towering mountains and blue glaciers between green valleys. The Nordfjord spreads into three long branches and its southernmost branch terminates at Olden. From there, nature runs its course to the beautiful Oldedalen Valley, the stunning Jostedal Glacier and the glittering lakes, Olden and Floen. Set sail for Bergen at 7:00 pm
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 10, Thursday - Full Day in Bergen, Norway
Arrive in Bergen at 8:00 am. Enjoy the day at leisure. Bergen offers an array of delights, from the sheer splendor of its rugged glacial scenery to an ancient stone church containing the finest example of Baroque art in Norway. All of it, no doubt, inspired the great composer Edvard Grieg, whose home and gardens are open. Set sail this evening at 5:00 pm
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 11, Friday - At Sea
Enjoy a day at sea aboard the ship as you sail across the sparkling sea. Take advantage of your ship's many unique features including the day spa and the many cafes or simply relax by one of the pools. Visit the shops and boutiques, or try your luck at the casino this evening
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DAY 12,Saturday - Depart for the USA
This morning, arrive in Amsterdam at 7:00 am. Disembark the ship and transfer independently to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast *May 29 departure: Day 7 will visit Geiranger, Norway 10 am - 7 pm. Day 8 will visit Alesund, Norway 8 am - 6 pm
** May 29 departure: Day 9 will visit Molde, Norway 7 am - 5 pm instead of Olden, Norway
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| | Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently. |
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Optionals | Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure. | Amsterdam City Tour by Bus & Boat 10:00 AM | Day #3 |
01 May 2012 - 04 Nov 2012 $40
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This panoramic tour of Amsterdam takes you to view both the old and new sections of the city. From the comfort of a modern air-conditioned motor coach, view the Royal Palace, National Monument, "Skinny Bridge," Albert Cuyp market, and the beautiful merchant houses along the canals. The tour also includes a visit to a windmill on the Amstel River. Afterwards, enjoy a tour through Amsterdam's famous canals and Old Harbor. Board a glass-top boat and cruise the canals to view historic homes with beautiful fronts, 16th-century warehouses, and charming churches with bell towers.
Departs from 26 Damrak, the main street between central station & Dam square. Drop-off at 26 Damrak.
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| Half Day Marken, Volendam & Windmills 9:15 AM | Day #4 |
01 May 2012 - 04 Nov 2012 $50
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Enjoy a relaxing drive through the polders region to reach Zaanse Schaans heritage park, a well-known Amsterdammer village where you will visit a working windmill. Continue to visit the charming fishing villages of Volendam and Marken on the shores of the old Zuiderzee. Afterwards, conclude your tour of traditional Holland with a visit to a cheese farm in Edam before returning through the countryside to Amsterdam.
Departs at 9:15 a.m. from 26 Damrak (main street between central station & Dam square). Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off at 26 Damrak.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure. |
Rates & Hotels | Step 1: Select Your Choice of Cabin & Hotel Plans Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation |
*Not Included:
Royal Caribbean Taxes & Fees, arrival & departure transfers, optional tours, shore excursions, and gratuities. Royal Caribbean International® reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement on all guests if the price of West Texas Intermediate fuel exceeds $65.00 per barrel. The fuel supplement for 1st and 2nd guests would be no more than $10 per guest per day, to a maximum of $140 per cruise; and for additional guests would be no more than $5 per person per day, to a maximum of $70 per cruise.
Additional Information:
Passengers disembarking to the airport should select flights that depart no earlier than 11 AM.
Reservations may only be completed for one cabin. Customers requiring multiple cabins will require one reservation per cabin. Click here for Ports of Call information.
Entry Requirements:
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information,
check our Visas page.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | | Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
It is strongly recommended that passengers apply for visas before traveling, even where it may be possible to apply locally. Applying for a visa locally can be a lengthy process.
| | Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock.
| Preparing to Sail on Royal Caribbean International®
Upon booking a Tour & Cruise package, Gate 1 will provide a Royal Caribbean International® Reservation Number. Cruise planning may then be managed online with Royal Caribbean by visiting "Countdown to Cruise" (www.rccl.com), requiring a Last Name, Reservation Number, Sailing Date and Ship Name to register. From here, all cruise details may be managed in the days leading up to the sailing, including:
- Browse and book optional shore excursions;
- Select dining times (for customers who select the "My Time Dining" option);
- Cross-reference reservations, for those traveling with friends or family on another reservation;
- Research ports of call and additional destination information;
- Register to receive planning suggestions directly to a personal email account;
- Check-in online and order luggage tags;
- Browse Frequently Asked Questions.
