Anchors Away - travel & adventure on the high seas!

Great Stirrup Cay - New Snorkel Shack (Dive Hut)

2011-10-26T11:03:00.002-04:00

Updates on Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas - Norwegian's Private Island

2011-10-11T17:48:00.006-04:00

Great news! We have made some great progress on the island renovations at Great Stirrup Cay. Hurricane Irene did some damage to the island knocking down some palm trees and taking off with some chairs but the biggest was to the old Dive Hut. This is where guests can rent snorkeling equipment and find out about the other activities on the island. This particular building has been there for over 20 years. The picture below is the last picture before its removal and eventual replacement.

Not even a week after the storm, the building was unfit for use and was demolished. Many tears arupted(jokingly) as this was an everlasting symbol of the island to many ex-Divers and Island staff all over the world.

During the time the dive instructors and island operations team on the island quickly put together a temporary shack for the snorkel equipment. It was only 2 weeks after Hurricane Irene that the guests from the Norwegian Sky were able to get back and enjoy the island including some great snorkeling in the cove.

This is the new dive hut currently under construction before the trusses and the roof to be installed. We expect to move all the snorkel gear and equipment into the new building within a month.

This is the new straw market located to the right of the new tender marina (as you come in from the ship). To this day, it is complete and the local vendors have been using them. Remember, Norwegian guests have to use cash should they want to purchase anything here.

Also completed is the new Welcome Trellis complete with wrought iron fence to funnel guests from the tendering marina to the beach.

Events Around NY | Michigan State University Alumni Club of Greater New York

2011-08-22T15:51:00.000-04:00

Events Around NY | Michigan State University Alumni Club of Greater New York

Sky High Expectations

2011-05-08T19:48:00.001-04:00

Norwegian Sky’s “Gangway Greeting Committee” Welcomes Guests Back Onboard With S.T.Y.L.E. Written by Fredy Leiva, Training Specialist, Norwegian Sky

As part of a series of initiatives to encourage excellent customer service, Norwegian Sky is successfully implementing a “Gangway Greeting Committee” that welcomes guests back on board after their time ashore in Freeport & Nassau. On a rotation basis, seven Heads of Departments take their positions at the pier (next to the ship’s gangway) to welcome guests back to their "home away from home."

This warm welcome brings smiles and genuine enthusiasm from our guests who are happy to see the onboard management team having so much fun welcoming everyone back on board. Many guests stop to ask for photos with the group, which is great fun for everyone. The team on Norwegian Sky have taken our Motto “Be the Cruise Line of Choice” to heart, and Hotel Director Dallas Easterly is taking personal pride in making “attention to detail” really count.

They are committed to dazzling our guests at every opportunity and recognize that every cruiser enjoys the special attention they receive from the ship’s crew. The Norwegian Sky team are trying to take that special attention to the next level so our guests will remain loyal Norwegian customers and will come back again and again.

Atlantis Resort in Nassau: Fact & Fiction

2011-04-15T20:21:00.020-04:00

For many years Atlantis and all of its facilities in Nassau, Bahamas was only accessible by guests that were staying at the resort. Tourists coming by cruise ship and other hotels could take a cab to Paradise Island and peruse the high end boutiques such as Ferragano and Gucci, gamble at their world class casino and marvel at the awesome architecture of the hotel with the what look's like a bridge that connects two tall towers. That was the only highlights they were able to see.

The bridge is really is a suite, a very expensive one at that, that has had visitors such as Michael Jackson and Oprah Winfrey. Contrary to popular belief, there has been more than one celebrity that has ponied up this tab. The suite costs $25,000 a night and minimum stay is 7 days.

Atlantis was built by South African Hotel Giant Sol Kerzner at a staggering $800 million dollars and took 4 years to build (1994-1998). The show piece to this modern marvel is the largest saltwater aquarium in the Caribbean, called "The Dig" and was designed to what archaeologists believed the lost city of Atlantis would have looked like. This aquarium cycles between 180 - 240 million gallons of saltwater. Before 2007, cruise ship guests and non-Atlantis visitors were able to get a guided tour of the hotel and Aquarium, called "The Dig".

The newest addition (well in 2007) is the massive 141 acre waterpark. The 200 million gallon Aquaventure combines slides, lazy rivers, and rapids into one large waterscape. The centerpiece of the attraction is the Power Tower which contains four waterslides. The slides include The Abyss, The Drop, The Falls and The Surge. Aquaventure also includes one of the Atlantis' most popular attractions, The Current. Which is a not-so-lazy river ride that encompasses the main waterpark area. Guests ride on innertubes through lazy and rapid sections of the river. They also built "The Cove" which is a 600 suite tower off to the east of the main hotel and has its own bar/restaurant, posh pool and cabanas, high stakes gambling tables and beach.

