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LATEST TRAVEL NEWS
Ruby Princess Inaugural to Feature Wedding Bells
Princess Cruises, which promotes itself as “the most romantic cruise line,” will celebrate the launch of its new Ruby Princess by incorporating an actual wedding in the naming ceremony. A California couple will be married during the ship’s christening festivities on Nov. 6. Ruby Princess godparents, television celebrities Trista and Ryan Sutter, will serve as attendants and former “Love Boat” captain Gavin MacLeod will give away the bride.
Travel Pulse Oct 2008Celebrity Solstice Launched
Celebrity Cruises introduced the Celebrity Solstice this month as the ship sailed down the River Ems in the Netherlands in preparation for sea trials, provisioning and finish work. The vessel is scheduled to arrive in Fort Lauderdale in November for a series of introductory cruises. The Solstice is the first of five new ships to be built for Celebrity.
CLIA Oct 2008Holland America Names 2010 Arrival
Holland America Line’s 15th ship will be called the Nieuw Amsterdam, officials announced recently. Due to arrive in 2010, it is being built at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard in Europe. The first Nieuw Amsterdam was introduced in 1906.
CLIA Oct 2008QE2 says Goodbye
Cunard Line’s QE2 has begun her final journey before winding up in retirement in Dubai at the end of the year. The legendary liner is sailing around Britain before making two transatlantic crossings this month, followed by a final 16-night voyage to the Middle East.
CLIA Oct 2008New Ocean Dock Terminal in Southampton
Construction has begun on a new Ocean Dock cruise terminal in Southampton, England, once home to many of the world’s greatest oceanliners. The nearly $40 million facility, which is the result of a 20-year agreement with Carnival UK, will accommodate the largest of the latest generation of cruise ships when it opens next Spring.
CLIA Oct 2008Port Everglades to Welcome Fleet Newcomers
By autumn, five of the newest cruise ships in the CLIA fleet will call Port Everglades home. They include Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess; Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice; Holland America Line’s Eurodam; Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas and the Carnival Splendor.
CLIA Oct 2008New Shore Excursions Appeal to Active Cruisers
In Jamaica, Carnival Cruise Lines offer passengers a bobsled ride through a tropical forest. In Stockholm, Norwegian Cruise Line guests can take a rooftop tour of the city. In Key West, those sailing on Royal Caribbean ships can take a walking tour with a hand-held GPS that not only supplies directions but also provides facts, myths and legends.
These are some of the smart new shore excursions offered by mainstream cruise lines as they widen their appeal to a more active, tuned-in audience. .
Australia’s Northern Territory Eyes Film-Inspired Tourism
Baz Luhrmann’s epic film “Australia,” is targeted to open in November and is expected to put Darwin in the international limelight.
As part of its initiative, Tourism NT approached trade partners in North America to develop specific and innovative itineraries and marketing plans to capitalize on the movie locations and themes.
A&K Offers Special Africa Private Jet Tour
Abercrombie & Kent’s Desert Kingdoms and Natural Splendors tour will circumnavigate Africa from Morocco to South Africa, Ethiopia to Zimbabwe, Mali to Tanzania -- on a single journey made possible only by private jet. The trip will take place Feb. 14 to March 8, 2009. The itinerary is designed to unveil the culture, people and wildlife of the continent.
Travel Pulse Oct 2008Jamaica’s Mystic Mountain Hosts Olympic Medalists
Ocho Rios’ newest attraction, Mystic Mountain hosted the Jamaica Olympic Team including three-time Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt.
The Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica at Mystic Mountain stretches from the coast road entrance near Dunn’s River Falls to over 700 feet above sea level a the peak of Mystic Mountain. The attraction provides opportunities to view and explore the seaside, tropical forest ecosystem with three excursions; Rainforest Sky Explorer, Rainforest Bobsled Jamaica, and the Rainforest Zip-line Tranopy Tour.
Copenhagen Wins Top European Cruise Port Award
Copenhagen was once again voted Europe’s Leading Cruise Port at the 2008 World Travel Awards. At the World Travel Awards ceremony in Poprad in Slovakia, Copenhagen ran off with the title of Europe’s Leading Cruise Port for the fifth year in a row.
This year’s competitors were Amsterdam, Barcelona, Genova, Istanbul, Las Palmas, Marseille, Oslo, Southampton, Split and Stockholm.
Around 170,000 representatives from the global travel industry voted on which destinations, hotels and airlines should win World Travel Awards, which is the travel industry’s Oscar.
Cruise West to Return to Vietnam in 2009
Cruise West is reintroducing its Vietnam itinerary in 2009, due to popular demand. Cruise West’s Vietnam voyage will be operated by the company’s flagship and most luxurious vessel, the 120-guest Spirit of Oceanus. The itinerary will give travelers the chance to visit destinations such as Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Hue.
Travel Mole Oct 2008HAL’s Eurodam Offers Short North Europe Cruises
Holland America Line’s newest ship, the Signature-class Eurodam, will sail two four-day and one two-day itineraries between Copenhagen, Denmark, and Dover, England, in July 2009. The short cruises can be booked in combination with extended cruises to create 12- and 14-day Collector’s Voyages.
Travel Pulse Oct 2008South Australia Offers Cattle Drive Experience
With the premiere on Thanksgiving of Baz Luhrmann’s epic movie “Australia,” starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman, comes news that travelers wishing to replicate their Outback experience can now do so on a three-night South Australian cattle droving tour. Called Sunsets, Saddles and Shiraz, this tour combines the romance of cattle droving with gourmet food and wine, native wildlife and the scenery of South Australia’s Flinders Ranges.
A degree of riding experience is required along with a moderate level of fitness. Riders will receive two nights accommodation sleeping under the stars. Packed lunches and billy tea breaks, plus the opportunity to go in search of rare wildlife, such as the yellow-footed rock wallaby, are also included.
Royal Caribbean to Base Brilliance in Dubai
Royal Caribbean International will deploy Brilliance of the Seas in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from January to April 2010. The company will offer seven-night Middle East sailings.
