Built in Rotterdam, sailed from Rotterdam and now back in Rotterdam. Welcome on board of the legendary Holland America Line flagship De Rotterdam where a tour through time awaits you. Besides the ability to drink and eat on deck visitors of De Rotterdam can take a grand tour to discover the ship’s true nature, may this be the engine rooms of deck D and F, the captain’s control unit or the first class guest areas.

Photo courtesy of Ama Dorsman, Rotterdam, Netherlands

History

With it’s long history the Holland America Line flagship De Rotterdam (748 ft. tall, 91 ft. wide and 134 ft. in height) adds high cultural value to sightseeing in the city of Rotterdam. It all started on September 13th 1958 when ten thousand of citizens had gathered to see Queen Juliana officially name the ship after it’s city of birth “Rotterdam”. The builders had very specific demands on the ship’s design for functionality, machinery for speed and interior design for guests. It was one year later September 3th 1959 when the first journey to New York across the Atlantic Ocean meant “a new world” to adventurists.

For a long period no transport type could compete with de Rotterdam, it was not until 1971 when the first commercial airline started boarding planes to New York which meant the immediate end of many successful years. But also during these harsh years de Rotterdam maintained it’s position. After a short period of maintenance it started to offer 5 star Caribbean cruises and journeys around the world.

After 38 years (1997) of loyal duty De Rotterdam gets sold to Premier Cruises which after it’s name changed after one of the world’s greatest artist: Rembrandt. For the next three years De Rembrandt is doing short cruises in and around Europe as well South America. When in 2000 the economy is running slow and interests rate are raising rapidly Premier Cruises are going through stormy weather, financial debt is growing fast. During this year De Rembrandt gets stuck in the Freeport harbor on the Bahamas.

In 2005 local Rotterdam activist society “Behoud Stoomschip Rotterdam” represent trust and pride in De Rotterdam’s cultural and historical value and therefore demands the ship to come back to it’s home city Rotterdam. City hall acknowledged the society’s ideas and decided to give De Rotterdam a permanent spot in the Maashaven, nearby kop van Katendrecht. After several renovations it opened for public, besides historical and cultural value it also holds commercial, creative and social functions for society.

General information

Everyone is welcome aboard of de Rotterdam without purchasing an entrance ticket. You will be allowed inside the restaurant, bar and terrace on deck. If you wish to view the inside of the ship an tour package must be purchased, there’s three type of tour package available which are the Seabreeze Deluxe, The way down below and a combination tour.

Entrance & tours prices for adults
No charge to access the restaurants, bar and terrace on deck.
Tour Seabreeze Deluxe (Outdoors with audio guide) €12,50 ($16.60) approximately one hour.
Tour The way down below (Engines and control panel with audio guide) €10,00 ($13.28) approximately 45 minutes.
Tour All inclusive tour (Both tours with audio guide) €16,00 ($21.25) approximately one hour and 30 minutes.

Entrance & tours prices for children
No charge to access the restaurants, bar and terrace on board.
Tour Seabreeze Deluxe (Outdoors with audio guide) (4-11) €7.50 ($9.96) (0-3) Free approximately one hour.
Tour The way down below (Engines and control panel with audio guide) (4-11) €6.00 ($7.96) (0-3) Free approximately 45 minutes.
Tour All inclusive tour (Both tours with audio guide) (4-11) €9.50 ($12.61) (0-3) Free approximately one hour and 30 minutes.

De Rotterdam facilities
Smoking is prohibited inside De Rotterdam.
De Rotterdam has wheelchair accessible areas: Restaurants Lido and Club Room, Ocean Bar and the expedition area.
No pets are allowed inside De Rotterdam (with exception of guide dogs).
De Rotterdam offers local and international cuisine.
De Rotterdam does not offer free wifi.

De Rotterdam pictures

De Rotterdam is a unique and one of a kind sightseeing attraction. It has a permanent spot in one of the European’s biggest harbors in the heart of the city. With a historical and cultural value this is a not to miss sightseeing for both foreign and local visitors. Have a look at a great select of unique De Rotterdam pictures on a clear and sunny day. These pictures have been taken by Ama Dorsman, a local citizen which made a contribution to Globenavigation.com.

These pictures date July 2010 De Rotterdam, Maashaven.

How to reach

By car
Once you enter the center of Rotterdam city, follow the signs to “Erasmusbrug“.
Once you arrived at the Erasmusbrug, follow the signs “ss Rotterdam”.

