Is Atlantis in the Schengen zone?

Most likely - to both questions.

Do you parachute out, wearing an aqualung? We want a trip report. :-)

There is an ATM at the Atlantisport where you can get euros. Don’t forget to take an IDP. Mingle with the “locals”. You will find them friendly, as long as you greet them in their own language, Atlantisarian. See the RS guide book for relevant phrases.

I heard Pan Am will start a daily non-stop out of MSP.

Not only that, but it has a public transit system similar to its sister city Atlanta, though it is understandably called SARTA. Regrettably it is rumored to work just as well.

We need a bit more information if we are to give you good advice. Are you talking about Atlantis the missing continent? Or are you referring to Atlantis resort in the Bahamas. Please be more specific.

Atlantis the missing continent

That's the one, it was so pretty in Aquaman.

Guess you want to go "soak" up some of the magic?

Tom,

If you and your family want to visit the magnificent Atlantis Tower, you’ll need to book your tickets 6 months in advance!

One more thing, don’t forget to validate your submarine tickets prior to embarkation, otherwise you may be faced with a massive fine.

Enjoy your trip!

Don’t forget to pack your fins!

Not the continent but the "Northern Atlantis" Rungholt is located in Schengen zone. Closest airport is Hamburg (HAM).

The problem with Atlantis is that, while it is indeed a member of the Schengen zone and there is free movement of people between and within both parts, because of its special status and the difficulties of transportation, the limit on staying within that part of the zone is 85 days but in any 190.

Be sure to count carefully as departure and arrival dates both count. The arrival day counts as a half-day, no matter what time you arrive in the Atlantis sector and the departure day counts as two days, again no matter what time you start your departure.

The problem with using Delta SkyMiles is that only part of your journey will be in the sky. There are extra milege charges for the underwater part which make flying out of Heathrow look positively cheap.

🤣😊😄🙃😂😁😆🙂😉☺️

I saw a report recently -- perhaps many people saw it -- that Prime Minister Donovan intends to pull Atlantis out of the Schengen treaty. It seems he feels that other treaty nations have unfairly benefited from Atlantis emigration, what with the poets, the physicians, the farmers, the scientists, the magicians and so on venturing forth from Atlantis to spark advances in other nations. It's kind of an "Atlantis First" approach to world affairs, or perhaps, one might say, "Make Atlantis Great Again."

Very clever, Matt. Hail Atlantis!

Hail Atlantis, indeed.

Will Brexit affect my upcoming trip to Atlantis?

Now I have the Donovan song stuck in my head.

Kelly: Yes, yes it will.

Nancy: Really? C'mon...

Be sure to check you bags for contraband items before going trough Atlantean customs. They are very stick on stuff like sunscreen and single use plastic. Plastic straws are a no go, and possesion of those plastic six pack rings could possibly land you some jail time!

It is in the Schengen zone for now but there will soon be a vote to leave. It's being called Atlexit.

Is Atlantis in the Schengen zone?

No doubt it is. For Plato in his dialogue Critias says that it was beyond the Pillars of Hercules, thus in the Azores region.
But don't be confused when you arrive there, because they don't speak English, but Homeric Greek, in the countryside there are even still some speakers of Mycenaean. So it is advisable that you learn Linear-B before you start your journey so that you can read the signs.

It was a beautiful back door find until Aquaman had to go and tell everyone about how peaceful and gorgeous the coral around the city was. Now hordes come with their selfie sticks and there's even a Starbucks.

Currency is not American (or Canadian, or Australian) dollars - but Sand Dollars.

Maria, good one!

Nancy: Really? C'mon.

Big Mike, what did I say to elicit that response? You didn't think I was serious, did you?

Using Delta miles will be a nightmare trying to sort out which of the 16 classes of seats you want. Be sure to book something better than Bilge Economy, or be prepared to bring your own air tank.

Get your 'Sand Euros" at any ATM ( they do not use Sand Dollars!)

Chip and pin cards will not work. The salt water corrodes the chip. Bring your old mag strip card.

Please write a trip report when you return.

I have absolutely nothing either funny or clever to contribute to this thread but I do want to send kudos to all who have posted replies here. This post is the most fun of any I have ever read here and I just want to thank one and all for all the truly clever, funny and downright hilarious replies posted here! Thanks for all the laughs, fellow travelers!

Nancy, kidding my apologies!

All together, now: Way down below the ocean where I want to be she may be

Does anyone know how long it will take to clear customs after I arrive in Atlantis? I would like to catch the first submarine possible.

Travelmom, it's Immigration that will take your time. If Spongebob and Patrick are on in the Immigration booths you could make the first sub, if it's that toothy Great White crew...look out!

Customs is only a problem if you are using counterfeit aqualungs - altho you'll process faster if you can hum some Jethro Tull tunes (are you old enough to remember that?)!!

There are certain things visitors should be aware of.

• Credit cards use a high security system know as "fiche and chips" if your card does not have a fiche, you need to get one. Once you return to the surface it will no longer work. A fiche out of water is useless.

• Any electrical devices require a plug adapter. Atlantis uses a 3-prong system called "Neptune's trident". It has an voltage unusual system, 666 Volts 33⅓ Hz AC. Make sure your appliance is compatible. Appliances must be waterproof.

• It is recommended to get a waterproof passport.

• Traffic drives on the left or the right according to a tidal system. Tide tables are available on the aquanet.

Clever Chris F. The Golden Trident is yours!

There are no scams in Atlantis. It has been deemed a scam-free area by the U.N. Prevention of Scams and Other Nasty Activities Association. There is a rumour, however, that girls selling water wings and bathing shoes are bothering tourists. Just a rumour but do be watchful.