Travel Pulse Oct 2008Montserrat Offers Sail Cruises from Antigua
Montserrat’s new aquatic adventure offers visitors views of the island’s coastline and tropical landscape. Beginning Dec. 1, Ondeck Sailing will provide travelers with a taste of the ocean by providing daily sailing excursions between Falmouth Harbor in Antigua and Little Bay in Montserrat using 65-footer Ocean Racing Yachts.
Travel Pulse Oct 2008CIE Tours Expands European River Cruises
CIE Tours International launched an expanded program of European river cruising, including new cruises into Belgium and Holland. Itineraries, which range from nine to 16 days, take in the sights of the Rhine, Moselle, Main and Danube Rivers with varying tours each day.
Travel Pulse Oct 2008Iceland Experience Offers Icelandic Monster Truck Safari
The Iceland Experience, a division of The Great Canadian Travel Company, is offering a four-day/three-night Icelandic Monster Truck Safari, which puts clients behind the wheel of a specially-modified Land Rover Defender with 38-inch tires, driving it across Iceland’s wild terrain of rivers, mountains and glaciers.
Travel Pulse Oct 2008Backroads Expands List of Short Getaways
Backroads, the active travel company, is offering new three- and four-day getaways to some of its most popular destinations, including the San Juan Islands, Canadian Rockies, Colorado and France’s Loire Valley, as well as multisport trips in Bryce and Zion National Parks, the Canadian Rockies and the San Juan Islands.
Backroads’ expansion of weekend getaways is in response to demand for shorter trips. Backroads unveiled its California Wine Country Weekend biking trip in 2008, and it became an immediate hit.
Regent Seven Seas to Stop Operating Paul Gauguin
Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) is expected to announce this week that it will no longer operate the Paul Gauguin in Tahiti after the 2009 schedule. .
Travel Pulse Oct 2008Cunard’s QE2 to Bid Farewell to America
Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth 2 will bid farewell to America on Oct. 16 during a celebratory call to New York City. The historic occasion will mark the ship’s 706th and final call to New York.
Escorted by FDNY fireboats and flotilla of pleasure craft, the QE2 will depart the Westside Terminal at 5 p.m. to meet its sister ship, Queen Mary 2, for a rendezvous at the Statue of Liberty. Both liners are embarking on a tandem voyage to Southampton, England, marking QE2’s 806th and final trans-Atlantic crossing.
Holland America Line Debuts New Martini Menu
Holland America Line has introduced a new menu of martini cocktails on board its fleet of 14 ships.
Featured on the menu are 19 Grey Goose martinis and a sampler platter of miniature martinis called the martini flight.
A house specialty will be a Martini for Two with aged Cognac served with a dish of caviar and traditional garnishes.
Peter Deilmann Cruises: Iceland and Greenland on One Cruise
Travelers can visit both Iceland and Greenland on the same trip on Peter Deilmann Cruises’ 23-night adventure aboard the MS Deutschland. This in-depth exploration also visits Scotland, the Faroe Islands and Copenhagen.
Cruise News Sept 2008Top Picks of what to see & do in Christchurch & Canterbury New Zealand:
1. Travel in style on one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world, the TranzAlpine! This journey traverses fertile Canterbury farmlands and spectacular gorges, before tracking through the country's greatest mountain range - the Southern Alps.
2. Glide serenely over the spectacular Canterbury Plains on a hot air balloon ride and watch the sun rise over Christchurch, before stopping for a glass of chilled Champagne in the countryside.
3. Journey back through Colonial days and experience hundreds of years of New Zealand history walking through the Maori Pa (village) at Tamaki Heritage Village.
4. Explore the scenic splendor of the turquoise lakes and high country of the Southern Alps with Hassle Free Tours.
5. Enjoy a 4 Wheel Drive after a thrilling jet boat ride on the mighty Waimakariri River.
6. Get up close and swim with rare Hector's dolphins with Black Cat cruises in the beautiful sheltered setting of Akaroa Harbour. .
Cruises Popular with Vacationers Unwilling to Fly
Florida Today reports that as consumers grow increasingly unhappy with air travel, they are turning to cruises they can drive to. Nick Verrastro, editor of Travel Trademagazine, is quoted as saying, “The drive market has helped the cruise lines overcome economic obstacles…All the cruise lines are focusing on the drive market.”
CLIA Sept 2008Carnival Alters San Diego Itineraries
Beginning in February, 2009, the 2,052-passenger Carnival Elation will operate three- and four-day cruises from San Diego, with Thursday departures for Ensenada and four-day Sunday departures to Ensenada and Catalina. The Carnival ship has been making four- and five-day trips from the same port.
CLIA Sept 2008Pearl Seas Cruises Names First Ship
While there have been some delays in its arrival, Pearl Seas’ Pearl Mist is expected to go into service in early 2009, after final outfitting inHalifax,Nova Scotia. The 210-passenger vesselwillmake seven- to 14-night voyages in the Caribbean, Canada, New England and the Great Lakes.
CLIA Sept 2008Ruby Princess One Step Closer to Arrival
Princess Cruises has announced that Ruby Princess, set to debut in November in the Caribbean, has completed four days of sea trials. The maiden voyage will be a seven-day western Caribbean trip from Fort Lauderdale.
CLIA Sept 2008American Cruise Lines
For passengers who are well traveled, but ever curious, sophisticated but informal, American Cruise Lines offers experiences to suit their style. Our eight distinct itineraries include visits to the most amazing destinations in the United States.
Culturally enriching shore excursions allow passengers to explore the region in depth. From the most cosmopolitan cities to remote islands nestled along the shore, passengers get a unique perspective on the area as they are guided by expert naturalists and historians
Only in Tuscany by Dan Hofstadter
What is it about this piece of Italy that makes it such a phenomenon in the eyes of the whole world? Tuscany—more than any other area, with the possible exception of the Amalfi Coast—corresponds to our conception of what Italy ought to be.
