Sep 21 2012 Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary


Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant

September 21, 2012



Theme Nights onboard the The Soul Train Cruise

The Soul Train Cruise is known for music, performances and fun, which is why the late night parties and evening events are called “Boarding The Night Train”. Sometime around 11pm every night, the entire ship opens up and almost every venue has a different program or event. All “Boarding The Night Train” events are offered on a first come, first served basis. Listed below is a list of the themes for all nights.



Sunday – Fort Lauderdale: Welcome Night: Are You Ready? - Whatever you wore on the ship



MONDAY – AT SEA: SOUL BY THE SEA

Monday is party day and party night. We start in the afternoon with the T-Shirt Party on deck jam and “Pimp-My-T-Shirt” Contest. Always one of the most fun events of the cruise, all you have to do is wear your Soul Train Cruise T-Shirt and you are welcome to join us on the Lido Deck for food, music and drinks. You will receive your Soul Train Cruise T-Shirt in plenty of time to prepare for the “Pimp My T-Shirt” contest. It will be a lot of fun and there will be prizes.



Midnight at Midnight Event - Pa-Jam-A Party so put on your PJs (appropriate and tasteful attire required) and join us on the Lido Deck for some late night dancing and fun at our PJ party. You can stay up as late as you want, for you are already dressed for bed!



TUESDAY – GRAND TURK: ALL WHITE PARTY

The perfect party for the summer breeze of the Caribbean, because lighter colors look cool and refreshing, so whether casual, semi-formal or out-right crazy, we want to see you in ALL White!



WEDNESDAY – SAN JUAN: SOULFUL BEACH PARTY

It’s a beach party on deck – Wear your shorts, sarongs, Hawaiian Shirts, Leis or simply something you are comfortable in at the beach as we enjoy our BBQ on Deck under the stars and shake our hips to the sounds of the local music!



Midship at Midnight will be a late night tribute of the legacy of Michael Jackson with DW3 and friends… You wanna be startin’ something!



THURSDAY – ST. THOMAS: 70’S FUNK NIGHT

Tonight is the night that Midship at Midnight will take you back to the wild days of the 70’s! This is the COSTUME NIGHT of the cruise and we encourage EVERYONE to participate, with flairs, wigs and platforms shoes! Prizes awarded for BEST DRESSED!!!



FRIDAY - AT SEA: DRESS TO THE NINES!

Our most favorite night on the ship, where we all dress to impress with your most fashionable attire on this Formal Night ..The Ladies in gowns and the guys in Tuxes, this night is elegant, stylish and classy!



SATURDAY – HALF MOON CAY: FAREWELL NIGHT

A celebration of the bittersweet feelings that accompany the last night of a wonderful cruise.



Serenade of the Seas to Receive Oasis-Class Amenities

Serenade of the Seas will re-emerge from her dry dock with a new lineup of specialty restaurants, which will include Giovanni’s Table Italian restaurant, Izumi Asian cuisine and the Chef’s Table dining experience. Special dining packages will also be offered.



The Royal Choice Dining Package, which includes dinner at Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table and Izumi for $55 per guest, or the Chef’s Table Dining Package for $130 per guest, which includes all of the specialty restaurants as well as the Chef’s Table.

Serenade of the Seas also will offer additional dining deals at Giovanni’s Table. Groups of four or more can take advantage of the Celebration Dining Deal, which is valid for the first two nights of each sailing and allows groups of four or more to enjoy a delicious meal plus a $30 beverage credit at a cost of $20 per person. Groups of eight or more can opt for the Set Sail Dining Deal which includes dinner on the first night of their cruise for $14 per guest.



Further enhancing its onboard culinary offerings Royal Caribbean is expanding its partnership with renowned wine producer Domaines Barons de Rothschild by offering the exclusive Lafite Wine Tasting Experience onboard. Available for $23 to $25 per person, depending upon ship and itinerary, the experience, which was first introduced onboard Allure of the Seas, offers guests a unique tasting showcasing the renowned vintages from France’s Bordeaux region.



Developed in conjunction with Château Lafite Rothschild, the premier estate under the Rothschild name, and Master Sommelier John Blazon, the Lafite Wine Experience aims to expand guests’ understanding of growing regions within Bordeaux. A Royal Caribbean cellar master leads the tasting, sharing details about the wines and the winemakers and the history and suggestions for food pairings. A souvenir packet allows guests to take a piece of the experience home with winemakers’ notes, recipes and more.