Don't forget for all those that are not 48 inches, because that is the minimum height requirement for most all the waterpark slides and lazy river rides, they do have Splash, the water themed kiddie park and kiddie slides are located at the lower front side of the Mayan Temple slide.

They also built a massive beach lagoon that rivals any movie set that is used to house some of the ocean's friendliest creatures, bottle nose dolphins. Some of the dolphins that are on display are one's that escaped Hurricane Katrina. For an additional fee you can get up close and personal with these creatures with a variety of programs, including the dolphin interaction, dolphin deep water swim and more.

Since 2007, The Atlantis has opened up limited spaces to the cruise ships at the Aquaventure Park, Dolphin Cay and some of the outer beaches. The main attraction is "The Dig" Aquarium and most all cruise ship tour packages include access to it. As for our friends that visit Atlantis by cruise ship, here is a 10 tips for you:

1. When a cruise ship offers space for any of the tours, this is guaranteed space. Many times during the year, if the resort is full, it will limit the amount of space given to any cruise ship. During Spring Break, Easter and Christmas holidays, if the hotel is at capacity then the cruise ships will get even more limited space (like sometimes only 50 spaces for a 2400 passenger ship. The resort will tell the cruise ship Shore Excursion team to advise the guests not to come on their own because they will be denied and waste a taxi ride over and back. But this is to ensure quality service to all guests, whether hotel or cruise ship guests that attend.

2. Cruise ship sponsored tours to Atlantis include round trip transportation. You don't have to stay for the whole duration of the tour advertised. Normally, the transportation company will offer guests multiple returns every 30 minutes from 2:00pm to 4:30pm for example. This will give you a chance to check out shopping in downtown Nassau if you like or if you are the shorter tour, extend your stay.

3. Currently, visitors that are not guests of hotel or cruise ship purchased excursion will only be able to see the gift shops & casino and no longer to even linger in the main lobby.

4. Cruise ship tour guests have use of all the facilities including restrooms, towels and any other amenity, depending on the package they choose.

5. Depending on the name of the tour chosen by the cruiseline there is 4 main packages:
Discover Atlantis (2.5 hr guided tour of Atlantis and Aquarium)
Discover Atlantis & Beach (self guided tour of Aquarium and access to outer beach)
Aquaventure (access to waterpark, self guided tour of Aquarium & inner beaches)
Dolphin Interaction & Aquaventure (either shallow water interacation or deep water swim combined with the Aquaventure package)

6. Cruise ship tour prices that include transportation are higher than g0ing to Atlantis on your own, however you cannot put a price on convenience. It is far easier to meet your group on the pier, walk to your transportation, get a quick orientation and be off the Mayan Temple waterslide in no time. (Have you witnessed the taxi driver attack once you leave the Nassau terminal?)

7. To get to Atlantis on your own you simply take a taxi ($4) per person each way. However, this is dependent on how many people are with you in the van. If the van is not full, you may have to wait until more come or pay more. You can also take water taxi's, which are $3 per person each way and is an alternative route to land taxis, however, the walk from ferry terminal where the water taxi's drop off is an additional 15-20 minutes to the Atlantis Resort.

8. Once you arrive to Atlantis (not on a ship tour) you have to proceed to the main lobby and head to the lower level to purchase wristbands for whatever access you want. Again, prices will be lower than cruise ship prices, but they don't include transportation and if space is not available they will not let you in.

9. Whether you take the ship sponsored tour of Atlantis, go on your own, other ship tours, or just walk around exploring and shopping, there is a 5-15 minute walk from your ship to the terminal building. There can be up to 8 ships in port at anytime and Nassau is considered the largest cruise ship terminal in the Caribbean. See picture below:

10. Most of Atlantis' gift shop, activities desk and food & beverage stations are cashless. This means you have to use a credit/debit card in order to make purchases for food, drink, lockers and souvenirs. There is one gift shop near the main lobby and one food venue in the waterpark that takes cash. Some of the cruise ship tours include a lunch voucher but most do not. You can also leave your ship towel behind, as you can use the resort's towels and save some space in your bags for souvenirs.