The traveler who first arrives in the Florentine countryside, with its parasol pines, its alleys of cypresses, its villas and crenellated towers, may feel that he has seen it somewhere before. The hills to the north and south of Florence are surmounted by manors, castles, and formal gardens that, though by no means necessarily old, do not give a theatrical or dreamlike impression
Travelgram Aug 2008Adventure Life Voyages Offers Antarctic Cruises
Adventure Life Voyages is offering Antarctic cruises on the 78-passenger Antarctic Dream, a refurbished former Chilean Navy vessel. The 10-night expedition offers two- to three-hour daily Zodiac raft excursions to view wildlife, glaciers and massive icebergs. The Antarctic Dream sails with an average of 20-plus nationalities on every trip.
Modern Agent Aug 2008Carnival Cruise Lines’ Newest Ship Arrives!
Reservations are now available for Carnival Dream, the largest “Fun Ship” of the fleet. Arriving in September 2009, the 3,646-passnger ship will offer European and Caribbean cruises, including a 12-day Grand Mediterranean debut voyage.
CLIA Aug 2008Eurodam Joins the Holland America Fleet
Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands was on hand in early July to christen Holland America Line’s newest member of the fleet, the Eurodam. After a summer in the Baltic, the ship will sail for New York for a series of Canada/New England cruises followed by a winter season of Caribbean itineraries.
CLIA Aug 2008MSC Cruises is Growing
By the end of 2009, MSC Cruises will have increased passenger capacity by 50 percent through the delivery of three new ships bringing the fleet total to 12. MSC Fantasia, which will sail year-round in the Mediterranean, is the first to arrive, in December. The second, MSC Splendida, was floated out in July for final construction that is expected to be completed by mid-2009. .
Cruise News Aug 2008NCL’s Norwegian Sky Arrives in Miami
Following a major refitting, Norwegian Sky has begun three- and four-day Bahamas cruises from Miami, marking NCL’s return to a market it pioneered over 40 years ago, according to president and CEO Colin Veitch. Built in 1999, the ship had sailed as NCL-America’s Pride of Aloha from 2004 to 2008. As the newest ship offering short Bahamas itineraries, it will feature a new casino and all of NCL’s “Freestyle 2.0” enhancements.
CLIA Aug 2008Crystal Cruises is offering New Savings Incentives
The 26-day voyage from Los Angeles to Auckland, New Zealand now offers free air transportation back to the U.S., a combination-fare discount, a full payment discount, and no fuel surcharge. The new savings are valued between $2,000 and $3,300 per couple.
Modern Agent Aug 2008Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Travel with Uniworld River Cruises, is the pioneer in luxury river cruising. For over 30 years, Uniworld has taken guests to the world’s great rivers in Europe, Russia, China and Egypt. Uniworld offers over 500 departures on more than 30 itineraries sailing on 12 rivers in 20 countries across 4 continents.
In Europe, Uniworld owns and operates eight beautifully appointed Grand Cruise ships, all of which have been recently renovated to the highest of standards.
CLIA Aug 2008Egypt's Ancient Pyramids at Giza Get Makeover
The monuments may be glorious, but visiting Egypt's famed Giza Pyramids has long been a nightmare, with hawkers peddling camel rides and pharaonic trinkets hustling tourists relentlessly at every turn.
The three Giza Pyramids have long been unusually open for a 5,000-year-old Wonder of the World, especially compared to other world-renowned sites like Greece's Acropolis, Jerusalem's Western Wall or Rome's Colosseum, where security is tight and the movement of visitors is controlled. But now the hustlers are gone, as Egypt unveiled the first stage of an elaborate project to modernize the site and make it more tourist-friendly, complete with security cameras and a 12-mile fence with infrared sensors surrounding the site.
Travelgram Aug 2008Air Tahiti Nui named to top ten international airlines
Marking its 10th anniversary this year, French Polynesian carrier Air Tahiti Nui received a surprise birthday gift - its first appearance in Travel + Leisure's World’s Best Awards survey. As the youngest and smallest airline to make the list, Air Tahiti Nui is rightly proud that the magazine’s readers ranked it among the “Top Ten International Airlines” in its annual 2008 poll. The prestigious World’s Best list ranks the top hotels, spas, airlines, cruise lines, outfitters, cities and islands. Airlines were judged on five criteria: cabin comfort, food, in-flight service, customer service and value.
eTurboNews Aug 2008Virtual Videos for Shore Excursion
Guests can now view virtual videos of Royal Caribbean’s different shore excursions online. Guests can preview over 1,200 online virtual videos of shore excursions. .
Travelgram Aug 2008Mega Plane Arrives
Emirates made aviation history with the first commercial flight of the Airbus A380 to land in North America on a Dubai-New York run. Other A380s have landed in the U.S., but this was the first one with passengers.
So just how big is Emirates' A380? It's a two-deck aircraft that can hold up to 517 passengers. The plane's floor area is 49 percent bigger with 35 percent more seats than its closest rival – the Boeing 747-400. Indeed, it dwarfed the other aircraft it passed -- 747-400s, 777s and A340s -- when it taxied to its gate at JFK. The plane is 79 feet, seven inches high with whopping wing span of 261 feet, eight inches. It also has a range of 9,320 miles.
Modern Agent Aug 2008Luxury Suites
The US’s most expensive suite is the Ty Warner Penthouse at the Four Seasons Hotel New York. Price: $30,000 a night. In the US, the second most expensive was suite was The Chairman Suite at the Palazzo Resort in Las Vegas at $20,000/night, followed by two suites at $15,000/night -- the Empire Suite at the Carlyle, a Rosewood Hotel, New York, and the Grand Suite at Hawaii's Grand Wailea Resort and Spa.
The most expensive suite worldwide on the list is the $52,000 a night Royal Penthouse Suite at the Hotel President Wilson in Geneva, Switzerland.
Travel Mole Aug 2008Troubled Skies Ahead for Online Airline Ticketing
Reports are that American Airlines is about to pull its airline listings out of Kayak and is considering doing the same with Orbitz. If it does so, other airlines such as Continental and Northwest may follow suit.