Royal Caribbean International® Terms & Conditions
Royal Caribbean International® Terms & Conditions governing the cruise component of a Tour & Cruise package apply to all customers sailing with Royal Caribbean. To view those terms, please visit:
Royal Caribbean Terms & Conditions
Royal Caribbean International® Online Check-In and Luggage Tags
While completing Online Check-in at www.royalcaribbean.com/onlinecheckin you now have the ability to request your ship luggage tags and have them sent to you. You will need to request your ship luggage tags no later than 14 days prior to your sailing date. You can expect to receive them in the mail within approximately 7 days following your request. (Some restrictions may apply). Online check-in is available until 3 days prior to sailing.
| | Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another | When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code + destination Country Code + Phone Number.
For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If the international number you wish to call starts with a 0 (zero), you must drop this starting digit when dialing the number.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 800-232-4636, web site www.cdc.gov.
| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://ostpxweb.dot.gov/policy/safetyenergyenv/disinsection.htm.
| | Climate & Clothing | Holland - Holland's climate is moderate year round. However, rain is frequent. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Holland Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#belgium-weather
| | About Independent Travel | Independent tours allow you the freedom and flexibility to enjoy your vacation days at your own pace, to explore on your own, to be spontaneous and to focus on personal interests. Accordingly, independent tours are very different from Gate 1’s escorted tours, which are conducted by a Tour Manager who accompanies you throughout, manages your needs and provides expert guiding services from the beginning to the end of your tour.
When traveling independently, please bear in mind that you will be responsible for your needs throughout. Depending upon the package or services you have selected, you may encounter representatives along the way, such as a transfer driver, or a local sightseeing guide. Those may be included in your tour or options you have pre-selected. However, you will be on your own to handle your luggage, locate service providers, check into and out of your hotels, and to get to and from train stations or car rental counters.
Independent touring, as the name implies is for the independent traveler who is comfortable traveling on one’s own with less guidance. Of course, as with all Gate 1 touring packages, you will find your services exactly as reserved when you arrive to your destination.
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| E-Tickets & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
If your flight itinerary displays a flight as “Operated By” another carrier, you should check-in at the desk of the “Operated By” airline. When you arrive at the airport, check the airport monitors for updated check-in desk listings.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number or Flight Ticket Number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Many airlines do not permit check-in less than one hour prior to the scheduled departure time. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Passengers are responsible to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure. Passengers are also recommended to reconfirm their flight schedule, seat assignments, special meal requests and frequent flier numbers, as applicable. In the event of an airline schedule change, Gate 1 will make every effort to inform passengers of the schedule change and new flight schedule prior to departure. Gate 1 is not responsible for schedule changes including, when applicable, changes in routing and/or the number of stops in the itinerary. Gate 1 is unable to provide compensation for schedule changes or cancellations implemented by an airline. In the event of any change in flight itinerary made directly between passengers and their airline, it is the passengers' responsibility to advise Gate 1 of amended flight details in writing to service@gate1travel.com. Gate 1 cannot be held responsible for land services, including arrival and/or departure transfers, if flights are changed without its knowledge.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers, both inside and outside of the USA, typically on small aircraft, may differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions of hand and/or checked luggage. Most airlines apply charges for checked bags. For detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies please visit http://www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Frequent Flier Programs | Passengers are responsible to contact their airline directly regarding mileage eligibility and accrual. Airline frequent flier programs determine whether to award miles in part or total based on their own rules which are updated frequently. Some discounted or promotional airfares are not eligible for mileage accrual. Gate 1 Travel will record frequent flier numbers when provided by the passenger prior to travel documents being issued. However, the addition of frequent flier numbers to airline records does not guarantee mileage eligibility which is at the sole discretion of each airline.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 land tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Please refer to “Airline Luggage Restrictions” for guidance regarding airline policies and charges for checked bags. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| River Cruise Docking Locations in Amsterdam - The final docking location is
determined by the Amsterdam Port Authorities and is subject to change. If you are arriving to the port
independently, please go to the docking point listed below. If you are unable to locate your ship, please
contact the ship at the telephone number provided in your tour documents to receive the most recent docking
information. To help identify your ship, passengers traveling with Amadeus Diamond or Princess, or Elegant
may notice a distinctive white pointed canopy tent on the sundeck of the vessel.
- Ship * Sailing Date * Itinerary * Amsterdam Dock
- Diamond * Apr 4, 2012 * Amsterdam - Amsterdam * Ruijterkade oost
- Brilliant * Apr 7, 2012 * Amsterdam - Amsterdam * Ruijterkade oost, Wharf B
- Elegant *Apr 17, 2012 * Amsterdam - Amsterdam * Veemkade PTA, LP 3
- Princess * May 17, 2012 * Amsterdam - Basel * Ruijterkade oost, Wharf A
Westerdoksedijk (West Dock) From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along
De Ruyterkade for 1/2 mile to Westerdoksedijk.
Steiger From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade for 1/4
mile to the Steiger piers.