The Lafite Wine Tasting Experience is now available for pre-booking on select ships, including Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas



WEST COAST 2013 SMOOTH JAZZ CRUISE - October 12 – 19, 2013 out of San Diego

It is the perfect vacation program for groups, family, social club, reunion, sports club, sorority fraternity, alumni association, or just rends and family wanting to get-together. You’re going to love this cruise.



Itinerary

Saturday, October 12, 2013 Departing from San Diego 5:00 PM

Sunday, October 13 At Sea

Monday, October 14 Scenic Cruising, Bahia Magdalena

Tuesday, October 15 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 8:00 am – Overnight

Wednesday, October 16 Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Overnight – 3:00 pm

Thursday, October 17 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Friday, October 18 At Sea

Saturday, October 19 San Diego, CA 7:00 am Disembarkation



LINEUP

Hosted by Brian Culbertson and Boney James

Featuring - David Sanborn and Marcus Miller

Special Guest - Tower of Power



Candy Dulfer Oleta Adams Jonathan Butler

Richard Elliot Euge Groove Earl Klugh

Kenny Lattimore Alonzo Bodden Rick Braun

Norman Brown DW3 Brian Simpson



Cabin Deposit Amount

$650/person (PS-SZ)

$550/person (VA-VH)

$450/person (C-Single)



Inside cabins start at $1875 pp +$325 taxes & gratuities. Return Guest inside cabin start at $1750 pp



PLEASE NOTE: All payments are non-refundable so insurance is highly recommended.



The Rockettes to christen Norwegian Cruise Line's new ship

The high-kicking Rockettes of Radio City Music Hall fame will christen the Norwegian Breakaway on May 8, 2013. Two dancers from the troupe will be aboard the first six sailings of the ship and the first sailing of the month thereafter, to take part in special events.



The collaboration also includes designating Norwegian as the official cruise line of the Rockettes and Radio City Music Hall and an official partner of the group's popular Christmas spectacular. An 11-foot model of Breakaway will be on display year-round in the Radio City lobby and Christmas show-goers in 2012 will be able to enter a sweepstakes to win one of two cruises for four aboard Breakaway.



Port of San Diego Opens Cruise Season with Disney Wonder

The Port of San Diego will begin its 2012-13 cruise season on Sept. 21 with the inaugural visit of the Disney Wonder at Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier. A ceremonial plaque exchange will take place onboard the vessel at 11:30 a.m. between Capt. Fabian Dib, San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders and Port Commissioner Bob Nelson.

The Disney Wonder is sailing out of Los Angeles to San Diego as part of Pixar-themed voyages. This will be the first of four port-of-call visits that the Disney Wonder makes to San Diego. The vessel returns to San Diego Bay on Sept. 28, Oct. 5 and Oct. 12.



PRIDE OF AMERICA REFURBISHMENT

On March 23, 2013, Pride of America, will enter a 14 day dry dock for major enhancements, including the addition of new luxurious suites and studio staterooms. The ship will receive major renovations including the addition of 24 ultra-luxurious suites, four Studio staterooms and four inside staterooms; Moderno Churrascaria, ship wide wireless internet; new carpeting throughout; flat screen televisions in all staterooms; updated décor; upgrades to the fitness center; new directional signage; as well as renovations to the gift shop, photo gallery and art gallery.



Pride of America will return to her seven-day Hawaii itinerary departing from Honolulu every Saturday when she returns to service in early April 2013



Cruise industry implements lifeboat-training program on all ships

The Cruise Lines International Association and the European Cruise Council have announced their adoption of a new training policy on lifeboats. The Life Boat Loading for Training Purposes policy takes effect immediately and requires crew on all member ships to undergo a launching and full-loading procedure for a lifeboat at least once every six months.



Thought for the Month

Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward."

--Victor Kiam, American businessman





Wishing you a great weekend



Mary Engram, CTA/MCC

Your Personal Travel Consultant

Sep 14, 2012 Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary

Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant

September 14, 2012

 

Happy Friday Everyone

2013 Soul Train Cruise Sailing out of San Diego

 

The next sailing of the Soul Train Cruise is Oct. 5-12, 2013! We will sail on Holland America's m/s Westerdam, the same ship that we are using for the spring cruise. This new sailing sails roundtrip San Diego, with stops in Cabo San Lucas and an overnight stay in Puerto Vallarta.