Travel Mole Aug 2008U.S. Passport Cards vs. Standard Passport
This month the government began to produce U.S. passport cards—a cheaper, easier-to-carry alternative to traditional passports. Each passport card fits in a wallet and typically costs only $45, versus $100 for a passport. (Both are valid for a decade; prices and rules vary for citizens under 16 years old.)
Who should purchase a passport vs. a passport card? If you frequently cross either the Mexican or Canadian border by car or boat, a passport card may work well for you. However, you to fly outside of the U.S. or take a cruise to destinations other than Mexico and/or Canada, then you need a traditional passport.
Travelgram Aug 2008Crystal Adds Acupuncture to Its Wellness Options
Crystal Cruises is introducing onboard acupuncture along with a menu of Chinese herbs revered for restoring and enhancing health, beauty and longevity. Acupuncture complements Crystal's myriad onboard wellness activities, which have transformed guests into devotees of disciplines like yoga or reflexology or Spinning.
Acupuncture is a technique of inserting and manipulating fine needles into specific points on the body to ease pain and for other therapeutic purposes.
Modern Agent Aug 2008Carnival Cruise Line to Try Flexible Dining
Carnival joins other larger cruise lines in test the waters with flexible dining. The Legend will be used to experiment with this style of dining introduced by Norwegian Cruise Line and it’s Freestyle cruising. Part of the main dining room would offer traditional fixed time and seating for dining…the other section would be open to those who prefer to dine when and with whom they choose.
If Carnival deems the flexible dining a success on the Legend, it could roll out to the rest of the fleet in the next year.
Cruise News Aug 2008Italy’s Exquisite Coastal Villages: Cinque Terre & Portofino
The five Cinque Terre villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—are backed by hills so steep that a coast road was never built. The villages are connected by train, with five tiny stations wedged into the space where the tracks emerge from the tunnels.
East of the Cinque Terre, where the coast is flatter, are a series of family resort towns and working ports: Sestri Levante, Chiavari, Rapallo, and Santa Margherita Ligure. The promontory that juts out into the clean sweep of the coastline here is host to one of Italy's most beautiful (and exclusive) seaside villages, Portofino. It lies around three miles south of Santa Margherita, with its train and bus connections The season runs from April to October. The best months for walking are May, June, September, and the first half of October.
Travelgram July 2008Experts Say Tourist Overuse Threatens Peru's Machu Picchu
An influx of tourists to Peru's famed Inca citadel of Machu Picchu may prompt UNESCO to add the jungle-shrouded ruins to its list of endangered World Heritage sites. Yearly visits to Machu Picchu, Peru's top tourist destination, have more than doubled since 1998 to 800,000 people, and conservationists advising UNESCO's World Heritage Committee warn that landslides, fires and creeping development threaten the site.
Travelgram July 2008Showdown on Molokai
Molokai Properties Ltd., the owner of the island's two largest and most popular hotels, shuttered them following fierce local opposition to a real estate development that the company wanted to build along the southwestern coast. The closure of the 65,000-acre Molokai Ranch, including the 22-room Molokai Lodge and the 40 furnished seaside tents at the Beach Village at Molokai Ranch, is the latest in a series of starts and stops for Molokai tourism.
Travelgram July 2008Prescriptions for ailing US airlines: Return to Regulation?
The continuing US airline crisis has brought a wide variety of developments that range from federal legislation for passenger rights to rising concerns that small businesses and air-dependent tourist destinations need help. Some airline officials are even suggesting a return to regulation.
Travel Mole July 2008New Zealand Tourism Revenue Hits Record
The government credited New Zealand's reputation for having a pristine environment for the nearly 5 percent rise in tourism revenue for the year through March 2007 to a record of more than $15 billion. Explore New Zealand for breathtaking & unique scenery!
Travel Mole July 2008Holland America Launches Largest Ship in their History
Holland America Line is the oldest cruise line, with its first sailing dating back 135 years to 1873. Their original headquarters in Rotterdam were moved to Curacao during the Second World War. In 1971 they moved to New York, and finally, in 1983, it moved to Seattle after its acquisition of Westours. They have maintained their exquisite traditional style ships throughout their history. This week they preparing to christen their newest ship, the 86,273-ton Eurodam. It will be the largest ship in their fleet.
Cruise News July 2008Global Entry Program Allows Frequent Travelers Expedited Clearance Upon Arrival Into the U.S.
A long Customs line usually awaits most passengers after international flights into the U.S. Now, with the new Global Entry program, frequent travelers can bypass this line by utilizing automated kiosks at select airports, which uses fingerprint technology to verify members and their status. Global Entry is a harmonized program managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers expedited clearance upon arrival into the U.S. For more information on Global Entry, please visit globalentry.gov.
CLIA July 2008AMA Waterways to Christen Two New Ships
AMA Waterways will officially christen two ships in July in Regensburg. The European river ships are the Amacello and the Amadante.
CLIA July 2008Carnival Cruise Lines Unveils New Generation of Ships
Carnival Cruise Lines is focusing on the family with a new generation of ships led by the 130,000-ton Carnival Dream due to arrive in late 2009. Carnival Magic will debut in 2011. Nearly 15 percent larger than current Carnival vessels, both ships will feature cabins for five, a double decker miniature golf course, outdoor movies, a half-mile open air promenade and, for parents, a Serenity adultsonly retreat and the line’s largest spa and wellness center, with 65 spa cabins.
CLIA July 2008Royal Caribbean Debuts New Features on Oasis of the Seas
Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas will not only feature the first zip-line at sea, but a “boardwalk” neighborhood for families that captures the nostalgia of classic seaside piers, and AquaTheater, an amphitheater with the largest freshwater pool on a ship and a full spectrum of activities and performances. The ship, scheduled to debut in 2009, will also offer 28 contemporary two-level loft suites with floor-to-ceiling, double-height windows. .