By car navigation
Use the address: Street: 3e Katendrechtse hoofd 25 ZIP: 3072 AM City: Rotterdam

By public transport
Use metro line D “Slinge or Spijkenise” – Exit on the Rijnhaven stop, use bus 77 “Katendrecht” and exit on stop “SS Rotterdam”.

By water taxi
Nearby De Rotterdam is the “2e Katendrechtse Haven” dock where the water taxi can drop you. There’s multiple entrance points to enter the water taxi in Rotterdam, for exact locations visit www.watertaxirotterdam.nl or call +31(10) – 4030303

Contact & opening hours

Tour hours
Opening Hours April till October (Mon – Sun) 9 am – 19.30 pm (Ticket window is opened till 19 pm, tour route closes at 19.30 pm)
Opening Hours November till March (Mon – Sun) 10 am – 16 pm (Ticket window is opened till 15 pm, tour route closes at 16 pm)

Restaurant hours
Lido
(Mon – Fri) 6:30 am – 24 pm
(Sat – Sun) 7 am – 24 pm
Club Room
(Mon – Fri) 6 pm – 22 pm (Dinner)
(Saturday) 11 am – 16 pm (High tea) 6 pm – 22 pm (Dinner)
(Sunday) 12 am – 15 pm (Brunch) 6 pm – 22 pm (Dinner)

Guest hours
De Rotterdam is opened 24 hours per day for hotel guests.

3e Katendrechtse hoofd 25
3072 AM Rotterdam
0900-337 68 83
www.opderotterdam.nl

Varanasi (वाराणसी) also known as Benares or Banaras is the holiest city in India situated on the banks of the River Ganges. One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world is filled with spiritual charms and colors, temples and shrines and is considered holy by the Hindu, Buddhists and Jains. Visiting Varanasi requires travelers to be open minded and cultural adventurous.

The holy city of Varanasi is where funerals take place 24/7 in the open air burning sights at the Ganges river surrounded by goats, cows, children playing cricket and grieving families without emotions. Tens of tourists boats passing by while ashes are flowing in the air, silk color wraps from the bodies lined up at riverside next to piles of wood being brought in by boats. In the background you can hear the Hindi music, the bells ringing from the temples and elders singing to the gods. Very few places in India are as colorful, charismatic and spiritual as Varanasi.

The city of Varanasi can be reached by train or bus from any major destination and city within India, as well cheap hostels and hotels can be found fairly easy. When arriving in the city, auto rickshaw driver(s) will offer to be your guide which is unnecessary in a city as small as Varanasi. Especially when transportation is cheap. You will need approximately one morning and one evening in Varanasi in order to see the not to miss ceremonies and temples on the holy Ganges river. It’s recommended to arrive around mid-day – book a hotel for one night – go see the evening ceremony – go back to your room as most establishments close at 9 o clock sharp – go see the sunrise around 6 o clock – check out your hotel by 12 o clock and proceed to the next destination.

The Euromast Sky Tower is the height pride of Rotterdam and is visible from almost anywhere within the city. Besides the many tourist visitors, locals are also delighted to visit this 50 year old Dutch national monument. Who doesn’t want to eat at a height of 328 ft. (100 meters) with a spectacular 360 degree view on one of Europe‘s largest harbors, the city of Rotterdam and the maas river bridges including Willemsbrug and Erasmusbrug. Besides food facilities the Euromast also offers fun for thrill seekers such as abseiling, the Euroscoop at 606 ft. height (185 meters) and Speedboat Adventure tours across Harbor and maas river. For those who can’t get over the fun, two luxury Euromast hotel rooms await to spend a night in your own Space Tower inclusive of champagne and private balcony.

History

The Euromast Sky Tower is a 606 feet tall “Space Tower” in the city of Rotterdam, designed and built by Hugh Maaskant between 1958 and 1960 in the honor of the 1960 Floriade. The Euromast is a concrete building with an internal diameter of 30 ft. (9 meters) and wall thickness of 1 ft. (30 centimeters) for stability reasons it has been built on a concrete block worth 4,2 million LB (1.9 million kilograms) of established underground. The original height of the Euromast upon completion in 1960 was 331 ft. (100 meters), when in the 1970′s the Euromast lost its position as the tallest tower of Rotterdam the government decided to add an additional 279 ft. (85 meters). The Euromast is member of the World Federation of Great Towers.

General information

Everyone is welcome at the Euromast although an entrance ticket is required. The ticket can be purchased at the service desk upon entrance of the Euromast. This ticket will give access to the 360 degree Brasserie restaurant, the two level balcony and the Euroscoop a rotating elevator that reaches the top of the Euromast at 606 ft (185 meters).

