Celebrity Holy Land itineraries have been modified to no longer call on Alexandria, Egypt. Celebrity has been monitoring the situation in Egypt closely and, while they believe this port of call will be safe, feedback received from guests and Travel Partners has resulted in the decision to no longer call on Alexandria, Egypt and this port has been replaced on 2 sailings for Celebrity Constellation and 6 sailings for Celebrity Silhouette.
Celebrity Constellation
12-Night Holy Land Sailing: October 25, 2011
The call to Alexandria, Egypt has been replaced with and overnight in Haifa, Israel.
14-Night Holy Land Sailing: November 6, 2011
The call to Alexandria, Egypt has been replaced with a call to Marmaris, Turkey.
Celebrity Silhouette
12-Night Holy Land - August 10, 2011
The call to Alexandria, Egypt has been replaced with a call to Haifa, Israel.
12-Night Holy Land - August 22, 2011
The call to Alexandria, Egypt has been replaced with an overnight call to Haifa, Israel.
12-Night Holy Land - September 3, 2011
The call to Alexandria, Egypt has been replaced with an overnight call to Haifa, Israel.
12-Night Holy Land - September 15, 2011
The call to Alexandria, Egypt has been replaced with an overnight call to Jerusalem ( Ashdod), Israel.
13-Night Holy Land - September 27, 2011
The call to Alexandria, Egypt has been replaced with a call to Limassol, Cyprus and Haifa, Israel.
12-Night Holy Land - October 10, 2011
The call to Alexandria, Egypt has been replaced with an overnight call to Haifa, Israel.
Here is some information on the new ports of call:
Haifa, Israel
Home to ancient temples, churches, and mosques, museums, cinemas and white-sandy beaches. The most visited attraction in Haifa is the magnificent Baha'I Shrine and Gardens.
Clients can travel to Jerusalem or Galilee - visit a Kaballah Visit Tabgha and the Church of the Multiplication, believed to be the site of the loaves and fishes. They can see Nazareth where the largest Christian Church in the Middle East is located.
Marmaris, Turkey
Guests can enjoy the best beaches in Turkey, friendly people, delicious local food and wine.
Marmaris has great scuba diving locations, with secluded bays, warm crystal clear water and lots to explore.
Jerusalem
Explore Ashdod's ancient history at Korin and Maman Museum.See the Israel Museum, the Jewish quarter of the Old City, and the Wailing Wall.Visit the Tomb of King David within a 5th century synagogue.Go to Bethlehem to see the Church of the Nativity
LimassolThe House of Achilles, and The Altar of Apollo and spectacular views of the Curium Beach are just some of the sites to visit. In Old Town, clients can see medieval castle and Anexartisias
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Cabo Activities
Mazatlan Ports May Be Cancelled, but there is lots of do in Cabo
If you haven’t heard already, Carnival, Disney, Holland America, NCL and Princess have all decided to skip the port Mazatlan for the foreseeable future. Instead they are choosing to spend two days in Cabo San Lucas.
Cabo is clean, friendly and full of fun activities. It has modern shopping malls, fabulous resorts and “Old Town” has plenty of old style Mexican charm. The only drawback is there is no pier, so ships have to tender guests ashore. So here is a little heads up as to some of the things you can do during your visit.
Shopping
The best shopping is in the Puerto Paraiso galleria which is a short walk from the pier. Inside are five art galleries selling the original work of renowned Mexican artists such as Sergio Bustamante. You may not think you have seen his work, but you’ll probably recognize it when you see it. Bustamante is a Mexican icon specializing in modern jewelry, paintings and ceramic sculpture that is colorful, fun and attractive enough to brighten any home.
Dolphins
Swimming with the dolphins is a popular shore excursion and Cabo has a brand new, state of the art facility call Cabo Dolphins. It is one of the first things you see as you set foot on land after leaving the tender pier. For those who like to “do it yourself” check out this website at cabodolphins.com.
Whale Watching
Humpback whales arrive to breed inside the Sea of Cortes. Unfortunately, the peak season ends in March and the chances that you will see a whale now are already down to about 50/50. But keep in mind for your trip next year that January and February are peak season and the odds raise closer to 90%.