CLIA July 2008Silversea Names New Expedition Ship
Silversea Cruises officially named its newly acquired expedition ship Prince Albert II in a June ceremony in Monte Carlo. HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco was on hand cut the ceremonial ribbon. The Prince Albert II has just completed a multi-million dollar renovation to create the largest accommodations of any expedition vessel, including 20 premium suites. All 66 oceanview accommodations offer marble bathrooms and bathtubs. The ship’s inaugural season features polar adventure voyages of 10 to 22 days.
CLIA July 2008Holland America Christens New Ship in Rottterdam
Holland America Line christened its 14th ship, the Eurodam, in Rotterdam on July 1. Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands did the honors as part of a three-day celebration. Eurodam will spend the summer in the Baltic before doing fall foliage voyages in Canada and New England and wintering in the Caribbean.
CLIA July 2008Crystal Cruises
With a winning formula for success, Crystal Cruises consistently ranks among the top luxury properties in the world. The line, in just 16 years, has won an unprecedented number of top awards from such prestigious publications as Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure for ten consecutive years, among other awards.
CLIA July 2008Disney Cruise Line
From its inception, Disney Cruise Line was destined to be different. As the first owned and operated cruise line by the dream makers at Disney, Disney Cruise Line specifically designed its ships with areas and activities that appeal to the unique vacation needs of every member of the family. As a result, Disney Cruise Line vacations offer guests an unbelievable cruise experience not found anywhere else. In addition to offering seven-night cruise vacations to the Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line offers three- and four-night itineraries to the Bahamas and land/sea vacation packages which include a stay at the Walt Disney World Resort.
CLIA July 2008American Safari Yacht Cruises now offers Hawaii Itinerary
American Safari Cruises is offering its new, inter-island yacht cruises in Hawaii. which runs from December 2008 through early May 2009. The 145-foot, 36-guest Safari Explorer, the company's new flagship, will offer seven-night cruises between the Big Island and Maui, visiting Molokai, Lanai and snorkel/dive sites.
Modern Agent June 2008Abercrombie & Kent Continues Myanmar Relief Efforts
To date, A&K has sent 120 tractors to the Delta Region, which could facilitate the production of 6,000 acres of rice during the coming monsoon season, helping 120 and roughly 600 people in their families to produce 300,000 sacks of rice. A&K has to date received $325,000 in donations and spent $248,340 on provisions, including sanitary towels, underwear, medicine, vitamins, diesel, mosquito nets, tractors, sweets, Chinese tea and tarpaulins.
Modern Agent June 2008Hawaii Superferry Partners with Rental Car Companies
Hawaii Superferry has partnered with several rental car companies, enabling vehicles to be transported between Oahu and Maui. Shuttle service between rental car locations and Hawaii Superferry ports are available from the car rental companies. .
Travel Mole June 2008Captain Cook Launches Annual Whale Watching Cruises
Australia's Captain Cook Cruises is again operating its daily Whale Watching cruises throughout the Whale Watching season of May 27 to Nov. 15, 2008. The Whale Watching cruise takes passengers past the Sydney Opera House, Fort Denison and the homes located in the bays of Sydney Harbour and then out through the heads and onto the open waters. Captain Cook Cruises offers a whale guarantee - if a whale is not sighted in the months of May to November 2008 passengers can rebook another cruise free of charge or for those cruising in June and July.
Modern Agent June 2008Australia's Northern Territory to Get New Cruise Terminal
Darwin's new $5 million cruise ship terminal will commence operation mid this year, ready for the 08/09 cruise season. Located within the Darwin Waterfront, a short stroll from the city retail area, the new terminal will provide air conditioned passenger facilities. Having experienced a 63 percent increase in passenger numbers in 2007, Darwin will now be ready to accommodate further passenger increases when the new terminal opens. .
Cruise Travel June 2008Vacation Preferences
A world cruise topped the wish list of dream vacations according to a recent survey. Of those polled, 45% said an around-the-world cruise would be their No. 1 choice, followed by a month-long tour of Europe, an African safari, exploring Australia and a trip to a remote island without a phone or e-mail access.
Cruise Agent June 2008World's largest cruise operator going to Baltimore
New content content content content content content. content content content Carnival Cruise Lines, the world's largest cruise operator, plans to launch the first year-round cruise program from the Port of Baltimore with seven-day cruises aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride beginning in fall 2009.
Travel Mole June 2008Windstar Cruises Ranked No. 1 by "Celebrated Living" for Second Year
Windstar Cruises, which operates a three-ship fleet of luxury sailing yachts, was recognized for the second consecutive year as the best small-ship cruise vacation by the readers of "Celebrated Living." The honor was published in the 2008 Platinum List, an annual readers' choice guide to what the publication touts as the "best-of-the-best" travel and vacation experiences in the world.
Cruise World June 2008General Tours Launches Luxury Fly-in Safari
General Tours World Traveler launched a limited-departure, all-inclusive affordable luxury safari, featuring two of East Africa's premier camps and lodges. Including the upcoming Great Migration season – travelers can choose from eight guaranteed departures. The program includes luxury accommodations, all meals, comprehensive safari excursions, all on-tour transportation, flights and game drives that include the Masai Mara National Reserve. Departures are limited to 18 travelers, and all game-drives are done in open-air 4WD safari vehicles with just six passengers .
Modern Agent June 2008New Zealand's Auckland Airport to Drop Departure Fee
New Zealand announced that effective July 1 the NZ$25 international departure fee is being eliminated. That means international passengers will no longer need to pay this upon departure from Auckland Airport. "This policy change will reduce traveler processing time through Customs and will improve facilitation through to departure.
New Zealand Times June 2008Hurtigruten's 17-Day Antarctica Sailing Visits Marguerite Bay
Hurtigruten's new 17-day Antarctica itinerary visits Marguerite Bay, which is dotted with ice-covered islands and is home to the only known breeding colony of emperor penguins on the west side of the Antarctic Peninsula. Other highlights include two nights in Buenos Aires and a tour of Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city, before departing for the Drake Passage and Antarctica aboard the Fram.
