I am writing.. to extend the highest praise to one of your employees. The night before we were to board ship we were trying to get all our paperwork together and I discovered that I couldn't find my passport. After much searching we concluded that I had lost my passport on Vancouver Island.. where we spent most of the day. At some point during my shopping, in taking out my credit card, my passport apparantly fell out of my purse. I was totally panic stricken. I contacted [your tour manager] Mr. Storey. He gave me several suggestions.. and kept assuring me that it would turn out all right. From [shopping] receipts, I was able to get the phone numbers of the stores I had visited. I called them all.. and received a call from one of the stores that they had found my passport. In talked with Mr. Storey and.. he arranged to have my passport flown back to the mainland by float plane just in time for us to board the ship. Mr. Storey went way out of his way to help us and make certain that our vacation was not spoiled.              -Jeanne Martin, Winchester, VA

   This was the best trip ever. We felt so pampered and cared for. Phil was very helpful when we first arrived at Vancouver. Vivian and Dean were wonderful and very helpful. Sharon was a big help for us. I was keeping a little notebook full of notes to help me remember things and I had left it on the train when we stopped in Denali. I told Sharon about losing it and she acutally found it and gave it to me when we got back from the Tundra Tour. Then my husband lost his glasses and she gave him her reading glasses to keep. We were very grateful for her help. Thank you all.                                    -Rebecca Stair

   Would like to thank all of you at Discover Alaska for all you did putting this trip together for us. It was beyond what we expected. We had a terrific time and the memories will last a lifetime.    -Larry Stair

   I thoroughly enjoyed the entire trip. Thanks for everything - it was worth every penny - everything was 1st class.    -Nan Rogers, Nettleton, MS

   Vancouver, when we arrived late afternoon, Phil was on the lower level watching for us to arrive (excellent help to everyone). Fairbanks, our guide was the best. She had quite a lot to take care of and she did an outstanding job!                                   -Gearlene Scearce

   Discover Alaska personnel went above and beyond. They were thorough in their meetings with us and were very patient to answer everyone's questions. I would highly recommend Discover Alaska to anyone.                             -Carolyn Coram

   Phil in Vancouver, Ted on the cruise, and Sharon on the land tour were GREAT. Very helpful, very friendly, very professional.
                                           -Rod & Donnal Hall

   Everything was on time and scheduled in a well planned manner. All Discover Alaska personnel were wonderful and made the trip enjoyable with smooth transitions. We had a great time and enjoyed the people in our group. Thanks for a wonderful trip.     -Linda Schofer

   Everything the DVD said it would be. Enjoyed the tour commentators on every tour. All seem knowledgeable and answered all questions asked. The tour from the beginning to end gave you insight of the area you were in. The best was the [Indian] village on the paddleboat tour. Holland America was the best.                 -Arlene & Dennis Gleeson

   We loved our firsst cruise. Thank you! We've recommended this trip to everyone we know.                                    -Peg Koelble

   Our guide in Fairbanks, on Denali bus, and the ship were exceptional.
                                                                     -Lynne Caldwell

   Sharon in Fairbanks was super - prompt - knowledgeable - always there. Dean and Vivian were helpful and made all the transfers a breeze, and always there. Discover Alaska was a bit more in cost, but for all that was done for us and services provided, it was well worth it. When we compared experiences with other travelers, we knew we had made the right decision to go with Discover Alaska. -Carol Gilg

   Sharon in Fairbanks, Denali and Anchorage was just outstanding. Overall Discover Alaska was a good deal. We did not have to do anything in our travels from point to point. Discover Alaska reps answered all our questions and explained the next day's events.
                                                                        -John Gilg

   We were very satisfied - everything promised delivered.
                                                                     -Alan & Rita Katz