 

As we know, the music is what matters most and this sailing will feature some of the most exciting performers in the "Soul Train" tradition. The lineup is not yet completed but already scheduled are

Earth, Wind & Fire        Gladys Knight                           The Bar-Kays

Confunkshun                Sugarfoot's Ohio Players           The Mary Jane Girls

The Dazz Band                         The Original Lakeside              Jody Watley    

A Taste of Honey featuring Janice Marie                       DJ Biz Markie

Comedian Alonzo Bodden                                             Party band DW3

Cruise with Mary from the Far East to Dubai

If you are interested in sailing with me from Singapore to Dubai on April 5, 2013, here is your last chance because this sailing is SOLD OUT. To take advantage of group pricing, your deposit is due October 1, 2012  In addition, if you are a member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society, savings coupons are also available for this sailing.

The Smooth Jazz Cruise 2013 ... Everyone Will Be There

Week 1 - January 13-20, 2013

Week 2 - January 20-27, 2013

Did someone mention party? The party continues day and night at a variety of events including costume parties, pool games, Star Search, dancing and our all-night jam sessions. Now you know why The Smooth Jazz Cruise is The Greatest Party at Sea and an annual affair for hundreds and hundreds of guests.

2013 Lineup

David Sanborn                    Marcus Miller         George Benson

Jonathan Butler                Candy Dulfer          Alonzo Bodden

Rick Braun                           Brian Culbertson Richard Elliot

Ken Ford                               Jeff Golub               Bob James

Brian Simpson                     Angie Stone                         Steve Cole

Paul Taylor                           Dane Butcher          Pat Prescott

Special Excursions Planned in Cozumel for SJC '13

Enjoy sailing with Candy Dulfer, scuba diving with Richard Elliot, or tennis with Brian Culbertson.

SAVE THE DATE – The Smooth Jazz Cruise is Coming to the West Coast

October 12-19, 2013 – More Info to follow

2013 Super Bowl Cruise on Carnival Inspiration

Group pricing for oceanview cabins are going fast and only a few remain.   Once they are gone, price is subject to change based on availability.  A $100 per person deposit is needed to secure your space so do not delay

 

Azamara Club Cruises to Renovate their Two Ships

Shipwide renovations will include new carpets, upholstery, and a new color palette in public spaces. The ships also will feature new mattresses and upgraded veranda furniture, resurfaced pool, and new sun loungers and pool towels on the outer decks. The Casino Bar will be expanded with new furniture and the Spa and fitness center will be refreshed with a new steam room, showers, and state-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio equipment.

On the culinary front, guests will soon enjoy a new caviar and champagne bar within Aqualina as well as a new Chef’s Table concept featuring three wine degustation menus.  Azamara Quest will spend eight nights in drydock starting Nov. 7, 2012. Azamara Journey will enter drydoc on Jan. 6, 2013, for a seven-night renovation.

Carnival Dream Enters Dry Dock

Carnival Dream has entered a two-week dry dock that will add two new bars, RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar, along with Cherry on Top.  The two new watering holes will be located poolside on Lido Deck. RedFrog Rum Bar has a Caribbean vibe, with rum-based frozen drinks and beers, including Carnival’s private label draft brew, ThirstyFrog Red. Across the deck will be BlueIguana Tequila Bar, which has a Mexican-themed atmosphere and tequila-based frozen drinks and Mexican beers. Cherry on Top features bins of bulk candy, gifts, novelties, custom apparel and more.

Cunard Cancels Queen Victoria’s Oct. 3 Cruise Due to Propulsion Problem

Cunard canceled Queen Victoria’s Oct. 3 cruise so it can repair the vessel’s propulsion system. The canceled cruise is a 16-night “Adriatic Discovery Voyage.” Passengers are offered an alternative Cunard sailing or a full refund, along with an additional 15 percent future cruise credit.

Statue of Liberty to Reopen Oct. 28 After Year-Long Interior Renovation

The day after New York City and the nation commemorated the 11^th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, it was announced that the Statue of Liberty will reopen to the public on Oct. 28. The national monument is nearing the completion of a $27.25 million, year-long renovation

Celebrity Cruises’ “Top Chef” Cruise Adds Four New Contestants

Celebrity Cruises and its partners on  “Top Chef, The Cruise” have added four new chefs to the roster of participants -- “Top Chef All Stars” winner Richard Blais, “Top Chef Just Desserts” winner Yigit Pura, “Top Chef: Texas” winner Paul Qui, and “Fan Favorite” winner Fabio Viviani.  The departs April 11 from Miami on Celebrity Constellation.