What are the must-see sights? Am I correct in assuming that the best way to get from the airport(or submarine port?) to my hotel is to swim?

What are the must-see sights?

You must do the tour of the Yellow Submarine, it's wonderful. Even the Beatles sang about it.

Clever Chris F. The Golden Trident is yours!

I agree about Chris. But don't try to plug that trident into your European outlets - bad things happen.

Recomending this for the Post of the Month. Serious consideration for Post of the Year!

Can we drink the water there?

Do I have to fill my air tank with kPa or is PSI OK?

I have food allergies to everything but seafood--- will that be a problem at the restaurants?

Do I need a drysuit for fancy restaurants or is a wetsuit OK?

Can I wear my white flippers or will I look like a tourist?

Can I take the humidifier for my CPAP? Any issues with the hose? Is there a combo Aqualung/CPAP? I'm aware of the high voltage, low frequency issue. My machine is 50 - 1000 V, AC/DC. Will that be OK?

Can I use it on the submarine?

Whatever you do DO NOT wear white tennis shoes. Everyone knows that only tourists wear them in Atlantis.

I have food allergies to everything but seafood--- will that be a problem at the restaurants?

You should have no problem. But those with allergies to seafood or just don't like fish, prepare to become a vegetarian. They serve lots of seaweed salads and they do have fruits and veggies - grown hydroponically of course - but no meat.

And btw from hearing...….. is what bothers them most is why the IOC constantly refuge to add sea horse jumping to the Olympic Games programme.

@Pam, definitely old enough! :)

@Nigel, absolutely.

But can I wear shorts?

What's the VAT?

there's even a Starbucks.

Not sure if you meant it this way, heather, but when joking around about a mythical aquatic place this worked on multiple levels. Well done! ;)

which is the best youtube or tourbook?

I have a four-hour layover at Atlantis International. How long is security, immigration, and customs (or whatever the hell you call it. You guys know what I mean; basically getting in and out of there)? What can I see beyond the airport parking lot during this time? A castle?

Nigel: Google is your friend.

Oh I missed the Starbucks comment! Everyone must make a pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Blessed Mermaid! A MUST-Do!

Do I still have to pack light? Will my bag be weighed on checkin in my departure city or arrival in Atlantis?

Just a reminder that swimsuits are not acceptable clothing anywhere outside gymnasia or spas. The local dress standards are quite modest, and there've been reports in the press of tourists who think it's OK to wear bikinis or speedos in the agora having sea urchins or stinging anemones thrown at them.

This will be my first trip to Atlantis.
I have a few random questions for all you Atlantis experts:

1. I’ve heard about the HOHO submarines but then I read somewhere that they’ve been banned in Atlantis, is this true?

2. Do I need to carry my passport while swimming around or is it safe to
   leave it at my hotel?

3. Does anyone know if they sell peanut butter there?

4. We plan to rent a submarine to get around, do I need to get an IDP?

5. Will my Well Fargo Debit Card work at the ATMs there?

Thanks in advance!

I've heard the underwater taxi drivers are sharks, charging an arm and a leg to get to the airport. Get an estimate!

This thread has been so helpful, I'm moving Atlantis to the top of my bucket list. I was wary before, but you have given such great information I think I can go there with confidence. Thank you all so much!

Spotting pickpockets is easy--- they all have 8 arms !

Thanks to all of you, this thread just keeps getting better and better. I'm thoroughly enjoying all the responses.

Does anybody know if Rick Steves runs tours from Atlantis out to the horse with no name,

'Cause the desert had turned to sea

There were plants and birds and rocks and things

there was sand and hills and rings

The ocean is a desert with it's life underground

And a perfect disguise above

Under the cities lies a heart made of ground

But the humans will give no love

Also, how crowded would Atlantis be on a Saturday? We’re foodies. Would we need advance dinner reservations?

Do they sell SIM cards in Atlantis?

Wait! Will my unlocked smart phone work there or will I need to buy an expensive Aquaphone?

Does anyone have a recommendation for a carry-on bag with fins or should I stick with one that has water wings?

Does anyone have a recommendation for a carry-on bag with fins or should I stick with one that has water wings?

The bags with folding fins are easier to fit into the luggage sizer. If you have the water wings you have to deflate and re-inflate it at every check-in Tom Fihn has a nice line of luggage that I use all the time

I'm shocked no one has yet mentioned that Atlantis is still undiscovered by the cruise industry. Plan to visit now before it's encircled by cruise ships on a daily basis and completely overrun with excursion groups dutifully following numbered signs around the city.

What can I see beyond the airport parking lot during this time? A castle?

Surely you could see a Sand Castle!

Hickory: Well done.

It's great to see everyone having a good time here.

I actually had a dream that one would land on a floating runway, like a really big aircraft carrier but more futuristic, and then take a submarine to Atlantis. Then I had the Beatles' "Yellow Submarine" playing in my head. I have a vivid imagination.

I’ve heard the Atlantisians are rude.
Is this true?

Should i wear my money belt on the inside or the outside of my wetsuit?

Atlantisians aren't rude. They're just direct and don't use the passive voice or the subjunctive.

I prefer a neck wallet. But you can get a combination diving/money belt. They cost more but I think they're worth it.

kc, ok you talked me into it. I just bought a r/t ticket. Now, can you tell me what there is to see there? And plan my itinerary for me?

I'm a vegan, will I have problems finding something to eat? Any recommendations? There is nothing in the guidebook about this.

