Tulips & Tranquility: Dutch River Cruise Bliss

I recently went on a Tulip Time River Cruise with AmaWaterways, and I can’t stop raving about it. It’s a super exclusive experience—only available for about 2 to 2.5 weeks in late March to early April when the tulips are in full bloom. My sister and I jumped at the chance to tick this off our bucket list, and let me tell you, it was beyond amazing.

The cruise took us through some of the historically rich waterways in The Netherlands, with stops in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Brussels, and Antwerp.  The history of tulips is fascinating—did you know that they originally came from the Ottoman Empire and were brought to the Netherlands in the 16th century? They quickly became a symbol of wealth and prestige, leading to the famous “Tulip Mania” in the 1630s, one of the first recorded speculative bubbles. We visited a tulip farm and learned how they breed, grow, harvest, and sell tulips for auction, all inside a massive production facility.   Later in the trip, we visited a gigantic and seasonal botanical garden dedicated solely to tulips, we not only admired their beauty but also learned about the meticulous process of farming and selling these iconic flowers.

In my mind, one of the highlights of the trip was Rotterdam, which was a bit of a surprise. Known for its post-World War II reconstruction, the city boasts a striking mix of old, traditional buildings and ultra-modern architecture. It’s a city that’s reinvented itself time and again, particularly after being heavily bombed during the war. The architectural tour we took was fabulous, showcasing Rotterdam’s resilience and innovative spirit. If you’re into architecture, you’ll be in heaven here.

Brussels, steeped in history and culture, was all about indulgence. This city has been at the crossroads of Europe for centuries, with influences from various cultures shaping its unique character. And of course, we couldn’t leave without trying the famous “mussels in Brussels.” The dish was an absolute treat, just like the city’s blend of medieval and modern vibes.

Amsterdam, our final stop, was a delightful mix of history and modernity. With its iconic canals, it’s a city that perfectly marries its rich past with a vibrant present. From its Golden Age history, when it was a major trading hub, to its renowned museums and lively street culture, Amsterdam has something for everyone. One of my favorite finds was a quaint Dutch pancake house, where I enjoyed some delicious gluten-free options. The city’s food scene is as diverse as its history, offering everything from traditional street fries to contemporary culinary delights.

One of the best parts of our trip was arriving in Amsterdam a couple of days early. It gave us a chance to really get to know the city before hopping on the cruise. I always recommend doing this—you get to explore at a relaxed pace and soak in the local vibe.

What made this trip unforgettable was how seamlessly everything came together. At TravelStore, we pride ourselves on crafting these kinds of luxury experiences. We work with top-notch suppliers and have fantastic hotel partners to ensure every part of your trip is top-tier.

So, if you’re dreaming of a luxurious Netherlands river cruise filled with blooming tulips, charming cities, and delightful culinary experiences, get in touch with me. Let’s plan your perfect tulip vacation together. This is one journey you won’t want to miss.