HOLLAND SPLENDOR AT TULIP TIME
April 2019
HOLLAND SPLENDOR AT TULIP TIME: April 2019
Guest ratings
Excursions were beyond incredible. Five Stars!
One of the most fabulous trips I have ever taken.
Paula Coleman, Floral & Horticulture Master Designer, invites you on an unforgettable, intimate, exclusive, and behind-the-scenes journey to Holland in the Spring of 2019.
Acres of tulips stretching as far as the eye can see, windmills silhouetted against a blue sky, the very fields Vincent van Gogh himself once painted ~ these are just a few of the sights that await you in Holland during tulip season. ~
Our idyllic journey will begin in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. During our week in Holland, we will immerse ourselves in Dutch Art, Flowers, Food, and Culture. Our journey will begin in discovering the history of Holland through the Dutch Master’s eyes. We will discover their Master Work paintings and learn how Holland became known for flowers the world over. From there we will visit Historical Gardens and Private Gardens in and around Amsterdam. We will have the opportunity to visit Historical Garden Aalsmeer, where we will get an inside look at this working historical farm dating back to the 17th Century. We will tour the working greenhouses and gardens and see how the Dutch create a rich, organic environment for plants to thrive. During our day trip to Historical Garden Aalsmeer we will have lunch in their lovely greenhouse. After lunch, we will be treated to a hands-on, Dutch Flower Workshop, under the tutelage of Dutch Master Florist, Rutger Mulder. Rutger owns Rutger M. Flowers, and is known for his high-style, glamorous Dutch design. Rutger is a true Dutch Floral designer who has mastered the design style of his homeland. Rutger is a highly sought after event designer not only in Holland but also throughout the U.S., Middle East, & Europe. Rutger has worked on some of the most exciting and monumental events of our time.
Rutger will lead our fresh flower workshop which is designed exclusively for our group with a decidedly Dutch twist! To round out our day, we will sail through the flower fields by boat to see how the ingenious Dutch have reclaimed farmland from the sea.
On the days that follow, we will continue to witness Holland Splendor at Tulip Time. With exclusive, behind-the-scenes excursions to meet the flower growers, and visit their flower farms in the Dutch countryside…
We will also visit the World’s Largest Flower Auction: Aalsmeer. A state-of-the-art, modern, progressive flower selling & production facility. You will be in awe of millions of fresh flowers and inspired by the sea of colors on display. Here 20 million stems are sold daily! Housed in the largest building in the world by footprint, you will be amazed how all this product is moved so efficiently. Encompassing 10.6 million square feet, Aalsmeer is truly a must for the flower enthusiast! We will have exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the auction buyers area that is not open to the public. And, for our florist-minded attendees, we can introduce you to suppliers where you may create an account to buy flowers from the auction!
Our flower & cultural experience will continue and include a day trip to the famed Keukenhof Gardens, the most beautiful spring garden in the world! With over 7 Million bulbs in full bloom, they create the most stunning & inspiring flower spectacle.
Keukenhof is world renown for its beauty & splendor. Keukenhof means “Kitchen Garden” and dates back to the 15th Century when it was a royal estate. Kuekenhof Castle was built in 1641 and at that time the estate grew to over 494 acres. Today, Keukenhof is the international, independent showcase for the Dutch Floriculture industry. Keukenhof’s emphasis is on flower bulbs and is only open during the peak flowering season for two months each year, March – May. In the fall, each year, Dutch growers and suppliers plant over 7 Million Bulbs in the 79 acres that comprises Keukenhof today. To keep the garden inspiring and new, a theme is selected each year. Last years’ bulbs are dug up and replaced with new bulbs to create design themes and patterns that make up elaborate floral art displays! For the flower enthusiast or flower professional, Keukenhof is an excellent showcase to inspire, learn, and immerse yourself in the splendor and pride of Holland. Keukenhof also provides an excellent opportunity to network and meet business contacts.
For those who wish to have free time to explore the city and countryside on your own, we will have a free day during our week. A list of the cities most amazing sights and activities will be provided, along with a city map for your convenience. Toward the end of our stay, we will enjoy a surprise activity! Sure to delight and not to be missed! This will be a delightful end to our week of floral inspiration! After our morning surprise we will enjoy High Tea at the College Hotel with delectable food in the tradition of the High Tea experience. To round out our week, we will visit enchanting bulb fields, explore the cities treasures, enjoy a lovely evening canal dinner cruise, discover the cities most coveted shopping neighborhoods, and dine at some of Amsterdam’s most delectable restaurants! We will also revel in many surprises along the way to make your journey in Holland the most memorable it can be!
Together we will see and experience:
~ Private Tours of Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.
~Private Tours of Flower Farms, Historical Gardens, & Private Gardens.
~Meet Growers, Farmers and Designers.
