Amsterdam - 2017

The 48th annual World Wings International convention was held in Amsterdam, Netherlands, at the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. There is no doubt that everyone enjoyed a First Class experience. Even the weather cooperated with unseasonably warm temperatures and very little rain!

On Thursday night, we entered the courtyard of the historic West-Indisch Huis to the sounds of calliope music and instantly slipped into a party mood. We hugged old friends, sipped wines, nibbled tasty hors d’ oeuvres, and explored the historic building. The Friday-night candlelight canal cruise gave everyone an intimate, relaxing time to make new friends with our tablemates, and to see the beautiful city illuminated from ever-changing vantage points. The onboard dinner was delicious, served along with an informative commentary provided by the boat’s captain.

And Saturday night’s “Denim & Diamonds” Gala, from the lovely reception to the final dance, celebrated our our being together once again. In between, we were ceremoniously “drummed” into the 19th century sparkling Winter Garden, greeted by none other than our favorite blue and white colors. A lively band had dancers on the floor even before they found their tables! The menu selections were indeed a meal fit for Dutch royalty, and the specially created glass soup bowls were truly amazing. The “Night Watch” tableau brought joy and awe to all with its incredible likeness of one of the world’s finest paintings. Then, as the final tableau, everyone rallied by singing “Experience” — arousing the true spirit of Pan Am!