Yacht Racing
If you are a sailing enthusiast you can climb aboard a real America's Cup yacht that sailed in an America’s Cup competition. Cabo Adventures has four racing yachts that were acquired from the America's Cup Match.
Safari Desert Ride
A more unusual attraction is the Outback and Camel Safari. Ride through the desert in an off-road vehicle as local guides show you the Sonoran desert. Then it is on to Rancho San Cristobal to ride camels along the beach. After all, the pyramids near Cairo are now off limits to most cruise ships, so you why not ride a camel in Mexico?
Golf
Golfers will be happy to hear about the six championship golf courses in Cabo - including three designed by Jack Nicklaus (one of those is a 27-hole course) and a brand new 18-hole course designed by Tom Weiskopf.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is available for certified divers and even if you are a novice you can make a "resort" dive after a two-hour of instruction.
Sail and Beach
Hop on a Zodiac and take a ride around the famous Lands End at the end of the Baja Peninsula. There you will find the isolated Lover's Beach. The scenery along this ride is great for photography. Enjoy the isolated Lover’s Beach, but be aware that there are no shops, restaurants or even lifeguards and the only access is by boat.
Nightlife
Although Cabo is a great city for nightlife, most cruise ships will require that you return to the ship by a certain time so you may not have a chance to visit the famous nightclub Cabo Wabo owned by former Van Halen singer Sammy Hagar. But check with your cruise line for specific instructions.
Bottom line, while it is sad that Mazatlan has lost its cruise business, it is a chance for cruisers to really discover Cabo San Lucas, one of the best ports on the Mexican Riviera.
If you haven’t heard already, Carnival, Disney, Holland America, NCL and Princess have all decided to skip the port Mazatlan for the foreseeable future. Instead they are choosing to spend two days in Cabo San Lucas.
Cabo is clean, friendly and full of fun activities. It has modern shopping malls, fabulous resorts and “Old Town” has plenty of old style Mexican charm. The only drawback is there is no pier, so ships have to tender guests ashore. So here is a little heads up as to some of the things you can do during your visit.
Shopping
The best shopping is in the Puerto Paraiso galleria which is a short walk from the pier. Inside are five art galleries selling the original work of renowned Mexican artists such as Sergio Bustamante. You may not think you have seen his work, but you’ll probably recognize it when you see it. Bustamante is a Mexican icon specializing in modern jewelry, paintings and ceramic sculpture that is colorful, fun and attractive enough to brighten any home.
Dolphins
Swimming with the dolphins is a popular shore excursion and Cabo has a brand new, state of the art facility call Cabo Dolphins. It is one of the first things you see as you set foot on land after leaving the tender pier. For those who like to “do it yourself” check out this website at cabodolphins.com.
Whale Watching
Humpback whales arrive to breed inside the Sea of Cortes. Unfortunately, the peak season ends in March and the chances that you will see a whale now are already down to about 50/50. But keep in mind for your trip next year that January and February are peak season and the odds raise closer to 90%.
Yacht Racing
If you are a sailing enthusiast you can climb aboard a real America's Cup yacht that sailed in an America’s Cup competition. Cabo Adventures has four racing yachts that were acquired from the America's Cup Match.
Safari Desert Ride
A more unusual attraction is the Outback and Camel Safari. Ride through the desert in an off-road vehicle as local guides show you the Sonoran desert. Then it is on to Rancho San Cristobal to ride camels along the beach. After all, the pyramids near Cairo are now off limits to most cruise ships, so you why not ride a camel in Mexico?
Golf
Golfers will be happy to hear about the six championship golf courses in Cabo - including three designed by Jack Nicklaus (one of those is a 27-hole course) and a brand new 18-hole course designed by Tom Weiskopf.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is available for certified divers and even if you are a novice you can make a "resort" dive after a two-hour of instruction.
Sail and Beach
Hop on a Zodiac and take a ride around the famous Lands End at the end of the Baja Peninsula. There you will find the isolated Lover's Beach. The scenery along this ride is great for photography. Enjoy the isolated Lover’s Beach, but be aware that there are no shops, restaurants or even lifeguards and the only access is by boat.