~Private Tour of World’s largest Flower Auction and business introduction to buying from the auction. (For Floral & Event Designers)
~Have a private, hands-on Dutch flower workshop with Dutch Designer, Rutger Mulder, who has mastered the design style of his homeland.
~Keukenhof Gardens, world renown as the world’s most beautiful spring garden, and revel in 7 million bulbs blooming at once!
~Visit modern, Dutch Flower Shops to see the skills of European Designers at work.
~Scenic Dinner Cruise through the famous canals of Amsterdam.
~Visit the most coveted shopping areas for unique treasures.
~Have the culinary delight of a High Tea experience, and enjoy Amsterdam’s most delectable restaurants.
~Enjoy the Dutch countryside, explore Flower & Bulb fields by boat.
~Enjoy Excursions, Shopping, Dutch Food and Culture.
WHO WILL ENJOY THIS JOURNEY?
Flower Enthusiasts, People who love to travel, Floral Designers, Gardeners, Horticulturalist, Art Aficionados, History Buffs, Artists, Interior Design Enthusiasts & Designers, Food & Wine Aficionados, Nature Lovers, Garden Clubs, Photographers, and lovers of Europe, Culture, and all things beautiful.
PRICING SCHEDULE: (FOR WEEK April 9 -16, 2017)
Prices listed are per person.* Includes all Taxes, Fees, & Gratuities.
7 Night All-Inclusive Package includes:
- Seven Night Luxury Accommodations at College Hotel, Amsterdam
- Full, Delicious Meals Included.
- All Breakfasts, Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner, 2 Lunches, High Tea, 4 Other Dinners including a Canal Dinner Cruise and Farewell Dinner.
- Designer Fees, Materials, Workshops, & Tools
- Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Experiences; Meet Growers & Designers
- Workshop Instruction & Individual Attention
- Transportation in Holland for field trips and excursions.
- Tickets to all Group Attractions & Activities..
- All Gratuities, Taxes, & Fees
All-Inclusive package: To Pay In Full: $3,950.00 per person double occupancy
Credit Card Payments: (add+ 3.6% to total for processing)
REGISTRATION, DEPOSITS & PAYMENTS:
Upon Paid Reservation, Attendees will receive a full, detailed itinerary of workshops, excursions, & activities. Space is on a first-come, first-served basis. Spaces fill quickly! Early Reservations are preferred!
To secure your spot, a $500 deposit is required. Your spot is fully transferable if you are unable to travel.
Please email for us for a reservation form: info@eliteeventstravel.com
Note:Travel Insurance is not included, but is highly recommended. Please let us know if you need a quote for travel insurance.
Deposit Due to reserve your spot: $500.00 Due by February 22, 2017 (Non-Refunadable)
Credit Card Payments: (add+ 3.6% to total for processing)
2nd Installment of $1500.00 Due by March 8, 2017. (Non-Refundable)
3rd Installment of $1950.00 due by March 22, 2017. (Non-Refundable)
Credit Card Payments: (add+ 3.6% to total for processing)
Credit Card Payments: (add+ 3.6% to total for processing)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
1. Do I have to participate in all activities?
A. No. Of course, to get the most from your experience, participation in all activities is encouraged. However, this is your trip, and you may feel free to experience it as you wish.
2. Do I need Floral experience?
A. No. The trips are designed for all skill levels, and designed to inspire your creativity!
3. Why is there a “Free” day during our trip week?
A. The trips are designed to have a balanced pace that will appeal to everyone. Some people like to have time to explore and discover our destination on their own. And, to possibly visit an attraction that is not on our itinerary. And, some people like to simply have a break after several busy day excursions.
4. What is the pace of the trip?
A. Moderate. Participants should be in good physical condition, able to walk over garden and farm terrain, handle moderate steps, and carry their luggage if necessary.
5. What type of Currency is used?
A. The Currency is the Euro
6. How much money should I bring?
A. This is discretionary for everyone, however, you should have a small amount of U.S. Dollars if flying in/out of American Airports & Tipping Baggage Handlers. You should also exchange money into Euros before you leave for use once you arrive at our Destination. You can exchange currency at your bank or at any U.S. AAA location. This sometimes can take up to two weeks, so be sure to get your currency ahead of time. You can also exchange money at the airport, but the fees are usually much higher. I suggest having cash in Euros to make small purchases, and for places that may not take credit cards. There are ATM machines available in most city center locations. As a general rule, most shops accept credit cards. (Unless they are a very small business.) You should check with your credit card company and ask if they have any foreign exchange fees if you use your cards in Europe. You should also notify the issuing bank of your credit and ATM cards and let them know that you will be traveling out of the country. This way they won’t think your cards have been stolen, as they will block usage of your cards if you don’t notify them that you are traveling. As a general rule, I like to have at least $50.00 per day in cash on hand, just in case. Check www.xe.com for the latest exchange rates.
