Spring in Holland is greeted by rows of tulips, bursting with color as they cover the grounds of the Keukenhof Gardens. Nearly seven million tulips complement the blossoming fruit trees, canals and the stone-crafted windmill that has been turning for centuries. It is a tempting vacation thought.
Then again, there is luxury barge cruising. The appeal here is a pampered vacation to exotic locales, cities and attractions with the added pleasure of only unpacking once. Truly that is another vacation idea that triggers that temptation button. But what if you could combine a luxury barge cruise with a visit to Holland's most treasured destinations?
That is where spring barge cruising comes in. Beginning at the end of March and running through May, four deluxe barges ply the waterways in Holland. Named the Savoir Faire, theElisabeth, Marjorie II and La Nouvelle Etoile, these barges offer an all-inclusive six night vacation experience that includes all meals, beverages and excursions. The cruise fare even offers use of bicycles to do a bit of exploring on your own. The only thing you need to worry about is your flight to Holland and tips for the crew, which typically averages five percent of your total cruise cost. It is best to book these spring cruises far in advance, as they book up quickly and they are only available in spring.