CorporateTreat

Book Cruises with Cruise Travel Agency Direct Line Cruises

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 17:00:20 -0700

One of the more popular treats a company will decide to give their employees as an award is an ocean liner cruise. Cruises are great because they provide a controlled environment on a set schedule that is also fun and relaxing. Businesses can give cruises away to employees as rewards or they can take a select group of employees on the same cruise to make it a company event. One of the best places to find and book such cruises is the cruise travel agency Direct Line Cruises.

Direct Line Cruises has been in business since 1995, and sells cruise tickets onboard the major cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity, and Asamara Cruises. Through Direct Line Cruises, cruises are available all over the world, including Canada cruises and European cruises. Of course, perhaps the most popular areas to take a cruise are the more exotic tropical locations supplying warm air, sunshine, beautiful beaches, and warm water, and Direct Line’s selection of Bermuda cruises, as well as those in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Hawaii, easily fits the bill.

Hotels Combined Offers Consumers the Unfettered Power of Choice

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 22:28:59 -0700

I have rarely ever made my own travel arrangements and when I did, I stayed with friends. If I were making my own hotel arrangements, I would have probably just gone to Hotels.com...that is until I discovered Hotels Combined.

Hotels Combined is a service that searches all of the major hotel reservation sites to find you the best price possible and delivers the results to you on one page. How cool is that? You simply input the city you're planning to stay and Hotels Combined searches over 30 online travel agents such as Booking.com, Cheaptickets.com, HotelClub.com, Hotwire.com, and Opodo.com, allowing you to compare and save.

What I like about Hotels Combined is the ease of use and array of choices. You can browse by city, hotel name, and country. Once you get your results back, you can then narrow your search by your desired accommodations such as room service, business center, wireless internet, swimming pool, etc. You can even sort your list by price, hotel name, user rating or stars. I mean, you get so many options on how to view your list, you should have not problems making an informed decision.

Exotic Honeymoon Destinations

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 10:57:00 -0700

Make no mistake, all honeymoon destinations are not created equal. Depending on you or your spouse’s personality, certain honeymoon destinations may not be ideal. Recently, Modern Bride magazine unveiled its list for the World’s 50 Best Honeymoon Destinations. And to no surprise, typical locales such as Hawaii and numerous Caribbean islands topped the list. However, there were a few unexpected surprises.

Over the last few years, newlyweds have begun ditching the tried and true honeymoon destinations in favor of something that better accommodates their personalities. Gone are the days of just heading to beach to relax, sunbathe, and sip drinks. Couples are now branching out and seeking more exotic, adventurous, and unique honeymoons to destinations that include Bali, Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica.

Kapalua Resort’s New Mountain Outpost and Adventure Center Now Open

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 13:54:27 -0700

Kapalua Resort’s new Mountain Outpost and Adventure Center is now open, featuring one of the longest zipline systems in North America

Kapalua Resort, Maui, Hawaii (PRWEB) Feb 12, 2008 – Kapalua Resort’s new Kapalua Adventures Mountain Outpost, featuring one of the largest and longest zipline systems in North America, has opened to the public.

Located mauka (towards the mountains) of the resort, the new Mountain Outpost offers visitors a full menu of outdoor activities, including eight dual-track ziplines, two suspension bridges, a comprehensive high-ropes challenge course, and a four-station climbing tower. The eight ziplines offer nearly two miles of scenic adventure with the longest zipline at 2,200 feet in length.

In addition to adventure, the Mountain Outpost offers education opportunities. Guests can learn about the geological, natural and cultural history of the area from qualified, knowledgeable guides who have been extensively trained in Hawaiian history, culture, flora and fauna of the area as well as safety and first-aid.

“We are extremely proud to open the Mountain Outpost, which was designed to offer guests adventure activities unlike any others available in Hawaii,” said Adam Quinn, Kapalua Resort’s director of resort activities. “In order to create the ultimate experience, we spent the past two years developing this state-of-the-art, dynamic, safe, educational and environmentally friendly attraction and activities program.”