Bonus Tip #1: If you are the aquarium, go to the back of the lobby outside at 10:30am and 3:30am and see a live feeding of the 2 large manta rays, Apollo and Zeus.

Bonus Tip #2: Top two excursions within Atlantis Resort! #1 Guided snorkel in the aquarium. Get up close and personal with the manta rays, sharks and other marine fish in the The Dig aquarium. #2 Helmet Dive in the Shark Lagoon. At the bottom of the Mayan Temple slide is a large shark tank filled with Caribbean reef sharks. You get to do a Helmet Dive in this tank. Sweet!

So enjoy your stay in Nassau and make sure you get the most out of Atlantis Resort during your stay. You can get more information at www.atlantis.com and to find out what packages your cruise line offers, go their Shore Excursion page, like www.ncl.com

Great Stirrup Cay - the 1st private island in the cruise industry

2011-03-25T19:27:00.006-04:00

That would have been the headlines in a cruise magazine or backpage of the travel section of a Florida new paper in the late 1970s. Great Stirrup Cay is a small island that is part of the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) purchased the island in 1977 and developed it into a private island for their cruise ship passengers. Back then it was a very rustic set up and as you can see below the tenders were specially designed to land right on the beach and guests walk off the tenders in the front of these landing craft style boats.

Norwegian Cruise Lines still uses the same tenders but have invested in the island development to give guests a "Better Beach Day". This has allowed the entire cove, called Bertram's Cove, to be used by the guests instead of having the middle section of the beach and waterway only for the tenders. This has also improved overall water safety and access to the entire cove to explore snorkeling this beautiful clear blue water.

Some of the improvements include an inflatable waterslide, eco boat tour, kayak and waverunner tours, adding more palm trees and other fantastic additions yet to come.

One of the most notable, especially those who have been to the island before is the buffet. The first picture is the old buffet and the new one just opened this year!

Want to go to the island and see for yourself? The easiest and most cost effective is booking a 3 or 4 Day Bahamas Cruise on the Norwegian Sky out of Miami. These short but fun-filled exciting cruises give you the best of the Bahamas, including stops to Nassau, Freeport and of course Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's Private Island.

2011-02-24T08:26:00.003-05:00

Warm up from the cold winter New Yorkers and head to the Jacob Javits Convention Center at 270 West 43rd Street and check out the New York Times Travel Show February 25 - 27th this weekend. This convention has exhibits and great travel information from all over the world. I highly suggest to get your ticket online in advance because the line just to pay can be a pain. Not only that you get $5 discount when you register online. Plus take advantage of their VIP Fast Pass Registration (which is free) and you are automatically entered into a drawing and use of the VIP entrance.

Back to the Big Apple

2011-02-02T11:36:00.006-05:00

Well my vacation is upon me again so back to Manhattan to spend a couple cool months off. As you can see it has been quite cold and snowy. It's funny to see how New Yorkers react to snow and ice. I lived in Michigan and Alaska so this type of weather doesn't bother me much as I need a coat to walk outside (which I don't, yet...) This type of weather comes each and every year but you would think it was the "Day after Tomorrow".

We got about 6 inches or so on top of the big snowstorm over Christmas, however due to some of the resident's lack of interest of moving their cars combined with the city's inability to move the snow from the roads in such short notice created such scenes as this all over the city's side streets from the Brooklyn Bridge to the Bronx.

Well, today we got a nice little layer of ice (frozen sleet overnight) and although didn't cause any airport delays like last night, did offer a beautiful site in the morning as everything glistened.

By the way, New Yorkers and all the rest of the country, it’s Groundhog Day, and the question on everyone’s mind is did the groundhog see his shadow in 2011? The answer is NO, Punxsutawney Phil did not. With a giant winter storm blanketing at least half of the United States there was not a ray of sunshine to make a shadow with. Punxsutawney Phil popped his head out as he does every year, and then dove for cover due to the nasty icy conditions above ground but not because of his shadow. This winter has basically sucked in terms of cold, snow and ice and it’s good to know it will be over soon!

Costa Maya - Fly Fishing

2011-01-02T19:06:00.010-05:00

When guests are about to visit Costa Maya the first thing that comes to mind is a cruise ship port and Chacchoben Mayan Ruins. There is plenty of other great tours as well including some great SCUBA diving, deep sea fishing, Biomaya Canopy Zipline and more. However, most people think of fly fishing in Mexico, they envisioned shallow flats along the coast or hidden lagoons in the middle of the island. These are all great places and not that hard to find but much harder to get to, especially if you come in on a cruise ship and have less than 8 hour in port. Well that has all changed as one man, Nick Denbow, has brought the art of flyfishing (and fly tying) to the little beach of Mahahual in Costa Maya.