Nightlife
Although Cabo is a great city for nightlife, most cruise ships will require that you return to the ship by a certain time so you may not have a chance to visit the famous nightclub Cabo Wabo owned by former Van Halen singer Sammy Hagar. But check with your cruise line for specific instructions.
Bottom line, while it is sad that Mazatlan has lost its cruise business, it is a chance for cruisers to really discover Cabo San Lucas, one of the best ports on the Mexican Riviera.
Cruise Notes Newsletters
Cruise Notes from Mary
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant
March 2011
Well I felt it was about time to create a newsletter. I hope enjoy the first issue of “Cruise Notes from Mary”. Would love to hear what you think and get your feedback.
Why I call myself a Travel Consultant and not a Travel Agent
• Agents use a GDS to book cruises. Consultants use their personal contacts to make reservations. • Agents give their clients what they ask for. Consultants are not merely an order-taker but engage in a collaborative decision process. • Agents rely on the internet. Consultants rely on personal knowledge and destination experience. • Agents can access a profile of their clients. Consultants have personal knowledge of their clients' likes, dislikes, travel background and interests. • Agents look for FAM trips. Consultants receive personal invitations to experience the world's best travel products. • Agents book packages on price. Consultants seek out value, knowing that discounted garbage is still garbage. • Agents book cruises. Consultants create customized cruise experiences. • Agents book what the computer says is available. Consultants go the extra mile to verify availability. • Agents take pride in making a successful booking. Travel Consultant take pride in creating a truly memorable experience as a result of going beyond expectations. • Agents are, first and foremost, agents of the suppliers. Consultants are, first and foremost, agents of the clients.
Cruise News
Carnival Legend has resumed Caribbean service from Tampa, following a 14-day dry-dock that renovated the children’s pool area and added Serenity, an adults-only retreat. Read More
Celebrity Cruises is adding two new culinary offerings: an authentic high tea experience called “Champagne High Tea” and premium kosher meals.
SeaDream Yacht Club Vice President of Hotel Operations Erling Frydenberg will host wine tastings on the July 30 to Aug. 6 voyage from Amsterdam, Netherlands, to Bordeaux, France.
The Port of Los Angeles this month became the first port worldwide to provide Alternative Maritime Power (AMP) to three cruise lines, which significantly reduces ship exhaust when cruise vessels are in port.
P&O Cruises named British performer Dame Shirley Bassey as godmother to the 710-passenger Adonia, the latest addition to the fleet. The ship currently operates as Royal Princess.
Norwegian Cruise Line cancelled the Norwegian Star’s calls to Mazatlan, Mexico, through April, after a Feb. 22 shooting in the tourist zone. Carnival Cruise Lines’ Carnival Splendor cancelled its Feb. 24 call.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is counting the days to the introduction of its new Antoinette, which will begin sailing along the Rhine River in late March.
Star Clippers is offering a Mediterranean cruise that coincides with the Monaco Grand Prix. Star Flyer’s May 21 and May 28 departures offer itineraries planned around the time trials and Grand Prix race, enabling guests to go ashore in Monte Carlo and get up close to the action.
Cruise Deals
Carnival Magic Goes to Europe
“FUN-tastic” news! The Best of Europe Sale has been extended through March 13th 2011! Don’t miss out as you can still take advantage of great savings – and FREE best available upgrades – PLUS up to $300 onboard credit per stateroom! Carnival is making country-hopping in Europe not only FUN and easy but affordable, too! Their 7, 9 and 12 day Europe itineraries are on sale - all on the grand, sparkling new addition to the fleet, CARNIVAL MAGIC, showcasing “first of her kind” onboard amenities and popular port side highlights including Naples, Rome, Monaco and much more!
Crystal Cruises offers some incredible deals on Caribbean, Panama Canal, Hawaiian Islands, Pacific Coast, Mexican Riviera, and New England & Canada sailings in 2011.
Upgrade from a Balcony to a Mini Suite for free on select Norwegian Cruise Line Bermuda and Bahamas/Florida sailings embarking now through April 2013. Plus, get up to a 4-category stateroom upgrade fleetwide and receive e-coupons for onboard savings of up to $400! Book by March 13, 2011
Where I’ve Been
Mexican Riviera
Met up with clients I hadn’t seen in a long time (Bob) and clients I had never met (Bubbles, Tom, Neoma) onboard RCL Mariner of the Seas sailing the Mexican Riviera. Good thing we booked that sailing because after that, things got weird in Mexico and the cruise lines stopped going to those ports.