Carefully designed to minimize impact to the natural environment, the Mountain Outpost welcomes guests transported from the Kapalua Adventure Center in biodiesel-fueled Mercedez-Benz Unimogs via existing pineapple field access roads. A “zipper lifter” will transport guests from the main viewing platform up the mountainside to access the zipline systems. Ziplines allow guests to view plant and bird life with minimal disruption to the ecosystem. Guides keep guests on paths especially designed to minimize erosion, while avoiding sensitive areas.

Popular Summer Destinations: Florence (Part 2)

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 16:17:12 -0700

Yesterday, I introduced you to one of my favorite summer destinations, Florence. But, while it’s easy to get lost in golf hazards of bunkers, greens, and dog legs, one must not overlook the fine artistry inspired the scenery. The Capital of Tuscany, Florence is called the Renaissance City. Everywhere you turn there’s a fountain, inspiring buildings, art galleries, and museums.

One of the most popular museums in Florence is the Galleria dell’ Accademia (Academy Gallery). Often full and crowded, the museum’s main attraction is Michelangelo’s colossal statue of David. For some, “the perfect man” is the sole purpose for a visit, but the also features other works by Michelangelo and other artists. During peak season, the wait time could exceed three or hour hours, but it’s definitely worth it to see the world’s most famous sculpture.

Great Summer Destinations: Florence

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 19:34:30 -0700

With summer around the corner, I thought it would be appropriate to highlight a few popular summer destinations - starting with one of my favorite. Florence.

Ask anyone about Tuscany and they'll tell you it's the land of reverent culture --- historic paintings, delectable cuisine, high fashion, and endangered architecture. If that wasn't enough, the land of exquisite wine and birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci also entices golfers with strategically placed courses, amidst olive trees lining rolling countryside, emerging golf into the land of Italian renaissance.

And there are many courses dotted all over the region to make a golfer getty, starting with the Poggio dei Medici Golf & Resort, home of the Ladies Italian Open from 1999-2003. Because of its location and setting --- amongst Tuscan hills and the Appennino Tosco Emiliano Mountains --- it’s one of the best courses in Italy. Located a few miles outside of Florence, this 18 hole par 73 course offers four playing routes and has plans to expand the course another 9 holes. Other future developments include transforming a few of the older buildings into apartments. But for now, the resort rooms --- decorated in Tuscan rustic style of wood overlays and unique patterns --- offer direct access to the course and views of the mountains. A new clubhouse inspired by autumn hues includes a separate golf reception.

Travel Quiz: Finding Your Ideal Island

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:08:23 -0700

While researching my last post, I came across a quiz on Islands Magazine's website. There are millions of islands in the world, but do you know what your ideal island is? What are your interests? Do you like islands that feature an active nightlife? Or what about islands rich in history and culture?

For me, I love adventure activities such as biking, hiking, and kayaking. Any island that featured those activities would definitely be tops on my list. To help you figure out your ideal island, take this quiz. Even more, you can locate your favorite islan in different regions across the world. My quiz revealed that Saba, Dominica, Corsica, and Kodiak are my ideal islands.

What's yours?

Note: Choice only one activity that attracts you for accurate results.

Perfect and Quick Caribbean Island Escapes

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 13:23:42 -0700

It's cold and rainy here in Atlanta today. Weather like this makes me yurn for summer days filled with warm weather and bright skies. Weather like this also makes me wish I was sitting on a beach somewhere with an umbrella drink in one hand and a great book in the other.

So, if you're like me and want to head to an island, consider a quick jaunt to the Caribbean. Luckily, the editors of Island Magazine have compiled a list of "Perfect Caribbean Escapes" which can be accomplished in under a week. Just enough time to get your island fix before returning home to shove your walkway.

Here are a few island destinations (some you've heard of and others you haven't) easily accessible in a few days:

Romantic Lagoon Resorts

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:38:14 -0700

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, its time - if you haven't already - to start planning trips for your sweetheart. And if you're looking for something both romantic and luxurious, boy, do I have the perfect destinations for you.

The thoughtful editors at Forbes Travelers have compiled a list of the world's most romantic resorts. Not only that, but they are lagoon resorts. How romantic. Imagine watching the sunset over a glass of wine, listening to the sweet sounds of the water cascading off the beach. Makes you want to go, huh?

Lucky for you, a few of the resorts are not that far away. And others, well, will require a plane ride. But, trust me, from the sounds of these resorts the trip will be worth it. Plus, just think about the points you'll score.