This is a 3 hour tour that involves making your own salt water fly, casting instruction and a chance to catch a few fish. The rate would make any diehard fly fisherman keel over because the fishing site is right out front of a the little umbrella that keeps the sun off the table you sit to tie your fly. Once you sit down, he gives you instruction on how to construct your own fly. You can use a variety of materials and colors that suits each person and their individuality. However, he will suggest certain colors during certain water conditions and visibility in order to maximize your chances of catching a fish. Once you finished your fly, he will orientate you on the fly rod you will be using. If you have never casted a fly rod, no problem, he will show you exactly how it is done with minimal instruction. Once you mastered the casting, now off to the fishing area.

Ironically, the fishing area is a channel where most of the watersports and fishing boats go back and forth out to the open ocean. This channel is fished like a river as you will find current running through it. Bonefish, jacks and other fish are located in these channels looking for food and if you are lucky will take in your fly. All of this fun in 3 hours and you will find it just as affordable. So next time your in Costa Maya and need to wet your fly, go to Western Caribbean Fly Fishing School and ask for Nick Denbow. His location is right on the beach in front of Nohoch-Kay ("Big Fish" in Mayan dialect). For more information you can email Nick Denbow at twcffs@gmail.com

Update: Check out this video on Youtube.com posted by a happy client!

Tis the Season to be Jolly - FCCA Gift Giving Roatan

2010-12-16T19:22:00.003-05:00

Once again it is that time of the season. Its the holidays and the time to reflect on another successful season, to celebrate the holiday season and to share with others that may not be so fortunate. Cruiselines all over the world embark on ports that we know are less fortunate and bring joy to hundreds of children each day. Today was no exception, as the Norwegian Spirit arrived to Roatan to spread the holiday joy to those who may not have a such a Merry Christmas.

The day started with a special visit with Santa Claus and the current Ms. Honduras as they were towed via a holiday sleigh from the Norwegian Spirit to the new Mahogany Bay terminal where the festivities happened.

NCL Spirit Officers, staff and crew assist with the gift giving to one of Roatan's local orphanage. A special ceremony and Rotary Club presentation was the highlight as the NCL Spirit Executive Chef Neil Allan accepted a Rotary special recognition for the event.

Salsa & Salsa - Same Great Tour, Now in Cozumel, Mexico

2010-12-13T15:18:00.007-05:00

Everyone that has been on a cruise to the Mexican Riviera and went to Mazatlan must have heard of the Salsa & Salsa tour, right? If you haven't MSN.com has ranked this tour in its Top Ten must do shore excursions. It is a tour that blends culture, salsa making and salsa dancing. Hungry? You will arrive to your fully prepped table with all the ingredients to make 3 different types of salsas. Plus nachos and quesadillas! Thirsty? Try an assortment of drinks, including all-you-can-drink lime and strawberry Margaritas, Jamaica Tea (Hibiscus Herbal Tea) and bottled water.

Then even more fun! Time for the salsa lessons, dancing and show. Your hosts Pamela & Leonique are the famous dancing chefs that will guide you through the entire tour. Afterwards, you can enjoy the facilities at the hotel resort where the tour operates.

This tour is now available to experience in Cozumel. The backdrop is the beautiful Hotel Cozumel only minutes from either International Pier or Punta Langosta, where the ships dock. See www.ncl.com websites for availability on your next NCL Caribbean cruise calling to Cozumel.

For more infomation about the tour and more pictures see their website: http://www.salsaandsalsa.com/

Ole and enjoy more of Cozumel!

Black Pearl - Roatan's First Golf Course

2010-12-02T20:43:00.004-05:00

Located in the central part of the island, The Black Pearl is the Roatan, Honduras' first golf course and is where the architects say "the greens meet the blues". It is a Pete Dye design 18 hole golf course seated between the reefs of the North Shore and jungle of this jewel of a Caribbean Island. Although, this course is only 1 month old and still in the process of finishing, the course has been signed off and been played on for nearly 2 weeks.

If your interested in playing during your cruise, see your cruiseline website, Shore Excursion desk onboard or Elite Golf Pro onboard today! For more information go to: http://www.premiumreeftours.com/

This is the signature hole #11 on the Black Pearl Golf Course.