   I wanted to personally thank you for all your diligent work on planning our group's recent cruise.  You did a fabulous job and everything went like clockwork.  The hotel was great and all of our transfers went very smoothly.    Even the transfers for the traveler who took his own motor scooter went smoothly.   The dining arrangements on board were great and the ship's staff were very accommodating to our group's requests and needs.  They even arranged for a private group tour of the ship's kitchen.   Everyone had a wonderful time and there were no major complaints, a real accomplishment when you have a large group.  You even arranged for perfect weather.  Thanks for making the arrangements for this group trip.  Too bad you folks strictly focus on Alaska.  I would never hesitate to use your firm for travel arrangements anywhere. Again FCREA travelers all thank you.          -Gerald Gerhart, Fairfax, VA

   We have been on many other trips in the past, but this trip was without a doubt the best that we have ever taken. It certainly shows that Discover Alaska has been doing this for so long! Audrey and I were fully satisfied and completely happy with all that Discover Alaska set up for us, all the way from when we boarded the first flights until we got back home. I will have to say that this was definitely the perfect trip without any complaints whatsoever. The cruise up the inside passage was fantastic to say the least. Holland America did a great job on everything. The stops along the way were very interesting and we enjoyed each of them. The trip on the McKinley Express was absolutely breathtaking to say the least, with some of the best food we have enjoyed in some time. All of the staff from Discover Alaska and Holland America were very professional and extremely helpful, along with all the local tour guides who also did a fabulous job. Thanks again for working with us to get us together with friends on the same trip and also for your patience in getting our trip set up at such late notice. We are looking forward to the next trip in the future with Discover Alaska.                      -Rick & Audrey Batte, Pfafftown, NC

   The quality in every area, each detail, was above and beyond our highest expectations. You truly made it a grand experience. Our host in Fairbanks deserves special commendation. She was the ideal host in every way under all condition and situations and with each person. You are fortunate to have her on your staff. Likewise, your office staff answered our every question, concern and phone calls puting us at ease, making our experience enjoyable while giving us the VIP treatment. We will continue to highly recommend Discover Alaska!
                                               - Catherine Butera, Port Orange, FL

   Overall I would give Discover Alaska an A+!   We were so pleasantly surprised and happy that our trip was all that was promised and more! Thank You!! I would (and have) recommend Discover Alaska to my friends and others interested in seeing the wonderful State of Alaska!
                                               - Pam and Jeff Bundett, Malabar, FL

   We had never been on a cruise ship prior to this and were not sure if we would like it. We must tell you that we were absolutely delighted with every aspect of the cruise and land tour. Every tour guide was excellent. The staff and crew on the Veendam were superb. They were able to answer questions, could tell us where things were happening and did so with a smile. Discover Alaska's organization of all activities was extremely well done. This includes everything from the minute we arrived in Vancouver until we arrived at the airport in Fairbanks to return home. There are no words to describe the incredible scenery, fabulous wildlife and wonderful new friends we made. We have memories that will last a lifetime of our beautiful state of Alaska.
                                               - John & Sylvia McCormick, Van Nuys, CA

   I wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed our cruise and tour with Discover Alaska. We told some of our friends about the trip and several seemed interested. We had a party at our house, viewed the video and fourteen more people were signed to go with us. Later we added two more. I would like to say that Discover Alaska lived up to all of our expectations and was even better than what the video depicted, which is unbelievable. A great big THANK YOU to all of the Discover Alaska employees who made our trip fantastic!!
                                                          - Larry Atherton, Evansville, IN

   Wonderful! Bus driver/narrators were full of intelligently delivered information mixed with much appreciated humor. Thanks! Experience of a lifetime! The level of organization was unbelievable - no detail left to chance. I was amazed! Will recommend Discover Alaska to anyone!
                                                          - James Perry

   A great big thank you to Sharon! She is the most organized, patient, and people-oriented person we met during our cruise-tour. Sharon reminds me of a housemother in a college dormitory - she really takes care of her group. There are not enough words to express our appreciation for all her hard work. She is, without a doubt, a most extraordinary woman and you are extremely fortunate to have her for your employee.             - Deanna Gogolen & Norm Weiner, Clovis, NM