Although I spent most of the time working and did not do any shore excursions, it was great spending quality time getting to know my clients better at dinner. Although everyone had a good time, the Mariner was a little big for them so future cruise will be on smaller ships. And I think Celebrity Century is just the right size ship for their group cruise to Hawaii in October 2011.
2011 Smooth Jazz Cruise
Thanks to clients Leon and Nellie, I had the opportunity to experience my first ever Smooth Jazz Cruise charter onboard Holland America Noordam. All I can say is jazz and music lovers alike with LOVE this cruise. This was amazing cruise with music to satisfy a variety of tastes as well as events and activities that will keep you on the go. If you love jazz, this is the cruise for you. This is a full ship charter on Holland America that sails January of each year.
The line-up for 2012 will feature Smokey Robinson and include David Sandborn, Marcus Miller, Jonathan Butler, Gerald Albright, Boney James, Rick Braun, Candy Dulfer, Jeff Golub , DW3, Patrice Rushen, Joe Sample, Brian Simpson, Peter White, and Alonzo Bodden. The dates are January 15-22 and January 22-29 but I will warn you. The ship is already 80% sold out so you need to reserve your space soon. Give me a call at (714 878-7064 or email me at mengram@worldviewtravel.com if you are interested because only a certified agent can sell this cruise and yours truly is a Smooth Jazz Certified Agent.
United Arab Emirates Cruise
What can I say about my 7 cruise to the United Arab Emirates? We departed Dubai on a Monday night, sailing to Fujairah, Muscat, Abu Dhabi and back to Dubai. It was a leisurely itinerary, with overnights in both Muscat and Dubai, and a day at sea
Tip – Don’t listen to your fellow travelers who say there is nothing to do in Fujairah. Book a tour and get outside of the industrial port. You will be glad you did as there are wonders to behold. We did the East Coast tour and learned there were excellent beaches in Fujairah as well and the rugged Hajar Mountains. We visited a 300 year old fort, the Friday Market and the Bidya Mosque. Got to see a real oasis in the desert and it was nothing like I imagined.
We did the Mystical Muscat and Panoramic Muscat by Night with Dinner tours in Muscat. Our day tour took us to spice and gold souk. This was a real treasure find because I learned this is where the Three Wise Men of the bible brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh to baby Jesus. So of course I had to bring some back to share with my bible study group. We also went to the Mosque, Sultan’s Palace and a private museum, which gave you an idea of what life was like in the distant past. That night we went to a wonderful restaurant to experience a night with the locals. Muscat was absolutely a joy.
In Abu Dhabi many people took the Hop on Hop Off Bus, but we elected to do a tour which included the Grand Mosque. Ladies have to don the Black Gown and Scarf which is provided free of charge.
Our tour in Dubai included the Burj el Arab, Jimeirah mosque, World Trade Center to view the wind towers, Dubai Museum and the gold souk.
The very best tour of the trip was the Dune Dinner Safari in Dubai. Our 4-wheel drive Toyota Land Cruiser took us over rolling dunes deep into the heart of the desert. We visited a camel ranch, a Bedouin village, and I tried my luck at sand skiing. It is easier skiing downhill than trying to walk back up those sand dunes. Our campsite had a real Arabian ambience as we relaxed on low cushions. Lots of activities, including camel rides, having your hands painted with intricate henna designs, enjoying a “shee-sha” or water pipe before our Arabic BBQ dinner, followed by a belly dancer and whirling dervish.
Since our flight did not leave until 11:20 pm, we stored out luggage at the airport and took the metro back to the Dubai Mall. A must see is the aquarium, underwater zoo, ski slop, and carnival. Amazing that all of this is housed within a single mall.
Although I am not a big fan of cruise line shore excursions, for this itinerary I would recommend booking your tours through the ship. Be advised that a “visa fee” for entry and exit in Oman will show up on your Sea pass account.
Thought for the Month
Do not try to live 'up to a standard' rather try to 'be the standard
Well that’s it for now. I hope you enjoyed it and would love to hear your feedback as I hope to send out a newsletter every month.