Dolphins in Costa Maya

2010-11-30T20:18:00.002-05:00

Since Hurricane Dean there has been a lot of renovations and development in the port of Costa Maya. The newest tour is the Dolphin Swim & Dolphin Encounter. They have a similar set up as in Cozumel with the submerged platforms. The one major benefit is there is no transportation as the facility is right next to the pier in Costa Maya. Observers can watch for free as the participants enjoy the experience of a lifetime with the ocean's friendliest creatures.

Boston - September Sky

2010-09-10T17:17:00.004-04:00

The nice thing about working on a cruise ship is the getting to see a port such as Boston change from season to season. When we arrived in April is was getting warm and sunny, as the summer progressed (as we all may have felt) was hot and humid. But as September starts to wear into October you can feel the chill in the air. Today was no exception as you can tell summer is starting to wane.

Playa Mia Cozumel: Cozumel & Playa Mía

2010-09-10T13:35:00.000-04:00

Playa Mia Cozumel: Cozumel & Playa Mía: "With a mixture of essences, Cozumel brings together a perfect union of Mexican culture and the warmth of its Caribbean friendly people.Loca..."

Michigan Road Trip

2010-08-29T22:07:00.005-04:00

I went to Michigan to visit my parents at the end of the month and took a little road trip to our cabin just south of West Branch and then over to the eastside and Tawas City on beautiful Lake Huron. While we were there we took in a great lunch at Mitch's Pizzeria. It is a small mom and pop place that is known for their breakfast pizza but had a great one called, Mitch's Special. Enjoy!

And of course, I had to fight my wife tooth and nail for each delicious slice! Eat your heart out NYC...Midwest pizzas are making a name for themselves.

Epic welcome to the Big Apple!

2010-07-02T06:53:00.002-04:00

The Norwegian Epic arrived in New York City yesterday barely making it under the Verranzano Bridge by 24 inches in the wee hours of the morning. As you can see she would easily blend into the NYC skyline with her massive 18 decks, where within the not so classic ship design has world class entertainment, such as the Blue Man Group, , bars (like the Ice Bar & O'Sheehan's Pub) and of course NCL's Signature Freestyle Dining concept. The Norwegian Epic will be doing an alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itinerary from Miami then off to the Europe to start off its Mediterranean itineraries. Go to NCL.com for more information.

Epic Pool Screen

2010-06-24T11:05:00.002-04:00

This is the pool area for the adults only Spice H20 Pool desk aft!

Norwegian Epic Delivery!

2010-06-16T10:54:00.002-04:00

Norwegian Epic scheduled for delivery on Thursday

Norwegian Epic returned from its final sea trials on Sunday after completing three days of tests in the Atlantic Ocean. Norwegian Cruise Line said delivery from STX France is set for Thursday. During the trials technicians and engineers from STX, along with NCL representatives, checked more than 60 aspects of the ship’s performance including speed, maneuverability, hydrodynamics and propulsion, among others. ‘Overall, [Norwegian Epic] performed very well and exceeded expectations,’ the company said. On Thursday the ship is scheduled to depart the yard and sail to Rotterdam for a two-day inaugural cruise. On June 21, Norwegian Epic will operate a one-night preview cruise to Southampton, arriving the following day for a two-day inaugural sailing.

Seatrade Insider will be reporting from the two-day Southampton preview.

The seven-day Atlantic crossing to New York begins on June 24.

Tip of the Triangle - Bermuda

2010-05-01T16:55:00.008-04:00

Bermuda or officially, the Bermuda Islands or the Somers Isles, is a British overseas territory in the North Atlantic Ocean. Located off the east coast of the United States, its nearest landmass is Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Its capital city is Hamilton. Bermuda is the oldest and most populous remaining British overseas territory, settled by England a century before the Acts of Union created the Kingdom of Great Britain. Bermuda's first capital, St George's, was settled in 1612 and is the oldest continuously inhabited English town in the Americas.

Getting to Bermuda is by one of two ways, by boat or by plane. The modest airport has daily flights in and out of JFK airport in New York and other east coast airports, plus is a very popular cruise ship stop for many cruiselines in the summer. Cruises range from 1 day calls to 3 day/2 overnights in King's Wharf, Bermuda. Some of the smaller ships from cruiselines may make calls into St. Georges or Hamilton, however all the panamax size ships will call on King's Wharf. Actually, there is 2 piers in Dockyard, the newest being called Heritage Wharf.