   This was the trip of a lifetime! It met every expectation I had about traveling to Alaska. This was our first cruise, too. Wow! It was amazing to be treated like royalty - and humbling at the same time. Everyone was so nice, hospitable and accommodating on the ship, on land, everywhere we went. I've already recommended this tour and Company to my friends.                                               - Theresa Kochert

   There are times when its difficult to find words to describe a person. However, in this case involving Sharon Bohlen, words come easy: helpful, courteous, efficient, caring, attitude outstanding and motherly attention. Sharon made our trip as though she had one big family taking us all on a vacation of a lifetime. Her knowledge pertaining to history of places, interesting sights, and all round personality was outstanding. She always had an answer for any question you confronted her with. At all times she was aware where "her children" were. As the saying goes, "Sharon always went the extra mile." I feel your organizataion is blessed with such a fine person.
                                               - Mr. & Mrs. James Walters, Mills River, NC

   Our vacation was more than I could have ever believed - meeting wonderful people [including your Staff] who were there to answer questions, concerns, etc. and seeing some of the most beautiful results of God's creation. The ship experience was grand. To Discover Alaska - fantastic job! Many, many thanks for a wonderful vacation.
                                                - Bert & George Wilmot

   In reflecting back over the year 2008, I must say that the highlight of my year was my trip on one of your tours and cruises -- Alaska 2008 The Total Experience. I took the trip June 24-July 8, Northbound From LAX to Vancouver, B.C. where we began our trip. The ship was the ms Veendam. All I can say about the cruise/tour is WOW!!!
Our stay in Vancouver BC was wonderful and the Fairmont Hotel was more than 5-star. Wonderful accommodations and the time spent around Vancouver was great. From the first phone call made to your Discover Alaska office in Virginia to the last day of the tour, everyone was wonderful. Your Alaska Vacation Specialist was so helpful in answering all questions, concerns, and getting everything put together. When we boarded the ship in Vancouver we were met by ... a wonderful person to have on board, travel with, as well as being in charge of keeping things organized. He certainly knows his job, keeps you well advised of everyday events, and makes you feel very welcome. He always made himself available.
I would also like to say what a wonderful crew while on board the Veendam. Everyone was friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. The staterooms were superb, clean, and very well attended to. Room stewards were wonderful and did their job well. From the cafeteria dining to the beautiful dining room, the food was excellent, and, the staff in both places was wonderful. The next person we were introduced to was ... in Anchorage, Alaska - another wonderful person - so gracious, friendly and so very knowledgeable [and] made you feel like she had known you forever and always had time to answer any and all questions. She never made you feel rushed. She explained everything and certainly knows and does her job very well. The entire cruise/tour was beyond what we ever thought it would be. It was very well planned, included so much native information and culture as well as leaving you time to enjoy doing things on your own or exploring places of your choice. Again I would like to say what a great staff you have and hope you recognize these wonderful people as more than just employees. Thanks to everyone who had anything to do with putting together this Alaska Total Experience.
You can be sure as we look to taking other cruises, we will certainly first consider Discover Alaska and Holland Lines.
                                                                      -Lois M. Prior, Hayesville, OH

   I am writing to tell you we had a wonderful, wonderful Alaska Cruise. Joe and I want to thank you all at Discover Alaska for making our 45th wedding anniversary a wonderful one, Thank You.
                                                                       -Linda Sullivan

   We were extremely pleased with our tours, meals, and accommodations. It was our first cruise, first trip to Alaska, first train trip, first all inclusive tour. We would recommend Discover Alaska and HAL to anyone who will listen. By going all inclusive we feel we stayed at better hotels, ate more first-class meals, and definitely went on more tours than if we tried to plan this ourselves. Discover Alaska was special from the first phone call.                                            - Joan A. Bickmann