Ticket prices
€8,90 ($10,66) Adults
€5,70 ($6.83) Children 4 till 11 (0-3 free)
€7,70 ($9.22) Seniors (65+)

Euromast facilities
Smoking is prohibited inside the Euromast.
The Euromast is wheelchair accessible.
No pets are allowed inside the Euromast.
The Euromast offers local and international cuisine.
The Euromast offers FREE WIFI.

Euromast pictures

The Euromast isn’t just another sightseeing attraction in the city of Rotterdam, it’s an absolute landmark with over 50 years of history. Have a look at a great selection of unique pictures of the Euromast on a clear sunny day without clouds. These pictures have been taken by Dave from Globenavigation.com

These pictures date Saturday 5th of June 2010 Euromast, Rotterdam.

Fine dining

The Euromast offers a unique dining experience on 314 ft. (96 meters) height with a panoramic 360 degree view of Rotterdam. The view from table or private booth add character to the already fancy designed restaurant named “Brasserie”. The bar is located in the inner circle from where the staff operates. The staff who seemed friendly, cooperative and maintained English skills are plenty available. Visitors can join for lunch, dinner or select a drink and snack from the menu.

In between a food or drink order you can take the stairs to a 360 degree 2 level balcony without additional charge. Although the balconies are 360 degree 1/4th of the total space is being used for thrill factor abseiling. Spread out over the balcony there’s “Super Zoom” machines where you can Zoom-in on Rotterdam City to your hearts content. The restaurant Brasserie serves both local and international food, the kitchen closes 45 minutes before the Euromast closing time (23 pm).

Thrill seekers

The Euromast offers several thrills for adrenaline junkies, using height and surrounding landmarks in their advantage.

Euroscoop [NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE]

The Euroscoop is built only for those who aren’t afraid of heights, the rotating elevator spins until the very top of the Euromast at 606 ft. (185 meter) height. When the sky is clear you can see as far as the Belgium city Antwerp. The Euroscoop is opened during Euromast business hours if the weather and technical conditions allow you to enjoy. The Euroscoop is included in the Euromast ticket price and is therefore without additional charge.

Abseiling [€45.00 INCL. ENTRANCE TICKET]

Cross your personal limit and step over the edge of the Euromast in order to head straight down while enjoying the remarkable skyline of Rotterdam. How is this unique? For one it’s the highest abseiling course in Europe as well that you’re heading straight down instead of jumping the wall on the way down. Abseiling is present every weekend from May till September 2010. Reservation is not required but advisable. Minimum required age is 16 years.

Speedboat Adventure [€47.50 INCL. ENTRANCE TICKET & LUNCH]

The speedboat adventure tour is the newest thrill of the Euromast which allows you to discover Rotterdam from both sea and air. Before or after your luxury and private lunch in the Brasserie restaurant you’ll fly for 20 minutes over the waves of the maas river across landmarks in a Joker Coast 650 up to 50 miles (80 kilometers) speed. Speedboat Adventure can be booked every weekend from June till October 2010 between 11 am and 2 pm. Reservation is required.

Spido [€16.60 INCL. ENTRANCE TICKET]

The last but certainly not least package isn’t so much a thrill but yet a fun combination package for friends, families or group tours. It offers an 75 minutes laid-back sightseeing tour across Rotterdam landmarks on the popular Spido boat as well entrance to the Euromast and Euroscoop. There’s no minimum age requirement to go aboard the Spido, as well there’s no reservation required. Tickets can be booked at the ticket office at the desk of the Euromast.

How to reach
Public transport from Rotterdam Central Station, Tramline 8 (Spangen) stop Euromast.
Private or rental car follow signs “Centrum” / “Maastunnel” from highway and thereafter “Euromast” within city center. There are paid parking spots in front of the Euromast.
Taxi any driver should know the Euromast within city center, the total costs on the meter shouldn’t exceed €20,00.

Contact & opening hours

Opening Hours April till September (Mon – Sun) 9.30 am – 23 pm
Opening Hours October till March (Mon – Sun) 10 am – 23 pm

Parkhaven 20
3016 GM Rotterdam
+31 010 4364811
www.euromast.nl

Please also have a look at Netherlands things to do

Dave from Globenavigation.com at the Euromast

An Globenavigation.com exclusive written and published by Dave Geerts on the 5th of June 2010.