Dockyard (King's Wharf)historically was a naval base for the Royal Navy until just after World War II. Most of the buildings used by the military have been turned into museums and shops. The old Prison still stands and is currently being renovated for possible tourism options but at this time is still not open to the public. For the cruise ship guest, it is easy to get around by walking. The Maritime Museum is located right next to the ships' piers (nominal admission fee) and has the history of its use as a naval base with the Commissioner's House sitting high up overlooking the open ocean. The Clocktower (which used to hold the armaments for the base) now houses a collection of local shops and a couple restaurants. One of the longstanding establishments right next to the Maritime Museum is the Frog & Onion Pub. Most of the interior decor is themed military nautical. One of the dining rooms has a large collection of flags. Should you decide to learn some history, take a short tour of the area on a horse drawn carriage, road train or the newest by Segway. The Segway is not only a cool way to get around the area but you get a guided tour of Dockyard and the Maritime Museum. This is one of my favorites.

Hamilton is the capital city of Bermuda and center of commerce. Here you will find an assortment of souvenir shops, jewelry stores, restaurants and pubs. This is the best place to spot the business gents in their colorful bermuda shorts and knee socks. The history of this form of business where came from the Royal Army units that were dispatched to tropical locations and their regular uniform was too hot. Getting to Hamilton from Dockyard can also be done by utilizing the local ferry or bus system. It is very efficient, however either way will take about 45 minutes each way. For guests on some of the ship sponsored tours to Hamilton, the cost of the ferry passes are included in the price. This allows guests to get a narrated tour and free time to explore and shop. Guests that just want to go over to Hamilton can use the ferry. Ferry & bus passes are available at the VIC (bright pink and blue round building) next to the Ferry Terminal in Dockyard. On Wednesday nights in the summer is the Harbor Nights Festival, where they block off Front Street and have street vendors, live entertainment and the local stores stay open a bit later than normal.

The last major town to visit on your Bermuda adventure is St. Georges. This was the first capital of Bermuda. It was founded by Capt. George Somers on the Sea Venture that was on its way to Jamestown, Virginia on a rescue mission. She hit one of the many shallow reefs around the island and Capt. Somers managed to run her aground in very shallow water and stopped the ship from sinking. All the passengers and crew survived. They were able to construct 2 ships, the Deliverance (a replica displayed in Somers Wharf) and Patience and sailed to Jamestown to find the rest of the fleet had not arrived. They boarded the survivors and attempted to sail back to England and ran into the rest of the fleet. They turned around and Jamestown was saved by the fresh supplies brought in. In St. Georges make sure to go to King's Square and see the midday re-enactment of daily life on Wednesdays. St. Georges you can also see St. Peters Church and easier access to St. David's Lighthouse and Fort St. Catherine.

Garret's Tips:

#1 Bermuda currency is on par (1 to 1) with US Dollars. You do not need to exchange money however you will find if you exchange Bermuda Dollars in the US you will lose some of the value in fees that are applied by the exchange houses.

#2 Scooter rentals are available nearly everywhere on the island. Please be careful, as not only do they drive on the otherside of the road (to U.S.), but have different traffic laws and scooter accidents on the island are prevalent and numerous.

#3 Make sure to cover up your bathing suit when going to and from the beach, as Bermudians are quite conservative.

#4 If you are in Bermuda for multiple days, utilize the day or monthly passes as long as you will be using ferry/bus more than 3 times per day. If not, just get single tokens.

#5 Tours are the best way to learn history of the island. Ferry & buses are very efficient to get around the island but you don't learn anything.

#6 There are no beaches within walking distance from Hamilton or Dockyard. The South Shore (where Horseshoe and Elbow Beaches are) are accessible by taxi or public bus. In St. Georges, Fort St. Catherine (big beach but no amenities) and Tobacco Bay (small beach & bar) have beaches but is about 20-30 minute walk from Somer's Wharf.

There are many things to do on the island so if you are vacationing in Bermuda by plane and hotel check with your travel agent or Bermuda Tourism. The site can also give you great deals on flights and hotels. http://www.bermudatourism.com

Or, if your on a cruise, see your Shore Excursion Desk and Port & Shopping Consultants onboard to find out the best way to maximize your day in port.

Guatemala needs more than cruise ships and tourism...