   Our first cruise. Discover Alaska did a fabulous job. Everything was well organized and taken care of. Thank you for a great experience.
                                                                      - David & Mary McElrath

   The Salmon Bake at Pioneer Park was great! [Tour Managers] were great, well organized and always available to answer questions.
                                                                       - Herbert Tromme

   [The Tour Managers] went over and above. Everyone enjoyed them so. They were very visible and kept us well informed. They couldn't have been friendlier.                                -Bobby & Barbara Westmoreland

   The Fairmont Airport Hotel in Vancouver was the best hotel of all! We really appreciated people greeting us. We didn't have one complaint! If was our first cruise and was beyond expectations. We have told our friends and know a couple who will be contacting you soon. Thanks for a great experience.                            - Bill & Karen Paris

   Very enjoyable and educational trip and also a nice, varied itinerary. Thank you.                                        - Larry & Evelyn Shaak

   Was a wonderful trip, just came home exhausted. Need 3-4 days to rest when you are in your seventies. The airlines were on time and all went well with them, thank heavens! Thanks to all for a great time!
                                                           - Lawrence & Sandra Halloch

   The ship was a "10!" [Tour Managers] went all out to see that the tour group we were with had all the information they needed. They were friendly and always available to answer questions. It was so wonderful to have knowledgeable people. We thank you 1,000 times.
                                                           - Dr. Brown

   Everything gets the highest rating. We enjoyed the experience, especially the cruise personnel! The tour directors or commentators and drivers were all very thorough with great personalities.
                                                           - Houston & Wilma Blanks

   This was our first cruise and it was everything we hoped for. All along the way the accommodations, staff, and Discover Alaska and Holland America personnel, side excursions, food exceeded our expectations. Thank You.                                        - Mary R. Keller

   Overall we felt the trip was very good and certainly a good value.
                                                           - Jean Tate

   In general, Discover Alaska was an exceptional tour. The hotels were very nice. The food was usually very good.
                                                           - Annette Fleig

   [Tour Managers] were excellent. They were friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to help.                            - Leon & Sandra Callahan

   [Tour Managers] were great! All accommodations and meals were great, but Fairmont Hotel Vancouver was top of the line! We had a great time!                                                    - The Cordaros

   A very enjoyable experience - a wonderful bargain - we will certainly contact Discover Alaska for all future traveling plans! Thank You!
                                                           - Jack & Mary Ellen Edel

   Fairmont Aiport Hotel in Vancouver unbelievable! McKinley Chalets rustic, but quite nice. Westmark Hotel in Fairbanks terrific.
                                                           - Bill & Keren Wheeler

   We had a great time, eveyone was friendly and courteous. Bus drivers did a great job especially in Denali and Ketchikan.
                                                           - Doug & Rita White

   Everything was just a perfect trip. Yes, I will go again. Thank You. Best trip I ever had, thanks again.                              - Allan Czeck

   We had never been on a cruise ship prior to this and were not sure if we would like it. We must tell you that we were absolutely delighted with every aspect of the cruise and land tour.
   The honesty of Holland America regarding the reason for our late embarkation was first class. Every tour guide was excellent. They knew the history of the area and shared it with us in a most professional, interesting way and with wonderful humor throughout.
   The staff and crew on the [ship] were superb. They were able to answer questions, could tell us where things were happening and did so with a smile. We were particularly pleased with our cabin attendant and with the beverage staff in the Ocean Bar.
   Discover Alaska's organization of all activities was extremely well done. All times and locations were clearly made known. This includes everything from the minute we arrived in Vancouver until we arrived at the airport in Fairbanks to return home.
   Both Tour Managers were grand. They kept us up to date on everything that was happening. One even bussed tables on the train since meal service was a little backed up.
   There are no words to describe the incredible scenery, fabulous wildlife and wonderful new friends we made. We have memories that will last a lifetime of our beautiful state of Alaska.
                                                            - John and Sylvia McCormick