Ms Jo, you should have no problem. As I posted above it's the meat eaters who will have trouble since they serve no meat there.
However, they do serve lots of seaweed salads and they do have fruits and veggies - grown hydroponically of course.

I just purchased the Atlantis Sub Pass but I’m having trouble making the submarine reservations we need, can someone help?

I should have read the recommended,
“the diver in seat 62.com” website before spending so much money on the Sub-Pass!

BTW, is there a “skip the line” pass or am I better off buying individuals tickets for the main sites there?

Thanks in advance!

Can I use the subway to get to Subway's for lunch?

Can I use the subway to get to Subway's for lunch?

No subway; must use the carpool lane

I just purchased the Atlantis Sub Pass but I’m having trouble making the submarine reservations we need, can someone help?

Priscilla, that is a common tourist question, but based on a false premise.
For submarines inside Atlantis, there are no reservations, it is open seating.
For submarines travelling outside Atlantis, tickets are for a specific sub, only valid on that sub and include reserved seats.

This distinction often confuses tourists.
Make sure you stamp your ticket in the clam shells at the entrance to the dock before getting on board. The ticket inspectors have no sympathy for clueless tourists. They are real sharks, and not having a ticket could cost you an arm and a leg.

Brilliant, Chris. So, ladies and gentlemen! We have a winnah!!

If you are staying at a hotel or hostel in the major towns your hotel or hostel will give you a ticket for free use of local subs in the town or city. It does help to do the maths for travel between centres or up the peaks as the subs are quite expensive - so one pass or another often helps. You can also get a half price pass.

Thanks Chris for your helpful reply!

For submarines inside Atlantis, there are no reservations, it is open seating.
For submarines travelling outside Atlantis, tickets are for a specific sub, only valid on that sub and include reserved seats.

If I miss my submarine can I take the next one?

One more question.
I will be picking up my rental submarine at the Atlantis Subport upon my arrival (after my 20+ hour transatlantic journey) for my 3-4 hour drive to our first destination.

I’ve driven in many other continents so I think I will be okay driving. What do you think?

Nigel,
I thought the half price pass was only sold in expensive Atlantisland?

I will be picking up my rental submarine at the Atlantis Subport upon my arrival (after my 20+ hour transatlantic journey) for my 3-4 hour drive to our first destination.

After that much travel time, your mental and physical acuity will be subpar.

Ha! Good one, Hickory!

After that much travel time, your mental and physical acuity will be subpar.

I will opt for Uber then!

I was told there's no Uber, only Unter.

I will opt for Uber then!

Sorry, in Atlantis the only comparable service available is Unter.

Do they not have BlubBlub car?

I recommend using Suber.

I just thought of a few more questions for all you Atlantis experts.

• I was planning to buy the Atlantis Museum Pass but I was reading that
  the famous Atlantis Museum (the one with the Pyramid entrance) has become so crowded that they’re not
  accepting the Museum Pass anymore, is this true???

• Has anyone done the seahorse carriage ride around the main
  attractions, is it worth the cost?

• Do we have to tip in Atlantis?

Thanks again!

Do we have to tip in Atlantis?

Tipping is not necessarily required, but all servers would appreciate an extra sand dollar added to the bill.

I recommend using Suber.

Dyve is better.

I heard that Japan has cornered the auto market. All the cars are Subarus. There may be a congressional inquiry because all the payments were underwater.

A friend of mine rented a submarine when he visited Atlantis, 6 months ago, and he just received a traffic violation for speeding. He doesn’t remember speeding and thinks this is a tourist scam.

Should he pay it?

A friend of mine rented a submarine when he visited Atlantis, 6 months ago, and he just received a traffic violation for speeding. He doesn’t remember speeding and thinks this is a tourist scam.

Should he pay it?

Only if it is an 'offishal" ticket

A friend of mine rented a submarine when he visited Atlantis, 6 months ago, and he just received a traffic violation for speeding. He doesn’t remember speeding and thinks this is a tourist scam.
Should he pay it?

I might be inclined to fight this one, it's pretty hard to speed in a submarine. Now, if it was a ticket for violation of an NSZ (no sub zone), he should just pay it. They are somewhat crabby about that violation and may ban you from future visits if you ignore it.

Since RS doesn't have a guidebook, do you think the one from Lonely Planet will be helpful?

I don't think LP has one yet. Maybe there's a Blue Guide. Plato is still the definitive work AFAIK.

I’d like to share a few facts to consider before traveling to Atlantis:

• If you’re allergic to seafood, you can always eat sand-wiches.

• No gelato is sold in Atlantis - they like eating crabcakes for dessert!

• Water is not safe to drink due to its high salt content. One must buy very expensive distilled (or desalinated) water.

• The weather fluctuates with the seasons but keep in mind that the humidity stays constant at 100%.

• Packing light will be easy as all you’ll need is a couple of wetsuits, and perhaps one drysuit.

• You won’t need an umbrella or a hair dryer. Suds-free biodegradable shampoo is a must though.

• High-speed submarines don’t exist, so it will take much longer to
  travel to one’s destinations.

Happy Travels!

Just to tie the 2 threads together and make a yarn -

When you want to go to or from Portsmouth on your way to Atlantis, be sure to take an Aquacar.

Oh thank you, thank you, everybody! I haven't laughed out loud so much for a long time.

You do realize that everyone giving advice on traveling to, from and within Atlantis is all wet and their advice should be taken with a grain of sand. ( Hard to find a grain of salt as its all dissolved)

Hard to find a grain of salt as its all dissolved

Au contraire, Joe32F. In actuality salt is the major export from Atlantis. It seems they are surrounded by the raw natural resource, and apparently have the technology to extract it in bulk. Very enterprising those Atlantians.