De Ruijterkade Oost (East Dock) From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, turn right
along De Ruyterkade. The docks are approximately 100 yards along the street.
Veemkade (Passenger Terminal) From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, turn right along
De Ruyterkade and travel less than half mile to the Passenger Terminal. Veemkade docks are located behind
the Terminal building.
Javakade From the Central Rail Station, when facing the harbor, turn right along De Ruyterkade and
travel a half mile passing the Passenger Terminal on your left. Turn left onto Javabrug (Java Bridge) and
cross the bridge. At the end of the bridge, turn left onto Javakade.
Coenhaven The dock is located approximately 4 miles from the Central Rail Station. If you have not
purchased a transfer from Gate 1 Travel, it is advisable to take a taxi to the port. From the Central Rail
Station, when facing the harbor, travel left along De Ruyterkade (S100). After 1.5 miles, make a slight left
onto Tasmanstratt (S101) and follow the road making a slight right onto Nieuwe Hemweg (S101, continued).
After 1.6 miles, turn right at Vlothavenweg and continue 1/2 mile. Turn right at Coenhavenweg.
To view a Map of the Amsterdam Docking Locations, visit www.gate1travel.com/european-river-cr
uise/ports-amsterdam.aspx
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship.
The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money
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| Hotels | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard.
| | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.
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| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities.
We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally-crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find alone. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs.
While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
About Tax-Free Shopping
Tax-Free Shopping (TFS) allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their shopping in some foreign countries. Currently, about 50 countries allow foreign visitors to have their taxes reimbursed. TFS is subject to national regulations such as minimum spend and restrictions on the types of products on which it can be claimed. TSF is currently available in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Morocco, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russian Federation, Singapore, Slovenia, Slovakia, Spain, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey and the United Kingdom. Eligible countries and their specific regulations are subject to change at any time including the % of VAT which is reclaimable and the minimum purchase amount restriction. When planning to shop in a country with Tax-Free Shopping and to reclaim VAT/GST taxes, we recommend that you check the current regulations prior to completing your purchase. In many cases, stores will display signage such as “VAT Refunds for Tourists.” Normally, you will need to present your passport and receive a VAT Refund Application form(s) from the store along with an explanation of how to claim your refund. Sometimes this is completed at the airport upon departure or later via mail from your home. Service fees may apply. Alternatively, you may choose to work with a fee-based VAT Refund Service.
| Holland - Special purchases include beautiful Delft blue pottery and pottery from Makkum and Workum, costume dolls, silverware from Schoonhoven, glass and crystal from Leerdam and diamonds from Amsterdam.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| Holland - The Euro is the currency of Holland.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally | On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
Most US-issued credit cards rely on magnetic-strip technology rather than embedded microprocessor chips which are increasingly common overseas. These “chip-and-PIN” cards require users to punch in a personal identification number (PIN) instead of signing for a purchase. For example, many automated ticket kiosks, such as those commonly found at train stations, gas pumps and parking garages, don’t accept cards without a chip and PIN. Most cash registers are equipped to handle American cards but if you encounter difficulties, offer an alternative credit card or politely insist that the cashier keep trying to swipe the credit card. ATMs typically recognize and accept US issued debit cards. For travel to Europe, should you anticipate using ticket kiosks or purchasing train tickets locally, you may consider buying tickets and other basic purchases prior to departure.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
General Suggested Tipping
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): $6 or $7 per person per day
- Tour escort helper (in some countries): $1 per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : $3 per person per day, $2 per half day
- Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): $2 per person per half day of sightseeing, $3 per full day
Suggested Tipping: Hotels
- Porter: $2.00 per bag per person
- Wait staff: 5-10% of the bill (lunch or dinner)
- Chamber maid: $1.00 per person per day
Suggested Tipping: Sea Cruises
- Royal Caribbean: Standard gratuities (subject to change) are $9.75 per person per day including Stateroom attendant, Dining Room Waiter, Assistant Waiter, & Headwaiter ($12 per person per day for Suite guests)
- Louis Hellenic: approx $11 per person per day added automatically to the shipboard account
- Galapagos Islands: $8-9 per person per day
Suggested Tipping: River Cruises
- Europe: Crew: $10 per person per day, Gate 1 Cruise Director: $6 to $7 per person per day
- Russia & Ukraine: Crew: $8 to $10 per person per day
- Egypt: Crew: $5 per person per day
- China: Crew: $8 to $10 per person per day
- Ecuador: Crew: $12 per person per day; Ship's naturalist: $6 per person per day
- Peru: Crew: $15 per person per day
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Holland - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.