Barbie Will Sail on Royal Caribbean in New Partnership

 

 

Royal Caribbean International has inked a partnership deal with Mattel to bring the best selling doll of all time, Barbie, onboard the line's fleet. Expect complimentary activities, a premium experience for little girls, and a nautically themed Barbie for sale only on Royal Caribbean's ships.

Carnival to Discontinue Future Cruise Certificate Program

Carnival Cruise Lines is eliminating its future cruise certificate program for departures on or after Sept. 27. Outstanding certificates will be honored up to the expiration date printed on the face of the certificate.  The onboard credit available through onboard booking remains the same.  The program is not offered during three- and four-day cruises or in San Juan, so is unavailable on Carnival Imagination, Inspiration, Sensation, Spirit and Carnival Victory.

Thought for the Month

Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up."  --Thomas Edison, American inventor

Wishing you a great weekend

Mary Engram, CTA/MCC

Your Personal Travel Consultant

 

15 International Food Etiquette Rules

15 International Food Etiquette Rules That Might Surprise You

Sometimes when you see people staring at your during a meal in a foreign country, it may not be because they recognize you as a tourist.  Table manners are as unique to a culture as the food you eat.  However the rules may not be as easy to understand.  Here, 15 etiquette rules you should know before you travel.

In Thailand, don't put food in your mouth with a fork.

Instead, when eating a dish with cooked rice, use your fork only to push food onto your spoon. A few exceptions: Some northern and northeastern Thai dishes are typically eaten with the hands—you'll know you've encountered such a dish if the rice used is glutinous or "sticky."  Also, stand-alone items that are not part of a rice-based meal may be eaten with a fork. But, says Leela Punyaratabandhu, a food writer, the worst thing to do at a traditional, rice-based meal would be to use chopsticks. "That is awkward and inconvenient at best and tacky at worst," she says.

In Japan, never stick your chopsticks upright in your rice.

Between bites, your chopsticks should be placed together right in front of you, parallel to the edge of the table—and nowhere else, says Mineko Takane Moreno, Japanese cooking instructor and co-author of Sushi for Dummies. (If there is a chopsticks rest, you use it, putting the tips you've been eating with on the rest.) But sticking them upright in a bowl of rice is even worse: During funerals in Japan, the rice bowl of the deceased is placed before their coffin... with their chopsticks upright in the rice. .

 

In the Middle East, India and parts of Africa, don't eat with your left hand.

In South India, you shouldn't even touch the plate with your left hand while eating. That's largely because the left hand is associated with bodily functions, so it's considered to be dirty.

At a traditional feast in Georgia, it's rude to sip your wine.

At what Georgians call a supra (traditional feast), wine is drunk only at toasts. So wait for those... and then down the whole glass at once. But don’t worry, the glasses tend to be small.

In Mexico, never eat tacos with a fork and knife.

Worried about spilling refried beans and salsa all over your front?  Well don’t worry about it because Mexicans think that eating tacos with a fork and knife looks silly and, worse, snobby—kind of like eating a burger with silverware. So be polite: Eat with your hands.

In Italy, drink a cappuccino only before noon.

Some Italians say that a late-day cappuccino upsets your stomach, others that it's a replacement for a meal as it is common to have a cappuccino and a croissant, for breakfast. Either way, you won't see Italians ordering one in a café at 3 p.m.—and certainly not after a big dinner. Do so, and you'll be instantly branded a tourist. If you need that coffee fix, an espresso is fine.

 In Britain, always pass the port to the left—and remember the Bishop of Norwich.

It's unclear why passing port on the left is so important.  Regardless, passing the decanter to the right is a big no-no. So is not passing it at all. If you're at a meal and the decanter stalls, then ask the person with it, "Do you know the Bishop of Norwich?" If they say they don't know him, reply, "He's a very good chap, but he always forgets to pass the port." It sounds weird, but it's true

In France, don't eat your bread as an appetizer before the meal.

Instead, eat it as an accompaniment to your food or with the cheese course at the end of the meal. That said, one thing that would be a faux pas anywhere else—placing bread directly on the table and not on a plate—is perfectly acceptable in France—in fact, it's preferred.

In China, don't flip the fish.

Although you might be used to flipping over a whole fish once you've finished one side, don't—at least not when you're in China, especially southern China and Hong Kong. That's because flipping the fish is dao yue in Chinese, a phrase similar to bad luck or saying that the fisherman's boat is going to capsize."  You can either leave the bottom part untouched or pull off the bone itself to get to the bottom.

In Italy, don't ask for parmesan for your pizza—or any other time it's not explicitly offered.