Love and Hugs
Mary Engram,
Your Personal Travel Consultant
Like my Facebook Fan Page at http://www.facebook.com/MaryEngramTravelConsultant
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant
March 2011
Well I felt it was about time to create a newsletter. I hope enjoy the first issue of “Cruise Notes from Mary”. Would love to hear what you think and get your feedback.
Why I call myself a Travel Consultant and not a Travel Agent
• Agents use a GDS to book cruises. Consultants use their personal contacts to make reservations. • Agents give their clients what they ask for. Consultants are not merely an order-taker but engage in a collaborative decision process. • Agents rely on the internet. Consultants rely on personal knowledge and destination experience. • Agents can access a profile of their clients. Consultants have personal knowledge of their clients' likes, dislikes, travel background and interests. • Agents look for FAM trips. Consultants receive personal invitations to experience the world's best travel products. • Agents book packages on price. Consultants seek out value, knowing that discounted garbage is still garbage. • Agents book cruises. Consultants create customized cruise experiences. • Agents book what the computer says is available. Consultants go the extra mile to verify availability. • Agents take pride in making a successful booking. Travel Consultant take pride in creating a truly memorable experience as a result of going beyond expectations. • Agents are, first and foremost, agents of the suppliers. Consultants are, first and foremost, agents of the clients.
Cruise News
Carnival Legend has resumed Caribbean service from Tampa, following a 14-day dry-dock that renovated the children’s pool area and added Serenity, an adults-only retreat. Read More
Celebrity Cruises is adding two new culinary offerings: an authentic high tea experience called “Champagne High Tea” and premium kosher meals.
SeaDream Yacht Club Vice President of Hotel Operations Erling Frydenberg will host wine tastings on the July 30 to Aug. 6 voyage from Amsterdam, Netherlands, to Bordeaux, France.
The Port of Los Angeles this month became the first port worldwide to provide Alternative Maritime Power (AMP) to three cruise lines, which significantly reduces ship exhaust when cruise vessels are in port.
P&O Cruises named British performer Dame Shirley Bassey as godmother to the 710-passenger Adonia, the latest addition to the fleet. The ship currently operates as Royal Princess.
Norwegian Cruise Line cancelled the Norwegian Star’s calls to Mazatlan, Mexico, through April, after a Feb. 22 shooting in the tourist zone. Carnival Cruise Lines’ Carnival Splendor cancelled its Feb. 24 call.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is counting the days to the introduction of its new Antoinette, which will begin sailing along the Rhine River in late March.
Star Clippers is offering a Mediterranean cruise that coincides with the Monaco Grand Prix. Star Flyer’s May 21 and May 28 departures offer itineraries planned around the time trials and Grand Prix race, enabling guests to go ashore in Monte Carlo and get up close to the action.
Cruise Deals
Carnival Magic Goes to Europe
“FUN-tastic” news! The Best of Europe Sale has been extended through March 13th 2011! Don’t miss out as you can still take advantage of great savings – and FREE best available upgrades – PLUS up to $300 onboard credit per stateroom! Carnival is making country-hopping in Europe not only FUN and easy but affordable, too! Their 7, 9 and 12 day Europe itineraries are on sale - all on the grand, sparkling new addition to the fleet, CARNIVAL MAGIC, showcasing “first of her kind” onboard amenities and popular port side highlights including Naples, Rome, Monaco and much more!
Crystal Cruises offers some incredible deals on Caribbean, Panama Canal, Hawaiian Islands, Pacific Coast, Mexican Riviera, and New England & Canada sailings in 2011.
Upgrade from a Balcony to a Mini Suite for free on select Norwegian Cruise Line Bermuda and Bahamas/Florida sailings embarking now through April 2013. Plus, get up to a 4-category stateroom upgrade fleetwide and receive e-coupons for onboard savings of up to $400! Book by March 13, 2011
Where I’ve Been
Mexican Riviera
Met up with clients I hadn’t seen in a long time (Bob) and clients I had never met (Bubbles, Tom, Neoma) onboard RCL Mariner of the Seas sailing the Mexican Riviera. Good thing we booked that sailing because after that, things got weird in Mexico and the cruise lines stopped going to those ports.