Thanks Tom for posting this thread!

I've truly enjoyed reading all the diver-ting responses!

Edited to add....

Ha! I just thought of this and couldn't help myself!

All television programs in Atlantis have Sub-titles!

All television programs in Atlantis have Sub-titles!

Except the cartoons, which have speech bubbles.

Except the cartoons, which have speech bubbles.

And... The adults talking in the cartoons sound like they’re underwater!

In that case, Priscilla, you need a new sonar system

Missed this thread earlier, but I’ll add that we actually visited there on a really short trip a while ago - seemed like a dream.

The fountains were supposed to be a big deal, but they didn’t seem to work - no spurting or splashing water could be seen nor heard.

But what a clean place! Most of the residents work as Cousteau-dians, and keep all the buildings in ship shape.

The fountains were supposed to be a big deal, but they didn’t seem to work - no spurting or splashing water could be seen not heard.

Maybe they're having a drought and had them turned off?

I'm heading to Atlantis myself and wondering if there will be facilities for laundry? Or can I just pack-heavy and float my luggage between les eau-telles?

You know, laundry may not even be needed. And you don’t even have to formally bathe or shower - just use Wet Wipes.

Wash and wear clothes might be best because you will likely be washing them while wearing them - it's the drying that can be tricky.

You know, Nancy, clothes dryers may not be any easier to find in Atlantis than in Europe.

And shampooing/drying one’s hair is another thing to consider. Maybe don’t bother, and just use Aqua Net.

Hehehehe Aqua Net. That's a good one!

For my electronics - is the current the same as in mainland Europe?

For my electronics - is the current the same as in mainland Europe?

No

Atlantis uses a system unique to Atlantis, TC (Tidal Current)

Converters are available only at approved shops once one clears immigration.

Electronics in Atlantis? Are you serious? There are no electronics allowed there. After all, electronics and water don't mix well. They use a totally different source of power and your electronics are useless there. Leave them at home.

Oh no!! No way to charge a cell phone, then? What did the locals ever do? Maybe two shells, hooked together by a wire . . . a Shell Phone?

What about using electric eels - or is that considered animal abuse?

And is the place now getting overrun by tourists from below the Pacific or Arctic oceans?

Shell phone - excellent!

There is an Atlantis in Florida...is that where you mean???

What . . . Did Neptune move his kingdom to Florida? Or did he just retire there?

Shell Phone service is very expensive in Atlantis, so be careful. They’ll charge you a fin and a tail for it.

And good Finternet is hard to find.

Any recommendations for a good life jacket? I can’t swim and my flight leaves in two days.

Any recommendations for a good life jacket?

Anything from Nautica, should work.

Not the continent but the "Northern Atlantis" Rungholt is located in
Schengen zone. Closest airport is Hamburg (HAM).

Isn't it always the same old story in this forum! Everyone flocking to those cliché tourist places, Neuschwanstein, Eiffel Tower, Santorini, Colosseum, Atlantis. No one listening to us locals when we tell you that we've got places that are just as beautiful, not realizing what they are missing out on!

Let me assure you that Rungholt is just as beautiful as Atlantis, and it's in fact a lot more accessible. They are still working on wheelchair accessibility, but they do already have guided walking tours at low tide. No wet suit required!

But only for people who want to hear church bells from under the water.

Atlantis has none of that noise pollution - but it does have a lot more tourists, granted.

Oh, that's easy. For those travelers who consider church bells to be noise pollution, we recommend they simply wear the same earplugs they wear in every European town. :-)

I also hear Ys is becoming more popular as a cross-channel destination, especially among Welsh-speakers as Medieval Breton is more-or-less intelligible to them.

Bells in Ys too, so watch out if you are sensitive.

Have they figured out a backstop agreement for Ys yet so the Welsh can still go there after the Brexit?

(just by the way, the post count of the message just before this one was a palindrome - 121. Or as expressed in Atlantis, a pal-in-an-aqua-drome)

Oh, Nigel! You are a caution ....

I'm so tired of people asking the same questions over and over again on this site. Tom, there is a search feature. You should search for other questions about Atlantis before posting.

And read a guide book or two before you ask a question here.

Also, you might get more responses if you would post your question in the Atlantis forum.

Lane, do you know of any guidebooks with waterproof pages? That would seem to be essential. Plastic page protectors would be cumbersome, and might still leak.

Lane, don't be so hard on him, you see that he's new to the forum (only 2328 posts so far).

And you know very well that those guidebooks tell you only about the touristy stuff.

But let's get back to his original question:

can I get there using Delta SkyMiles?

No. The only airline that goes there is this one, obviously. They haven't accepted Delta SkyMiles for decades.

Well, Anna, your link indicates that the German Atlantis airline is no longer in business. Are they a “Fly by Night” operation? And instead of DC-8’s or DC 9-‘s, do they use seaplanes now?

Don't believe everything you read on wikipedia. They are still operating under(water)cover.

your link indicates that the German Atlantis airline is no longer in
business

Well, yeah. Isn't that the appropriate kind of airline to go to Atlantis with?

I gotta tell you something :D
I'm afraid that the only way to get the real Atlantis experience nowadays is by watching the Atlantis cartoon by Disney

Well, so this whole posting is for a “Mickey Mouse” destination, then?

Or maybe Mickey Manatee ?

I knew it. This is just another part of the fake kitschy Disney world. And that's where all the tourists flock, as always. Just as long as it's pink and glitters!

I told you you've got to go to Rungholt if you want the real thing!