2010-04-16T20:50:00.009-04:00

As you have seen in my previous blogs, I have been traveling around the Santo Tomas - Puerto Barrios area of Guatemala. I have been on ship sponsored tours, mayan villages, boat rides, bus rides and more. The new catch phrase in tourism, especially in Guatemala is "Sustainable Tourism". Many guatemalans graduate with this degree from the university, however most cruise ship tours are not sustainable. This is something we need to realize, much like natural resources, that tourism can also be sustained for future generations to enjoy. Not just a I-went-on-a-cruise and saw this (and never went back)...here's some pictures. Some of the new tours that the cruise industry is in the process of developing are similar to the mayan village tours and "Volun-tours". Just like this village, there is 100s more all over the country...in 100s of other countrys...all over the world. The skies the limit. Yes, we need to start thinking locally but don't forget globally!

This is a typical rural classroom in Guatemala. It is a mixture of mostly guatemalan and small percentage of mayan kids. Its actually quite big and not overcrowded. The kids are in school for 4 hours per day. They get a snack (local is hired to cook) and normal lessons in reading, writing etc (teachers are locally hired). However, they are always in need of school supplies and more. Plus, there is no school nurse in case something was to happen during school. The nearest clinic, when I visited was closed as the doctor was on a 1 month holiday and no relief. Any serious medical issues and villagers would have to go to bigger clinic in Puerto Barrios, which is 45 minutes away.

This is a new classroom building that was just finished a month ago. However, what you do not know is the building foundation and walls were funded by the Guatlemalan government 6 years ago. They funding never included a roof. The roof was completed 3 months ago and already has holes in it. The electrical lines and light fixtures have been ran in all the buildings but there is no power source yet. If and when the school gets funds, the process takes a long time.

The bathrooms are good for being in a rural setting, gravity flush toilets and tile, plus separate stalls. However, these were built 3 years ago and the doors are falling off and are right next to the cooking area. There is no sink, just a spiget that has water for kids to wash hands. No hand or paper towels, let alone soap.

The kitchen (comida) is a shack with 2 firebrick sections for making the snack. They use firewood for heat and put in pans, etc to make tortilas, chicken etc. However, the water source is also the spiget. The school president says the water is potable but no clear, sanitory source for the water.

This is a sign outside the village limits regarding the combination of a few agencies and government assistance. The total is Q138,000 Quetzals which is roughly $17,250 USD. If you notice the number of inhabitants, which is 3476, that equals about $4.96 per person. Local plantations in the village sell food and crafts to the local market in Puerto Barrios, but not only to help the school but also for their own families. There is only 3 such plantations that have a variety of products like pineapples, pimento chiles and bananas. To give you an example of how much they make, 200 lbs of the pimento chiles (dried) only equals $100 USD. There are many agencies and non-profit organizations that can assist but they can only do so much.

I am not saying you need to go out, quit your job and fly to Guatemala to offer your assistance. There is other ways to donate time, school supplies and also money. You see how much $5.00 does. Again, I am not saying you should call, "Save the Children" and donate your life savings. Things are being done, just know in 3rd world countries such as these, it happens at a far slower pace. Ironically, the US Military (looked like US Navy) was on site to assist in building a basketball court among other things. We may not be able to develop a tour that will help this village yet. I just want to let everyone know that a little help goes a long way in Guatemala.

Guatemala Eco Social Tours

2010-04-11T17:38:00.007-04:00

Well, up the Rio Dulce River once again! This time my destination is the mayan village of Q'ana Itzam. This village is the vision of Social Travel. A new kind of tour that incorporates history, culture and humanitarian cause. Most of your investment in the tour will actually go back into the village for further development and help pay for salaries of village doctors, laborers and other supplies.

This is the second school building being built. The village has 45 kids and their education will keep them up to date with other children in Guatemala. These kids will be given the same quality education without traveling to the bigger cities where the mayans are still being discriminated to this day.

This is the "Deer Dance". It is a living story of the beginning of time for the Mayans through the period of the Spanish arrival to Guatemala. The costumes are replicas of the original used by their ancestors. Before each performance, the mayan elder ladies bless the show and after a ceremonial prayer is also performed.

This is a statue dedicated to Yum Kaax. In Maya mythology, Yum Caax ("lord of the woods") was the personification of maize and a god of agriculture and nature.Alternative names: Yum Kaax, God E.Perhaps having origins in ancient northern hunting tradition, Yum Ka'ax, also called U Kanin Ka'ax, is known to indigenous peoples of North America. The one invoked by hunters, he is owner of all the game. He can appear to hunters in an instant, and possesses songs that will allow a hunter success or allow his arrows to come back to him.