Although I spent most of the time working and did not do any shore excursions, it was great spending quality time getting to know my clients better at dinner. Although everyone had a good time, the Mariner was a little big for them so future cruise will be on smaller ships. And I think Celebrity Century is just the right size ship for their group cruise to Hawaii in October 2011.
2011 Smooth Jazz Cruise
Thanks to clients Leon and Nellie, I had the opportunity to experience my first ever Smooth Jazz Cruise charter onboard Holland America Noordam. All I can say is jazz and music lovers alike with LOVE this cruise. This was amazing cruise with music to satisfy a variety of tastes as well as events and activities that will keep you on the go. If you love jazz, this is the cruise for you. This is a full ship charter on Holland America that sails January of each year.
The line-up for 2012 will feature Smokey Robinson and include David Sandborn, Marcus Miller, Jonathan Butler, Gerald Albright, Boney James, Rick Braun, Candy Dulfer, Jeff Golub , DW3, Patrice Rushen, Joe Sample, Brian Simpson, Peter White, and Alonzo Bodden. The dates are January 15-22 and January 22-29 but I will warn you. The ship is already 80% sold out so you need to reserve your space soon. Give me a call at (714 878-7064 or email me at mengram@worldviewtravel.com if you are interested because only a certified agent can sell this cruise and yours truly is a Smooth Jazz Certified Agent.
United Arab Emirates Cruise
What can I say about my 7 cruise to the United Arab Emirates? We departed Dubai on a Monday night, sailing to Fujairah, Muscat, Abu Dhabi and back to Dubai. It was a leisurely itinerary, with overnights in both Muscat and Dubai, and a day at sea
Tip – Don’t listen to your fellow travelers who say there is nothing to do in Fujairah. Book a tour and get outside of the industrial port. You will be glad you did as there are wonders to behold. We did the East Coast tour and learned there were excellent beaches in Fujairah as well and the rugged Hajar Mountains. We visited a 300 year old fort, the Friday Market and the Bidya Mosque. Got to see a real oasis in the desert and it was nothing like I imagined.
We did the Mystical Muscat and Panoramic Muscat by Night with Dinner tours in Muscat. Our day tour took us to spice and gold souk. This was a real treasure find because I learned this is where the Three Wise Men of the bible brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh to baby Jesus. So of course I had to bring some back to share with my bible study group. We also went to the Mosque, Sultan’s Palace and a private museum, which gave you an idea of what life was like in the distant past. That night we went to a wonderful restaurant to experience a night with the locals. Muscat was absolutely a joy.
In Abu Dhabi many people took the Hop on Hop Off Bus, but we elected to do a tour which included the Grand Mosque. Ladies have to don the Black Gown and Scarf which is provided free of charge.
Our tour in Dubai included the Burj el Arab, Jimeirah mosque, World Trade Center to view the wind towers, Dubai Museum and the gold souk.
The very best tour of the trip was the Dune Dinner Safari in Dubai. Our 4-wheel drive Toyota Land Cruiser took us over rolling dunes deep into the heart of the desert. We visited a camel ranch, a Bedouin village, and I tried my luck at sand skiing. It is easier skiing downhill than trying to walk back up those sand dunes. Our campsite had a real Arabian ambience as we relaxed on low cushions. Lots of activities, including camel rides, having your hands painted with intricate henna designs, enjoying a “shee-sha” or water pipe before our Arabic BBQ dinner, followed by a belly dancer and whirling dervish.
Since our flight did not leave until 11:20 pm, we stored out luggage at the airport and took the metro back to the Dubai Mall. A must see is the aquarium, underwater zoo, ski slop, and carnival. Amazing that all of this is housed within a single mall.
Although I am not a big fan of cruise line shore excursions, for this itinerary I would recommend booking your tours through the ship. Be advised that a “visa fee” for entry and exit in Oman will show up on your Sea pass account.
Thought for the Month
Do not try to live 'up to a standard' rather try to 'be the standard
Well that’s it for now. I hope you enjoyed it and would love to hear your feedback as I hope to send out a newsletter every month.