In the middle of the Nevada dessert lies, like a Fata Morgana the casino city Las Vegas. Established in 1905, Las Vegas officially became a city in 1911, with the following growth towards a population of 1,8 million people and tolerance of adult entertainment the city Las Vegas earned the title of Sin City.

When landing at Las Vegas international airport it’s a not to miss sight: the neon lights combining the large hotels, strip clubs and casinos on the strip. Once landed and checked in through customs, you’ll see gambling machines left and right till you hit the taxi stand which is followed by an amazing start of your Las Vegas trip, the taxi ride to town with a close up view of the hotels on the strip, the limousines and luxury cars fill the traffic sight beneath bright neon lights from the casinos, not to forget being welcomed by the world famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada city sign.

When visiting Las Vegas make sure to bring extra energy for the many shopping facilities, fine dining experiences and adult entertainment including gambling, magic shows, strip and nightclubs. Besides its being known for the Sin City in the United States locally, worldwide Las Vegas has the reputation of being called The Entertainment Capital of the World.

Travelers to the United States / Las Vegas are required to have a valid passport. Depending on your: nationality, reason to visit or length of stay you may be required a visa. Travelers entering the United States to visit Las Vegas are advised to contact the local USA embassy to verify before leaving.

Bucharest, known as ‘the little Paris’ in the past is Romania’s biggest city as well as its capital and its industrial and commercial hub. The city is home to over 2 million people and is expected to become even larger in the next ten years. Bucharest is port of entry to Romania because of its location on the banks of the Dambovita River.

The city is an interesting mix of the old and new. Bucharest is a city with a rich tradition but the recent economic boom is seeing new and modern high structures rising next to Belle Époque buildings. A leisurely stroll through the city’s tree-lined boulevards is perfect after a day of shopping at the city’s trendiest shopping spots. The nightlife is as equally as colorful and sophisticated as the Old City Center is old and charming. A walk through the city’s own version of the Arc de Triomphe at the Soseaua Kiseleff Avenue is enough for a whiff of Paris.

A cheap means of going around Bucharest is by bus or by train. The Metro is quite cheap, although it can sometimes get crowded. If you must take a taxi, take those operated by official taxi companies, as those driven by independent private drivers can charge you higher rates. Tourists are also advised to be wary of taking taxis to areas where large tourists congregate such as the Gara de Nord, since some of these taxis are operated by con men. The best time to visit the city is from April to June and from September to October.

No visas are required of American tourists, as long as a valid passport is present. American tourists are allowed a short stay of a maximum of 90 days or three months, and visitors must hold all other documentation for further travel, return tickets, proof of hotel accommodations and a documentation of the intended period of stay.

Copenhagen is the capital and largest city in Denmark and is located on the Islands of Zealand and Amager. Denmark is part of Northern Europe and one of its biggest countries. Copenhagen is quite a large city and therefore has a population of 1.7 million people.

The city of Copenhagen has a long history yet it has integrated successfully in today’s modern life. Nowadays the city is a multicultural center with worldwide nationals. There’s no doubt for any traveler whether the reason to visit is business or pleasure, that they won’t be charmed by the colorful atmosphere and friendly people Copenhagen has to offer.

As tourist for pleasure you wont be bored in Copenhagen, you could fill up your days being satisfied strolling up and down the 17th century streets and cancels visiting the cafes, tasting some delicious dishes in the Danish kitchen and hopping around shopping centers in the city. But of course there’s more fun things to do such as; theater shows, museums, art galleries, musicals and spacious parks!

Travelers to Copenhagen need a valid passport and visa. American Citizens will receive a 90 days visa upon arrival. Copenhagen suggests travelers to use their public transportation network to get round which has perfect time schedules, routes and is reasonable priced. The best period to visit Copenhagen is in the summer months from June till August with average temperatures of 68 degree Fahrenheit.

Beunos Aires is the capital and largest city of Argentina. It is situated on the southern shore of Rio de la Plata, on the south eastern coast of the South American continent. The Argentine capital has been the political center since the beginning. About 3 million people live in Buenos Aires.

Buenos Aires is often referred to as “Paris of South America”, a city full of romance, passionate tango and rocky politics. You can taste the fiery passion of Latin America, streets are as wide one can imagine, fancy and old cars pass by through the streets. Where music is the tango can be found, occasionally riffs of rock and roll. Cafes and restaurant are rife with lively flowing conversations.

The capital of Argentina has grown large, nowadays it covers 125 square miles and is an exciting mix of communities and cultures. The streets come alive at night once offices close down and employees on way to home stop by the bars, cafes and theaters. Stalls selling greasy pizza and faena abrupt the scene’s view.