Modern Agent June 2008Cruise West Offers Pacific Northwest Coastal Voyages
Cruise West will sail along the coasts of British Columbia and Washington state on the 2008-09 "Pacific Northwest Coastal Escape" itinerary. The seven-night cruises are being offered September/October 2008 and April/May 2009. The cruises are operated by the 102-guest Spirit of Endeavour. Sailing round-trip from Seattle, the cruise will visit Nanaimo, Desolation Sound Provincial Marine Park in British Columbia, Victoria and Port Townsend.
Cruise West June 2008Gutsy Women Travel Launches Indiana Jones Trip
Gutsy Women Travel is offering an 11-day Mystical Peru trip that follows in the footsteps of the fictional character Indiana Jones. The tour ties in with the new movie "Indiana Jones and The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull," which is set in Peru. While many of the movie's scenes were created in a studio backlot, those who want to get a real sense of the Peruvian landscape and cultural history, can travel with Gutsy Women Travel on its 11-day Mystical Peru tour, which includes Machu Pichu, one of the top 10 man-made natural wonders.
Modern Agent June 2008Australian Lodge Offers Cattle Roundup Experience
Australia's Wrotham Park Lodge, 185 miles west of Cairns in Queensland, is combining the cowboy spirit of the Australian outback with a unique luxury resort experience. The lodge is offering clients the opportunity to participate in a cattle round-up through mid-September.
Travel News June 2008
Celebrity Plans Third Season in Australia/New Zealand
Celebrity Cruises announced its third season of sailing in the waters of Australia/New Zealand, Hawaii and the South Pacific. In the winter of 2009-2010, Celebrity will offer 14 cruises that visit 33 ports in eight countries. The company also offers a five-night pre- or post-voyage land tour in Australia.
Modern Agent June 2008
Azamara Cruises Outlines 2009-2010 Asia Season
Azamara Cruises will offer a series of 14- to 18-night Southeast and Northeast Asian voyages and two 24-night repositioning cruises, each featuring two to six in-port overnight stays. They also offer seven-night China cruise-tours before or after their sailings. A part of the Celebrity cruises, Azamara’s ships offer accommodation for just 694-guest in a casual, yet 5-star, country club environment.
Travel Mole June 2008
Travel Bound Introduces Photography Tours
Travel Bound is offering "Thru the Lens" photography sightseeing tours of scenic cities, such as Amsterdam, Berlin, Jerusalem, London, Prague, Venice and 12 others. Professional photographers accompany travelers to picturesque spots in each city – covering many famous sights, including some off the beaten path. Travelers supply their own cameras and receive a friendly critique of their digital photos at the end of the tour, usually over a glass of wine or other drink in a bistro or café.
Modern Agent June 2008
Disney Cruise Lines is back in California!
Disney Cruise Line's Disney Magic returned to the Port of Los Angeles on May 25 to operate seven-night cruises to the Mexican Riviera. The ship will operate 12 cruises from the West Coast and is scheduled to sail back to Port Canaveral on Aug. 17.
Modern Agent May 2008Mediterranean May 2 – 23, 2008
Off exploring the phenomenal Mediterranean! Italy, Croatia and Spain are included in this fantastic itinerary! More exciting travel news at the end of May.
Banff National Park to Welcome Boat Festival
The first Dragon Boat Festival for Banff National Park has been approved to take place on Lake Minnewanka in August 2008. The non-motorized long-boat canoe race and festival activities are set to showcase National Park environmental stewardship through educational opportunities and an enhanced visitor experience
Modern Agent May 2008Ecoventura Partners with World Wildlife Fund
Ecoventura announced a new partnership with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to reduce the detrimental effects of growing tourism in the fragile ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands. The new collaboration, called The Galapagos Marine Biodiversity Fund (GMBF), will target environmental education and marine conservation by strengthening the local communities' ability to manage natural resources. GMBF funds support the refit, maintenance and deployment of the Tiburon Martillo, a permanent floating surveillance and patrolling station within the Galapagos Marine Reserve. It's from here that park patrol boats will target, among other things, illegal industrial shark finning and long-line fishing.
Travelgram May 2008Regent Seven Seas Offers Tahitian Entertainment on Gauguin
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is celebrating the music, dance and culture of French Polynesia aboard the 330-guest Paul Gauguin. A new "Polynesian Night" is now offered during one evening of each voyage. Polynesian Night features entertainment by the people of Tahiti, with arts and crafts demonstrations, decorations in public rooms, and Polynesian-themed dinners in Paul Gauguin's two main restaurants. Departing roundtrip from Tahiti, Paul Gauguin will sail throughout French Polynesia in 2008 and 2009
Apr 2008Jamaica Okays Casinos
Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding granted authorization to two large-scale resort casino projects. Local Jamaican newspapers are projecting that pending regulations are likely to face opposition from Christian groups. Golding made the announcement in the 2008/09 budget debate in Parliament on Tuesday, saying that revenues from casino operations would be put in a special fund to finance health, education and security.
Modern Agent Apr 2008A&K Cruise Proceeds to Polynesian Landmark
Calling it "A Conservation Journey in Paradise", Abercrombie & Kent is donating proceeds from MV 'Clipper Odyssey's' South Seas Adventure (Nov. 5 to 22, 2008) to help revive a Polynesian landmark. Proceeds from this journey will underwrite the restoration of Marae Orongo, a sacred site on Atiu Island fallen into disrepair.
Travelmole Apr 2008Holland America Line Offers 70 Europe Cruises in 2009
Holland America Line in 2009 is offering its most extensive European program ever. Six ships, including the soon-to-be-launched Eurodam, will cruise to 166 ports of call on 70 itineraries throughout the season. Sailing from March through November, the 2009 Europe season also features 16 maiden ports scattered throughout countries that reach from the Arctic Circle to North Africa and the Black Sea.
Modern Agent Apr 2008Carnival's 130,000-Ton Dream to Be Based at Port Canaveral
Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, the 3,652-passenger Carnival Dream is the first in a new class of ship for the line. The deployment of the Carnival Dream to Port Canaveral continues the line's 18-year relationship with the Canaveral Port Authority, the longest tenure of any cruise line there. .