Putting parmigiano on pizza is seen as a sin, like putting Jell-O on a fine chocolate mousse. And many pasta dishes in Italy aren't meant for parmesan: In Rome, for example, the traditional cheese is pecorino, and that's what goes on many classic pastas like bucatini all'amatriciana, not parmesan. A rule of thumb: If they don't offer it to you, don't ask for it.

Don't eat anything, even fries, with your hands at a meal in Chile.

Manners here are a little more formal than many other South American countries. So while it might be the most practical to just pick up those fries with your fingers, don't do it.

In Korea, if an older person offers you a drink, lift your glass to receive it with both hands.

Doing so is a sign of respect for elders, an important tenet of Korean culture. After receiving the pour with both hands, you should turn your head away and take a discreet sip, says Stephen Cha-Kim, a Korean-born worker's rights advocate. Similarly, don't start eating until the eldest male has done so and don't leave the table until that person is finished.

Never mix—or turn down—vodka in Russia.

The beverage is always drunk neat—and no, not even with ice. Adding anything is seen as polluting the drink's purity.  But the worst thing to do when offered a drink is to turn it down.  So even if it is 9 a.m. accept it because it is a sign of trust and friendship.

When drinking coffee with Bedouins in the Middle East, shake the cup at the end.

Typically, anyone Bedouin—or Bedouin-related—will continue to pour you more coffee once you've finished unless you shake the cup, meaning tilting the cup two or three times, when you hand it back. It's such an important tip, says Middle East-based freelance correspondent Haley Sweetland Edwards, that last year, Bedouins she was eating with in Qatar made her practice it until she got it right.

In Brazil, play your tokens wisely.

At a churrascaria, or a Brazilian steakhouse, servers circle with cuts of meat and diners use tokens to place an order. If a server comes out with something you want, make sure your token, which you'll have at your table, has the green side up. If you don't want any more, flip it with the red side up. Since the meat can be never-ending, it's important to strategize—if you leave that token green side up you could end up ordering a lot more than you intended.

August 18, 2012 Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary

Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant

August 17, 2012

Happy Friday Everyone

$100* ONBOARD CREDIT ON OASIS-CLASS SAILINGS

Enjoy more than the views of the Boardwalk^® or Central Park^®, only on Oasis of the Seas^® and Allure of the Seas^®. Book a balcony stateroom in either unique neighborhood from August 15th to September 15th and receive up to $100 to spend onboard*. Offer valid on sailings from October 1, 2012, through April 30, 2013. CSJF1.

UP TO $100* ONBOARD CREDIT ON SELECT GULF SAILINGS

Enjoy up to $100 to spend onboard*** when they cruise the Western Caribbean from Gulf ports of New Orleans, Louisiana, and Galveston, Texas, on Navigator of the Seas^® or the newly revitalized Mariner of the Seas^®. Offer valid on sailings between November 17,, 2012 through April 14, 2013. But hurry! You must book by September 15th, 2012.

Princess Cruises Home Sweet Home in San Francisco

Look who's calling San Francisco home next year! The recently renovated Grand Princess^® is moving to the City by the Bay in March 2013 offering convenient sailings to Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico and California Coastals. Departures begin in March 2013 and continue through April 2014

Grand Princess new look includes Alfredo's Pizzeria, Leaves Tea Lounge & Library, The One5 Lounge & Nightclub, The Italian-inspired Piazza, The Sanctuary, Movies Under the Stars^®, Sabatini's,      Crown Grill, and Vines wine and seafood bar

Celebrity Cruises Holiday Getaway Event

With an offer to receive up to $400 to spend on board a variety of holiday sailings.  There's no better way to escape the everyday routine and enjoy a holiday than aboard a Celebrity Cruises updated luxury vacation. And now, from Thanksgiving to Easter, Celebrity is making it even more enjoyable with an extraordinary offer on select holida y sailings.

Book your holiday vacation July 25 to August 25, 2012, and receive up to $400** to spend on board. Use your credit to unwind with an indulgent spa treatment. Experience a Celebrity Shore Excursion. Or do some shopping in our shops and boutiques on board.

Onboard Credit per Stateroom

Inside   Ocean View      Veranda            Concierge Class           Aqua Class®    Suites

$100     $100                 $200                 $300                             $300                 $400

But hurry. This limited time offer ends on August 25, 2012. Don’t miss your opportunity to relax aboard a holiday vacation that will give you and everyone in your family everything you expect from a holiday getaway—and more.

