Holland America Line Cruises

While this selection may seem a bit odd in a book of top places to stay in Washington, a Holland America cruise to Alaska is a wonderful option for a relaxing week.

Leaving from Seattle, it offers the best of all worlds: the privacy of your stateroom, delectable international cuisine, non-stop activities, a health club, plus a warm and gracious service staff. And you haven't even left the dock yet!

Sailing along Alaska's Inside Passage, you'll marvel at towering glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and forests hung in mists as you cruise to stunning Glacier Bay National Park, or the mammoth Hubbard Glacier in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Every port is a new adventure-from the rugged beauty of Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan to the sophistication of Victoria. There is a comprehensive program of excursions available in every port, so you can tailor your Alaskan experience.

Known for a classical cruising style, Holland America caters to those who prefer elegant surroundings with a quiet serenity. Onboard, Mardi and I found like-minded couples looking for a new travel experience rather than singles looking to meet other singles.

From Inside Cabin to Penthouse Suite

A hallmark of Holland America is they have larger staterooms than most mass-market cruise lines-whether you choose a standard inside cabin, outside stateroom, standard balcony cabin or Penthouse Suite.

We chose a standard balcony cabin with a spacious veranda. It had the ambiance of a fine European hotel complete with a pillow-top bed, a duvet and high-thread count sheets, plus the stocked mini-bar, and two thick bath robes. The fresh flowers and fresh fruit bowl were a special touch.

Throughout the ship were antiques and reproductions, much use of marble and luxurious fabrics. The open promenade deck featured the line's signature teak and cushioned deck loungers-quite the classic touch!

Varied Venues and Many Menus

Breakfast and lunch are fabulous buffets and there are several dining rooms. You'll find your favorite choices-from Italian and Asian to a deli custom sandwich, plus tacos, grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. As Seattle is Holland America's home city, there is an entire restaurant devoted to Northwest specialties. Their Grand Marnier Chocolate Volcano Cake is a dessert you must share with your partner at least once during your voyage!

Dinner is a special affair with three to four seating times at tables for two, four, six, and eight. A dramatic two-story dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows offers breathtaking sea views. China, sparkling crystal, and crisp linens are the norm. Twenty-four hour room service is always an option as well-whether you want to snack in between meals or order directly off the dinner menu.

Poolside is Only the Beginning

It is tempting to fill up your time with activities, like the Culinary Arts classes or spa treatments- don't! Relaxing has its own reward. We found nothing could compare with a walk topside after dark. Without the interference of city lights, the sky simply comes alive with the twinkling of stars. And, if you've never seen a glacier by the glow of moonlight, it is truly something to behold.

It wasn't until the cruise ships were able to depart from Seattle that we even considered doing a trip to Alaska. Don't know why we waited so long! It was sooo relaxing and care-free.