Wow, this is great! So I won't look out of place with my Minnie Mouse water wings? I was worried that I would so look like a tourist.

Are they pink and glitter?

Are they pink and glitter?

Does Tinkerbell have wings? Of course they're pink and glitter. :)

O.k., you should be fine then. Very inconspicuous.

So has Fin-land opened yet, as a new attraction in Atlantis? Bet they’ll be selling lots of pink and glittery things in their shop! That’s the place for saltwater vodka, too, right?

Just a few random answers and observations

I don’t know if a waterproof guidebook but the Kindle is supposed to be available in waterproof and you can get most guide books in kindle format, however remember you need a transformer not just an adapter in Atlanta’s as those font trident plugs use a different current the 110/220

Every is use to the term HoHo (Hop on Hop Off) But the correct term in Atlantis is SoSo (Swim in Swim off). Using the wrong term is considered rude by the locals.

While traveling don’t forget the extra 12 hours (both ways) needed to pressure acclimation.

And as for delta it depends where you are flying from. As usual you can get there from the Hub in Detroit but it will be a bit expensive (as Detroit tends to be) however if you are just flying through or changing airplanes at Delta’s Detroit hub you will pay about half what the locals flying from Detroit are charged. As per standard Delta policy to screw anyone from Michigan... for having built Northwest a nice new terminal and having made Delta use the crappy old One until they bought Nortwest.

Also I personally find most accommodations to be subpar.

And be very careful of eating in whole in the wall seafood places they often just grab anything outside including the neighbors pets... but that is probably a (fish)wives tale. Or is that a Wives fish tail? 8 never remember.

douglasjmeyer, yours are very salient points, EXCEPT for the accommodations part. Atlantis lodging has had nothing but the very best waterbeds anywhere --ever since 1974. And the more starfish a place has on its door, the higher rated. Everything else though, is good to keep in mind, for anyone arriving in the next wave of visitors.

Be sure to visit your dentist before a trip to Atlantis.

Every meal ends with a serving of saltwater taffy, and it is inexcusably rude to not have some.

Hi, I've been lurking here for a long time and decided to finally sign up because I noticed no one had mentioned some of the great concerts and events not to be missed when visiting Atlantis.

First, there's a local offshoot of Blue Man Group, The Blue Fin Groupers that is a lot of fun and high energy, but just like the one in Vegas you need to be careful not to sit in the front row where you might get splashed or possibly slapped by a tail fin! They perform at Cetaceans Palace.

Jimmy Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band naturally come through on tour about once a year if that's more your vibe, so that would be worth watching for if you're a fan.

Of course, for the classical music devotee the only choice is Handel's Water Music, at St-Neptunes-in- the-Trench.

I've heard the repertory theatre company is currently working on an adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda's "In the Heights", tentatively retitled "In the Depths" for Spring 2020. Definitely something to watch for!

Hope this helps!

Blue Fin Groupers. Heh-heh.

Excellent first post Wanderbug!

😁Thanks!

Just when I think there can’t possibly be more... 🤣🤣🤣 lol!

If there’s still time in someone’s 90 day Schengen allowance, the Atlantis Notre Dame cathedral is still open for visitors. No chance of fire damage, with so much water around, and the Swimming Buttresses are still prominent, helping hold it up. The gargoyles, in case anyone didn’t know, inspired the Creature From the Black Lagoon character in the movie. . . gills and all!

I am sorry to report that the Cathedral is closed for the foreseeable future as it has ben discovered that it has extensive water damage.

Do gargoyles gargle? I'll bet these do.

Atlantis is rather unique among the popular destinations because of their strong Customs presence at all the ports. Unlike most places which just check what you are bringing in, there is also a full Customs check on leaving. They rely so much on special varieties of seaweed to manufacture most of their oxygen that if you bring some in you are given VIP treatment. On the other hand they have specially trained seaweed sniffer dog-fish and sea-horses (the pink and white spotted ones with the very long snout) which patrol the exit Customs areas searching for anybody trying to leave with any.

There are containers of seaweed oil and creme which are available legally to take home for people who want experience the benefits after they arrive home... but I don't know if all other counties allow it in.

Hi douglasjmeyer - this probably wouldn’t be permitted because of strict architectural preservation codes and building regulations, but they need to install cathedrains.

And Jane - I have it on good authority that half of those gargoyles use Peri-Scope, while the other half use Lister-marine, so you’re absolutely right!

And Nigel - I hadn’t seen your latest contribution while I was typing up my last one, but isn’t it interesting - customs and security everywhere are checking for one type of weed or another, it seems, wherever you go.

If you bring your own laundry soap, it must be Tide. All others are confiscated and a severe fine is imposed.

Lifebouy is the only bar soap allowed.

Jail time is possible. Shark Tank is not a TV program in Atlantis

Boy, if anybody’s non-conforming laundry soap was confiscated, they’d be fit to be Tide.

That reminds me. Do not bring Ivory Hand soap in the bar form. One guy did that and the called in what looked like the bomb squad.
They took it outside cleared a zone directly above all the way to the surface and released it. That sucker took off like a rocket!
According to one tech the bar shot 100’ into the air after clearing the ocean.
They take the danger of ivory soap VERY seriously.

Security must be bracing for the next Wave of arrivals, cleaning agents and all.

Sadly this post has reached its watery grave..... :-(

yes, Davy Jones's Locker

Wasn't he a Monkee?

slightly short with a funny hair cut?

Is he the one who did the “deep sea doodle”?

Hopefully the doodle wasn't caught on film. He did back up Micky on the 'Porpoise Song'.

