Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dreamscapes.ca/i/873989
DREAMSCAPES FALL 2017 20 the holistic environment of the Greenhouse Spa. My muscles soothed by the bubbly waters of the hydrotherapy pool, I settled into the thermal suite, letting my mind wander into the blissful being of Zen at sea. CULINARY FINESSE Koningsdam's dining options reflect Hol- land America's enhanced culinary finesse, overseen by renowned master chef Rudi Sodamin. The Dining Room—a glamorous setting illuminated by red-and-white chan- deliers—offers delicious standards at set or reserved times. Myriad flavours tempt palates in the alternative restaurants, reserved at a fee: The Pinnacle Grill, Hol- land America's hallmark steakhouse; Canaletto Italian Trattoria; Tamarind, for pan-Asian dishes and sushi; Sel de Mer for exquisite French delicacies presented in Michelin-award-winning style. The Culi- nary Arts Center—an open show kitchen by day—engages guests with pure "eatertain- ment" by night as chefs demonstrate the creation of artisanal dishes, often using items sourced in local ports. Starring chef Tomas Kargol—a Canadian who honed his skills in top Toronto restaurants—the eatery adds flavourful zing to meals with fresh cress (micro-greens) that is grown in a herbarium. Oenophiles can cultivate their palates and learn sommelier skills at BLEND, a unique wine-blending concept partnered with Château Ste Michelle Winery, the oldest in Washington State. Here, guests swirl, sniff and taste Cabernet, Merlot and Cabernet Franc wines, and learn to blend wine to their personal taste. They may also name and design their own labels. Whisky fans may prefer the whisky tasting bar called Notes, where rare bottles include one at US$6,000. ENTERTAINMENT FOR ALL Evenings offer varieties of entertainment for every mood. At World Stage, performers are back-dropped by a 270-degree video screen that totally encompasses the audi- ence in the production. The Queen's Lounge rocks to the rhythms and blues of B.B. King's All Stars Band, featuring musicians trained in the Memphis Club. Billboard Onboard boasts musicians and a DJ playing Billboard Magazine's top hits. Lincoln Center Stage— partnered with Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts—features classical and chamber music. Meanwhile, for all the adult amenities and programs, parents can rest assured that their children are safely entertained in the wholesome environment of Club HAL kids' programs. Divided into three age groups— each with its own dedicated outdoor space—the free programs offer sports, arts and crafts, plus educational activities (including teaching languages of local ports), and run daily, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 to 10 p.m. On sea days, parents may leave kids onboard while going ashore, or select a family-friendly excursion. While the younger groups (ages 3–6 and 7–12) must be picked up by parents, teens (13–17) may come and go as they please. SPACIOUS GUEST QUARTERS Conducive to comfortable cruising, Koningsdam's 13 categories of staterooms include spacious single cabins and wheelchair-accessible cabins. Family cabins feature a convertible double sofa, a berth that unfolds from the ceiling and two bath- rooms. Signature suites offer concierge services; Vista suites include privileged access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge. Settling in for the evening, I lingered on my balcony, gazing at the stars. Watching their reflections dance across the waves, I mulled over my new mantra, and how—in some meaningful way—my travels could change the world. TRAVEL PLANNER Koningsdam's itineraries include Caribbean, Mediterranean, Baltic and trans-Atlantic cruises. For information, visit hollandamerica.com. DS RIGHT: Outdoors, Koningsdam's "elliptical swing" creates an exhilarating surge of energy.