Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures

The Dam Square is still the city's heart. But today this former barrier between the River Amstel and the “Southern Sea” is one of the few places in the center of town that you cannot sail a boat to. The last part of the river leading to the dam fell victim to land-traffic in 1922. The street that replaced it is called "Damrak," meaning “Last section of the river, leading to the Dam.” Today, a subway line is being built in the old riverbed.

HOW MANY countries does it take to complete a $5.3 billion expansion of the wondrous Panama Canal? The answer might be, "more than four," because Spain, Italy, Belgium and Panama have not delivered so far. The expansion contract was lost to the U.S., whose bid was too high. But the countries sharing the various sub-contracts have found their endeavors beset with problems.

Panama Canal Engineering marvel thrills as it raises the ship 85 feet to move it across land, Pacific to Atlantic