The all the houses in this village have running water (using catchment systems and PVC piping, solar energy that is stored in batteries for electricity. They also operate a small hotel/bar for visitors. The bungalows were donated and built by foreign donators. 100% of the money goes back into the village development and some salaries of those who work their. The idea for the tour is also to have approximately 75% of the price of the tour to go directly to the village as well as the protection agencies and national park fees of the area. Another feature will also provide the tour guests a donation card, so that they can deduct it from their taxes as charity. Their is no name for the tour and is yet to be on any cruise line program. However, I firmly believe this tour is a great value and will help assist other villages similar to Q'ana Itzam survive in a modern world.

Saving the world one tour at a time!

2010-04-01T00:06:00.007-04:00

Well folks, its back to work! But only one of the greatest jobs in the world. Today we were in Santo Tomas de Castillo, Guatemala. This is a relatively new cruise ship port and highly recommended to take a ship sponsored tour or relax onboard. However, there are taxis and water taxis that do independent tours. For my newest adventure, we went by boat from the cruise ship pier to the Rio Dulce river. Here is where culture, people and rainforest all live in harmony. Livingston is a garifuna village (european africans) that settled at the mouth of this river. There is also monkeys, houses, private residences (we saw the family of Gallo beer fly off their residence in a helicopter) all along the river while a dug out canoe paddles against the wind and current. But the true beauty of the Rio Dulce are the canyon walls that raise well over 500 feet above sea level. Modern boats and dug out canoes converge on a daily basis traveling from village to village and fishing spots. Divers on the edge of mangroves search for crabs. Others go along the limestone wall searching for the elusive jade vains that may embed in these rocks. As the river winds it narrows and you see where sail boats spend weeks in rental houses along the river. Right now the pelicans are preparing for their migration up north. There are hundreds of them. Imagine a modern jurrasic park scene as you travel up river. Further up river is a fork where a private reserve and off shoot that leads to Ak Tenamit. Upon arrival children are on holiday so they are not in class. They are doing homework on the rivers edge around the school. Most times the kids are in class making tortillas, planting corn and learning about rotating the crops to different spots every year, doctors help the women learn how to give birth (mayans are scared of hospitals) and other teach the children about creating souvenirs for tourists and at the same time conserving the rainforest they live in. These kids still go by the Mayan Calendar which as you know ends on Dec 21st, 2010. But they are being helped to cope. Most of the kids speak spanish but are being taught to keep their mayan language. The mayan alphabet has over 800 letters, so no wonder there is 22 different dialects. This is a missionary school where descendents of the mayans can get an education in tourism. They spend upwards of their entire life (to 18 yo) at this school. Volunteers poor in from all over the world, teaching these kids to embrace their mayan roots and live in harmony with nature. Doctors, engineers, farmers and teachers help these mayan children make it in the modern world. If allowed to travel to the biggger cities, many of these kids would be scorned and discriminated for being mayan. For those who didnt know the Civil War in Guatemala was between the government and the mayan people. They have lived on this land for centuries and has been handed down over generations but no official deeds to these lands, so the government was trying to just take it away. There are many more facets to this school, this region of the Dulce River and culture of this Guatemala. This blog just isnt big enough for all the details, so I highly recommend to go yourself...

We ended the day with a nice lunch at a hotel on the edge of Livingston and then quite a rough boat ride back to the ship. We traveled nearly 2 hours in land along the coast and river, seeing the real Guatemala. Don't just cruise to these ports of call...explore and experience.

2010-03-28T15:31:00.004-04:00

Greetings travelers...got off the ship today and walked to Walmart and back. Got some cool shots of the Norwegian Spirit in New Orleans alongside the terminal. Today's weather was much more favorable than last week. Whew!

Mother River is an anthropomorphic depiction of a female form reaching skyward from her northern tributaries toward her destiny, the deep warm rivers of the Gulf of Mexico. The River’s tributaries appear as children clutching her feet. Along the base of the sculpture, riverboats, tugs and other vessels are represented in relief. The rich mix of drama, humanity and nature’s challenges is all represented in the work. A fitting statue for this area.

Well off to Costa Maya...I will get some pics of the pier.

Norwegian Spirit - Caribbean Bound

2010-03-21T18:21:00.005-04:00

Well after a 2 month vacation (more working vacation) in New York, your favorite cruise ship traveler/employee. Last night was a rainy and cold night in New Orleans, but that didnt stop the party on Bourbon Street (sorry no pictures of that). Right now leaving the port and heading for sunny Costa Maya. See you there!