7. Do I need a Passport?
A. Yes. You need a Passport from your Home Country where you reside. You need to apply at your local passport authority or U.S. Post Office for your Passport Credentials. In peak travel times, such as Spring & Summer, this can take up to 12 Weeks! So be sure to apply early! If you already have a Passport, check the expiration date to be sure your Passport is up to date and not close to expiring! We have U.S. Passport applications and Renewal Applications available free of charge. Just let us know.
8. Do I need a Visa?
A. No. If you are traveling from the U.S. you do not need a Visa. If you are traveling from a country outside the U.S. it is best to check with your government or document issuing authority.
9. What Language is spoken?
A. The official language is Dutch, but English is widely spoken and understood. As a courtesy you should learn a few Dutch greetings & pleasantries in respect to the locals.
10. What is the best way of getting to the Hotel from Schiphol Airport?
A. There are many ways of getting to the hotel from the airport; a Taxi or Uber are easy & convenient. A taxi costs approx. 40,00Euro. It takes approx. 20 minutes to reach hotel depending on the time of day. Public transport is also available ~ You can take the train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam-Zuid Station: Take Tram 5 and get off at “Roelof Hartplein”.
11. What is the Hotel Address?
A. College Hotel Amsterdam www.thecollegehotel.com
Roelof Hartstraat 1
1071 VE Amsterdam
The Netherlands
Phone: +31 (0) 20 5711 511
12. Can I buy tickets for Public Transport at Hotel?
A. Yes. You may choose a 24 or 48 hour ticket for public transport which is valid for all metros, trams, and buses. A 24 hour ticket cost 7.50Euro and a 48 hour ticket cost 12.00Euro per person. If you wish to travel by public transport outside of Amsterdam, you will need a special OV Chipkaart ticket.
13. Can we rent a bicycle or scooter from hotel?
A. Yes. There are 10 bicycles and 2 scooters available for rent from the hotel. Bicycles are 16.00Euro per day, and Scooters are 55.00Euros per day.
14. Can we buy an umbrella from the hotel instead of bringing one?
A. No need to buy an umbrella! There is an umbrella in the wardrobe closet of your room for your use during your stay.
15. Can I leave my luggage with the hotel?
A. Yes. You can leave your luggage at reception before check-in or check-out. Reception staff will be happy to help with securely storing your luggage. Once your room is ready, it will be waiting for you in your room upon your return.
16. Can you help with checking in online for a flight and printing my boarding pass?
A. Yes. You can check in for your flight using the Hotel Guest Computer ~ we can also assist in printing boarding passes.
17. Can you send my letters and post cards?
A. Yes. The international postage rate for 20 grams is: 1.15Euro per postal item.
18. Where can I leave my valuable possessions like my tablet or laptop?
A. There is a safe in your room for your use during your stay.
19. Can I have my favorite paper in the morning?
A. Yes. Paper delivery is at 7:00AM, and the paper will be hung on your outside door knob in a cloth bag. There are more than 30 titles available. Some titles may have a fee, some do not. Check with the front desk reception, and let them know if you have a preference.
20. Who is my main contact in case I have a question that is not listed or need to reach someone?
A. Paula Coleman is the main contact person for the trip. There will be a secondary contact person given at least 60 days prior to departure.
21. What is Paula Colemans contact information?
A. Paula Coleman E-mail: paulajcoleman@outlook.com
B. Office Phone: +1-812-945-3596
C. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1485, New Albany, In. 47150-1485
D. Office Address: 1860 Mellwood Avenue #176, Louisville, Ky. 40206
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OUR HOST HOTEL:
The College Hotel, A Lifestyle Preferred Hotel & Resort.
The College Hotel Amsterdam is located in the Fashion District of Amsterdam in the southern part of the city center. Museum Plaza, where the famous Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Royal Concert Hall are only a five minute walk from the hotel.
The College Hotel Amsterdam is housed in a stylish 19th Century building that started life as a College. The Albert Cuyp Market and popular De Pijp neighborhood are also within walking distance. Many other fashionable and sought-after neighborhoods and shopping districts in the city center can easily be reached with rail tram 5 and 24, both which stop directly in front of hotel.
Our accommodations will be a luxurious, deluxe suite, with plenty of room for one or two to relax and make yourself at home. Enjoy all modern amenities and in-suite private, luxurious bath. And many essentials for your comfort and convenience ~ Free Wi-Fi, bottled water, daily newspaper, hairdryer, in-room safe, coffee/tea maker, flat screen TV, direct dial telephone, luxurious bathrobe & slippers, generously stocked mini bar (fee), 100% Cotton Towels, 24 Hour Room Service(fee), selection of magazines, and daily housekeeping.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
16 Meals Included: 7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 5 Dinners, 1 High Tea, 1 Cocktail Reception. (Breakfast Open M-F: 7:00am-10:00am Sat./Sun. 7:00am -10:30am. Breakfast may be delivered to your room for a fee of 4.50Euro…you may make a reservation with the hotel)