Applicable Sailings

11/17/12 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise San Juan, Puerto Rico Celebrity Summit®

Thanksgiving

11/19/12 15-Night Hawaii Cruise San Diego, California Celebrity Century®
11/22/12 15-Night Eastbound Panama Canal Cruise San Diego, California Celebrity Infinity®
11/22/12 17-Night Australia & Asia Cruise Sydney, Australia Celebrity Millennium®
12/19/12 15-Night Westbound Panama Canal Cruise Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Century®

Christmas

12/21/12 10-Night Ultimate Caribbean Cruise Fort Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Equinox◊
12/22/12 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise San Juan, Puerto Rico Celebrity Summit®
12/22/12 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise Miami, Florida Celebrity Reflection◊
12/23/12 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise Fort Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Silhouette®
12/29/12 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise San Juan, Puerto Rico Celebrity Summit®

 New Year’s

12/29/12 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise Miami, Florida Celebrity Reflection◊
12/30/12 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise Fort Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Silhouette®
12/31/12 11-Night Ultimate Caribbean Cruise Fort Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Equinox◊
02/11/13 11-Night Ultimate Caribbean Cruise Fort Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Equinox◊

President’s Day

02/15/13 17-Night Australia Top End Cruise Perth (Fremantle), Australia Celebrity Solstice®
02/16/13 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise San Juan, Puerto Rico Celebrity Summit®
02/16/13 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Getaway Cruise Miami, Florida Celebrity Reflection◊
02/17/13 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise Fort Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Silhouette®
02/17/13 15-Night Hawaii Cruise San Diego, California Celebrity Century®
03/19/13 15-Night Hawaii Cruise San Diego California Celebrity Century®

Holy Week / Easter

03/23/13 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise San Juan, Puerto Rico Celebrity Summit®
03/23/13 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Escape Cruise Miami, Florida Celebrity Reflection◊
03/24/13 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise Fort Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Silhouette®
03/25/13 11-Night Ultimate Caribbean Cruise Fort Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Equinox◊
03/28/13 11-Night Queensland Cruise Sydney, Australia Celebrity Solstice®
03/30/13 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Getaway Cruise Miami, Florida Celebrity Reflection◊
03/30/13 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise San Juan, Puerto Rico Celebrity Summit®
03/31/13 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise Fort Lauderdale, Florida Celebrity Silhouette®

Aug 10 2012 Cruise Notes from Mary

Cruise Notes from Mary
Mary Engram, CTA/MCC Travel Consultant
August 10, 2012

Happy Friday Everyone

                                                                                                                       

Royal Caribbean Will Eliminate Luggage Tags

Effective for all guest documents issued on, or after, August 8, 2012, Royal Caribbean will eliminate the ability to order Luggage Tags through the mail.  The exception with be Crown & Anchor Pinnacle members and Suite guests (Grand Suites and above).

For all other Royal Caribbean International bookings, luggage tags will now be included in the  eDoc ticket booklets.At this time, these changes do not impact guests/bookings on either the Celebrity Cruises or Azamara Club Cruises brands                                             

Carnival 3 day Sale

Carnival’s 3 Day Sale starts Thursday, August 9th through Saturday, August 11th – offering your clients Fun Select rates, up to $50 Cash Back per stateroom and a 50% reduced deposit – all on our 3 to 5 day sailings through May 2013. If their past guests of Carnival, they’ll receive Past Guest Rates and Best Available Upgrades.

That’s not all! If your clients are looking to cruise this holiday season, we’re offering Fun Select rates, up to $100 Cash Back per stateroom and a 50% reduced deposit on select 3 to 5 day sailings between December 20, 2012 and January 1, 2013.

The company reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests at up to $9 per person per day if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel.

Terms and Conditions: General Offer

Cruise rates are in U.S. dollars, per person and based on double occupancy. Cash Back offer is non-transferable. Cash Back is provided as a refundable credit to your Sail & Sign account of up to $25 per person up to a maximum of $50 per stateroom for 3-5 day sailings. Cash Back amounts may vary based on availability, ship and sail date. If your Sail & Sign account has a cash balance at the end of the cruise after all authorized purchases have been applied to the account, any remaining unused portion of the onboard credit will be delivered in check form to your stateroom on the morning of debarkation with your final Sail & Sign statement. Cash Back may not be applied to cruise fare or government taxes and fees.