Travelgram Apr 2008Crystal Sets Chefs for Wine & Food Festival
Crystal Cruises secured star guest chefs and wine experts for its October Wine & Food Festival cruises in the Mediterranean and New England. Michelle Bernstein, former James Beard nominee and chef/owner of Michy's in Miami, and wine expert/author Lettie Teague of "Food & Wine Magazine" will sail on the Crystal Serenity's 12-day voyage from Rome to Barcelona departing Oct. 18.
Modern Agent Apr 2008Crystal Sets Chefs for Wine & Food Festival
Crystal Cruises secured star guest chefs and wine experts for its October Wine & Food Festival cruises in the Mediterranean and New England. Michelle Bernstein, former James Beard nominee and chef/owner of Michy's in Miami, and wine expert/author Lettie Teague of "Food & Wine Magazine" will sail on the Crystal Serenity's 12-day voyage from Rome to Barcelona departing Oct. 18. Modern Agent Apr 2008
HOLLAND AMERICA CELEBRATES 135 YEARS IN BUSINESS!
Holland America Line is celebrating its 135th anniversary this month, marking more than a century of evolution for the once cargo and passenger line to a full-fledged modern cruise company. Throughout its history, Holland America Line has carried more than 10 million passengers from Europe to the New World and to vacation destinations across the globe.
Travelgram Apr 2008Cruise West Offers Scuba on 2009 South Pacific Sailings
Cruise West, a leading small-ship cruise line, will offer seven distinct Scuba excursions on its three 2009 South Pacific itineraries. All three itineraries offer numerous additional activities and excursions with focus on the culture, history and marine biology of these spectacular islands.
Modern Agent Apr 2008CELEBRITY CRUISES REVAMPS SMOKING POLICY
Cruise enthusiasts may praise the virtues of “sea air,” but to many of them, what matters more is clean air. As more hotels and restaurants worldwide implement stricter smoking policies in order to promote healthier air, Celebrity Cruises also is taking action. Beginning October 1, 2008, guests on Celebrity’s ships will enjoy fresher air as a result of a new policy that disallows smoking in Celebrity’s staterooms or on stateroom verandas. .
Celebrity Cruises Corp. Apr 2008NEW CROATIA & SLOVENIA TOURS
CIE Tours International expanded its escorted tour product line for Eastern Europe with the introduction of a new Dalmatian Sunshine vacation, a 10-day/eight-night escorted tour of Croatia and Slovenia. Departures start on April 18 and continue weekly on Fridays through Nov. 7, 2008. The itinerary, which follows the Dalmatian coastline, includes seven half-day sightseeing tours with local guides in Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Postojna Caves, Bled, Ljubljana and Zagreb. .
Modern Agent Apr 2008Princess to Rename Tahitian Princess
Princess Cruises' Tahitian Princess, one of the small vessels in the fleet, will be renamed Ocean Princess in 2009 to reflect the ship's new deployment on worldwide itineraries. During next year's fall season, Pacific Princess, another smaller vessel, will cruise from Papeete, Tahiti, where the Tahitian Princess has been based.
Following the 2009 renaming, Ocean Princess will sail on a series of Asia voyages to be announced separately. .
Butterfield & Robinson Sets Mediterranean Getaways
Butterfield & Robinson is offering three Mediterranean getaways this summer. The company is offering voyages aboard the 32-passenger Callisto that feature daily onshore walks or bike rides.
Summer 2008 destinations include the Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik to Athens, and the Black Sea with special guest and wine expert Zoltan Szabo.
Hilton Waikoloa Village Unveils Dolphin Quest Village
The Hilton Waikoloa Village unveiled Dolphin Quest Village in a sustainable, "green" building. The new seaside villa is designed to enhance and personalize guests' encounters with the hotel's 11 resident Atlantic bottlenose dolphins at the Dolphin Quest Learning Lagoon.
Modern Agent Apr 2008SINGAPORE TO BUILD INTERNATIONAL CRUISE TERMINAL
Singapore's international cruise infrastructure will double in capacity by 2010 when the new International Cruise Terminal at Marina South becomes operational. The planned International Cruise Terminal has deep water, a large turning basin and no height restrictions, enabling it to accommodate the largest cruise ships being built now.
The International Cruise Terminal will be easily accessible to Marina Bay, Singapore's new downtown and financial services hub, and many attractions.
The Most Hawaiian Island
Molokai offers a truly local experience devoid of crowds and chain restaurants.
Molokai is known as the most Hawaiian island for good reason. It’s the only island in the chain except for Niihau (a private island near Kauai) where Hawaiians account for the majority of the population of about 8,000. In fact, more than half are of true Hawaiian ancestry.
Molokai is also the birthplace of the hula.
Supplier Spotlight: Uniworld River Cruises
For decades, Uniworld has provided guests with custom-designed, tastefully appointed ships that were created to enhance the views and promote camaraderie among passengers.
Uniworld's all-inclusive Grand River Cruises include airfare and transfers, deluxe outside staterooms, all meals and entertainment onboard, and exclusive excursions.
Uniworld's 2008 European Grand River Cruises are more luxurious than ever with new onshore and offshore amenities, generous pay-in-full and early booking discounts, and a brochure and website elegantly designed and easy to use--all reflective of creating the world's leading river cruise experience.
When The Grand Canyon became a National Park
In 1908 President Theodore Roosevelt signed legislation giving the Grand Canyon status as a National Monument. On February 25th, 1919, by an act of the United States Congress, Grand Canyon National Monument became Grand Canyon National Park. Today, the Grand Canyon National Park receives over 4 million visitors and contains over 1.2 million acres, about the same size as the state of Delaware. It is now also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Travelgram Feb 2008 |
Cruise on a Sailed Ship!All Windstar voyages depart from the status quo. The smaller ships built for 148-312 guests will not only lead you to exotic ports of call, but to uncharted levels of contentment. Enjoy the casually elegant spirit, decadent cuisine and award-winning service on board a Windstar cruise.Modern Agent Feb 2008 |
Cold Water Cruises
Lounging on the sun deck of a cruise ship as it navigates the warm waters of the Caribbean or Mediterranean, perhaps with a cooling cocktail in hand, is how many travelers envision spending a cruise. But others seem increasingly drawn to a vacation where the ice isn’t just in their drinks, but in the very waters that surround them.