| Royal Caribbean International® - Envelopes for gratuities will be provided in your stateroom on the last night of the cruise and gratuities may be paid in the following ways: (1) For "My Time Dining" guests, these will be added to your Gate 1 invoice (2) Pre-paid online. Go to Royal Caribbean International® "Countdown to Cruise" (www.rccl.com) and have your Royal Caribbean Reservation # available (3) Added to your onboard SeaPass account (4) Paid in cash at the end of the cruise. Standard gratuities for sailings prior to July 1, 2011 are $9.75 per person per day including Stateroom attendant, Dining Room Waiter, Assistant Waiter, & Headwaiter ($12 per person per day for Suite guests). Standard gratuities for sailings on or after July 1, 2011 are $11.65 per person per day including Stateroom attendant, Dining Room Waiter, Assistant Waiter, & Headwaiter ($13.90 per person per day for Suite guests). Gratuities apply to guests of all ages, and are subject to change at any time. Gratuities for other service personnel are at your discretion. A 15% gratuity will automatically be added to your bar bill or wine check when you are served.
| | On-board Cashless System - Royal Caribbean International® | All Royal Caribbean ships operate on a cashless system, meaning your boarding card (also known as your SeaPass card), will be used as a charge card to make all onboard purchases. Normally to activate this SeaPass account, most guests provide a credit card (American Express, Optima, MasterCard, Visa, Discover and Diner's Club), to have these purchases charged to at the end of their cruise. Additionally, the SeaPass system may be activated with traveler's checks, debit cards with a Visa or MasterCard logo, or cash. The currency onboard Royal Caribbean ships is the US Dollar.
| | Your Safety is Very Important |
Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
- Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would be at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Your objective is to avoid drawing attention and to blend in with the crowd
- Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place (in case one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place)
- Do not leave valuables laying loose in your room. Use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe
- Credit cards are generally accepted everywhere and are safer than traveling with large amounts of cash
- Do not pack valuables (cameras, computers, jewelry, etc.) in your checked luggage. Keep hard-to-replace valuables with you in your carry-on bag
- Keep wallets safely tucked into front trouser pockets and/or wear a money pouch inside your clothing
- Carry handbags close to your body, shoulder bags the cross-body method with the bag in front of your body.
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses
| | Cruise Embarkation / Disembarkation - Royal Caribbean International® | For details regarding Royal Caribbean embarkation and disembarkation procedures including port information, please visit "Countdown to Cruise", requiring a Last Name, Reservation Number, Sailing Date and Ship Name to register.
| | On Your Cruise - Royal Caribbean International® | Electricity:
Royal Caribbean Cruise ships are outfitted with North American standard, 110 volts AC.
Code of Conduct:
Click here to view Royal Caribbean's Code of Conduct.
Shore Excursions::
Shore excursions may be booked in advance online with Royal Caribbean by visiting "Countdown to Cruise", requiring a Last Name, Reservation Number, Sailing Date and Ship Name to register. Alternatively, shore excursions may be purchased onboard, subject to advance booking restrictions and availability.
Meals:
Dining options will vary from ship to ship. At the time of booking, you will have the option to select between Traditional Dining and "My Time Dining." Meals from many onboard venues, such as the Main Dining Room and Windjammer Cafe, are included in the price of your cruise. There is a $20.00 USD per person service charge to dine at the Portofino Restaurant and a $25.00 USD per person service charge for Chops Grille. To dine in Johnny Rockets, there is a $4.95 USD per person service charge. All prices subject to change.
What to Wear Onboard:
Shorts, t-shirts, slacks, trousers, casual skirts, blouses and sundresses are all perfect during the day, whether indoors or out. For lounging by the pool, pack two bathing suits and a pair of casual shoes (e.g., flip-flops, sandals, sneakers). You'll also need some casual shorts and a couple of t-shirts or a cover-up for getting to and from the pool areas. If you're planning to visit the onboard fitness center, be sure to bring extra shorts, t-shirts and socks that you won't mind working out in - plus a pair of tennis or running shoes/sneakers. Dinners are Casual, Smart Casual or Formal. Suggested guidelines for these nights are: Casual: Sport shirts and slacks for men, sundresses or pants for women; Smart Casual: Jackets and ties for men, dresses or pantsuits for women; Formal: Suits and ties or tuxedos for men, cocktail dresses for women. For complete details, please visit Royal Caribbean Cruise Attire.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Holland
| | Languages | Holland - Dutch is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Holland - The voltage used is 230 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | Holland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Common courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate.
| | Holidays - Holland | | Holidays 2011 | | Jan 1 | New Year's Day | | Apr 22 | Good Friday | Apr 24 | Easter | Apr 25 | Easter Monday | Apr 30 | Queen's Day | May 4 | Liberation Day | Jun 2 | Ascension Day | Jun 13 | Whit Monday | Dec 5 | St. Nicholas' Eve | Dec 24 | Christmas Eve | Dec 25 | Christmas Day | Dec 26 | St. Stephen's Day | Dec 31 | New Year's Eve |
| | | Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
| | About Your Sightseeing | When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary.
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