Offer is capacity controlled and is not combinable with any other discount or promotional offer. Combinable with Fun Select rates only. Government taxes and fees are additional for all guests. Rates are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Category restrictions and exclusions apply. Minimum purchase of category 4A is required. Valid on new bookings only. Reduced deposits are based off the full per person deposit amount and may vary by ship and sail date. Offer is applicable on select 3-5 day sailings through May 2013. Must book between 8/9/12-8/11/12. Please request fare code OCB or OCF. Ships' Registry: The Bahamas, Panama and Malta.

Terms and Conditions: Holiday Sailings Offer

Cruise rates are in U.S. dollars, per person and based on double occupancy. Cash Back offer is non-transferable. Cash Back is provided as a refundable credit to your Sail & Sign account of $50 per person up to a maximum of $100 per stateroom for 3-5 day sailings. If your Sail & Sign account has a cash balance at the end of the cruise after all authorized purchases have been applied to the account, any remaining unused portion of the onboard credit will be delivered in check form to your stateroom on the morning of debarkation with your final Sail & Sign statement. Cash Back may not be applied to cruise fare or government taxes and fees.

Offer is capacity controlled and is not combinable with any other discount or promotional offer. Combinable with Fun Select rates only. Government taxes and fees are additional for all guests. Rates are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Category restrictions and exclusions apply. Minimum purchase of category 4A is required. Valid on new bookings only. Reduced deposits are based off the full per person deposit amount and may vary by ship and sail date. Offer is applicable on select 3-5 sailings between 12/20/12-1/1/13. Must book between 8/9/12-8/11/12. Please request fare code OCH. Ships' Registry: The Bahamas, Panama and Malta.

Terms and Conditions: Past Guest Offer

Cruise rates are in U.S. dollars, per person and based on double occupancy. Offer is capacity controlled and is not combinable with any other discount or promotional offer. Government taxes and fees are additional for all guests. Rates are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Category restrictions and exclusions apply. Minimum purchase of category 4A is required. Offer is valid for past guests and a valid number is required. Upgrades available on like to like categories (interior to interior, ocean view to ocean view and balcony to balcony) and are based on availability. Valid on new bookings only. Offer is applicable on select 3-5 day sailings through May 2013. Must book between 8/9/12-8/11/12. Please request fare code DD3. Ships' Registry: The Bahamas, Panama and Malta.

Early-boarding service will be tested on Select Carnival voyages
Carnival Cruise Lines says it will begin a test program this month for a service that will allow passengers to board a ship ahead of other cruisers. The "Faster to the Fun" plan costs $49.95 for the privilege to enter a booked stateroom as soon as it is cleared. Luggage will also be delivered straight to passengers' staterooms ahead of arrival.

Norwegian Cruise Line Now Charges Passengers Under 2

Norwegian Cruise Line will no longer gives kids under two years of age a "free" ride. The line now charges the same cruise fare for all children, no matter how young

The Truth About Cruise Upgrades

If you're sitting by the phone, waiting for the upgrade fairy to call, there are a few basic things to know about upgrades. First off, understand that cruise lines deem certain cabins better than others, even within the same cabin type (inside, outside, balcony, suite).

An upgrade means you're moved to a cabin in a better category than the one you originally booked. Does that mean you will relocate from the lowest inside cabin on the ship to a balcony suite?   More likely, you'd be moved to a cabin that's very similar to the one you booked but is somehow better in the eyes of the cruise line (on a higher deck, in a more convenient mid-ship location, etc.). You might not notice a difference, but you can brag about being upgraded later.

Second, free upgrades -- where your cabin is relocated to a better one at no additional cost -- are fairly rare.  More common are "upsells," or upgrades for a reduced cost.

But if you're still yearning for that upgrade, how do you get one? We contend the best way to land an upgrade offer is to hope and pray, because for the most part, there's little rhyme or reason to who gets a bump. Keep in mind that if there was something you could do to ensure an upgrade, everyone would be doing it.

There are no magic buttons, so my best advice is to book the cabin and location you know you will be happy with and hope that the upgrade fairy pays you a visit. 

Royal Caribbean Set to Install Self-Serve Fountain Soda Machines

Royal Caribbean is installing some fancy self-serve soda machines on its ships, which allow guests who buy a fountain soda package to refill their own drinks rather than ordering from a bartender. The Coca-Cola Freestyle machine allows guests to select from more than 100 drink choices, such as Coca-Cola Cherry Vanilla, Caffeine-Free Diet Coke Lime, Sprite Peach, Mello Yello Grape, Barq’s Vanilla, Powerade Fruit Punch and Dasani Orange.

The new Coke machine is already onboard Majesty of the Seas and will be installed on Explorer of the Seas in August, Freedom of the Seas in September, Oasis of the Seas in October, Allure of the Seas in November, and Enchantment of the Seas in December..