One good thing about visiting Atlantis;
you don’t need to worry about the pickpockets using the pigeon poop scam!

However, watch out for the octopus ink scam!

I love this thread. Just when you think it's sunk to its lowest depths, it rehatches and rises from its seabed, like an aquatic phoenix.

Yes, every once in a while it burps and rises a little closer to the surface.

Does anyone know if my Oyster card will work in Atlantis?

Does anyone know if my Oyster card will work in Atlantis?

Only if you have shelled out to load it

the added bonus is that if you get an Atlantis Oyster, if you can get it open - which unfortunately makes it not work very well - you may discover a pearl inside. The pearl can be worth quite a lot more than the Oyster. But you won't know until you look inside.

I can't believe it took this many posts to get to Oyster Card.

OK, since I didn’t wind up with The Last Word . . . at the start of this month, it’s worth noting that if your Oyster Card isn’t working, it is possible to mussel your way onboard.

And back during The heyday of The Monkees, funny-haircut Davy was the only Brit among the TV cast.

And Mike covered his hair with a knit ski cap, at all times. He was the only actual musician in the cast.

And in the back of comic books back then were ads for “Sea Monkeys,” which I understand were brine shrimp. Wonder how many were sold, and how long they lived, if acquired? Maybe those are the preferred pets in Atlantis, since dogfish and catfish are allowed to swim free?

You will not see goldfish swimming free either. They are kept at a fish bank .

I remember the ads for Sea Monkeys. I had no idea what they were and of course never ordered them or knew anybody who did. Somebody must have though.

Thanks for the reminder and thanks for the knowledge.

That's why I brought up the Monkees and Davy Jones. I always wanted to order the sea monkeys, but my parents said no.

So is it too late to order some X-ray spex, then?

Kids comic books in Atlantis undoubtedly tout Sting- ray spex and Manta Ray spex.

And now for the (really not Fake) news. There is a lost continent . . . . From CNN here. . . . and apparently many of us have been there.

Joe32F - thanks for this morning's grin. . . . knew rivers had banks, didn't know seas have them. And now I know what they're for.

We (2 adults & 2 children less than 12) will be traveling to Atlantis in a couple of weeks.

I wanted to take advantage of the “free children” submarine tickets, but I just read that this is a scam!

I should have booked our tickets in advance!

Now what?

It is a sub-genre of a scam, actually, Priscilla.

We (2 adults & 2 children less than 12) will be traveling to Atlantis in a couple of weeks.
I wanted to take advantage of the “free children” submarine tickets, but I just read that this is a scam!
I should have booked our tickets in advance!

Now what?

The BYOBA fare is always 50% off regular fares and offers a good value.

( Bring Your Own Bottled Air)

This thread has really sunk to new lows.

This thread has really sunk to new lows.

Not really, it just demonstrates the true depth of the subject

Not really, it just demonstrates the true depth of the subject

Hmmm... No one has mentioned this... How deep is Atlantis? Do I need to worry about decompression sickness?

I just thought of another question for all you savvy travelers.

I need a travel insurance that will cover me in Atlantis, any ideas?

Thanks!

I can recommend Waters, Wetly & Hughmid Insurance Brokers.

Just don't buy any property there. All the mortgages are under water.

(Apologies if someone has already used this. It's hard to keep up.)

I don't know about general travel insurance, but for evacuation insurance I recommend MedJetboat Assist. Also be sure any trip insurance you get has coverage for water damage to your luggage.

Can’t believe that this thread is still holding water. Bravo.

Be sure that both your passport and air tank is renewed and recertified every 10 years. Not 100% sure that Atlantis requires both of them having more than 6 months left on the 'use by' date but better safe than sorry.

This thread sunk to new lows a long time ago..

But I smile when it resurfaces.

The reviews I have seen for the insurance broker, Dewey, Soakem & Howe are not good.

BBB has given them a rating of "Under C"

So this Thread came up for air and then back down? Well, it appears things are going along swimmingly again.

A friend played the 18 hole gulf course. He said the sand traps were huge and the water hazards were everywhere. But he said the Ark-itecture was fabulous.

Okay guys, I've been thinking of a trip to Atlantis and I'd thought I'd float this by you and see what you think. Is three days enough? I want to do a diving bell tour and I know I'd love to try a SPUD (self propelled underwater device). Also I just heard that Ringo and Paul are doing a nostalgia tour so I want to try to get tickets to the Yellow Submarine. Is there anything else I shouldn't miss? Add another day? All ideas welcome.

I love this forum, you’ve all been so helpful with your replies, thank you!

Nancy, the Yellow Submarine Tour sounds fantastic!

I’m still struggling to find a travel insurance that will cover my Atlantis trip.

The policies I’ve found specify that I “must be a qualified diver who will be diving no deeper than 30 meters”

Have any of you had any experience with Wade, Fisher, and Schell insurance brokers?

Ringo Starr’s actually releasing a new album next week - really - with Paul on one of the songs.

If Paul was to perform in Atlantis, he’d play a Sea Bass.

It was doing pretty good but folks keep trying to torpedo it...

And there is a fish called a drum...

Cool. Paul on the sea bass and Ringo on the drum fish. Love it, can't wait. I have a fitting for a wetsuit next week.

George on back up guitarfish and John on the FlowerHorn.

It’s possible that, if Mr. Starkey was to play in Atlantis, he might change his name again, this time to Ringo Starrfish. Or Maybe Calamari Rings-o. Of course, he’d find an Octopus’s garden because he, and anyone with him, would know they can’t be found.