Travelers to Buenos Aires require a valid passport and visa. American citizens will receive a visa upon arrival at Ministro Pistarini International Airport. The best period to visit Buenos Aires is in its summer months from December till February.

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt, with a population of 18 million people its the biggest city in Africa and the middle east. The city is situated at the eastern shore of the Nile river in the north of Egypt, and south of the delta where the Nile river is divided into the Rosetta and Damietta.

The modern traveler choose for a trip to Cairo for its ancient attractions, rather than experience a 21st century city. Its world famous pyramids at Giza, the fascinating museums and historic buildings alone are reason enough to travel to Cairo. Experience walking through the narrow market streets smoking the Egyptian flavored shisha pipe at traditional coffee shops, where after enjoying a tasty local dish at a dinner. While most travelers won’t enjoy the chaotic crowded streets scenes at first, its a true experience for those who enjoy to keep digging to find the city’s charm and understand the culture.

Cairo is a holiday destination for anyone interested in mystique and ancient Egypt, where the mysterious Sphinx and gigantic pyramids have dominated the landscape for ages. On a trip to Cairo don’t forget to shop for Egypt’s unique perfumes, antiquities and souvenirs which combine the perfect holidays gift.

Travelers to Cairo / Egypt are required a valid passport and visa. American citizens must have a valid passport, and require a visa. A 30 days visa can be obtained upon arrival for $15 US. For the best temperatures travel to Cairo from May till October.

Liechtenstein’s capital, Vaduz is found along the Rhine. The city is not Liechtenstein’s largest city and does not even have the largest population; nearby Schaan has laid claim to both superlatives. Schaan itself is not that big a city because the principality of Liechtenstein is the world’s sixth smallest country.

At only 62 square miles, Vaduz is still the focus of tourists’ interest. This is not such a surprise because the tiny city is home to the Prince’s castle along with other treasures, such as museums. A mere 5100 people live in Vaduz according to the latest measurement.

If you want to get caught up in the middle of a fairy tale, you may want to visit Liechtenstein, especially its capital of Vaduz. There, you will experience being in the middle of lush green forests while staring in awe at the Prince’s castle, which is perched on a hill. The sight is definitely gothic and mysterious. Having a camera at hand will definitely be of the most importance during these moments. Vaduz is also a great place for health buffs who want to hike for enjoyment. Even if you have not had a proper exercise regimen, walking through beautiful scenery may just inspire you.

To get to Liechtenstein, you can fly to airports at Zurich, Switzerland or Friedrichshafen, Germany. From there, you take a train to either Sargans or Buchs, both Swiss towns. From either of the two towns, you can take a bus to Vaduz. Just getting to the tiny city is already an adventure. You will probably suspect that you are indeed getting deeper into fairytale land. The temperature varies from cold 20 degrees Fahrenheit to a mild 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are visiting from the United States, you only need a valid passport to visit Liechtenstein. You can stay up to three months if you are visiting as a tourist. If you are visiting because of business or educational purposes, you have to consult the nearest embassy of Liechtenstein.

Hualien City (花蓮市) is the capital of the Hualien Country, Taiwan. It’s situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Central Mountain Range. Hualien City is considered a popular and pleasant travel destination in Taiwan. As of latest measurement Hualien City has a population of 110 thousand people.

Hualien is an easy reach by train and plane from Taipei, especially with it’s own Hualien Airport. Here domestic airlines connect Hualien with all major Taiwanese cities. The city center is small and easy to explore on foot, although some travelers may prefer to rent scooters for about NT$400 ($12 us) a day. Further more does Hualien not have an extensive public transport system, so for trips outside city center it’s recommended making use of the taxi service. Some local Hualien sightseeing include the Chishingtarn Coast Scenic Area, North Shore Park (Bei Bin Park), Hualien Fish Market, Museum of Sculpture, Mei Lun Mountain Park and of course the Tzu Chiang Night Market.

Thousands of travelers each year visit this popular Taiwanese travel destination in order to enjoy the views, scenery and fresh air as well the opportunity to visit the famous Taroko Gorge which is located just a few miles north of the city. For more information please visit the Visitor Information Center for the Hualien area which is located in front of Hualien Station on the right hand side after entrance.

Regulations for visas to Taiwan, Hualien change frequently so it is best to consult Taiwanese embassies for the latest updates. For Americans, no visa is required for stays of up to thirty days. You must present proof that you are planning return or further travel. Your passport must be valid for at least six months.