Love and Hugs
Mary Engram,
Your Personal Travel Consultant
Like my Facebook Fan Page at http://www.facebook.com/MaryEngramTravelConsultant
Friday, December 10, 2010
Week of Dec 6, 2010
Royal Caribbean raises recommended gratuity
Royal Caribbean International raised the recommended gratuity amount by 19%. It is the cruise line's first adjustment in suggested gratuity in 13 years.
Disney Dream delivered
Disney Cruise Line on Thursday took delivery of the 122,000-ton Disney Dream, its first newbuild in more than a decade.
Feds yank high-speed rail funds from Ohio and Wisconsin
The Federal Railroad Administration will redirect $1.2 billion in high-speed rail funds originally designated for Wisconsin and Ohio to rail projects in other states, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Thursday.
Delta to install recharging stations at airports
Delta plans to roll out recharging stations in 19 airports across the U.S., including its seven domestic hubs, to assist passengers seeking a spot to recharge their electronic devices
Cunard Appoints First Female Captain Inger Klein OlsenInger Klein Olsen makes history as first female captain of Cunard cruise line.
Marriott Set to Open Resort in VietnamMarriott International this week announced it signed a long-term agreement with Phat Dat Quant Ngai Hotel & Resort Corp. to open and operate the 250-room Hoi An Marriott Resort & Spa. The Hoi An, which is set to open in 2015, will be the ninth Marriott-branded property in Vietnam.
Royal Caribbean International raised the recommended gratuity amount by 19%. It is the cruise line's first adjustment in suggested gratuity in 13 years.
Disney Dream delivered
Disney Cruise Line on Thursday took delivery of the 122,000-ton Disney Dream, its first newbuild in more than a decade.
Feds yank high-speed rail funds from Ohio and Wisconsin
The Federal Railroad Administration will redirect $1.2 billion in high-speed rail funds originally designated for Wisconsin and Ohio to rail projects in other states, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Thursday.
Delta to install recharging stations at airports
Delta plans to roll out recharging stations in 19 airports across the U.S., including its seven domestic hubs, to assist passengers seeking a spot to recharge their electronic devices
Cunard Appoints First Female Captain Inger Klein OlsenInger Klein Olsen makes history as first female captain of Cunard cruise line.
Marriott Set to Open Resort in VietnamMarriott International this week announced it signed a long-term agreement with Phat Dat Quant Ngai Hotel & Resort Corp. to open and operate the 250-room Hoi An Marriott Resort & Spa. The Hoi An, which is set to open in 2015, will be the ninth Marriott-branded property in Vietnam.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Oasis of the Seas - Unlike Any Other Ship
After sailing on Royal Caribbean International's Oasis of the Seas I can truly say that the ship is unlike anything else at sea. The whole time I was onboard, I never felt crowded, except during the parades, and felt like I was at a luxury resort. The Oasis of the Seas and its sister ship, the Allure of the Seas, are the largest cruise ships at sea. They have 37 cabin categories, which include balcony cabins that don't overlook the sea. They have "neighborhoods" like Central Park and Boardwalk and original amenities like an outdoor Aquatheater with diving shows.
But this is not the only difference. The way the Oasis-class ships sell is also unlike other vessel. Most cruise ships sell from the low and the high to the middle; the highest cabin categories and the lowest cabin categories sell out first, leaving the standard balcony cabins as the last to go. Not so on the Oasis and the Allure. The 150 suites sell out fast, but the inside cabins, which go quickly on the other cruise ships, are a tougher sell on the Oasis as people tend to purchase balconies and suites first. The Oasis-class ships are truly special, unique, and one-of-a-kind.
But this is not the only difference. The way the Oasis-class ships sell is also unlike other vessel. Most cruise ships sell from the low and the high to the middle; the highest cabin categories and the lowest cabin categories sell out first, leaving the standard balcony cabins as the last to go. Not so on the Oasis and the Allure. The 150 suites sell out fast, but the inside cabins, which go quickly on the other cruise ships, are a tougher sell on the Oasis as people tend to purchase balconies and suites first. The Oasis-class ships are truly special, unique, and one-of-a-kind.