Where to Get the Most For Your Dollar

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 15:52:47 -0700

I love Europe. But, with with U.S. Dollar at an all-time low against the Euro, its time to start looking past Europe. Its also a great time to be a little more adventourous when choicing a vacation destination. But, where? Try Thailand, Morocco, and Hungary, according to a recent article on MSNBC.

Morocco - Here the dollar is worth about 7.1 Moroccan Dirhams, however, this will change in the next few years when the country will align its currency with the ever powerful euro. The article notes, in Morocco's capital, Fez, travelers can find a luxury Royale suite for $180 per night.

20 Trips to Change Your World

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 18:55:22 -0700

If you've watched T.V., pick up a newspaper, went to the movies, or read this blog, you know its no longer acceptable to be careless about the environment. It seems everywhere you turn, green is the subject of the conversation. So, it should come as no surprise that travel is changing as well.

In Travel + Leisure's "Green" November 2007 issue, writer Ann Armbruster explores 20 Trips to Change Your World. She helps readers realize that its possible to have a great vacation and save the planet. Whether its through voluntourism, educational tours or sustainable travel, travelers have a responsiblity to make a difference - albeit sometimes on the luxury level. Who says green can't be fun?

A Free and Cheap NYC

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 12:49:59 -0700

When I first moved to New York, I wanted to see all the Broadway shows, tour all of the museums, and visit every attraction. However, there was a problem, the one that usually faces most tourists interested in planning a trip to the Big Apple: money. However, I soon discovered – if you know where to look – New York has its share of free and cheap attractions, events, and museums.

Shakespeare in the Park

Shakespeare in the Park is one of the most popular free events in New York. Every summer since 1962, the Public Theater has hosted productions of Shakespeare plays at Central Park’s Delacorte Theater. Famous actors and actresses ranging from Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep to Morgan Freeman and Christopher Walken have performed Shakespeare under the night sky. Since this is a popular and free event, tickets can be hard to come by. If you’re interested in securing tickets, the line usually forms in the wee hours of the morning the night before the performance. Be prepared. Bring a blanket, food, and water. For more information, visit www.publictheater.org.

Bryant Park’s HBO Summer Film Festival

Every Monday from June to August, Bryant Park, located behind the New York Public Library, hosts a series of free movies sponsored by HBO. Shown on a large screen, the park shows classic movies including Wizard of Oz, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, and To Sir with Love. The show begins at sunset; usually between 8 pm and 9 pm, however, access to the grass begins at 5pm, so arrive early for a choice spot. Bring a blanket, food, and wine to make it even more of a special event. Visit www.bryantpark.org/calendar/film-festival.php for a complete list of upcoming movies.

The Kapalua Adventure Center

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 20:26:57 -0700

Mix in a little adventure, add a dash of luxury, and stir in an exotic location and you have the makings for a perfect vacation. The Kapalua Resort, situated on Maui, features two golf courses and award-winning accommodations, set along beaches and mountains near the Pacific Ocean.

And as if the location and offerings weren't enough for the guests, the resort recently opened the Kapalua Adventure Center. Here, guests can book their adventure after watching a preview of the activities on a television. An activities concierge assists guests and provides a wealth of information about the island, resort, and activities. The Center also serves as a check-in point for the Mountain Outpost activities.

How a Hotel Goes Green

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 21:11:03 -0700

Make no mistake; green is in. And that includes hotels. But that doesn't mean your room will be stripped bare. Actually, it's the opposite. It turns out it is possible for a hotel to save the environment and maintain luxury status.

In the November 2007 issue, Travel + Leisure magazine breaks down the Hotel Terra Jackson and recovers that "green is in the details."

Fun Hotel Souvenirs

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 11:45:00 -0700

We’ve all done it. At the end of a hotel stay, we’ve pillaged the toiletries, seized personalized stationery, or misplaced an embroidered towel or two.

But, why do we do this? Do we feel entitled to this amenities? Yes. Are these extra luxuries overprized? Absolutely. Or, are we simply trying to live in the revelry of our vacation?

Whatever the reason, the compassionate editors of Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel compiled a list of hotel splurges that will help you keep the memory of your vacation live, but won’t hurt your wallet.