Guests who buy the fountain soda package will get a souvenir cup with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip embedded in it. The chip communicates to the machine that the holder can fill the cup, but glasses without the RFID will not be able to draw soda.

The cost of the fountain soda package is $6.50 per adult age 18 and older per day, plus a 15 percent gratuity, and $4.50 per day for those age 3 to 17 years, plus the gratuity. The package allows unlimited refills throughout the cruise of fountain beverages, but does not include sodas from the mini bar.

Soul Train Cruise 2013 Fall Sailing
The next sailing of the Soul Train Cruise is Oct. 5-12, 2013! We will sail on Holland America's m/s Westerdam, the same ship that we are using for the spring cruise. This new sailing will leave from San Diego, visit the ports of Cabo San Lucas, with an overnight stay in Puerto Vallarta, and include scenic sailings along the Mexican coast.  Early booking ends Sept 4, 2012.

Lineup of Performers
Earth, Wind & Fire        Gladys Knight                           The Bar-Kays

Confunkshun                Sugarfoot's Ohio Players           The Mary Jane Girls
The Dazz Band                         The Original Lakeside              Jody Watley    
A Taste of Honey featuring Janice Marie                       DJ Biz Markie
Comedian Alonzo Bodden                                             Party band DW3

We are close to adding other amazing performers, but you know the lineup will be spectacular.  All of our main Artists perform at least twice during the cruise, which allows each and every Guest an opportunity to see and hear them all.

Carnival to Double Deposit for Solo Travellers

Heads up, solo cruisers. Starting August 30, Carnival is doubling the amount required as a booking deposit.   The policy change applies to new individual and group bookings made on or after August 30, 2012.  Bookings made prior to August 30 are not affected. 

Cruise with Mary from the Far East to Dubai

If you are interested in sailing with me from Singapore to Dubai on April 5, 2013, prices are starting to increase.  To take advantage of group pricing, your deposit is due September 15, 2012 instead of October 1, 2012  In addition, if you are a member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society, savings coupons are also available for this sailing.

Price is based on double occupancy and includes all government fees/port charges

Jr. Suite           $2,576.35 per person (only 1 cabin left at this price)

Balcony             $1,676.35 per person
Oceanview        $1,336.35 per person               
Inside                $1,006.35 - $1,066.45 per person

NOTE:  A Visa is required for entry into India  Indian visas may be obtained in the U.S. through Travisa Visa Oursourcing (www.travisa.com ), the Government of India’s visa contractor.

$900 per cabin deposit due by September 14, 2013

Final Payment due January 10, 2013

Insurance is highly recommended. 

Airfare fromis available for an optional cost

LAX - $1,649

ATL - $1,819
DTW - $1,779

The Smooth Jazz Cruise 2013 Now 88 Percent Sold
With our special Cozumel excursions and first-time cruise performances by George Benson, Bob James and Ken Ford added to an already amazing lineup, it should come as little surprise that we have already sold more than 85 percent of our cabins for The Smooth Jazz Cruise. If you want to be a part of this amazing event, the time to act is now!

Special Excursions Planned in Cozumel for SJC '13
our 27-hour stay in Cozumel provides us with a special opportunity to provide some exciting excursions we could not otherwise offer. Enjoy sailing with Candy Dulfer, go scuba diving with Richard Elliot, or play tennis with Brian Culbertson.

Alitalia Airlines New Infant Seat Policy

 
Alitalia is introducing a new policy that will allow an infant to occupy a seat. Starting August 06, 2012 reservations can be made permitting an infant to occupy a seat on board an Alitalia aircraft.

Highlights:

• Clients wishing to purchase a seat for an infant, must use an approved car seat that conforms to specific requirements.
• Infants occupying a seat will be permitted only on AZ operating flights.
• Only one infant per adult is permitted.
• The airfare charged for the infant occupying a seat will be equal to 75% of the applicable adult fare. Infant ticket will be annotated with the ticket designator CH25.
• Reservations can be made only by Alitalia Customer Center, Special Procedures  800-223 5730.  Reservations are subject to a specific procedure.

Thought for the Month –
I often hear the comment “I’ve already been there/”  But have you really?  If someone from another country wanted to see the United States so they booked a trip to New York.  After their visit, will they be able to say they saw the United States or can they merely state that they visited New York?  Just something to ponder.

Wishing you a great weekend

Mary Engram, CTA/MCC

Your Personal Travel Consultant