Holland America Policy Allows Guests to Cancel for Any Reason
Holland America Line guests who purchase the line’s Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) can cancel their cruise or cruise-tour for any reason and receive a refund of up to 90 percent of the cruise fare paid. Holland America now also permits CPP coverage to be added any time after booking, as long as it is purchased before the date cancellation fees begin -- 75 days prior to the departure date for most sailings.
There are two levels of CPP. CPP Standard reimburses 80 percent of eligible amounts paid for cancellations for any reason up to 24 hours prior to the cruise or cruise-tour departure. Plus, the plan provides an additional $500 (for a total of $600) for lost, damaged or delayed baggage.
CPP Platinum features a 90 percent refund upon cancellation for any reason prior to departure. Other benefits under the expanded plan include increased baggage protection for lost or damaged luggage up to $1,600 total, delayed baggage coverage up to $1,100, trip-interruption protection if a guest must return home unexpectedly, and trip-delay coverage. Medical coverage under the CPP Platinum plan covers emergency medical expenses for illness or injury occurring during the voyage, emergency medical evacuation and 24-hour emergency hotline assistance for legal, passport, cash transfer, medical and documentation assistance.
CPP Standard and CPP Platinum are available to U.S. and Canadian residents and must be purchased prior to the date cancellation fees begin. The cost varies by cruise fare and is nonrefundable.
There are two levels of CPP. CPP Standard reimburses 80 percent of eligible amounts paid for cancellations for any reason up to 24 hours prior to the cruise or cruise-tour departure. Plus, the plan provides an additional $500 (for a total of $600) for lost, damaged or delayed baggage.
CPP Platinum features a 90 percent refund upon cancellation for any reason prior to departure. Other benefits under the expanded plan include increased baggage protection for lost or damaged luggage up to $1,600 total, delayed baggage coverage up to $1,100, trip-interruption protection if a guest must return home unexpectedly, and trip-delay coverage. Medical coverage under the CPP Platinum plan covers emergency medical expenses for illness or injury occurring during the voyage, emergency medical evacuation and 24-hour emergency hotline assistance for legal, passport, cash transfer, medical and documentation assistance.
CPP Standard and CPP Platinum are available to U.S. and Canadian residents and must be purchased prior to the date cancellation fees begin. The cost varies by cruise fare and is nonrefundable.
Crystal Books TV Physical Trainer for Dec. 5 Mexico Cruises
Crystal Cruises has booked Robert Reames, fitness author and head trainer for “Dr. Phil’s Ultimate Weight Loss Challenge,” on Crystal Symphony’s Dec. 5 “Mind, Body & Spirit” voyage. The Experience of Discovery cruise, with comprehensive wellness programming and complimentary instruction throughout, departs round-trip from Los Angeles for Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan. Reames, who has also appeared as a guest expert on major television networks, including the CBS Early Show and Fox Morning News, will lead presentations and question-and-answer sessions.
Other experts scheduled to sail are Anita Sanci, a certified Kripalu Yoga teacher and Yoga Teachers’ Alliance facilitator; Tracey Mallett, a renowned Pilates and fitness coach; Dr. Martin Lee, founder of the Tai Chi Cultural Institute; and Anand Amritraj, a semi-finalist in men’s doubles at Wimbledon who will give lessons on Crystal’s paddle tennis courts.
Along with special guests and theme-related programs, Crystal boasts complimentary options for guests seeking health and wellness on vacation, including the line’s Walk on Water program, Kinesis equipment, Tour de Spin indoor cycling classes and acupuncture treatments. The ship also offers low-fat, low-carb and sugar-free options on virtually every menu
Other experts scheduled to sail are Anita Sanci, a certified Kripalu Yoga teacher and Yoga Teachers’ Alliance facilitator; Tracey Mallett, a renowned Pilates and fitness coach; Dr. Martin Lee, founder of the Tai Chi Cultural Institute; and Anand Amritraj, a semi-finalist in men’s doubles at Wimbledon who will give lessons on Crystal’s paddle tennis courts.
Along with special guests and theme-related programs, Crystal boasts complimentary options for guests seeking health and wellness on vacation, including the line’s Walk on Water program, Kinesis equipment, Tour de Spin indoor cycling classes and acupuncture treatments. The ship also offers low-fat, low-carb and sugar-free options on virtually every menu
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