Too bad George Marlin isn’t around anymore to record down there. Still, it’s great if anyone can carry a tuna.

And in restaurants, should you order still or sparkling bottled water? Atlantis might be the only place in the world where the local water really isn’t potable!

I'm really enjoying this topic. I hope it doesn't get deep-leted by the Moderator.

Greetings Nancy,
I recommend the Octopus Gardens Swimming Tour. Plan for an hour in the nearby caves. But don't waste your money on the extended tour with dinner, it was just a bunch of raw jellyfish sandwiches. Instead, make reservations at one of the many wonderful restaurants in the down-current part of Atlantis.

Even though most of the Octopus Gardens is in the shade, you will want to wear sun protection. The gift shop has lovely aquaparasols, but they are overpriced. If you can, pick one up in the Gulf Stream subdivision of Atlantis (it's in the north end of town, away from the tourist shops).

That said, if you can get tickets to the Hideaway, you will be in for a treat! Book ahead and don't miss the last submertram, as many tourists can't be found when they try to swim back along the Octopus Garden paths at night. If you want to participate in the "sing and dance" at the Hideaway, bring a wetsuit and a snorkel (you'll thank me later). Oh, it's typically warm in the Hideaway, except in dry season - dress accordingly.

A caution about the Hideaway. It's said that you gain the "gift of waterwalking" if you rest your head on the sea bed there. This has been debated at the Trident Symposium and most scientists find it dubious, to put it politely. Personally it seems innocent enough to me, but the exorbitant fee to rest your head on the sea bed is akin to high seas piracy. Your opinion may vary.

If you go, be sure to shout and swim about the coral that lies beneath the waves. Everyone who goes says it really is an amazing experience that will bring you exuberant joy!

It's polite to tip the Stingrays that are on duty at the Octopus Gardens. However, it is considered highly offensive to tip the Octopus. Remember, the Stingrays are not there to tell you what to do. Their primary function is safety: keeping the dog sharks and electric eels out of the gardens.

A note about your lodging:
While small gifts from your home locale are allowed, your hosts may prefer a gift card. Land's End gift cards are popular and appreciated. Of course, the Bermuda Triangle ship wreck waterglobe is always in bad taste.

If you go to the Octopus Gardens, bring a waterproof camera. You know we would love to see photos of your adventures! elisa

Brilliant, Elisa, just brilliant. Thank you.

Greetings Norma,
Thank you! It has been said that the Beatles were ahead of their time. In reality, they traveled extensively and we know about their tours and concerts. The untold story is hidden in their music, the lyrics only hinting at the true meaning.

The Beatles visit to Atlantis has been a State Secret for years! While there have been numerous theories, still many details are unknown. As you may have guessed, their voyage to Atlantis was by Yellow Submarine. The Royal Navy denies that such a submarine ever existed. Let's look at the lyrics a bit more closely and see what we can find.

The first verse:
"In the town where I was born
Lived a man who sailed to sea
And he told us of his life
In the land of submarines"

That could be any town near the coast and any seaman. No state secrets there.

"So we sailed up to the sun"

Hmm, there is much speculation regarding the location of Atlantis. Nearly everyone assumes it's somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean. Many will agree that it may likely be located near the equator.

So they sailed, likely south. As it was a submarine, they sailed "up" to the sun. This is just vague enough that no State Secret is evident here.

" 'Til we found a sea of green
And we lived beneath the waves
In our yellow submarine"

Evidence they found Atlantis? You be the judge.

I won't bore you with the entire song, but let's examine a few more key phrases.

"And our friends are all aboard"

The visa requirements for Atlantis are very strict. The Great Trench divided East Atlantis from West Atlantis until the Treaty of Poseidon in 1970. The Beatles released Yellow Submarine in 1966, well before Neptune's Accord permitted any visitors at all, much less tourists. So they would have had to remain onboard, being denied permission to disembark.

Their song Octopus' Garden was released in 1969, just before the Ambassador of Oceanus opened diplomatic relations in response to the Desalination Crisis. Remember when salt was rationed? Yup, that was the year of the last Beatles public performance. Coincidence or conspiracy?

"And our friends are all aboard
Many more of them live next door"

There is much debate regarding this line. Some say it refers to the lodging onboard the sub, indicating more than one crew's berthing room. Historians speculate that the phrase "live next door" alludes to their new underwater friends. Either way you interpret it, this vague phrase allowed the Beatles to deny any connection to Atlantis.

"And the band begins to play"

After the Atlantean Dignitaries toured the Yellow Submarine, they were permitted to interact with the crew. They heard the Beatles practicing in the Crew's Mess and wanted to hear more. As conditions are very cramped on a submarine, there wasn't room for the Beatles to set up all their equipment.

The Officers and the Crew were invited to the Natatorium Basin, where the delighted Atlantean population witnessed the only undersea Beatles performance.

"As we live a life of ease
Everyone of us has all we need (has all we need)"

The Ruler of Atlantis, Poseidon himself, invited the Captain and the entire Crew to stay for one Tidal Cycle. (A Tidal Cycle is similar to our month, but slightly shorter, as it is controlled by the Lunar Orbit.)

"Sky of blue (sky of blue) and sea of green (and sea of green)
In our yellow submarine (in our yellow, submarine, ha ha)"

To be continued...

Continued from above...

"Sky of blue (sky of blue) and sea of green (and sea of green)
In our yellow submarine (in our yellow, submarine, ha ha)"

Here, as in the phrase above, we notice the echo effect. This happens when human ears get waterlogged and begin to fail. In order to communicate with a person suffering from this condition, it is necessary to repeat yourself. Fortunately, this condition is treatable and one hundred percent reversible.

