MS Rotterdam - June 29, 2024

One of the largest and most modern ports in the world, Rotterdam is the major foreign-trade center of the Netherlands and its second largest city. Among the noteworthy buildings that survived the German air bombardment of 1940 were the stock exchange, the city hall, and the Van Beuningen Museum, with its collection of paintings by Dutch masters.

Norway's political and cultural capital, Oslo was recently selected as the city with the highest quality of life in Europe. It's not surprising, considering the city's treasures: beautiful Frogner Park filled with modern sculpture, the emotional power of the Munch Museum, the Viking Ship Museum, forested mountains and secluded coves, all within the city limits.

Far inland on the banks of the Hardangerfjord is the peaceful little village of Ulvik. Wolves, or "ulv" in Norwegian, used to roam this area, hence the name. Row out onto the fjord on a calm day and enjoy the peaceful lapping of the clear waters. Or get a colorful bird's-eye view of the whole area by seaplane.

Sognefjorden is the longest fjord in Norway, located in the midst of rugged and magnificent scenery. Mountains here rise to a height of more than 5,000 feet. In parts, the water is more than 4,291 feet deep. Numerous falls spill down the ravines, and some of the cataracts are even harnessed for electric power.

One of the largest and most modern ports in the world, Rotterdam is the major foreign-trade center of the Netherlands and its second largest city. Among the noteworthy buildings that survived the German air bombardment of 1940 were the stock exchange, the city hall, and the Van Beuningen Museum, with its collection of paintings by Dutch masters.