Among the fastest growing trends in the cruise industry are itineraries that take passengers to the coldest parts of the world — not just Alaska, of course, which has long been a popular cruise destination, but places like the Baltic Sea, the northern reaches of Canada and Greenland, and even Antarctica.
Delta, Northwest Boards Expected to Meet About Mergers
The boards of Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines were expected to me this week to consider a merger, according to media reports. The merger would create the country's largest airline and would probably spark other mergers, with United Airlines and Continental Airlines probably being the next likeliest pairing
Modern Agent Feb 2008Analyst Says Cuba Could Be Cruise Opportunity
Cuba could represent a significant opportunity for U.S. cruise lines now that Fidel Castro has resigned, reports Robin Farley, a leisure analyst with UBS.
While Castro stepping down does not mean that the U.S. will end its economic embargo in the near future, "new leadership could be a positive event for the cruise industry if diplomatic relations resulted in the opening of Cuba to American tourism," Farley wrote in a research notes.
Holland America Line Offers Australasia in 2009
Holland America Line is set to travel Down Under in 2009 with nine voyages throughout Australia and New Zealand aboard the 1,432-passenger Volendam, a ship new to the region. The 14- to 19-day sailings depart from Auckland, Sydney or Singapore; pre- and post-cruise tours are also available.
Modern Agent Feb 2008Frequent Flier Programs…Harder to Use!
That's the assessment of Crain's Chicago Business, which writes "there are now too many frequent-flier miles chasing too few seats" as U.S. airlines reduce domestic capacity while boosting restrictions on seats put up for award travel. "Basically your miles are worth half as much," frustrated frequent-flier Ryan Rassin, a director at an Illinois private-equity firm, tells the publication. He complains that frequent-flier miles are "just impossible to use when you want to go. For pleasure, for upgrades, they're harder to use than they used to be."
The chorus of complaints regarding loyalty programs seems to be growing louder, with complaints ranging from unavailable seats to new fees to an upward creep in mileage thresholds for free travel.
Goodbye to the Oldest Ocean Liner
The Independence made its final departure from a U.S. port last week: The 57-year-old ocean liner left its berth in San Francisco en route to a scrap yard in Asia.
The Independence is a sister ship to the Constitution, an ocean liner that sank while being towed to Asia to be scrapped in 1997; that ship had also been renamed the Oceanic
Cruising with the Family on Disney
It's been 10 years since Disney started its cruises with the Disney Magic ship, followed in 1999 by Disney Wonder. Two more Disney ships will launch in 2011 and 2012. And while you won't find casinos on any Disney ships, you will find plenty of other facilities and diversions on board for every age group - including grown-ups. That, along with the appeal of the Disney brand, has ensured the cruise line's success.
Modern Agent Feb 2008European No-Frills Airlines can be a Mixed Blessing
Because of their policies on checked luggage, American travelers must be incredibly wary before depending on the cut-rate European carriers. Most of them have baggage limitations so extreme that nearly anyone traveling abroad on vacation will find them to be a minefield of extra fees.
Ryanair, for example, sets a combined checked luggage weight limit of just 33 pounds. And even for that, you have to pay 5 to 10 pounds ($10 to $20) per bag! If you go over the weight limit, you'll be hit with another $11 per 2.2 pounds of weight.
The only answer: If you're going to take advantage of the stunning one-way fares offered by a European no-frills airline -- and the fares are indeed stunning, on the surface -- for heaven's sake, pack light. Weigh your luggage before departing the United States and make sure it clocks in under 30 pounds.
Deilmann Offers 36 Theme Cruises in 2008
Peter Deilmann Cruises is offering 36 theme cruises this year on topics such as golf, gardening, and biking. All theme programs include transfers, entrance fees, and meals and snacks where applicable.
Golfers on the Danube Region's "Mozart Golf Cup 2008" sailings play at courses in Germany, Hungary and Austria, including one of Austria's toughest courses at Golf & Sports Club in Oberwaltersdorf.
Four seven-night programs for gardeners include "German Garden Classics," "The Cottage Gardens of Holland and Belgium," "Splendor Gardens of the Danube Monarchy" and "Dream Gardens Along the Rhône and Saône Rivers."
Cyclists can choose between four itineraries of eight nights each.
New Zealand's Wine Coast: Small Wineries and Big Pleasures
An hour north of Auckland, on the North Island, you can find an alternative wine destination, on the Matakana Wine Coast, where boutique vineyards and cafes offer specialty wines and sophisticated sustenance at the end of a drive alongside dramatic bays and through sheep-dappled hills
Travelgram Jan 2008Costa Maya Port to Reopen Earlier than Planned
Following damaged caused by Hurricane Dean in August 2007, the Port of Costa Maya announced that the reconstruction of berthing spaces one and two is now 58 percent completed. This means both positions will be ready to receive cruise ships by summer 2008. This is about three months earlier than expected.
Modern Agent Jan 2008Wave Season is Here!!!
Thinking of taking a cruise? Then you picked the right time -- and you're reading the right story.
This is the time of year when most cruises are booked. It runs from January to about mid-March, and because everyone's out there buying a floating vacation, there are lots of deals to be had.
Tips for Car Renters
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners gives the following insurance coverage tips for auto renters.
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Before renting, ask your insurance agent whether your personal auto policy covers a rental car.
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Ask your credit card company what coverage it provides.
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If your personal auto policy doesn't provide rental car coverage, ask the cost of adding a rental insurance rider.
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If you don't own a car, consider buying a non-owner auto insurance policy that provides benefits in addition to rental car coverage.
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If you are unclear about car rental insurance options or are concerned that a rental company is giving bad information, check with your state insurance department.
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