"We all live in a yellow submarine
Yellow submarine, yellow submarine"

Upon their return home, the euphoria the Beatles felt during their time in Atlantis faded slowly. The joy and happiness experienced every time they thought about Atlantis is evident in the two songs they were allowed to release.

Speculation abounds regarding additional songs written about Atlantis by the Beatles. However, that conversation would likely be too controversial for a travel forum. Maybe one day in the future we will know the truth.

Thank you again, for the lovely compliment! Fair winds and following seas on all your journeys! elisa

Thanks Elisa!

Your writing style is absolutely Sublime!

BTW, how much should we tip the stingrays?

Greetings Priscilla,
Thank you! Tips. One s'quid is the usual amount, but never more than two s'quid. Those stingray uniforms don't have pockets! elisa

Alaska e--

That is truly a Whale of a Tale!

Greetings Joe32F,
Thank you! Your reply is appreciated, well done. As a tour guide myself, in both Maine and Alaska, I appreciate a fine story.

Last year I found an old copy of Better Pools & Grottos at a used bookstore in Searsport, Maine. Lovely little book shop right there on Route 1. The magazine was made of water-logs and was in great condition, considering it has been exposed to the dry air for the past few years. The featured story was about the evolving building methods in underwater construction, but the small article about the Beatles caught my eye. I'm glad I could share it here! elisa

And can I get there using Delta SkyMiles?

Yes, through their partner airline, Virgin Atlantis

Gosh folks, you have drifted so far off topic, that Tom's question has been ignored for far too long.
Hopefully this post will turn the tide and get everyone back to the topic

Too many people were swept away by a flood of enthusiasm for travel, that the original question was drowned out in a sea of well intentioned advice.

You know, Virgin will automatically upgrade your seating if you’re Fin-ish. And the likelihood of a Water Landing better be certain!

Are they showing "The Little Mermaid" at the dive-in theater?

Speaking of movies, what recommendations do you have for movies (other than The Little Mermaid) to watch before visiting Atlantis. I recommend Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and The Big Blue.

Not Jaws, I presume.

Jane and Nancy

Clever bunnies.

For Halloween salt water taffy is the preferred treat

I'm so glad that this thread hasn't been sent to Davy Jones' Locker....

With Nancy’s first movie suggestion in mind, Kirk Douglas and all, it’s worth mentioning that Atlantis is perhaps the one place on the planet where soccer/football is NOT the most popular sport! Of course, it’s water polo, and kids are started at an early age, with little leagues, and water polo camps. Professional leagues are fervently followed, and some popular teams include (any similarity to landlocked team names is purely coincidental) The Mariners, The Buccaneers, and The Dolphins. There are amateur, college, and pro teams - so many, in fact, there are literally 20,000 Leagues there, under the sea!

We have not heard back from the OP. Did he drown in Atlantis?

Tammy, I think he took a wrong turn at Albuquerque, and ended up in Atlanta instead...

Tom_MN may be looking for a warmer place right now. Has anybody been to Atlantis in the winter? Does it get much colder then? Does everything turn to ice?

With hi temps in MN below freezing, OP has gone into hibernation. Expect silence until Spring

Hmmm. Below freezing in Atlantis, probably a concern. Below freezing in Minnesota (as long as it’s not 40 below), probably no big deal. At least Atlantis has no Wind Chill Factor to deal with!

Above sea level temps may be below freezing, but surrounding salinity keeps Atlantis temperatures above 42F. Entry bays utilize solar heated collars to maintain ice free entry. Dry suits recommended for winter visits.

Somehow I doubt if the ocean where Atlantis is located (if anyone knows where that is) is ever going to freeze over. I don't think it's anywhere near either of the poles, the only places where there is ice and not just in the winter. Winter is actually I good time to go to Atlantis because the crowds are thinner - no schools of fish on field trips that time of year.

Good to know, no danger of ice on sidewalks In Atlantis. So they don’t need to spread salt or sand on sidewalks to aid having traction, which is ironic, consider how much salt and sand is in the environment!

Cyn, I'm not sure they even have sidewalks in Atlantis. From my research it looks like it's mostly canals and waterways and you usually just float everywhere. So, no worries about salt or that evil ice-melt on any sidewalks. I've also heard that the waterways are heated so floating to various destinations is a wonderfully restful experience.

Nancy, that’s good to hear - no sidewalks. That means probably less likelihood of stepping in someone’s discarded gum, and not having to dodge adults riding on a kid’s scooter, or motorized Lime-type scooters. So are people there whizzing and weaving through pedestrians ... I mean, Floaters . . .towing themselves via motorized DPD’s (Diver Propulsion Devices)?

Cyn, I'm not sure about the 'whizzers'. I'm hoping they have separate lanes for motorized vehicles like the bike lanes in Amsterdam. But the self propelled floaters should still be careful when entering the marked zebra fish crossings. Those with motorized devices don't always look where they are going.

Zebra fish crossings - that’s absolutely brilliant, Nancy! But what symbols do they have in the light signals to tell you when to “go” or to “wait?” A figure with fins? Frogman or Mermaid, maybe? A 🏊🏼‍♀️ “swimmer” for OK to cross, and a fish with a spear thru it for “don’t cross now?”

And speaking of signage, what about restrooms? I’m sure they must use symbols more creative that the generic “man” and “woman” figures to mark the appropriate WC. Hah, Water Closet - that’s probably a silly term to use!

But anyway, might Atlantis use potentially confusing symbols, like a crab for one and a lobster for the other, not really clear what those indicate to us landlubbers?