http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com Your source for travel news, reviews and practical information. Regent Seven Seas Cruises has entered into a definitive contract with Italy's Fincantieri shipyard to build a new ship with delivery scheduled in summer 2016. Accommodating 738 guests, the new ship will be named Seven Seas Explorer and will be the luxury line's third all-suite, all-balcony ship. At 54,000 gross-registered tons, Seven Seas Explorer will be the largest vessel in the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet. The contract price for the vessel is approximately $450 million, making Seven Seas Explorer the most expensive luxury liner ever built. Financing for the project is being arranged by Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank with support from SACE, Italy's export credit facility."This new ship order represents an exciting time of growth for our company as we build the next generation of cruise ships for the world's most inclusive luxury cruise line," said Frank J. Del Rio, Prestige Cruise Holdings chairman and CEO. "Seven Seas Explorer will be the most luxurious cruise ship ever built, boasting one of the highest space ratios and staff-to-guest ratios ever seen in the modern era of cruising enabling us to deliver the highly personalized service and extraordinary experience that is the hallmark of the Regent brand."Seven Seas Explorer will have designer suites, public areas, a wide-range of gourmet dining options, a spa and other amenities. "At Regent, we believe more is best," Del Rio said.Architectural and interior design firms Tillberg Design AB, RTKL Associates and ICrave are designing the vessel, which will have 369 suites ranging from 300 square feet to 1,500 square feet, six open-seating gourmet restaurants, Regent's nine-deck atrium, the two-story Explorer Theater, three boutiques and a Canyon Ranch SpaClub. The specifications for the ship call for a hull 732 feet long, with a beam of 102 feet and a draft of 23 feet. The ship will be powered by diesel-electric engines with a service speed of 20 knots. Seven Seas Explorer will be a "green ship" employing the most advanced environmental systems and state-of-the-art technology.With the Seven Seas Explorer, Regent Seven Seas Cruises' overall fleet capacity will grow nearly 40 percent, making the brand the world's largest luxury cruise line. "This new ship order is part of our disciplined growth strategy to expand our footprint in the luxury market," said Kunal S. Kamlani, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. "Since we purchased the Regent Seven Seas Cruises brand in 2008, the ships have sailed full with industry-leading yields. We strongly believe that now is the right time to expand our fleet as our loyal guests have asked for a greater array of itineraries and our travel partners have proven that there is pent-up demand for a new Regent ship." Commenting on the announcement, Fincantieri CEO Giuseppe Bono said: "I am extremely pleased with this new order, which is all the more important because it establishes our global leadership in this sector and strengthens our presence in the luxury segment with the addition of another prestigious brand to our client list, also thanks to the fundamental synergy created by the country through agencies designated to promote Fincantieri exports."Further details about the ship will be announced in the coming months. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Regent-Seven-Seas-Orders-New-Ship-280.html 2013-07-11 Travel News regent|regent seven seas cruises|seven seas explorer LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Regent Seven Seas Cruises announced today that Seven Seas Voyager will receive a multi-million dollar refurbishment at the ship's scheduled dry dock in October. The all-balcony, all-suite 700-guest capacity vessel will enter dry dock on Oct. 14 in Marseille, France and will unveil her new look on Oct. 23 when she sets sail on the 10-night Lands of Myths, Seas of Fables cruise from Rome to Venice. As part of the ship's refurbishment plans, the company will re-decorate all Penthouse Suites in a stunning new decor with custom-crafted elegant furnishings, plush carpeting, curtains, wall coverings, furniture, lighting, original artwork and outdoor furniture. A complete refurbishment is also planned for the Horizon and Observation lounges. The venues will receive new bars, furniture, carpeting, wall coverings, lighting and original art. Additionally, the Constellation Theater will be refurbished with new carpeting, wall coverings, tables, wall sconces, banquettes and chairs. New carpeting will be installed throughout the interior of the ship and all public spaces will receive a selection of original artwork. The atrium will be outfitted with fine marble and receive new furniture. Outside, new teak will be installed on all balconies. The outdoor relaxation area on Deck 11 and outside the Observation Lounge on Deck 12 will receive new resort-style furniture and decor. Appearing continuously on annual "world's best" and "top" awards lists by noted media including Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, Luxury Travel Advisor and more, Regent Seven Seas Cruises' fleet is comprised of three all-suite ships that carry from 490 to 700 guests in luxury to ports in Australia, Europe, Asia, South America, South Pacific, Alaska, New England, Canada, Africa, India, and the Caribbean. Depending on the ship, guests can choose from up to four, open-seating gourmet restaurants, including Prime 7, a contemporary American steakhouse and Sette Mari at La Veranda, the line's Italian dining experience. With some of the highest space-per-guest ratios in the cruise industry, accommodations include such requisite amenities as down comforters, Egyptian cotton linens, flat-screen television, DVD players and Wi-Fi access. Penthouse and higher-category suites aboard all three ships are equipped with iPads. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Regent-Seven-Seas-to-Refurbish-Seven-Seas-Voyager-279.html 2013-06-27 Travel News regent seven seas|regent seven seas cruises|regent voyager LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises is providing the setting for an episode of Bravo Media's EmmyAward-winning Top Chef culinary competition series, now in its 10th season. Wednesday's episode (Jan. 30), airing at 10 pm Eastern/9 pm Central, was filmed onboard the 2,158-guest Celebrity Millennium and the 2,170-guest Celebrity Infinity while sailing in Alaska. During the episode, chef'testants were challenged to prepare dishes served to guests onboard. Three Top Chef judges also were onboard to join in the action and assess the chef'testants' results.This week, Celebrity is taking its own cuisine to Manhattan with "A Taste of Modern Luxury," an exclusive pop-up restaurant at The Kitchen NYC. Celebrity's own James Beard-featured chef, John Suley, will serve items from a three-course menu that includes several onboard favorites as well as dishes inspired by the culinary flavors of Manhattan. Divinely concocted libations from Master Mixologist Junior Merino, aka "The Liquid Chef," will be served from his concept, The Molecular Bar, featured onboard. Thoughtfully paired beverages -- from superior wines to local brews and artful desserts round out the dining experience. On Wednesday, Celebrity Cruises is hosting a private screening of the Top Chef episode at their pop-up location, with five talented former Top Chef chef'testants in attendance: Hung Huynh, Mike Isabella, Spike Mendelsohn, Hosea Rosenberg and Casey Thompson. For more information, visit www.celebritycruisedestinatios.com. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Cruises-Hosts-"Top-Chef"-278.html 2013-01-30 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity millennium|millennium class LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises has formally named the fifth in its five-ship Solstice Class fleet, Celebrity Reflection. Presiding over the ceremony December 1 were the ship's four Godmothers all employees of the company whose lives have been touched by breast cancer: Celebrity Reflection AquaSpa Manager Jovanka Goronjic; Solstice Class Hot Glass Show Artist Megan Mathie; shoreside Community Relations Manager Helen O'Connell; and shoreside Special Events Manager Rosey Rodriguez. Each took the stage with Chairman & CEO Richard D. Fain, Celebrity's President & CEO Michael Bayley, and Celebrity Reflection Captain Nicholas Pagonis, together with three of the Godmothers of Celebrity Reflection's sister ships, in a naming ceremony tradition unique to Celebrity. Among the ship's multiple new, guest-inspired attributes are five 441-square-foot "Signature Suites" with 118-square-foot verandas; the brand's first "AquaClass Suites," building on the popularity of Celebrity's spa-inspired AquaClass staterooms, by adding additional space and 24/7 butler service to the host of amenities already associated with AquaClass; the jaw-dropping "Reflection Suite," a two-bedroom suite with a total of 1,636 square feet and 194-square-foot veranda, and a distinctive, all-glass shower extending out over the edge of the ship. Celebrity Reflection also presents an entirely new, multi-functional Conference Center, and the host of industry-first venues and experiences introduced on Celebrity Silhouette in 2011, including the interactive "Lawn Club Grill," where guests can select and grill their own meats side-by-side with Celebrity's expert chefs, or have them cooked to order; the relaxing, private, wi-fi-equipped cabanas called "The Alcoves"; "The Porch," a breezy, casual dining spot offering sandwiches, coffees and captivating views of the sea and the ship's lush lawn, and "The Art Studio," where vacationers can bring out their inner artist. The ship also presents another venue first introduced on Celebrity Silhouette, "The Hideaway," an intimate, quiet space reminiscent of a childhood tree house, not to mention the diverse array of other modern venues and attributes already associated with Celebrity's Solstice Class ships.Celebrity Reflection will embark on her inaugural Caribbean season with roundtrip 7-night sailings from Miami beginning December 8. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Reflection-Christened-277.html 2012-12-04 Travel News celebrity|celebrity reflection|solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Azamara Quest, the first of Azamara Club Cruises' twin boutique ships to undergo refurbishment, emerged today from an eight-day drydock complete with a refresh of all public spaces and staterooms and a new "Azamara Blue" hull. Named for the cruise line by Navantia Shipyard, the unique navy-blue color tone of Azamara Quest's hull adds to the elegance of the ship's silhouette. Shipwide renovations included new carpets, upholstery, and a new color palette in public spaces reflecting the cruise line's inviting atmosphere; new mattresses and upgraded veranda furniture for suites and staterooms; and a resurfaced pool, and new sun loungers and pool towels on the outer decks. The Casino Bar also was expanded and enhanced with new furniture, while the Spa and fitness center was refreshed with a new steam room, showers, and state-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio equipment. Furthermore, a range of enhancements were made behind the scenes in the staff and crew area to add to the comfort of the cruise line's most valuable asset. On the culinary front, guests can now enjoy a new caviar and champagne bar within Aqualina, one of the ships' two specialty dining venues, as well as a new Chef's Table concept featuring three wine degustation menus Italian, French and Californian. At Mosaic Cafe, the ships' central gathering spot, guests can purchase a freshly brewed cup of bespoke coffee. Upon departing from Navantia Shipyard in Cadiz, Spain, Azamara Quest will sail a 13-night Madeira and Canary Islands voyage, beginning November 16, followed by a four-night Spanish and Northern Africa voyage on November 28. The ship then departs on December 2, to embark on a 16-night, trans-Atlantic voyage to Rio De Janeiro for its South America season. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Azamara-Quest-Exits-Drydock-276.html 2012-12-04 Travel News azamara|azamara quest Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) One of the most ambitious revitalization initiatives in the history of the cruise industry has just been completed. Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Millennium set sail Saturday from the Port of Miami, fresh from becoming the fourth and final Millennium Class ship to complete the line's $140-million "Solsticizing" process, incorporating a host of the venues and experiences guests love most on the Solstice Class ships. The initiative was completed within less than two years, with each ship completing the massive transformation over the course of an only three-week drydock period. "Solsticizing has been such an exciting initiative for us - and more importantly, for our guests, as indicated by their response to each of our Solsticized ships," said Celebrity's President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. "Our Millennium Class ships already had a large and loyal following, having repeatedly ranked at the top of many of the world's most prestigious consumer polls, and their original style, design and ambience served as significant inspiration for the design of the Solstice Class. So now, we're bringing it full circle, incorporating on the entire Millennium Class what our guests enjoy most on the Solstice Class. It ties our whole fleet together in a very powerful way." One of the many Solstice Class features added to the Millennium Class ships* is Celebrity's trendsetting AquaClass category of staterooms, with spacious, private verandas; exclusive access to the stylish specialty restaurant, Blu; complimentary access to the Persian Garden and Relaxation Room in the AquaSpa; a personal Spa Concierge to book exotic AquaSpa treatments; use of plush Frette bathrobes and slippers; enhanced personal care products, and plentiful in-room amenities, including Hansgrohe shower heads, fog-free bathroom mirrors, aromatherapy selections, and daily deliveries of complimentary bottled water and teas. [*Note: AquaClass and its host of amenities will be added to Celebrity Constellation in 2013.] Another Celebrity exclusive - "Qsine," the novel restaurant introduced on Celebrity Eclipse in 2010 and Celebrity Silhouette this year - is also dazzling guests on Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Millennium as a result of each ship's revitalization. The first restaurant at sea to present a menu and wine list on an iPad, Qsine serves a blend of classic and contemporary dishes in custom-made serveware, such as spring rolls served in vertical springs, and popcorn shrimp in theater-style popcorn boxes. Described in press reviews as "the latest and most innovative restaurant," "cutting-edge," and "appealingly quirky," the restaurant and menu were designed to take what guests expect of a specialty restaurant and "turn it upside down" in a captivating, entertaining and flavorful way. Joining AquaClass, Blu and Qsine* in the "Solsticizing" initiative are: the hip Celebrity iLounge, which debuted on Celebrity Eclipse and made Celebrity Cruises the industry's first Authorized Apple Reseller (to be added to Celebrity Constellation in 2013). Celebrity's "eXhale" bedding program, in partnership with Reverie (r), a leader in the field of luxury bedding. Hand-made in the U.S. with natural raw materials such as bamboo and sustainable natural rubber, the mattresses are almost entirely recyclable and biodegradable, feature removable, hypo-allergenic, antibacterial and dust mite-resistant covers, and a breathable, plush pillow top with a patented air flow design. Rounding out Celebrity's eXhale bedding program are custom-embroidered, 100% Egyptian cotton linens (to be added to Celebrity Constellation in 2013). A new twist within Celebrity's casually elegant bar, Michael's Club, where its selection of fine whiskies, cognac, bourbons and scotches is now complemented with craft beers, including 50 international selections (the new Michael's Club concept will be added to Celebrity Constellation in 2013) the "cool," ice-topped Martini Bar and Crush Celebrity's vibrant creperie, Bistro on Five the inviting Cafe al Bacio and Gelateria Cellarmasters wine bar, complete with the "Enomatic" state-of-the-art wine serving system - an industry-first when it debuted on Celebrity Solstice - allowing guests to select wines by the glass, at the touch of a button entirely new verandas added to the ship's spacious, luxurious Celebrity Suites additional new oceanview and inside staterooms an expanded collection of original, contemporary art * During the Solsticizing of Celebrity Constellation in 2010, the Solstice Class-inspired specialty restaurant "Tuscan Grille" - an Italian-themed steakhouse - was added to the ship, within the space occupied by Qsine on her sister ships. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Millennium-Completes-Solsticizing-275.html 2012-05-16 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity millennium|solsticizing Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Come sail with us on this 11-night voyage that includes the best of the US and British Virgin islands and Bermuda. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=19 2012-04-01 Experiences Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The VIRTUOSO LIFE Warm Weather Escapes IssueMarch/April 2012 View the digital version of VIRTUOSO LIFE here. This issue is dedicated to the thrills of warm escapes, and as we're just emerging from winter, the timing is intentional. You'll find a roundup of all things beach, from the best cocktail to the best spot to watch the sun set, as well as a stylish Rio jaunt, a French Polynesian cruise, and much more. These articles are intended to inspire your next beach getaway, and to help you think about all your travel possibilities. Highlights Include: 32: Why Do It Yourself - An advisor planned honeymoon in Thailand. 66: Best of the Beach - Break out the bathing suit: This list of 19 sandy spots offers something for everyone. 74: Into the Blue - A cruise through French Polynesia quenches a thirst for sun, sea, and the finer things. 84: Why Mexico Matters -The sunshine, service, and safety of Nayarit, for starters. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Virtuoso-Life--Warm-Weather-Escapes-268.html 2012-03-14 Travel News january 2012|virtuoso|virtuoso life Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Remember a time when cruising truly meant getting away from it all? Blissfully unaware of work piling up at the office, no cell phones buzzing with messages or computers cluttering up luggage, the cruiser simply tuned out and kicked back. Those blissful days are not so long ago; Norwegian Sky was the first cruise ship to feature an Internet Cafe when it debuted in 1999. But times have changed, and the Internet has become such an ubiquitous part of our lives that many of us can barely go 15 minutes, much less a week at sea, without checking e-mail and texts. Yet, while Internet is offered on virtually all seagoing cruiseships (with the exception of a few barebones expedition ships), it is still maddeningly unreliable and slow. Why, in 2012, must using the Internet at sea be so frustrating? To add insult to injury, why must our frustration be so expensive? There are answers, but they are not particularly encouraging. Steve Oosthuizen, the senior IT officer on Crystal Serenity, told Cruise Critic, "Most people don't understand the structure of how communications at sea work, and when they get on a ship [they] expect it to be the same as on land. That is never going to happen." That's the bad news. The good news, however, is that there are steps that lines can take to improve the speed and tricks you can employ to get your Internet fix with less hassle. If you've ever cursed in frustration as your screen froze mid-e-mail or are quivering in fear of being unable to check in as much as you'd like on an upcoming vacation, here are the nine things you need to know about Internet at sea. Read the full article on Cruise CriticAlternate local link http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Internet-at-Sea-9-Things-You-Need-to-Know-267.html 2012-03-14 Travel News cruise critic|internet|MTN|satellite|wi-fi Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Waiting for fares to come down before you book a cruise for the coming year? You could be waiting a long time, says the head of the world's largest cruise company. Carnival Corp. chairman and CEO Micky Arison tells USA TODAY that consumers expecting unusual deals in the wake of the Costa Concordia accident may be in for a surprise. "There's some misconception based on events that something drastic (is) coming," Arison says. But consumers who hold out for better deals "could be disappointed." As part of an announcement today on first quarter earnings, Carnival Corp. revealed that the Costa Concordia accident continues to have a widespread impact on bookings at its brands, which include Costa as well as Carnival, Princess, Holland America and Cunard. The company says fleetwide bookings at brands other than Costa have shown improving trends in recent weeks but in percentage terms are still running "high single digits" behind a year ago at slightly lower prices. Booking volumes for Costa in recent weeks have been down much more sharply. Still, bookings before the Costa Concordia accident had been coming in at a very strong pace, and even with the decline in bookings in the accident's aftermath, Arison notes the company's cumulative advance bookings for the remainder of the year, excluding Costa, only are three percentage points behind the level of this time last year. Given such a position, the company's brands don't need to discount more than they already have, Arison suggests. "There are deals out there," Arison says. "The values are there now. (Consumers shouldn't) stay on the fence and wait for something that may not happen." Arison also reiterates that the company's ships are safe and that the Costa Concordia accident was an extremely unusual occurrence. Safety is a top priority at the company and in the cruise industry, he says. "Overall, the safety record (of the cruise industry) is excellent, and I think most people, despite events, understand that," Arison says. Indeed, he notes, the company's surveys show the biggest thing holding people back from booking right now is not a concern about safety but an expectation that prices will go lower.Story from: http://travel.usatoday.com/cruises/post/2012/03/carnival-ceo-cruise-deal-fares-/644547/1 http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Deeper-Than-Normal-Discounts-not-on-the-way-266.html 2012-03-12 Travel News cruises LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Each cruise line has its own per-minute prices for Internet service. Below is a sample of prices cruisers will pay to connect on the high seas: Travel Weekly By Donna Tunney http://www.travelweekly.com/Cruise-Travel/Signal-at-sea/ Clients book cruise vacations because they want to relax, visit interesting destinations and have fun. But that doesn't mean they won't stay connected to family and friends while they're away. Many expect to tweet, text, check email and post pictures to social media sites from the middle of an ocean. Indeed, the number of iPads, iPhones and other Web-enabled mobile devices in use by passengers at a shipboard lounge often matches the number of rum punches and martinis on the bar. For cruise lines, it sounds like a simple win-win situation: They invest in an infrastructure to provide reliable Internet connectivity at sea, making them competitive with land resorts, and the rewards come with per-minute rate packages that contribute to onboard revenue streams. Bow-to-stern WiFi-enabled ships, a rarity even a few years ago, are commonplace now. But the rocket science behind the technology that enables at-sea Internet service is complicated. Speed and reliability vary from ship to ship, and more than a decade after Internet service was introduced onto cruise ships, slow connections and breaks in service can still perplex passengers. In simple terms, shipboard access to the very big Internet relies to a great degree on a Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT), a system of above- and below-deck equipment and devices that serve as conduits to satellites 22,000 miles above the Earth's equator. A VSAT antenna coupled with the amount of bandwidth a cruise ship has available tell the story of onboard Internet connectivity. Using a VSAT system, data request signals, which occur when someone tries to access a website from a computer onboard a ship, must travel to an orbiting satellite, bounce to an earth station and then travel back to the satellite before returning to the shipboard computer. It's a 44,000-mile, roundtrip journey, and while experts say it takes only a half-second for a signal to reach a satellite from a shipboard antenna, the start-to-finish connectivity process is considerably slower than a land-based routing. read the rest of the article here http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Signal-at-sea-263.html 2012-02-09 Travel News internet|MTN|satellite|travel weekly|wi-fi Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Several of Crystal Cruises' signature spaces aboard Crystal Symphony will be remodeled during a major $15 million dry dock scheduled for June 2012. In just 15 days at Germany's Blohm + Voss shipyard, ultra-luxe Crystal Cruises is redesigning the ship's Avenue Saloon, Palm Court lounge, Galaxy showroom, Hollywood Theatre, Bridge Lounge, and Fantasia and Waves "junior cruisers" areas in ways that are stylishly modern, yet in keeping with each space's spirited atmosphere beloved by guests. In the past two years, Crystal Cruises has invested more than $50 million in its vessels, generating praise and even industry awards for their great style. "Our guests expect the finest of luxury in every element of a Crystal cruise. They have a keen appreciation for design and expect the very best in furnishings, finishes and fine appointments," says President Gregg Michel. "By the completion of this project, within the past five years we will have redesigned every room aboard Crystal Symphony with great attention to rich, chic details." Avenue SaloonFor this popular piano bar's makeover, Crystal is bringing back the designer who created the room's trademark intimate, "clubby" look: Kirk Nix, with LA's KNA Design. The piano, shutters, and warm, jazz-era atmosphere remain, but a room reconfiguration adds more seating, including antique-style, brass-tack couches and large, red wall sofa. Rich burgundies, golds, caramels, moss greens, and creams weave through the swivel, embossed-leaf barstools, hand-tufted carpets, plush pillows, textured wall upholstery, and artwork. Wood flooring, bar front and back, stone and wood bartop, edge-lit glass shelves, and pop-up ceiling finalize the new touches. Palm CourtKNA is also revamping the ship's signature panoramic lounge for high tea, dancing, cocktail parties, and casual drinks with a view. A sleek, contemporary transformation brings the outside in, taking advantage of sweeping ocean views, while keeping emblematic room elements like palms and wicker. In addition to a new entrance, the bar and dance areas expand with added seating and a larger, spiral-design dance floor with overhead ceiling feature. Conversation tables; laser-cut marble flooring and carpet; lit, alabaster urns; and a studded nail and leather wall design offset the chartreuse, aqua, grey, and ivory color spectrum that plays throughout the all-new sofas and chairs. Galaxy LoungeInspired by the glamorous theaters of yesteryear, Crystal is planning a grand redesign of its main theatre for live performances, Broadway-style musical productions, and lavish entertainment experiences. The elegant redo features namesake-reflective motifs, such as starburst lighting and carpeting and lit crystal-speckled wall panels that hint of the night sky. Formal purple drapes, "old gold" walls and a subtle diamond design in upholstery, fabric wallcovering, and glass doors suggest the richness of royalty. New, mohair chairs and sofas, cocktail tables, and ambient lighting underneath banquettes enhance the sophisticated supper club ambience. A new, limestone floor entrance is flanked by LCD screens announcing upcoming shows and attractions. Additional touches by London's SMC Design include artwork niches with abstract figurative sculpture and lively lilac, pink, and crimson shades befitting of a dramatic stage. Hollywood TheatreLondon-based Adfecto's redo of the ship's movie theater is a visual throwback to the classic Hollywood film era, with all comfort and technical advantages of contemporary cinemas. Plush leather armchairs with individual pull-out tables and an earth tone color palette of aubergine, ebony, cinnamon, ash grey, and ivory set the backdrop; circular-patterned carpeting, sconces lining the walls, and a new entrance reflect art deco elements. Technical updates include boosted surround sound audio processing and an enhanced lecture and presentation control system for enrichment speaker sessions. Bridge LoungeThe ship's space for cards, games, and presentations receives a refined rejuvenation via all new furniture, including game tables and chairs; lighting, including striking chandelier, sconces, and recessed fixtures; floor-to-ceiling window treatments; wallcoverings and ceiling feature; presentation tools, including podium, white board, storage, video and sound system; and silver, blue, and sage color scheme, all courtesy of KNA Design. Fantasia and WavesA new layout for both Fantasia kids play area and Waves teen video arcade creates separate areas for crafts, relaxation, screenings (two TVs), teens, and computer usage (teens and kids separate). Designer Adfecto has also chosen fun, asymmetrical furniture, FatboyTM bean bags, and vibrant colors like crimson, sapphire, and various shades of green. New interactive white board, board games, video game stations, and video project system further refresh junior activities options. Other ship enhancements include new electronic, "do not disturb" doorbells in all staterooms (as installed on Crystal Serenity last May) and environmentally-efficient lighting installations for all electric upgrades/changes. All remodeling, as well as bi-annual maintenance and cleaning, will take place while dry docked at Hamburg's Blohm + Voss shipyard from June 1 to 16. http://www.crystalcruisedestinations.com http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Crystal-Symphony-To-Receive-Posh-Redesign-262.html 2012-01-19 Travel News crystal cruises|crystal symphony LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Regent Seven Seas Cruises says its winter Caribbean cruises are nearly sold out. The reason, the company said, is because airfare, wine, premium spirits, sightseeing tours in every port and a Fort Lauderdale hotel stay before departure are included in the price. "Most of our guests book these sailings to escape cold weather in the Northeast and Midwest," said Mark Conroy, the line's president. "There is limited space left on our Caribbean cruises not only because of the warm weather, but travelers are taking advantage of our bonus savings of up $2,000 per suite." Guests can choose from as many as 51 complimentary shore excursions, which include learning to scuba dive in Cozumel and rappelling through caves in Belize. The cruise line's 10 "Tropical Escapes" are offered from January through April. Two-for-one fares start at $4,999 per guest and include free roundtrip air and bonus savings of up to $2,000 per suite on select sailings when booked by Dec. 30. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Regent-Caribbean-nearly-Sold-Out-261.html 2011-12-14 Travel News caribbean|regent Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Iberian Adventure, 11 nights onboard the Crystal Serenity from Barcelona, Spain to Lisbon, Portugal. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=18 2011-11-29 Experiences Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Australia and Asia, 2012 Sailings Enjoy a complimentary $100 onboard credit when you book an Oceanview, Verandah, Concierge Class, AquaClass or Suite. Plus, receive Prepaid Gratuities worth up to $390. Another benefit of booking through us, your Virtuoso Travel Professional. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Prepaid-Gratuities-PLUS-100-Onboard-Credit-252.html 2011-11-21 Travel News celebrity cruises|virtuoso Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises' $140 million program to "Solsticize" its fleet will now include a new bedding program called eXhale. The new bedding will first be installed on Celebrity Infinity when it completes a dry-dock renovation on Dec. 3. The eXhale mattresses are designed exclusively for Celebrity in partnership with Reverie, which specializes in luxury bedding. Hand-made in the U.S. with natural raw materials such as bamboo and sustainable natural rubber, the mattresses are almost entirely recyclable and biodegradable. The mattress features removable, hypo-allergenic, anti-bacterial and dust mite-resistant covers, and a breathable plush pillow top with an air flow design that helps circulate air through the mattress and keep guests cool as they sleep. Guests in Penthouse Suites, Royal Suites, Celebrity Suites and Sky Suites will sleep on a premium Reverie mattress. Those guests can have their mattress tailored to their liking, with a range of options from extra-plush to extra-firm. The eXhale bedding program also will feature custom-embroidered, 100 percent Egyptian cotton linens in all staterooms and suites. During its dry-dock renovation, Celebrity Infinity also will get AquaClass staterooms and the Blu restaurant, Qsine, Wi-Fi throughout the ship, the Celebrity iLounge that sells Apple products, the ice-topped Martini Bar and Crush, the Bistro on Five creperie, Cafe al Bacio and Gelateria, Cellarmasters wine bar with the wine serving system, new verandas added to Celebrity Suites, additional ocean-view and inside staterooms and an expanded collection of original contemporary art Each of the Millennium-class ships will be Solsticized at Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport, Bahamas. Celebrity Summit will undergo the work in January, followed by Celebrity Millennium in May. For more information, call (877) 394-8130 or visit www.celebritycruisedestinations.com. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Cruises-to-Roll-Out-New-eXhale-Bedding-248.html 2011-11-11 Travel News celebrity cruises|cruises|millennium class LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The US inaugural events for the new Celebrity Silhouette from Bayonne (Cape Liberty), NJ. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=17 2011-11-17 Experiences Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Enjoy a complimentary $100 onboard credit when you book an Oceanview, Verandah, Concierge Class or Suite. Plus, receive an Exceptional Offers booklet worth up to $350 in onboard savings. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/100-Onboard-Credit-plus-Onboard-Value-Booklet-247.html 2011-10-04 Travel News celebrity cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) A Virtuoso traveler wants to do more than just see sights. With a network of resources and personal connections, your travel advisor can create a custom adventure just for you. Peruse the pages of this Trips of a Lifetime Catalog for unique travel opportunities! Contact us to plan your next Trip of a Lifetime today! Ode To An Island You'll sing the praises of an amenities-filled stay - try French Polynesia, St. Lucia or the Galapagos. Fun In The Fresh Air Change your view in the Australian Outback, on safari in Africa, or exploring along the Amazon. Stay And Play Awhile With properties like these, why would you ever want to leave? From Stern To Bow Sail to ancient lands in Southeast Asia, meander along the blue Danube or venture to the Med. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Virtuoso-September-Travel-Catalog-246.html 2011-09-22 Travel News travel catalog|virtuoso Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 700-guest Seven Seas Voyager emerged from dry dock yesterday with elegantly renovated suites and public areas, completing the third phase of the ultra-luxury line's multi-phase, fleet-wide Seven Seas Signature initiative. As part of the ship's makeover, new ultra-plush carpeting was installed throughout the entire interior of the ship; 26 top suites were refreshed with new wallpaper, fabrics, curtains, decor and art pieces. In addition, Penthouse and higher-category suites have been equipped with iPads and selected suites also received new upgraded balcony furniture. Several enhancements were also made to the ship's elegant public rooms. The popular pre-dinner cocktail spot, Voyager Lounge, features new drapery and furniture, including sofas, armchairs, stools and tables, while new Turkish carpets bring added elegance to the Conoisseur Club. On Deck 11, refurbishments to the pool area include an updated Pool Bar and expanded Pool Grill, and marble-edged corridors that now lead guests to new wood flooring in the Observation Lounge. The ship's popular La Veranda restaurant has new chairs and wallpaper and the coffee bar on Deck 5 has been expanded to accommodate demand. As announced previously, enhancing the culinary experience was also a key element of Phase Three. Menus in Compass Rose were expanded with select items from the Signatures and Prime 7 specialty restaurants, as well as a greater emphasis on dishes from the regions visited. "Seven Seas Voyager is emerging as a fresh new product with thoughtful touches that will enhance our guests' overall experience," stated Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. "Through our Seven Seas Signature program we are continuing to evolve our brand and look forward to announcing additional updates in 2012-13." http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Regent-Seven-Seas-Voyager-Refurbished-245.html 2011-09-22 Travel News regent|regent seven seas cruises|regent voyager Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) From Valencia to Morocco, this issue is packed with plenty of enticing ways to satisfy your travel cravings. Good food and drink are an integral part of any trip. Where to eat (and where to toast) is practically as important as where to stay, what to do and how to get there. But long before you do get there, the integral part of any trip is your Virtuoso travel advisor, whose expertise and connections spice up every itinerary near and far Highlights Include: Chef's Table - Top toques dish on their favorite destinations, their inspirations, and where they eat on their nights off. Land of Dates and Honey - A culinary journey through Marrakech leaves no taste bud untickled. Hong Kong at Night - A photographer discovers the metropolis' life after dark. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Virtuoso-Life-for-NovDec-2011-243.html 2011-09-12 Travel News virtuoso life Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Starting Thursday, September 1st, 2011: Celebrity Value Sale - September 2011 Exclusively from Celebrity Cruise Destinations. Book an Oceanview, Balcony, Concierge Class, AquaClass or Suite categrory and receive up to $100 Onboard Credit. Select Alaska, Caribbean, Bermuda, Mediterranean, and Hawaii and South Pacific sailings. Onboard Celebrity Eclipse, Solstice, Summit, Millennium, Equinox and Constellation. Offer expires on September 31, 2011 $50 for 6 through 10 night voyages $100 for 11+ night voyages http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Value-Sale--September-2011-242.html 2011-08-30 Travel News celebrity cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The first in the Millennium Class series to be "Solstice-ized" was Celebrity Constellation. Rave reviews from guests sailing on the "new" vessel led the brand to expand the process further on Celebrity Infinity, which will emerge from drydock in early December, with Qsine housed in the space where Tuscan Grille delights guests on Celebrity Constellation. Complete Celebrity Infinity details Joining Qsine in the expanded revitalization of Celebrity Infinity will be: AquaClass accommodations - marking a Millennium-Class 'first' - allowing guests on Celebrity Infinity to experience the brand's popular spa-inspired accommodations and amenities the chic, Mediterranean-themed specialty restaurant, "Blu," offered exclusively for AquaClass guests the hip Celebrity iLounge, which debuted on Celebrity Eclipse and made Celebrity Cruises the industry's first Authorized Apple Reseller, and where guests can participate in Celebrity's "iLearn" enrichment series more private luxury havens with entirely new verandas added to the ship's spacious, sumptuous Celebrity Suites additional new oceanview and inside staterooms an expanded collection of original, contemporary art As on Celebrity Constellation, the following venues also will be incorporated on Celebrity Infinity during the ship's scheduled drydock period: a "cool" new ice-topped Martini Bar and Crush the vibrant creperie, Bistro on Five the inviting Cafe al Bacio and Gelateria Cellarmasters wine bar, complete with the "Enomatic" state-of-the-art wine serving system - an industry-first when it debuted on Celebrity Solstice - allowing guests to select wines by the glass, at the touch of a button more sumptuous suites, with all new furniture, flat-screen TVs, upholstery, bedding and carpeting restyled staterooms, with entirely new carpeting, flat-screen TVs, upholstery and bedding new color schemes, carpeting and upholstery reflective of the Solstice Class' stylish, modern design in every public venue "Everything we've introduced on our award-winning Solstice Class fleet, and everything we're adding to our popular Millennium Class ships, has been created to enhance that all-important feeling of getting away," said Celebrity's President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. "All of our new venues and onboard experiences - paired with the spectacular service of our dedicated crew - are designed to ensure our guests can make the most of their precious vacation time." Celebrity currently plans to similarly refurbish Celebrity Summit in January 2012, followed by Celebrity Millennium in April 2012. The already-revitalized Celebrity Constellation will be further refitted with the additional offerings in April 2013. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-"Solstice-izing"-the-Millennium-Class-241.html 2011-08-28 Travel News celebrity cruises|millennium|solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Regent Seven Seas Cruises has been recognized as the "Best Luxury Cruise Experience" by Virtuoso, the leading luxury travel network. The award-winning luxury line was chosen above other nominees as the very best in its category demonstrating dedication, innovation, hospitality and overall performance. The prestigious Virtuoso Performance Awards for 2011 were revealed August 18 at a gala dinner during Virtuoso's 23rd annual Travel Mart conference, which took place at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. Regent Seven Seas Cruises was also recently rated the "World's Best Cruise Line" by readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine. The ultra-luxury brand is the world's most inclusive cruise line and offers seven- to 119-night voyages to Alaska, Europe, India, the Far East, Australia, New Zealand, South America and the Caribbean. "We are proud to be recognized by Virtuoso as the best in a highly competitive set," stated Mark Conroy, president, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. "We take great pride in exceeding our guests' expectations every day. Our shipboard and shore-side staff has but one goal and that is to be the world's finest cruise line." http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Virtuoso-Name-Regent-Best-Luxury-Cruise-Experience-244.html 2011-09-22 Travel News regent|regent seven seas|travel mart|virtuoso Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The sleek silhouette of Celebrity Cruises' new Celebrity Silhouette has emerged from Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, where numerous area residents lined up to be among the first to see the fourth in Celebrity's stylish, five-ship Solstice Class fleet, Celebrity reports. Celebrity Silhouette sets sail in July of this year, enhancing guests' precious vacation time with a host of industry-first venues and experiences within The Lawn Club, Celebrity says. This includes the interactive "Lawn Club Grill," where guests can select and grill their own meats side-by-side with Celebrity's expert chefs, or have them cooked to order; the relaxing, private, wi-fi-equipped cabanas called "The Alcoves"; "The Porch," a breezy, casual dining spot offering sandwiches, coffees and captivating views of the sea and the ship's lush lawn, and "The Art Studio," where vacationers can bring out their inner artist. The ship also will present another entirely new venue, "The Hideaway," an intimate, quiet space reminiscent of a childhood tree house, Celebrity says. Celebrity Cruises' iconic "X" is the mark of the world's top-rated premium cruise line, with spacious, stylish interiors; dining experiences elevated to an art form; personalized service, with a guest-to-staff ratio of nearly 2:1; unexpected, trendsetting onboard activities, all designed to provide an unmatchable experience for vacationers' precious time. Celebrity sails to Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Bermuda, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal, South America, and year-round in the Galapagos Islands. Celebrity also offers immersive cruisetour experiences in Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America. One of the fastest-growing major cruise lines, Celebrity's fleet currently consists of nine ships, with two additional Solstice Class ships scheduled to join the fleet: Celebrity Silhouette in July 2011, and Celebrity Reflection in Fall 2012. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Silhouette-Debuts-in-July-240.html 2011-06-06 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity silhouette LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Book a Penthouse through Sky Suite on select Alaska, Bermuda and Mediterranean sailings and receive up to $1000 onboard value credit PLUS up to $360 in prepaid gratituities. It's Celebrity's Suite Deal - book before June 25, 2011. $250 Alaska & Bermuda in Sky & Century suites $500 Alaska & Bermuda in Penthouse, Royal & Celebrity suites $500 Europe sailings in Sky Suites $1000 Europe sailings in Penthouse, Royal & Celebrity suites http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Suite-Deal-from-Celebrity-239.html 2011-05-24 Travel News celebrity cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The eight-year-old Celebrity Constellation is the first of Celebrity Cruises' Millennium Class ships to undergo a top-to-bottom overhaul to make it more like the line's newer Solstice Class ships, a process the line is calling "Solsticizing." Among Solstice Class features added to the ship: A Tuscan Grille steakhouse; Bistro on Five creperie; ice-topped Martini Bar; Cafe al Bacio coffee house; and Cellarmasters wine bar. Complete Celebrity Constellation Details (photos from USA Today) http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Constellation-completes-Solsticizing-225.html 2011-01-24 Travel News celebrity constellation|celebrity cruises|solsticizing Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Book any of these Regent Seven Seas voyages and receive a FREE 3-Night Land Program, or save up to an additional $2,000 per suite. Whether you choose to head into the Outback and explore Ayers Rock, tour bustling Dubai, discover Singapore or Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, Regent Seven Seas Cruises gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of a region and it's all FREE! Now everything you've ever imagined about these distant lands can be yours to explore with unrivalled luxury. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Regent-FREE-3-Night-Land-Program-238.html 2011-05-08 Travel News regent|regent seven seas cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Regent Seven Seas Cruises, the world's most all-inclusive luxury line, will offer added amenities to guests in higher-level suites. Beginning with the 2012 summer season, guests in concierge-level and above suites will enjoy a range of benefits from priority shore excursion and restaurant reservations to upgrades and complimentary amenities. Guests in categories E and above on Seven Seas Mariner (beginning April 2, 2012) and Seven Seas Voyager (beginning April 16, 2012) and category D and above on Seven Seas Navigator (beginning May 30, 2012) will receive the following exclusive concierge services: Upgraded pre-cruise Luxury Hotel Package with higher room category or upgraded hotel property Priority online reservations on Shore Excursions for both FREE and Regent Choice tours, beginning 240 days before the cruise starts Priority online reservations in the specialty restaurants Prime 7 and Signatures 15 minutes of FREE phone calls and 60 minutes of FREE Internet access per suite 25% off premium wine and liquor purchases 10% off pre- or post-cruise Hotel or Land Programs 10% off Regent Choice shore excursions Eligible for suite upgrades at time of sailing, when available, with preference by booking date In-suite binoculars, coffee brewer and cashmere blanket Regent Seven Seas Cruises special gift Additionally, every voyage continues to include a complimentary luxury hotel package - complete with overnight, pre-cruise accommodations at a deluxe hotel including breakfast, airport-hotel and hotel-ship transfers as well as round-trip air; all-suite accommodations; gourmet cuisine served in open-seating restaurants; open bars; free and unlimited shore excursions; gratuities and taxes. The new Concierge-Level amenities and services are in addition to Regent Seven Seas Cruises' acclaimed Seven Seas Society benefits and perfectly complement the line's award-winning service and pampering it is renowned for. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Regent-Concierge-Level-Amenities-237.html 2011-05-08 Travel News regent|regent seven seas cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Exclusively from Celebrity Cruise Destinations. Book an Oceanview, Balcony, Concierge Class, AquaClass or Suite categrory and receive up to $100 Onboard Credit. Select Alaska, Caribbean, Bermuda, Mediterranean, and Hawaii and South Pacific sailings. Onboard Celebrity Eclipse, Solstice, Summit, Millennium, Equinox and Constellation. Offer expires on April 30, 2011 $50 for 6, 7 & 10 night voyages $100 for 11+ night voyages PLUS 50% REDUCED DEPOSIT http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Value-Sale--April-2011-236.html 2011-04-02 Travel News celebrity|onboard credit|sale Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Ever wanted to go everywhere? With so many incredible vacation spots around the world, choosing only one destination is a very difficult decision. Even if choosing only one destination was not difficult enough, finding a vacation to go on that does not cost an arm and a leg and fits into your busy schedule is very difficult. We have not even mentioned the stress of organizing and arranging the transportation yet. No wonder most Americans do not go on vacation! Do not abandon all hopes of a quality vacation though. There are a couple of tricks to finding affordable travel to your desired vacation spots without adding stress or expense to your life. Trick #1: Book Early or Last Minute The first trick to finding affordable travel deals is booking tours, transportation, and accommodations early or finding an all-inclusive tour last minute. If you start planning early you usually have the most flexibility in your schedule, and those you are booking with have the most options to offer. Try writing down all the possible destinations and regions you want to explore and then do a little research. It is possible to find travel tours that explore specific regions or even cruises that start in Bermuda and take you all the way to Spain letting you visit numerous vacation spots for your money. If your schedule all of a sudden clears up and your weekend is free, you might just find a last minute deal to a destination you want to go to too! But last minute deals leave you at risk of not finding your preferred vacation spot (but you may find an adventure) so just be aware! Trick #2: Try Group Travel Deals The second trick to finding affordable travel to the best vacation spots is inviting your extended family and friends to join you. Traveling in a group is one of the best ways to make your vacation affordable. Whether you use a tour operator or book everything personally, traveling in a group means that everyone saves money because the group has more buying power to get discounts. Whenever you are buying for a group, ask for group discounts on everything from accommodations and transportation to dining and amenities. Trick #3: Keep Informed Make sure you are signed up to receive notifications on deals to the vacations spots you want to go most. There are numerous web fare newsletters and alerts that you can sign up for instant notifications with so you will know when the best deals on affordable travel hit the market. Some websites even allow you to set up destination specific alerts on fares. If you keep informed, when affordable travel deals to the best vacation spots become available, you will be the first to know. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Tricks-to-Finding-Affordable-Travel-Deals-to-the-B-235.html 2011-03-22 Travel News affordable travel|sightseeing|tour operator|tours|travel deals|travel tips|trip|vacations Mia (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Get ready for some company, Sydney Opera House. Another thing of beauty will share Sydney Harbour when premium cruise brand Celebrity Cruises sends its award-winning Celebrity Solstice to Australia and New Zealand for the winter of 2012-13. "Celebrity Solstice has satisfied guests around the world since we introduced her in 2008, and the obvious next step is to send her to Australia," said Dan Hanrahan, President and CEO, Celebrity Cruises. "With this move, we are delivering another way for people to have the best vacation experience possible, in one of the most stunning geographic regions of the world." Australians will enjoy the return of the Celebrity Cruises brand to the region this coming winter with the deployment of the 1,814-guest Celebrity Century. Her subsequent replacement by the 2,850-guest Celebrity Solstice is a symbol of the premium cruise brand's ever-expanding global presence and the popularity of the service, activities, cuisine, and stylish design exemplified on its Solstice Class ships, which are frequently rated as the best by consumer- and travel agent-focused publications around the globe. Recent accolades include the Solstice Class being named among "Best Cruise Ships" by Frommers.com and Celebrity being named "Best Premium Cruise Line" and "Best Cruise Line in Europe" by the readers of Travel Weekly. "Travelers around the world value their vacation time, and we want to give them more opportunities to enjoy Celebrity's signature attributes, including the first Lawn Club and Hot Glass show at sea, more spacious staterooms, our AquaClass staterooms geared toward the spa enthusiast lifestyle, multiple specialty restaurants, the Celebrity iLounge and state-of-the-art entertainment, in more places. The culture and way of life in Australia and New Zealand are an ideal backdrop for our Solstice Class style and the overall onboard experience." Celebrity Solstice will transition from a 2012 summer in the Mediterranean Australia/New Zealand via the Suez Canal and through Southeast Asia before arriving in Sydney, Australia in early December. The repositioning sailings will include multiple overnights in ports including Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Cochin, India. Upon arriving in Australia, Celebrity Solstice will present a series of 12- and 13-night open-jaw sailings between Sydney and Auckland, New Zealand. The season also will include a circumnavigation of Australia, consisting of two open-jaw sailings between Sydney and Perth (Fremantle). Many of the itineraries include overnight stays in Sydney. Celebrity Solstice will continue a series of destination-immersive onboard activities that will debut during Celebrity Century's upcoming Australia/New Zealand season; activities include local vineyard and wine shore excursions, onboard talks by local cultural entertainers and speakers, and destination-focused food and drink menus. Some activities will be complimentary. Celebrity will continue to offer its popular Australia/New Zealand cruisetour program geared toward guests who wish to combine a land-based vacation with a cruise. Premium concierge-style service is the hallmark of Celebrity's four- and five-night pre- and post-cruise escorted land tour packages in Australia, which will visit destinations including Port Douglas (Great Barrier Reef), Ayers Rock (Uluru) and Sydney. A six-night pre-cruise New Zealand package will visit Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown and Sydney. Highlights include a full-day tour over the Great Barrier Reef and a gourmet barbecue dinner under the outback sky in Ayers Rock. All of Celebrity's cruisetours are escorted by local tour directors, and include hotel accommodations, transportation, select activities, breakfast and some additional meals. Full details will be available on March 23, when bookings for Celebrity's new 2012-13 Australia/New Zealand itineraries will open for sale. Bookings for the 1,814-guest Celebrity Century's 2011-12 Australia/New Zealand cruises are open now. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Solstice-to-make-Down-Under-debut-234.html 2011-03-08 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice|south pacific|sydney Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Book a neighborhood balcony overlooking Central Park or the Boardwalk on Oasis or Allure and receive $100 onboard credit. Use your credit toward onboard purchases, including shore excursions, spa treatments and more. Available on Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas 7-night sailings in March, April and May 2011. See complete details here http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/100-Onboard-Credit--Balcony-Bookings-233.html 2011-03-04 Travel News Allure of the Seas|oasis of the seas|royal caribbean Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Exclusively from Celebrity Cruise Destinations. Book an Oceanview, Balcony, Concierge Class, AquaClass or Suite categrory and receive up to $100 Onboard Credit. Select Caribbean, Bermuda, Mediterranean, and Hawaii and South Pacific sailings. Onboard Celebrity Eclipse, Solstice, Summit, Millennium, Equinox and Constellation. Offer expires on March 31, 2011 $25 for 4 night voyages $50 for 6, 7 & 10 night voyages $100 for 11+ night voyages PLUS 50% REDUCED DEPOSIT Complete Details and Voyages http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Value-Sale-for-March-232.html 2011-02-28 Travel News celebrity cruises|value sale Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) EXPLORE THE RAINFOREST WITH EASE ON AZAMARA At Azamara Club Cruises, they understand that for you to "love where we take you", you have to get there first. The Amazon River voyages on Azamara Journey departing October 25 and November 8, 2011 leave from the smaller port of Manaus, Brazil. To ensure that you get to the ship with ease and convenience, Azamara is offering a great value on air package add-ons to these 2 voyages. Air travel, transfers and overnight hotel (if flight schedule requires) start at just $300. Complete Offer Details and Voyages http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Azamara-Brazil--Reduced-Air-231.html 2011-02-24 Travel News airfare deals|azamara club cruises|reduced air Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) If you're looking for a relaxing vacation the whole family can enjoy, look no further than this. Check out the new Aqua Park in Labadee, a Royal Caribbean International private island paradise. Or explore the wonders of Ephesus, Rome, Crete or Athens. And when the grownups need some alone time, consider these indulgent ideas. Explore Jamaica's jaw dropping waterfalls. Or simply unwind with a soothing massage at the spa, compliments of your Virtuoso travel advisor! Enjoy a $50 onboard credit PLUS a complimentary spa treatment when you book your Caribbean or Mediterranean cruise by March 31, 2011. Choose from a Swedish massage, Reflexology-including massage or a La Therapie Hydrolift Facial! $50 Onboard Credit PLUS Spa Treatment Complete Details Here http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/50-Onboard-Credit-PLUS-Spa-Treatment-230.html 2011-02-23 Travel News Allure of the Seas|oasis of the seas|royal caribbean Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Tracy Arm Fjord is perhaps one of the most dramatic locations in all of North America. Completely protected within the Tongass National Forest, this fjord stretches some 25 miles up into the Coastal Range Mountains. Tracy Arm Fjord is home to Sawyer Glacier. Though it's not as well known as Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier, several naturalists feel Sawyer Glacier is even more spectacular. Framed by 7000 foot-high snowcapped mountains which drop immediately to sea level, the area is surrounded by sheer 1500 to 2000 foot walls of granite falling into the extremely narrow passage, creating countless waterfalls and strange rock formations covered in forest, and trees hanging on to precipices at impossible angles. Sawyer Glacier boasts an impressive list of wildlife: black and brown bears, deer, wolves and moose. This narrow, 26 mile long fjord is another of Alaska's most dramatic glacier settings. The panorama of 7000 foot mountain peaks and nearly vertical rock cliffs is astounding. Countless waterfalls appear at every turn. Icebergs make their way to the sea in all sorts of incredible shapes. And tucked away at the end of this remarkable waterway are two very active reminders of the Ice Age - the twin Sawyer Glaciers.The face of South Sawyer Glacier stretches one-third of a mile and calves icebergs big and small. Hundreds of harbor seals dot the floating platforms. Kittiwakes and mountain goats are a common sight. Whales and bears may even make an appearance in this magical place where closeness and intimacy make you part of the scene. Great rates are available on cruises roundtrip from Seattle that include Tracy Arm & Sawyer Glacier. http://www.celebritycruisedestinations.com/infinity-offer-2226.html http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Alaska--Tracy-Arm-Sawyer-Glacier-229.html 2011-02-21 Experiences alaska|alaska cruises|celebrity cruises LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Oceania Cruises - Free airfare, pre-paid gratuities, $300 in shipboard credits and complimentary champagne are yours when you book one of these voyages through your Virtuoso travel advisor between February 21 - March 6, 2011. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Experience-Value-without-Compromise!-228.html 2011-02-17 Travel News oceania cruises|onboard credit offer Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) From a client that just completed a 17-night South America and Antarctica Cruise aboard the Holland America Veendam. Sailing from Buenos Aires to Valparaiso they experienced a relatively calm Drakes passage crossing and amazing views of Antarctia. "Thank you for all the coordination and arrangements made for our trip. It was SPECTACULAR to say the least. The weather in Antartica was extremely unusual: Clear Blue skies and mirror calm seas. Attached are a few photos of this strange phenomenon (as the captain described it). Even the crew of the ms Veendam were stunned and all over the decks taking pictures as well." Thanks to A. Romero for these amazing photographs! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/South-America-and-Antarctica-aboard-Holland-America-226.html 2011-01-28 Experiences antarctica|holland america|veendam Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) 10-night voyage from Puntarenas, Costa Rica to San Francisco, Calfornia. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=16 2011-01-04 Travel News Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Book these Virtuoso Exclusive Departures through us, your Virtuoso Travel Specialist, and receive exclusive benefits at no additional cost, including: Competitive cruise fare Complimentary 2-category stateroom upgrade Up to $150 Onboard Spending Credit Includes Alaska, South Pacific, Bermuda, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe/Baltic, Hawaii, Panama Canal and Transatlantic departures. Sailing on Celebrity Millennium, Equinox, Solstice, Infinity, Eclipse, Summit, Century, Constellation and Silhouette for 2011 and early 2012. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Cruises-Upgrades-and-Onboard-Credit-209.html 2010-11-16 Travel News celebrity cruises|virtuoso Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) A unique stateroom category onboard the Solstice class ships (Solstice, Equinox, Eclipse and Silhouette) is an obstructed balcony. These balcony staterooms are located on Deck 6, one deck above the open deck Promenade. Lifeboats and tenders hang above this promenade which creates the obstructions for category 2C and 2D staterooms. In both cases, these obstructions prevent a view downward to the ocean, or along the pier. However, they do not block the horizon view. For 2C category, the top of the lifeboats are level with the floor of the balcony, leaving the entire glass balcony wall open for viewing. For 2D category, the top of the tender is level with the top of the balcony railing. Feedback from Solstice class guests has been that these categories can be an exceptional value when compared to Oceanview staterooms. Instead of having an inoperable window or porthole, you are treated to private outside space - prefect for enjoying an early morning coffee or late evening star gazing. For those that would normally purchase a balcony, these obstructed view balconies may be a bit of a disappointment because of the slightly limited views, a bit less privacy due to the proximity of the promenade and the location on Deck 6, one of the lowest public decks onboard. Our Advise: If you prefer an oceanview category, make sure you ask us to quote an obstructed balcony - you might find that the upgrade cost is minimal. If you prefer a balcony, ask us to quote a Concierge Class or AquaClass balcony - you'll love the extra amenities including private dining in Blu - for what might be a minimal cost. During the Eclipse Inaugural events, we snapped these pictures from inside a 2D category stateroom. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Eclipse-Staterooms-212.html 2010-12-26 Experiences celebrity cruises|celebrity eclipse|celebrity equinox|celebrity silhouette|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Our first full day onboard begins with breakfast in the Oceanview Cafe. Celebrity Solstice class ships don't have the traditional buffet. Instead, food items are organized around serving stations such as breads and pastries, cheeses, hot items, pasta, a carvery, etc. These stations allow much smaller portions to be presented, keeping everything warmer and fresher and eliminate the lines always associated with traditional buffets. Since this ship has just come from 6 months sailing from Southampton, England there are some great British selections such as bangers, black pudding, baked beans and mushrooms. During a morning "Building Bridges" session, Celebrity execs present plans for upgrades to some of the older ships in the fleet and talk about the upcoming delivery of 2 additional Solstice class ships. They also announced a major refurbishment program to the Celebrity Infinity. During drydock in December, the Infinity will receive AquaSpa class staterooms, the exclusive Blu and Tuscan Grill restaurants, new oceanview and verandah rooms, conversion of Cova Cafe to Cafe al Bacio and Gelateria, the Cellar Masters wine bar and other "Solstice-styling" of stateroom and public areas. After a relaxing afternoon, we're delighted to learn that we've been invited to dine in Blu this evening (thanks Sharon!). Blu is one of the specialty restaurants onboard the Solstice Class ships, but with an exclusive twist: only Aqua Class guests are invited to Blu - without a service fee! According to the invite, we'll be joining a table of 8. However when we arrive, we are quickly shown to a intimate corner table for 2 - awesome! The menu is Blu is advertised as "fresh and flavorful", but the choices are not what you might expect. All entree selections appear hardy and tasty, with perhaps a leaning toward leaner poultry and vegetarian selections. After enjoying wonderful appetizers and salads, we are presented with beef and chicken entrees, plus a 'sharing' sampling of Blu's crab risotto. The meal is delicious! With the menu changing daily, plus breakfast offerings, this is a definite "must-do"! In addition to unique spa access & services, in room amenities, the distinction to dine complimentary in Blu makes Aqua Class a unique value. Aqua (AQ) Class offers: Complimentary admission to the Persian Gardens (steam rooms & loungers) and Solarium (adults only area and pool) Complimentary access to spa Relaxation Room Complimentary breakfast & dinners in Blu. Unique bathroom amenities including relaxing rain head shower. Addition of spa elements into your stateroom. Priority boarding / leaving off the ship. Express luggage delivery. Special Robes, daily Hor dourves, and Fresh Fruit in stateroom. Complimentary bottled water and iced tea. Extra cruise credit towards Captains Club status. Following our wonderful experience in Blu, we attend the 2nd show called Ovations. This Broadway style show rates better than the previous show, but still seems a bit "off". Perhaps the move from England to South Florida saw a change in some of the actors? Whatever it is, the Eclipse shows (the two that we've seen) are a bit of a disappointment. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Inaugural-Events-onboard-the-Celebrity-Eclipse-211.html 2010-11-25 Experiences celebrity cruises|celebrity eclipse Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) After sailing from Southampton since April, the Celebrity Eclipse has now repositioned to Miami, the new homeport for the winter Caribbean season. To introduce the beautiful new ship to the US market, Celebrity Eclipse is hosting travel industry and media guests on 2-night Inaugural Event sailings. We're onboard the second sailing tonight and tomorrow night to re-acquaint ourselves with this 3rd Solstice class ship. After spending Sunday night near the Ft. Lauderdale airport, we transfer to the Miami cruise port and are onboard the Eclipse by about 1pm. It's been many years since we've sailed from Miami. The port has continued to be upgraded, and highlights the beautiful downtown skyline very well. It's a bit of a challenge to maneuver through narrow streets that lead to the pier causeway, but an underwater tunnel and bridge upgrades promise to ease this congestion by 2014. As is typical with these inaugural events, many stateroom categories are open for inspection and we tour everything from the Royal Suite, to Sky Suites to Verandahs and even a handicap accessible inside. Having been assigned to early dining (and not ready to eat at 4pm Denver time) we opted to check out Bistro on Five just before the show. This crepe and sandwich eatery has received rave reviews which we would agree with. This is a definite "must-do" for anyone onboard a Solstice class ship. ($5 cover charge for breakfast, lunch or dinner) Tonight the ship's cast presents Edge, a song and dance show in the main theatre. We were under whelmed by this show, but many of the passengers seemed to really enjoy it. After a quick trip to the upper decks to see the lawn club in the moonlight, it's off to bed. More tomorrow! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Greetings-from-onboard-the-Celebrity-Eclipse-210.html 2010-11-25 Experiences celebrity cruises|celebrity eclipse Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Regent Seven Seas Cruises has raised the "all-inclusive" bar by offering complimentary overnight hotel accomodations, transfers and breakfast before every cruise. The Regent Luxury Hotel Package will be offered beginning on Navigator, sailinging from Ft. Lauderdale in January, on Mariner sailing from Rome in April and Voyager sailing from London in June. Following these launch dates, the package will be available in virtually all embarkation cities! This pre-cruise hotel package is in addition to the other inclusive amenities offered: Free Roundtrip Air Free Unlimited Shore Excursions Free Open Bar All Staff Gratuities No additional charges for onboard speciality resturants 24-hour complimentary room service Applies to new bookings only, after October 20th, 2010. If you were previously booked on a 2011 sailing. please contact us for options to add this Free Hotel Package to your booking. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Regent-Cruises-offers-Free-Hotel-Packages-208.html 2010-10-21 Travel News regent seven seas cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) As part of an ongoing commitment to offer premium vacation experiences based on guests' tastes and preferences, Celebrity Cruises is revamping its evening offerings in its "lido," or primary casual dining, venues. Transitioning away from a sit-down experience and moving toward an "international marketplace" approach featuring a flavorful lineup of food stations, the offerings will blend classic and contemporary cuisine inspired by the popularity of global culinary influences and an ever-increasing number of guests from around the world. "Since the launch of our Solstice Class in 2008, our guests have shared a great deal of positive feedback about the flavors and variety offered in our marketplace-style Oceanview Cafe venues, so we are taking that concept to the rest of the fleet," said Jacques Van Staden, Vice President, Culinary Operations. "We have created a menu that speaks to the tastes of our guests, who are intrigued by the culinary arts and a truly global range of flavors and cooking styles." The new evening casual dining service will present a flavorful array of authentic cuisine, including: A made-to-order curry station featuring Indian staples such as raitha, papadums and paratha; A full made-to-order pasta station enhanced with assorted breads and a salad bar; Two fresh, made-to-order sushi stations; Two made-to-order stir-fry stations featuring Asian-inspired ingredients and preparation; A Mediterranean-inspired lineup of antipasti, olives, cheeses and assorted cold meats; A carving station, grilled meats such as pork chops, New York strip steak, and chicken breast, and grilled fish; Multiple fresh vegetables, A "loaded" baked potato station, and a variety of sauces such as bearnaise and gravies; A made-to-order pizza station open until 12:30 am, that features fresh garlic bread and antipasti items; and Two dessert stations. Celebrity will no longer offer tableside service in a traditional "sit-down" style during its evening casual dining service. This change is another testament to the popularity of Celebrity's Solstice Class ships. Earlier this year, Celebrity announced that it would "Solsticize," or retrofit, its Millennium Class ships with some of the most compelling features found on the Solstice Class ships. Celebrity's evening lido dining service will begin at 6 pm each evening. Celebrity Century, Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Summit will transition to the new service by the end of October. The changes will not affect Celebrity Xpedition, the 92-guest megayacht sailing year-round in the Galapagos Islands. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Cruises-Adds-New-Dining-Flavors-205.html 2010-10-13 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) After departing Royal Hideaway in Playacar, we're once again headed north along the coastal highway toward Cancun. Our destination is Maroma Resort, the 4th and final resort that we'll stay at during our week of touring the Riviera Maya. With only 65 guest rooms & suites, Maroma is the smallest resort that we've visited (128 at Mandarin Oriental, 200 at Royal Hideaway and 401 at Fairmont Mayakoba) and perhaps the most private. By the time you've wound your way along the long driveway surrounded by jungle, you have no sense of any other resorts or distractions beyond Maroma. Because of its small size, most of the building are grouped very near the beautiful white sand beach. At the heart of the resort is the Kinan Spa. With multiple treatment rooms (all oriented west to east representing the balance of day and night), quiet relaxation areas, and thundering waterfalls the spa is an calming oasis in the jungle. Two main restaurants are available on the property. El Sol, serving dinner, was unfortunately closed during our visit. El Restaurante in the main building offers both inside and beach side seating and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Next to the beach dining area is Freddy's Tequila and Ceviche Bar featuring over 100 tequilas and daily varieties of ceviche. In addition to this huge selection of Tequila (largest on the Riviera Maya they say) the resort has an impressive selection of wines acknowledged by the Award of Excellence from The Wine Spectator 2008-2010. Sommelier Alex Rioux from Montreal, Canada is always available to offer advice and opinions of the 350+ label/3300 bottle cellar that he is rebuilding at Maroma. Alex moved to Mexico in 2006 as a wine steward at another resort property. In 4 years in Mexico he's acheived professional training and accreditation with the Associacion Mexicana de Sommelier.Rooms at Maroma range from the Charming room, a smaller-sized accommodation on the interior of the property to one bedroom beachfront suites and the huge 4 bedroom Villa Karolina. We enjoyed a 1 bedroom, 2nd story Oceanfront Sian Nah Suite complete with two balconies, a private plunge pool, bathroom with indoor soaking tub, dual sinks, indoor/outdoor shower, private gym/fitness area and a rooftop double table spa treatment room. A wonderful indulgence! Of the four properties that we've explored, Maroma undoubtedly takes the "most private, intimate, romantic and secluded" award. The service here is outstanding and the beach is one of the best along the Riviera Maya. It's no wonder that Maroma Resort consistently tops the list of best categories and has hosted celebrities from all over the world including Tony Blair, Prince Charles, Robert Redford, Tom Cruise and Sharon Stone. Maroma has been selected as one of the "best places to stay in the world" by Conde Nast Travelers in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Greetings-from-Maroma-Resort-Riviera-Maya-207.html 2010-10-18 Experiences maroma resort|mexico|Riviera Maya Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) After leaving the Mandarin, we again turn south along the coastal highway toward Playa del Carmen. On the south side of the town is Playacar, an established residential and resort area surrounding by a golf course. Our destination, the Royal Hideaway is about mid-way along the stretch of beach that is home to a number of upscale, all-inclusive properties. After checking in at the gate, once again the rental car is quickly emptied of luggage, whisked away by the valet and a cool towel and a glass of champagne offered while we check-in. We've arrived before the room is available, but the full hospitality of the resort is available. We head down to the pool and beach area to enjoy lunch at The Deck restaurant. In total there are 7 dining venues at Royal Hideaway, the most casual being this one and Spices, the Mexican restaurant upstairs. The Deck doubles as The Grill in the evening offering grilled specialties in a romantic beachside setting. Located near the main lobby are Las Ventanas the signature restaurant, Palazzo serving fine Italian cuisine, Club Royal a unique dinner theatre, and Azia for Japanese cuisine. The property is comprised of a large building at the front with the lobby some retail shops and the majority of the restaurants. Behind this entrance, are approximately 10 3-story buildings containing the guestrooms. At the beach are two pools and the remaining restaurants. The architecture at Royal Hideaway feels Colonel British except for the beautiful white sand beach, you almost imagine yourself in Singapore or Hong Kong. The resort offers 4 room categories from a Presidential Suite to a two-story Duplex Suite and both garden and ocean view Luxury rooms. We stayed in a first-floor, ocean view Luxury room. The room was comfortable and quiet. This category provides a nicely furnished sleeping area with large patio or veranda, a armor with stereo system, mini-fridge and a tube TV. The bathroom area incorporates a small walk-in closet, double sinks and a separate tub and small, slightly claustrophobic shower. The all-inclusive nature of Royal Hideaway makes it convenient to stop for a quick snack or drink at any of the beachside venues. It seems a bit strange to just get up and leave the table without the familiar check, room charge, tip and guest signature steps that we are all used to. We enjoyed 5 of the 7 dining venues at Royal Hideaway; The Deck and Spices for lunch, Azia and Las Ventanas for dinner and Spices for breakfast. Overall the dining experiences were pleasant, but only Las Ventanas was truly exceptional. Other menus and meals were on the same scale as 4 star resorts and mass-market cruise lines. Service in all venues was exceptional to good. The all-inclusive nature of Royal Hideaway is a strength. Many guests will enjoy having pre-paid for their entire vacation without additional costs at the resort. The location near Playa del Carmen may entice some who want a bit more energetic night life. But, the Royal Hideaway beach is also very nice for those that want to chill, relax and never leave the resort. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Greetings-from-Royal-Hideaway-Playacar-206.html 2010-10-15 Experiences mexico|Riviera Maya|royal hideaway Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Our next stop is the Mandarin Oriental resort, just a few blocks north of the Fairmont. This property is situated on a narrow strip of land that is over 1 mile from the entrance gate to the beachfront restaurant. All of the buildings are laid out in groups accessed from a golf cart and walking trail on the north edge of the property. Following the lobby area is the spa including the fitness center, 8 private treatment rooms, 2 VIP couples treatment rooms, a small adults-only outdoor lap pool, and two (men's/women's) indoor pools. A cluster of 2 story guestroom buildings around a natural freshwater lake are located after the spa. In the center of the property are 6 Art Courtyards, each with unique sculpture landscaping and artworks by well-known Mexican artists. Each of these courtyards has 4 guestroom buildings with 1 and 2 bedroom floor plans, many offering connecting making them perfect for groups or large families. Next to these courtyard rooms is another cluster of 2 story builds grouped around a lagoon area followed by a small convention/meeting area and the properties signature restaurant, Ambar. A short golf cart ride away is the beach are of the property, complete with a beautiful infinity pool, an all-day restaurant and additional ocean view and beachfront suites and guestrooms. We stayed in one of the very contemporary ground floor Laguna rooms. These rooms feature a large entrance area with mini-bar and walk in closet. To one side is an oversized bathroom area with floor to ceiling windows looking onto a private courtyard complete with an huge soaking tub. This bath area offers twin sinks, a separate toilet area and a large two-person shower with dual rain showers. Across the entrance area is the bedroom with two walls of floor to ceiling windows which open on the corner extending the room onto the terrace. Beyond the terrace is a small grass area leading to the lagoon. These Laguna rooms are over 1000 square feet including the terrace. Cool and modern these rooms feature black and white fabrics, with rough limestone wall accents and beautiful wood plan floors. After arriving mid-afternoon, we opt to spend the remaining time at the pool area. We started with a late lunch, an afternoon swim and enjoyed watching the cruise ships departing Cozumel as the sun set. The food and beverage service was awesome, the just the right amount of advise and interaction from the very professional staff at the Mandarin. The next morning we enjoyed breakfast at the beach restaurant, looked at the spa and other guest rooms and departed the Mandarin bound for our next resort property. The Mandarin's strengths include beautiful, contemporary rooms and the superb service provided by their staff. We enjoyed their ability to not only provide services and advise, but also their willingness to interact on a more personal level. Our conversations moved from cruising (one of the restaurant staff had worked on a cruise ship) to NFL football (another had followed the Denver Broncos and knew of John Elway) to skiing in Colorado. Our room, the lobby area, the spa and the beach pool/restaurant were very well maintained, however during the site inspection we noticed that some (perhaps normally unused) areas that were not 100%. Small items such as broken pathway lights, cement and rust stains, accumulations of dust and dirt were surprisingly noticeable hopefully indicating work to be done in this "off season". http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Greetings-from-the-Mandarin-Oriental-Riviera-Maya-204.html 2010-10-13 Experiences mexico|Riviera Maya Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The Fairmont on the Riviera Maya, located south of Cancun and just north of Playa del Carmen, is the first resort in our tour of 4 luxury properties along Mexico's Riviera Maya. We'll only spend one night here but will try to explore and experience as much as possible. After picking up our rental car, we head south along the coast for about 30 minutes until we leave the highway at signs for "Mayakoba". Checking in at the front gate, we follow a winding cobblestone lane to the entrance of the hotel. As expected, our bags and the rental car are whisked away, a cool towel provided and an inviting glass of juice offered as we check-in. Looking toward the Caribbean Sea from the lobby, this property looks huge, it's spread out over many acres of lush tropical foliage and what appear to be natural lagoons. Our room has been upgraded (thank you Virtuoso amenities) to a Deluxe Casita Room with a large bedroom area including a work area, a private veranda, and a beautiful bathroom area with a glass enclosed shower and an oversized tub. The bathroom had a full wall of glass looking onto a private terrace area planted with tropical vines and flowers giving you the feeling of showering in the jungle. All rooms have natural wood or marble on the floors, an abundance of natural wood and local limestone walls with neutral to dark color schemes providing a comfortable environment. The property is laid out around the natural mangrove forests common in the Yucatan. Canals and lagoons have been excavated from the limestone and filled naturally from the underground aquifer. The majority of the property is encircled by these canals producing a feeling of a tropical Venice. Centered behind the lobby and convention facility is a large island where the main pool is located. Beyond this huge pool area is one of the several restaurants, La Laguna, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Along each side of this central area are the guest rooms, tower rooms near the main lobby and the Casita style rooms along private paths and canals around the outside. Further toward the beach is Las Brisas restaurant, serving dinner only, the beach Tikki Bar and a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the white sand beach and crashing surf below. Beachfront and Oceanview guestrooms are beyond this pool area providing the best views and privacy on the property. The 18 hole Greg Norman designed golf course which completely surrounds the property is only visible from a few outer area locations. The golf course along with the natural mangrove forest give this resort a very quiet, peaceful setting. The Fairmont Mayakoba's strengths include the golf course, beautiful pool areas, lavish landscaping, and a quiet, serine environment. For the holidays, they offer a large program including Santa's arrival, kids entertainment, specialized spa treatments, and touring options. As you would expect, the staff and service levels are amazing here, with most staff speaking excellent English and the ability to assist in nearly any way necessary. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Greetings-from-Fairmont-Mayakoba-Riveria-Maya-Me-203.html 2010-10-11 Experiences fairmont|mexico|riveria maya Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) With sunny shores and crystal waters at every turn, you may wonder what to do first. Thankfully, your Virtuoso travel advisor has connections (and unbelievable extras) throughout the Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean and Mexico. Book your next getaway in an Outside or above stateroom on one of these select sailings by October 31, 2010 and enjoy a Complimentary Spa Treatment per stateroom plus a Complimentary Dinner for Two at one of the Specialty Restaurants onboard - a combined value of $150! Available on Oasis of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas sailing to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, Bermuda, Bahamas and Caribbean and the Mexican Riviera. Offer Expires October 31, 2010 http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Complimentary-Dinner-for-Two-and-Spa-Treatment-202.html 2010-09-29 Travel News royal caribbean Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) In light of the images of sun and shadow conveyed in the names of Celebrity Cruises' stylish Solstice Class ships, the world's top-rated premium brand is marking autumnal equinox by announcing the name of the fifth in its 'Xceptional' series: Celebrity Reflection. "Selecting the name of the fifth ship in the class led us to reflect back on the significant impact the Solstice Class has had on the cruise industry," said Celebrity's President and CEO Dan Hanrahan. "Our Solstice Class ships offer the finest in premium cruising, with service provided by the best men and women in the hospitality business, as evidenced by the tremendous response from our guests, travel partners and the press, and a continuously expanding series of prestigious awards. There is no question that Celebrity Reflection will deliver an equally outstanding vacation experience for our guests." Following delivery in November 2012, Celebrity Reflection will join Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Equinox, Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Silhouette, rounding out the $3.7-billion class. The hip "Celebrity iLounge" that made Celebrity Cruises the industry's first Authorized Apple Reseller Uniquely unordinary "Qsine," the first seagoing restaurant to feature a menu and wine list on an iPad, and an engaging food-as-theater dining experience Celebrity's iconic half-acre Lawn Club, with real, growing grass Ten unrivaled dining venues, including Qsine Modern, stylish interiors designed by some of the world's best architects and designers Hip, cool nightclubs and lounges, including CellarMasters, complete with the industry's first installation of the innovative Enomatic by-the-glass wine serving system One of the broadest and best wine offerings in the industry, served by one of the world's largest staffs of certified sommeliers One of the world's largest permanent collections of original contemporary art, and the industry's first self-guided art tours to be presented on an iPad Widely varied entertainment, including breathtaking aerial acts The extensive array of entertaining and enriching onboard programming offered through "Celebrity Life," including instruction on the latest iPods, MacBooks and iLife classes; language learning through Rosetta Stone; comparative wine tastings with Riedel Crystal, and enrichment presentations with Smithsonian Journeys http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Names-5th-Solstice-Class-Ship-201.html 2010-09-29 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) After leaving Labadee, and a 2nd sea day, we've arrived at Costa Maya, Mexico. Just a few miles from the town of Mahahual, Costa Maya is a purpose built cruise ship port. The long pier leads to a small shopping complex with the traditional Diamonds International type stores. There is a swimming pool area and plenty of small stalls offering local Mexican beer and margaritas. Instead of remaining at Costa Maya, we've opted to visit the beach villa of friends from Colorado. This home is located about 20 miles north of Costa Maya. Departing the pier area we find plenty of cabs that offer $2 transfers (per person) to Mahahual. Here we meet up with the owner of Costa Maya Tours to pick up our Jeep rental. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from Mahahual to Casa Maria near El Placer. Casa Maria is a beautiful, newly built villa overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Here we meet the caretaker Carlos who gives us a brief tour of the home including the beautiful rooftop deck. The Oasis of the Seas is visible in the distance over the tree tops. For several hours we relax on the veranda, enjoy some Corona's and swim in the warm Caribbean waters. Before long it's time to head back to Costa Maya to catch the Oasis which will be departing for Cozumel. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Onboard-the-Oasis--Costa-Maya-200.html 2010-09-24 Experiences oasis of the seas|royal caribbean Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) On Saturday we departed Ft. Lauderdale for a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise onboard the largest ship in the world, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas. The first day of this itinerary is at sea, which makes a perfect time to really relax into your vacation. It's very warm in the Caribbean this time of year, upper 90's on our day at sea, and forecast near 100 at Labadee. Labadee, on the north coast of Haiti, is the private tropical paradise created by Royal Caribbean. With the advantage of a pier at Labadee (instead of using the ship's tenders) it is very convenient to visit the island for a few hours, returning for the ship for a cool-down or some lunch and then go back for some last-minute shopping. We had booked the Zip Line tour on the world's longest zip line! The tour starts with a check in and waiver signing. Then we got our harnesses and were led to a short "training zip". Perhaps the initial attraction, this short zip is now not much longer than the zip-line offered aboard the Oasis of the Seas, and soon to be sister ship, the Allure of the Seas. In this training session you learn the three flying positions: 1) Starfish, arms and legs extended to slow your decent. 2) Normal flying with arms tucked in and knees comfortably bent and 3) Prone position. Laying back like a recliner to keep your momentum going. After a quick flight from the training tower, we're loaded up on 10 passenger Land Rovers and take off up the hill toward the real thing. Atop the hill, we make our way to a free standing tower that is about 500 feet above the ground. Below, the rails of the Dragon's Tail roller coaster can be seen. Far off in the distance, and across the beach breakers is our landing pad. Further beyond is the Oasis. There are 5 parallel zip lines from the tower - all 5 "victims" are attached to the lines, then one at a time, released to glide across the nearly 1/2 mile span, over the treetops, down to almost-touching the breakwater and beyond to the landing zone. After the quick but exhilarating ride, you are only steps from the desk where you can return your flight harness. By the time we had completed our flight, it was nearly noon - and time for some island lunch. Several pavilions of seating surrounded the 3 or 4 dining areas - all serving a grilled meat/fish platter, lots of salads and of course deserts. After lunch we make a tour though the local artisans village, a fairly large complex of shops selling may of the islands specialties, wood crafts, linens, and artwork. Just like in other parts of the world, bartering is a way of life with these vendors. Prices often started at around $50 for artwork or fashion items that could be obtained for less than $20. Unlike other parts of the world, these barters aren't overly aggressive - we enjoyed this buying experience. Returning to the ship, we all agreed this private paradise that Royal Caribbean has carved out of the Haiti jungle is a great place to relax and enjoy the beach, shop and take part in a few more exhilarating excursions. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Onboard-the-Oasis-of-the-Seas-199.html 2010-09-22 Experiences oasis of the seas|royal caribbean Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) As Allure of the Seas, 2nd sister ship to Oasis of the Seas prepares for a December 1st debut, changes between the Allure and Oasis are becoming known. The most interesting comes in the Coney Island inspired Boardwalk area. Providing an additional "free food" offering on the Boardwalk will be the new Boardwalk Dog House, serving up a variety of sausages, wieners and brats with your choices of toppings. The popular Boardwalk Donut Shop will be relocated (still on the Boardwalk) to make room for the Dog House. Also being introduced on Allure will be Rita's Cantina a "Mexican beach bar" specializing in Margaritas. Rita's will feature live guitar music, drinks and dancing in an effort to revitalize the night-life of the boardwalk. Rita's will replace the Seafood Shack on Allure of the Seas. Onboard shops continue to be popular, and a new flagship Guess Store will be introduced on Allure of the Seas. There will also be Guest Service Kiosks intended to provide complimentary services such as the ability to view, print or email your on-ship bill and your calendar with spa appointments, dining reservations and entertainment schedules. Included at these kiosks will be free access to airline websites for printing of boarding passes. The main theatre on Allure of the Seas will be upgraded to handle 3D Movies and will feature the production of Chicago. (Oasis features Hairspray) Royal Caribbean promises more announcements of "tweaks" to Allure to distinguish her from sister ship Oasis as we get closer to the inaugural season which kicks off on December 1st. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Changes-Announced-for-Allure-of-the-Seas-197.html 2010-09-01 Travel News Allure of the Seas|royal caribbean Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Like the iconic boomerang believed to have originated in Australia, Celebrity Cruises plans to return to the region in 2011-12, with an enticing new series of vacations on Celebrity Century. "This marks a significant expansion of Celebrity's diverse array of global vacation options," said Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Dan Hanrahan. "We're thrilled to return to Australia and New Zealand. It's a region our guests and trade partners around the world have said they wanted to experience again with Celebrity, pairing our award-winning dining, exceptional service and high style with the beauty, charm and diversity of the area. This move further exemplifies our 'Designed for you' platform, and how we fulfill what cruisers' desire." Marking the line's first return to the land Down Under in two years, Celebrity's exotic new Australia and New Zealand season - bookended by a series of vacation options in Hawaii - features a total of 36 ports in six countries: Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, French Polynesia, the U.S. and Mexico. The lineup includes 10 distinct itineraries, with six varied departure ports, including Sydney and Perth (Fremantle), Australia; Auckland, New Zealand; Honolulu, Hawaii; San Diego, California, and Ensenada, Mexico. Celebrity's new series begins October 2, 2011, with two consecutive 15-night Hawaii sailings from San Diego, followed by a 10-night Hawaii cruise from Ensenada to Honolulu. An 18-night "Pacific Jewels" voyage departs Honolulu November 11, followed by five 12- and 13-night New Zealand cruises between Sydney and Auckland, including a festive holiday sailing departing Sydney December 24. These offer a more destination-rich experience for cruisers, with only three days at sea, versus five on most competing lines' itineraries. Cruisers also have the opportunity to experience a rare, 36-night circumnavigational voyage - a first for Celebrity - through two combinable 18-night sailings: One will sail around the southern portion of Australia, featuring an overnight stay in Sydney and transits through three sounds - Milford, Doubtful and Dusky - in New Zealand's World Heritage-designated Fiordland National Park. The second of the combinable 18-night sailings takes cruisers around Australia's northern coast, and features a visit to the idyllic island of Bali, Indonesia - marking yet another first for Celebrity. The new series also includes two tantalizing, 18-night Trans-Pacific voyages visiting the French Polynesian islands and Hawaii. Among the ports Celebrity will visit for the first time are Geraldton, Broome, Darwin, Cairns, Brisbane, Adelaide, Albany, Bunbury and Perth, Australia, in addition to Burnie, Tasmania, and Bali. To complement the cruises and allow guests to delve deeper into the land Down Under, Celebrity has created a series of cruisetour packages. The 1,814-guest Celebrity Century is ideal for offering guests spectacular views of the scenic region, having been refitted in 2006 to add 314 new verandas, along with the elegant Murano restaurant and the truly "cool" Martini ice bar. Celebrity's new series of itineraries from October 2, 2011 through April 20, 2012, replace the previously announced series of 12-night Caribbean cruises from Baltimore on Celebrity Century. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Exotic-Voyages-to-the-South-Pacific-198.html 2010-09-03 Travel News australia|celebrity cruises|new zealand Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises is debuting self-guided art tours on an iPad. An addition to the "Celebrity Life" series of onboard entertainment and enrichment activities, the iPads on each Solstice-class ship house floor plans of every deck with select works of art flagged. A guest simply touches the screen to select the work of art he or she would like to learn more about, and the screen transitions to full details about the piece, including the title of the work, artist's name, medium used, description and image. In addition to the art tour application, the iPads also present digital versions of each Solstice-class vessel's in-stateroom art catalogs. With more than 14,000 works of original, contemporary art on its three Solstice ships alone, Celebrity has one of the world's largest corporate collections of contemporary art. Throughout the ships, a vast range of mediums is represented, including glass, acrylics, oils, photography, digital prints, video, etchings, sculptures and collages. Approximately 15 percent of the art on each Solstice-class ship is site-specific or commissioned artwork, such as the signature living trees in enormous vases suspended in the Grand Foyers. Celebrity's new iPad art tours will be available on Celebrity Solstice beginning Aug. 15 and on Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Equinox beginning Aug. 21. The tours currently are in English and also will be offered in Spanish by the end of this year. Celebrity will add German and French versions in 2011. For more information, contact us at (877) 394-8130. http://www.celebritycruisedestinations.com http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Cruises-iPad-Art-Tours-Debut-196.html 2010-08-12 Travel News celebrity equinox|celebrity solstice|cruises|equinox LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Savor your travels and experience culinary excellence with Crystal's Perfect Choice Dining (TM). Offered exclusively in the Crystal Dining Room, this unique concept allows you to choose from three distinct dining options - Classic Main and Classic Late seatings, and our new "Open Dining by Reservation". With Open Dining by Reservation, you may reserve a table in the Crystal Dining Room each night of your voyage, if you wish. This complimentary option is an ideal choice for those who wish to linger a little longer ashore, indulge in a late afternoon spa appointment or simply enjoy the early hours of the evening at your leisure. Debuting in 2011 aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, voyages 1201 and 1301 respectively, your Perfect Choice Dining option may be selected at the time of booking - Classic Main (beginning at 6:15pm), Classic Late (beginning at 8:30pm), or the new Open Dining by Reservation (available between 6:15 and 9:15pm). If you choose Open Dining by Reservation, you may then reserve your personal dining times, once your cruise is fully paid, in advance of your travels at our online Priority Check-in & Planning Center, another new service debuting this July at crystalcruises.com. You may also choose to wait and make your Open Dining by Reservation arrangements on board with the Maitre D'. This option will be based on availability, much the same as making reservations on board for our specialty restaurants Prego and Silk Road. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Crystal-Introduces-Open-Dining-in-2011-195.html 2010-03-18 Travel News crystal cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Casa Maria is located on the beautiful Caribbean Sea in one of Mexico's most prized vacation destinations. This beach front rental property is secluded on the white powdery sand just north of the sleepy town of Mahahual, on the Costa Maya in Mexico. This private 3 bedroom, 3 bath villa boasts miles of undeveloped beach and snorkeling in the tranquil turquoise Caribbean right outside of its patio doors. You will also find some of the best diving in the world at the Meso-American reef system - the 2nd largest coral reef in the world! Casa Maria sleeps 10 in five queen size beds and with no neighbors around, sunbathing is very privite. Each bedroom has a patio with a spectacular view! Four upper level decks provide both ocean views to the East and a view of the magnificent jungle, complete with a fresh water lagoon to the West! This rental offers over 4000 square feet of villa and patio's, and with the fully equipped kitchen, you'll have everything you need for the vacation of a lifetime! At night listen to the soothing sound of the Caribbean waves while gentle breezes caress you. The views from its extraordinary roof top patio are spectacular! You won't believe the stunning sunrises and the star filled nights over the Caribbean Ocean. Yes, you are in Paradise! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Private-Luxury-Caribbean-Villa-Now-Available-194.html 2010-03-14 Travel News crystal cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) MIAMI - January 15, 2010 - Royal Caribbean Cruises, one of Haiti's largest foreign investors for almost 30 years, today announced its plans to provide at least $1 million in humanitarian relief to Haiti in response to the catastrophic earthquake in Port-Au-Prince. Royal Caribbean will be partnering with charitable organizations - such as Food for the Poor, Pan American Development Foundation, and the Solano Foundation, the company's foundation in Haiti - to provide additional assistance to the people of Haiti. Royal Caribbean will also be delivering much needed goods and supplies to Haiti via their cruise ships. "The effect of the earthquake on Haiti has been catastrophic, leaving the country in need of not only immediate support, but assistance in their long-term recovery," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "Royal Caribbean wants to do its part to help out not only the general response, but also our hundreds of Haitian employees and their families through this disaster." "In addition to our financial contribution, Royal Caribbean will continue to provide economic support through the continuous business we bring to Labadee," Fain added. Leslie Voltaire, Special Envoy of the government of Haiti to the United Nations said, "Given the terrible economic and social challenges we now face in Haiti, we welcome the continuation of the positive economic benefits that the cruise ship calls to Labadee contribute to our country." The benefits start with Royal Caribbean International's Independence of the Seas' call today to Labadee, Haiti, which includes much needed supplies for the country. The supplies were loaded on the ship during its call in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and include items such as rice, dried beans, powdered milk, water and canned goods. In addition, 100 percent of the company's net revenue from the destination will be contributed to the relief effort. In the next two weeks, the following ships are scheduled to call on Labadee with additional supplies: Navigator of the Seas on Monday, January 18; Liberty of the Seas on Tuesday, January 19; and Celebrity Solstice on Friday, January 22. When the supplies arrive in Labadee, they will be transported to an offsite location to be distributed by Food for the Poor, a long time partner of Royal Caribbean in Haiti. In addition to working with Food for the Poor to distribute relief supplies, guests sailing onboard Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises will be able to make a donation to Food for the Poor's Haiti Relief Fund, via a charge to their onboard account. Guests who would like to contribute immediately can visit www.foodforthepoor.org/royalcaribbean to make a donation. Royal Caribbean also plans to use a portion of the $1 million donation to augment the company's Crew Relief Fund, which can be drawn on by any of the company's more than 200 Haitian crew members for assistance, as well as to match employee contributions to the partner organizations. As the initial response effort gives way to the long-term recovery effort, Royal Caribbean will consider further support efforts. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Royal-Caribbean-1-million-to-Haiti-193.html 2010-01-15 Travel News azamara club cruises|celebrity cruises|royal caribbean Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Industry giant Royal Caribbean says the 3,654-passenger Independence of the Seas will call in Haiti Friday as scheduled -- the first cruise ship to visit the Caribbean nation since Tuesday's devastating earthquake. Two more cruise ships, the 3,114-passenger Navigator of the Seas and 3,654-passenger Liberty of the Seas, will arrive in Haiti on Monday and Tuesday, respectively. In addition to vacationers, the massive vessels -- among the world's largest -- will be carrying relief supplies to be distributed through Food for the Poor. Royal Caribbean operates a private beach area in Haiti for its cruise ships called Labadee that is an important source of revenue for the country. It's located on the northern coast of Haiti far from Port-au-Prince and the epicenter of the disaster. Royal Caribbean has said the buildings, pier and attractions at the resort-like area were undamaged in Tuesday's quake. "There were a lot of discussions about (going ahead with calls), but in the end, Labadee is critical to Haiti's recovery and hundreds of people rely on Labadee for their livelihood," Royal Caribbean associate vice president John Weis writes today. Weis says Royal Caribbean executives talked with the U.N. Special Envoy of the Government of Haiti, Leslie Voltaire, before making the decision, and Voltaire told the company the revenues Haiti would generate from upcoming cruise calls would be critical to its recovery. "We also have tremendous opportunities to use our ships as transport vessels for relief supplies and personnel to Haiti," says Weis. "Simply put, we cannot abandon Haiti now that they need us most." Weis says the supplies being loaded onto the Royal Caribbean ships include rice, dried beans, water, dried milk and a variety of other canned items. Weis indicated that the Royal Caribbean support for relief efforts could be long-term. "This effort is going to be a marathon," he says. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Royal-Caribbean-Ships-to-resume-calls-in-Haiti-192.html 2010-01-15 Travel News royal caribbean Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises will begin a four-year refurbishment plan to "Solsticize" its Millennium-class ships. The renovations are part of an extensive new brand platform that includes a new tagline and marketing campaign. During an event here to kick off the campaign and unveil the slogan "Designed for You," Celebrity CEO Dan Hanrahan said the Solstice would be "front and center" in the effort. The campaign includes print and online advertising. The line's four Millennium-class ships will be drydocked, one a year, in order to receive various Solstice-class upgrades. Hanrahan said upgrades would include adding the ice-topped Martini Bar and Crush to the lobby area on deck 4; replacing the Cova Cafe with the Cafe al Bacio and Gelateria; and building a Tuscan Grille in place of the ships' unique, but less-trafficked, Conservatory on the top deck. A Bistro on Five will replace the current martini bar. Also, cabins and other public areas will be refurbished. The first ship, the Constellation, will receive what Hanrahan called the "Solsticize" treatment in April. Celebrity said the "Designed for You" platform, including the line's Celebrity Life onboard programs and changes to its Captain's Club loyalty program, represented a nearly $200 million investment. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Millennium-class-ships-to-receive-Solstice-Upgrade-191.html 2010-01-08 Travel News celebrity|celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice|constellation|millennium class LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) What better day to announce the 4th Solstice class ship than on the winter solstice? The Celebrity Silhouette will debut in 2011, after sister ship's Celebrity Equinox in July 2009, and Celebrity Eclipse in April 2010. The word "silhouette" conjures up images of light and shadow, and sleek profiles in the world of design and fashion, so it's fitting that Celebrity Cruises has named the fourth ship in its stylish Solstice Class fleet Celebrity Silhouette. Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale vacation experiences with highly personalized service, exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, California, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South America. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe and South America. Noted for four of the top 10 "Top Cruise Ships in the World" in the large-ship category, as voted by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler (February 2009 readers' poll), Celebrity's fleet including the new Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Equinox will be joined by Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, Celebrity Silhouette in 2011, and a fifth yet-to-be-named ship in 2012. For more information, call one of our Celebrity Specialists at 877-394-8130. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Cruises-Reveals-New-Ship-Name-189.html 2009-12-23 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity silhouette|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The winners of the seventh annual Travel Weekly Readers' Choice Awards were unveiled Thursday night at a gala awards dinner at the Plaza Hotel in New York. These awards are presented to industry suppliers considered by Travel Weekly readers to have excelled in product and service during the past year. Winners were selected in 58 categories overall in the airline, car, hospitality, rail, GDS, tour, cruise, destination and theme park. Royal Caribbean International took Best Cruise Line honors in the categories: Caribbean, Sales & Service and Overall. Celebrity Cruises took best Premium Cruise Line. In the individual cruise ship category, the Celebrity Solstice won best Rookie and Premium. Freedom of the Seas by Royal Caribbean took the Overall category. Viking River Cruises won Best in River Cruising honor. For assistance with any of these winning suppliers, call the experts at Global Travel Destinations, specializing in Celebrity, Azamara, Royal Caribbean and Viking River Cruises - 877-394-8130. CelebrityCruiseDestinations.comAzamaraCruiseDestinations.comRoyalCaribbeanCruiseDestinations.comVikingRiverCruiseDestinations.com http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Travel-Weekly-unveils-Readers-Choice-Award-Winners-190.html 2009-12-23 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice|royal caribbean|viking river cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) When Royal Caribbean International officially named its newest cruise ship, Oasis of the Seas, on Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, the global cruise line continued its tradition of innovation by putting a new twist on one of maritime's longest standing traditions. While normally bestowing the honor of godmother on one special person, Royal Caribbean selected seven extraordinary godmothers to represent the seven signature neighborhoods onboard Oasis of the Seas. Each of the seven godmothers was chosen because they personify strength of character, exemplify the spirit of giving, and are role models for men, women and children alike. The godmothers include: Gloria Estefan, world-renowned singer, songwriter, actor and author, who was godmother of Royal Caribbean's Empress of the Seas Michelle Kwan, the Olympic Games medalist is an all-time great and the most decorated figure skater in United States history, and is also an American Public Diplomacy envoy promoting education, positive health practices and respect for diversity Jane Seymore, a multiple Emmy and Golden Globe winning actor, as well as an Officer of the British Empire, who remains actively involved in the J and J Foundation benefiting children in need. Based on her philosophy that keeping an open heart despite adversity can bring a wealth of love, hope and inspiration into life, she founded website community where people can share stories and engage in a dialogue about living with an open heart. Dara Torres, twelve-time Olympic medalist and oldest female swimmer to compete in a record five Olympic games (1984, 1988, 1992, 2000 and 2008) Keshia Knight Pulliam, film and television actress is well-known for her role as Rudy Huxtable on the classic sitcom "The Cosby Show." The youngest actress ever nominated for an Emmy Award when she was only 6 years old, she presently stars on the TBS television comedy "Tyler Perry's House of Payne" and was most recently seen starring in the hit motion picture "Madea Goes To Jail." Shawn Johnson, four-time medalist at the 2008 Olympic games for women's gymnastics and cancer philanthropist, who in addition to serving as a godmother for Oasis of the Seas, will be granting wishes onboard as part of her work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Daisy Fuentes, international television personality and producer, beauty and fitness expert, and recognized role model for Latin-American women in the United States, who is committed to improving children's health and treatments through St. Jude's Children's Hospital, Starlight Children's Foundation and the March of Dimes "It is a humbling and equally exciting privilege to have these seven exemplary women take on the responsibility of being godmothers of Oasis of the Seas," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. "We felt it only fitting that our most revolutionary ship be named by an outstanding group of women who embody the same excellence in their respective fields." The seven women took their posts to officially name the ship at a ceremony during a one-night inaugural celebration-fundraiser onboard Oasis of the Seas to benefit the non-profit Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Seven-Godmothers-for-Oasis-of-the-Seas-187.html 2009-12-14 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice|royal caribbean|viking river cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) In a media and travel industry introduction, we spend a whirlwind 24 hours onboard the new Oasis of the Seas. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=15 2009-11-30 Experiences Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Azamara Cruises - the two-ship brand launched in 2007 with the 694-guest Azamara Journey and sister ship Azamara Quest - today became "Azamara Club Cruises," with a newly refined focus, and a series of new attributes designed for upmarket, experienced travelers. With a new tag line "you'll love where we take you", the line's changes will focus on creating unique itineraries, dynamic excursions, a new culinary program, raising service levels even higher and adding more inclusive amenities. Move Overnight Stays - Enjoy overnight stays in more offbeat places such as Ho Chi Minh City, Livorno (Florence), London, St. Barth and others. Dynamic Shore Excursions - One of a kind 2 day experiences for overnight cities plus specific interest tours such as a Ferrari diving tour in Rome or an Imperial Russian Court evening in St. Petersburg. Culinary Programs - speciality selected food and wine to match the region in which you are traveling. Onboard Experience - All onboard Butlers will attend training in England, Spas will be upgraded and a new past-passenger program. More Inclusive - House wines, soda, bottled water and speciality coffees will no longer incur additional charges. Port shuttles will now be complimentary. Gratituties for stateroom attendants and waitstaff will now be included in the base cruise fare. For additional information please visit our website at AzamaraCruiseDestinations.com or call our Azamara Specialists toll free at (877) 394-8130. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/azamara-club-cruises-185.html 2009-12-09 Travel News azamara cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises has once again won top honors in one of the most trusted surveys of consumer travel preferences in the world. The prestigious Conde' Nast Traveler magazine's annual Readers' Choice Awards ranked Celebrity number one in the new Mega-Ship Cruise Lines category, recognizing the widely heralded Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Equinox. More than 25,000 experienced travelers made their voices heard in the prestigious annual poll ranking more than 10,000 cruise lines, hotels, resorts, cities, islands, airlines and car rental agencies. Celebrity Cruises was among the honorees featured in a segment airing Monday on NBC's Today Show to highlight what led to the number-one ranking. "Winning first-place in the new mega-ship category is an incredible tribute to the style, design and service that have led to the phenomenal response our new Solstice Class continues to generate, and further validates our fleet's longtime leadership position in the premium cruise category," said Celebrity's President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. "We're honored that the informed readers of Conde' Nast Traveler so appreciate the Celebrity experience." No stranger to netting top honors, the Celebrity Cruises fleet as a whole has, for the past seven consecutive years, dominated the large-ship category in Conde' Nast Traveler's "Top Cruise Ships in the World" survey published each February. Cruise lines were rated on a five-point scale - excellent, very good, good, fair or poor - in seven categories: activities, cabins, service, design, food/dining, itineraries, and shore excursions. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-takes-top-honors-in-Conde-Nast-Traveler-174.html 2009-10-21 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) This September, following a $25+ million makeover, luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises is unveiling dramatic new interiors and deck spaces for its sophisticated and stylish Crystal Symphony. The 922-guest, 50,000-ton ultra-luxury ship will boast redesigned Penthouses (including its uber-plush Crystal Penthouses), pool areas, Prego Italian restaurant, Lido Cafe as well as guest elevators and numerous behind-the-scenes upgrades. Penthouses Crystal Symphony's two 982-square-foot Crystal Penthouses with large verandahs will be stripped and completely transformed into the feel of elegant residential apartments with luxurious fabrics, details and finishes. Internal space will be extended to enlarge the living spaces and bedroom. While both the master and guest bathrooms will feature rare marbles and designer fittings, the master bathrooms will boast a sunken Philippe Stark Duravit Jacuzzi bathtub with 90-degree ocean views, glass mosaics and recessed televisions, among other features. The suites also offer an entrance lobby, his and her walk-in closets, private study area, living room, state-of-the-art audio-visual system, and dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows. Crystal Symphony's 61 butler-serviced Penthouses and Penthouse Suites will be redesigned in soothing taupe and sand tones, accented by citrus or icy blue, one of two color schemes. New custom cabinetry will sport stone countertops and flat screen televisions, while new bedding, stone-topped end tables and bedside reading lights will be framed by new headboards, carpeting and window treatments. All bathrooms will feature new tile with mosaic accents, glass showers, contemporary hardware and lighting, and a fresh white and neutral color palette. Lido Cafe This popular breakfast and lunch cafe will be transformed into an upscale dining spot with a completely new Crystal dining experience, designed to showcase Crystal's freshly cooked fare as well as add intimate seating and improve flow. Inspired by the endless skies, surf and sand dunes of the Hamptons seashore, the room will be infused with light through a new glazed indoor/outdoor extension and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Natural tones of seashell, sand and weathered timber provide a soothing backdrop for sparkling polished metal accents and sea grass screens. New food and drink service islands, each with different choices, will enable guests to enjoy what they want in their order of preference. New bread oven, grill, woks and other culinary equipment will provide an even greater array of freshly cooked to order choices. Seahorse and Neptune Pool Areas Befitting an upscale chic resort, Crystal Symphony's pool areas will be redefined with new spaces, water features and furniture providing more indoor and al fresco dining, plush conversational seating and varied sunbathing options. Sophisticated limestone tile will offset the azure pool and the new, larger whirlpool, while deck furniture offers a harmonious combination of antique white and neutral taupe accented with colors of sunshine and tropical fruit. In the retractable roof-covered, mid-ship area of the Lido Deck, the Neptune Pool will be removed and replaced with teak decking and al fresco dining and lounging options around the Trident Bar. While the calming neutrals of the Lido Cafe open to brighter outdoor colors, the unifying theme is natural and relaxed. Prego Since its debut, this critically-acclaimed, intimate Italian specialty restaurant has been inspired by Venice. Open only for dinner, the new design will be moody and dramatic, retaining elements of traditional Venetian architecture and portraiture presented in a fresh and modern way. Luxuriously padded, dark chocolate fabric walls frame delicate chandeliers, art by famed Venetian artists and richly upholstered seating. All Crystal staterooms, all of which were redecorated in late 2007 and feature sitting areas, will receive new sofas to provide more seating and add third berths for families. This year, all accommodations on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity received new plush Simmons mattresses with healthful sanitary protectors. During the September drydock, Crystal is also investing in upgraded elevators, a new crew restaurant, new lighting systems and other behind-the-scenes projects. Medical center improvements include digital x-ray equipment, enabling doctors to efficiently share x-rays with guests personal physicians and other specialists. A major upgrade of the ship's onboard broadcast production studio will enhance Crystal's extensive television programming with added clarity and brilliance. Crystal Symphony's drydock is scheduled for September 17-October 1 in Boston at the Atlantic Marine Boston shipyard. Adfecto will design the Crystal Penthouses, Lido Cafe, Seahorse Pool and Neptune Deck areas, guest elevators and crew mess. Kurt Nix will design Prego and II X IV will design the Penthouses and Penthouse Suites. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Crystal-Symphony-to-Enjoy-a-Major-Makeover-173.html 2009-08-04 Travel News crystal symphony Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises' Captain's Club - the top-rated premium brand's three-tiered recognition and benefits program designed exclusively for its most loyal guests - has been redesigned and relaunched based on a series of member-inspired enhancements. Several of these new features are rolling out across the fleet on sailings beginning in July, while others will be introduced in intervals over the course of the year. "Our most loyal guests deserve our loyalty in return, so we're thrilled to offer them a vastly improved program," said Celebrity Cruises President & CEO Dan Hanrahan. "Our new Captain's Club gives them greater recognition, exclusive benefits, and a number of enhancements designed to make them feel like the center of our attention every time they sail with us." New features launching in July include the Captain's Club Celebration, a one-of-a-kind social and entertainment event available to all members; significantly improved Internet and laundry benefits for Select and Elite tier members; and a new onboard lounge exclusively for Elite members. The brand has even introduced a new theme for Captain's Club, which doubles as its ongoing commitment to members: "The center of our attention." But these improvements are only the beginning. During the second half of 2009, Celebrity will expand the Captain's Club with a variety of other new features, all of which will be announced prior to taking effect. "Our new Captain's Club was designed based on a tremendous amount of research, feedback from our members, and advice from our travel partners," said Hanrahan. "We want to ensure that we deliver every aspect to our guests' utmost satisfaction, so we're choosing to roll out the enhancements in intervals, beginning with improvements to the member experience onboard." A highlight of the onboard experience is likely to be the Captain's Club Celebration. Soon available across the fleet, with the exception of Celebrity Xpedition, all members will be invited to this exclusive event once per sailing. Redesigned to be a highlight of every cruise, the spirited affair will provide the perfect opportunity to meet fellow members, chat with the Captain and senior shipboard officers, experience interactive cooking demonstrations, and enjoy the unique "CC Jams" performance by a variety of shipboard musicians. For members interested in a quiet haven of their own, Celebrity is pleased to introduce the Captain's Club Lounge at Michael's Club, exclusively for Elite members and their stateroom/suite companions each morning and early evening. The new Lounge will offer a casual coffeehouse-style experience from 8AM to 10AM, with complimentary espressos, teas and other menu items, a variety of reading materials, and, on Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Equinox, wi-fi access. Every evening from 4PM to 6PM, Captain's Club Elite members and their stateroom/suite companions can return to the Lounge to enjoy socializing with fellow members, participate in a wine tasting event, or simply relax and enjoy a quiet, complimentary drink before dinner. For complete details, see Celebrity Captain Club http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Launches-New-Captains-Club-172.html 2009-07-13 Travel News captains club|celebrity cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Upon completion of ample tests and engine trials the new luxury cruise ship for Celebrity Cruises, the Celebrity Equinox, will leave MEYER WERFT's covered building dock II on 6 June 2009. Around 7.30 a.m. the new ship will slowly start leaving the dock. In the following the Celebrity Equinox will be moved in the harbour, where more tests will be performed. Around 4.30 p.m. she will finally be berthed. With the ship being berthed alongside the pier, remaining work will be completed. The ship's two funnels as well as the mast will be mounted. The river Ems passage to the sea trials port in Eemshaven (Netherlands) is likely to take place on 19/20 June 2009. The Ems passage is dependent on the prevailing weather and tidal conditions. The new ship will have a length overall of 315 m, a breadth of 36.80 m, and will be able to operate at a speed of more than 24 knots. More than 2,858 passengers can be accommodated in 1,426 cabins. For a limited time, press photos can be found here. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/Celebrity-Equinox-Floats-Out-170.html 2009-06-08 Experiences celebrity cruises|equinox Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity goes to a part of the planet where few have trod before. Where nearly half of the species are found nowhere else in the world. Enjoy a truly seamless, all inclusive, environmentally conscious vacation...Celebrity style. Celebrity Cruises offers a truly seamless, all-inclusive, environmentally conscious vacation which delivers the Celebrity Treatment from beginning to end Celebrity is the only major cruise line, with the best equipment, in the Galapagos Islands Celebrity Xpedition has the highest guest to staff ratio in the fleet: 92 guests/60+ crew and provides the highest guest satisfaction ratings See the full article at: celebritycruisedestinations.com http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=169 2009-05-11 Experiences celebrity xpedition|galapagos islands Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The New York Times has selected The Galapagos Islands as the third most important destination to visit in 2009 as the Islands commemorate a landmark triple anniversary. Celebrating Charles Darwin's 200th birthday, the 150th anniversary of the publication of ''The Origins of Species" and the 50th year of the Galapagos National Park there really never has been a better time to visit the archipelago. Visit the Galapagos Islands onboard the Celebrity Xpedition - informal, intimate, luxury island excursions. All-inclusive packages starting from around $300/day. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=168 2009-03-05 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity xpedition|galapagos islands Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Equinox To Soft-Launch in Norwegian Fjords Good news for Celebrity fans, construction of Celebrity Equinox is ahead of schedule, so much, in fact, that the ship will now offer a soft-launch prior to the ship's official maiden voyage on August 8. The cruise will depart July 31 roundtrip from Southampton, England, with an itinerary through the Norwegian Fjords. Celebrity has offered guests booked on the maiden voyage the opportunity to combine their 10-night "Best of Europe" cruise with the eight-night soft launch. By doing so, guests will receive an onboard spending credit of $200 per stateroom or $300 per suite. The eight-night cruise features calls in Stavanger, Flam, Geiranger and Oslo, Norway. Visit www.celebritycruisedestinations.com. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=167 2009-02-24 Travel News celebrity equinox Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Royal Caribbean International is giving a little more to its suite guests. The line will launch a new fleetwide suite program beginning in March 2009 designed to focus on distinctive and personalized servicing, which will touch every aspect of the guests' experience, from arrival through departure. "With more than 2,000 suites across the fleet, Royal Caribbean is one of the largest suite operators in the hospitality industry," said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president, hotel operations, Royal Caribbean International. "Our extensive range of suites combined with the new suite amenities and offerings and Royal Caribbean's Gold Anchor Service creates a compelling cruise experience for our guests that desire a more exclusive vacation." How it works: Upon arrival at the pier, guests booked in the Presidential Family Suite, Royal Suite, Royal Family Suite, Owner's Suite and Grand Suite have access to dedicated security and check-in lines to help ease them swiftly through the embarkation process and directly to their suite accommodations (think the first-class lane at the airport). Additionally, guests booked in the Royal Suite and Presidential Family Suite are personally welcomed by a senior officer at the cruise terminal and escorted to their suite. Upon check-in, all guests booked in Grand Suites or higher-category staterooms receive distinctive gold SeaPass cards, which enable ship crew and staff to provide them with the personalized service and offerings available to suite guests throughout their cruise. On arrival in their suites, guests are welcomed with complimentary water and a fruit plate. Guests also receive a dedicated suite attendant throughout the cruise and help to fulfill any special requests, such as pressing service, which is complimentary on formal evenings. Guests booked in the Grand Suite and higher category staterooms also have special privileges, including an invitation to a private cocktail reception hosted by the Captain, reserved VIP seating in the main theater for shows, and priority bookings for appointments in the salon and spa, and for tendering and shore excursion tickets. At the conclusion of the cruise, suite guests enjoy priority departure from the ship and complimentary valet luggage service, where their bags are automatically transferred to the airport. As part of the new suites program, Royal Caribbean also is upgrading furnishings in all suite category staterooms. The installation of new plush sofa-beds, deck chairs and tables and entertainment systems with flat-panel TVs and CD/DVD will be completed by 2010. For more information, visit www.royalcaribbeancruisedestinations.com http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=166 2009-02-24 Travel News rccl|royal caribbean|suites Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The ships of Crystal Cruises have once again earned top honors from the readers of Cond Nast Traveler, who named the ultra-luxury vessels the best medium-sized ships in the world. Of nearly 100 ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony were ranked #1 and #2, respectively, in the magazine's ninth annual "Best Cruise Ships in the World" issue. Although the medium-sized category includes ships carrying between 500-1,500 passengers, Crystal Serenity's overall score of 93.3 ranked higher than any other ship in all groups. Crystal Symphony ranked second in the medium-sized group, with an overall score of 92.9. Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, respectively, earned some of their highest ever scores for Crew/Service (96.6 and 95.7), Activities/Facilities (93.9 and 93.1), Cabins (89.1 and 89.7) and Design/Layout (96.2 and 94.4). Crystal Serenity's scores for its Activities/Facilities and Design/Layout also topped those of every other ship rated for this poll. Having recently undergone a multi-million dollar drydock, she now boasts additional plush Penthouses and a newly renovated Crystal Cove bar and Plaza lobby, and a completely rebuilt casino. Travelers also appreciated Crystal's dining and increasing focus on intimate, once-in-a-lifetime experiences ashore. Crystal's Food/Dining scores (95.0 for both ships), and its shore excursions (87.7 and 86.9) rated higher than most ships in the survey. Not one to rest on its laurels, the luxury line has rolled out more than 750 Crystal Adventures for its 2009 Northern Europe and Mediterranean seasons, roughly 150 of which are brand new. "The most discerning, value-conscious luxury consumers purchase luxury products based on real quality, and the consistency of the experience," says Crystal Cruises' President Gregg L. Michel. "This is a tremendous validation of unique and unparalleled experience travelers find onboard Crystal ships." Cond Nast Traveler asked its subscribers to rate 418 ships on a 100-point scale. A total of 90 eligible ships are reviewed in the February 2009 issue. Crystal ships have long been celebrated for outstanding performance in all of these areas. A steadfast commitment to the Six-Star Crystal Basics - the line's credo for ensuring that all guests' needs are fulfilled - has made Crystal the category winner in Cond Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice poll more than any other resort, hotel or cruise line in history. Attesting to the consistent quality of its onboard experience, the luxury line was voted "World's Best" in Travel + Leisure's most recent readers' survey. Crystal Cruises is the only cruise line, resort or hotel to have won the prestigious award each year since the awards' inception. From seven-, 11- and 12- day vacations in Europe to epic 100+-day World Cruises, space, quality, service and choices are the cornerstone of the Crystal experience. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=165 2009-02-23 Travel News crystal|crystal serenity|crystal symphony Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Ship: Viking Legend Maiden Voyage: May 10 The Inside Scoop: If you haven't often associated cutting-edge cruise ship designs with riverboats, Viking Legend may turn your head. The 189-passenger ship will feature a pair of splashy suites (310 square feet) - the largest accommodations on any European river vessel. A new propulsion system is another innovation, offering a smoother, quieter and more fuel-efficient ride. Otherwise, more traditional features include a sundeck with 360-degree views, upgraded beds with European linens and a restaurant offering menus that highlight seasonal and regional specialties. Where it Will Sail: Viking Legend will cruise from May to November, offering river cruises between Amsterdam and Budapest. On these 15-night "Grand European Tour" voyages, the riverboat will sail along the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. (from smartertravel.com) http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=164 2009-01-15 Travel News viking legend|viking river cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Following suit with other cruise lines, Celebrity Cruises, sister line Azamara Cruises and parent company Royal Caribbean International announced today that fuel surcharges will be eliminated for all sailings after January 1st, 2009. For those that have already made final payment for their 2009 cruise: The fuel supplement will be fully refunded to you as an onboard credit. For those that have not made final payment on their 2009 cruise: The final balance will be reduced to fully refund the fuel supplement. The companies will consider reimplementing the fuel surcharge if the price of West Texas Crude raises above $65/barrel. Friday's close was at $40.81/barrel. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=163 2008-12-06 Travel News azamara cruise|celebrity cruises|royal caribbean cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Last week we were onboard the newest ship in the Celebrity fleet, Celebrity Solstice. After arriving at her home port of Ft. Lauderdale on the 3rd of November, she's on a series of 2 night "cruises to nowhere" showing off for Celebrity execs, media VIP's and high producing sales professionals. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=13 2008-11-18 Experiences Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises' employees and other South Florida residents turned out this morning to welcome Celebrity Solstice as the ship begins its U.S. debut. The sleek, 122,000-ton ship includes the industry's first half-acre Lawn Club with real grass and Hot Glass Show with live glassblowing demonstrations; 10 varied restaurants; truly unique entertainment expressly designed for the ship's state-of-the-art theater, and a breadth of accommodations, including an entirely new category, AquaClass. Amidst a series of preview cruises for invited travel agents, press and other dignitaries, Celebrity Solstice will be named in formal ceremonies November 14, and will enter service November 23 on a series of seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailings. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=157 2008-11-06 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The most widely heralded cruise ship to enter the market this year, Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Solstice, was delivered today at a ceremony in Emshaven, Netherlands, marking the formal transfer of the ship -- the first in a class of five -- from shipbuilder Meyer Werft to Celebrity Cruises. The ship will begin its transatlantic voyage October 25, with arrival in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., anticipated November 3."With its innovative, half-acre Lawn Club with real, growing grass; the Hot Glass Show offered through our alliance with The Corning Museum of Glass; 10 widely varied restaurants, including four in the specialty category; stylish, spacious staterooms whose design was influenced by a panel of five women with unique travel and hospitality insights; and, of course, theintangible attribute found on every Celebrity ship -- extraordinary service --Celebrity Solstice is the perfect manifestation of what the Celebrity brand is all about," said Celebrity's President & CEO Dan Hanrahan."We are indebted to the countless, highly dedicated individuals who have brought this spectacular ship to this point, and who have shared our passion for innovation, and our dedication to excellence," said Richard D. Fain,Chairman and CEO of Celebrity Cruises' parent company, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.Soon after its arrival in Fort Lauderdale on November 3, Celebrity Solstice will serve as the perfect platform for Celebrity Cruises' firstGlobal Sales Meeting, followed by a series of exclusive, two-night preview cruises for invited travel agents, press and other dignitaries.Celebrity Solstice will be named in formal ceremonies on November 14, and will embark on its inaugural season November 23, on a series of seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale. In spring 2009, the stunning new ship will introduce a series of romantic 10- and 11-night Mediterranean sailings roundtrip from Rome. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=156 2008-10-28 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) One of the most anticipated ships to enter the cruise market this year, Celebrity Solstice departed Meyer Werft shipyard yesterday in Papenburg, Germany, as the largest ship ever built by the longtime shipbuilder. In a milestone event known as "The Conveyance", the 2,850-guest Celebrity Solstice made its way down the River Eems, as tens of thousands of area residents lining the river banks cheered and photographed the historic event. "This is a very momentous occasion for Celebrity Cruises", said the brand's President and CEO Dan Hanrahan. "Celebrity Solstice is the perfect manifestation of what the Celebrity brand is all about: extraordinary service, spectacular dining, and fabulous style and design. And as the first in a series of five Solstice-class ships, it's a vivid example of the growth and momentum of the Celebrity brand, and our commitment to meet our guests' and travel agent partners' demands for more vacation options with Celebrity." Among the wealth of attributes guests will find only on Celebrity Solstice are: The industry's first Lawn Club, a lush, half-acre recreation area with real, growing grass. The industry's first Hot Glass Show, with live glassblowing demonstrations presented in association with The Corning Museum of Glass. Larger staterooms, with design inspirations offered by a panel of five women, hand-picked for their unique travel and hospitality insights. 10 varied restaurants, ranging from the dramatic, two-level "Grand Epernay" main dining room with a sweeping wine tower, to four exquisite specialty restaurants, to several stylish, casual venues. An entirely new category of accommodations, "AquaClass", designed to offer a spa vacation experience at sea rivaling the best of those on land. A state-of-the-art theater and stage design, with three new leading- edge shows custom-designed for Celebrity with Poet Theatricals, in their first cruise line partnership. "There also is the intangible attribute which is consistent across the Celebrity fleet, and that's the extraordinary, anticipatory service our phenomenal staff offer our guests every day", said Hanrahan. Celebrity Solstice will be berthed in Eemshaven, Netherlands, from September 29 to October 24, with two separate sea trials planned during that period, in addition to crew arrivals, training, provisioning and finishing work onboard. The ship will depart Eemshaven October 24 on a transatlantic voyage, with arrival in Fort Lauderdale planned for early November, followed by a series of promotional cruises for invited travel agents, press and other dignitaries. The ship will be named in formal ceremonies on November 14, and will begin its maiden season November 23, with a series of alternating 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, calling on San Juan, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, and Tortola during this Fall and Winter. Celebrity Solstice will sail a series of romantic 10- and 11-night Mediterranean cruises from Rome beginning in Spring 2009. (Source: Celebrity/travelpage) http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=155 2008-10-07 Experiences celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) On Sunday, August 10 the new passenger cruise vessel Celebrity Solstice was succesfully undocked. The ship leaves the covered building dock at about 10 am. For the final outfitting, tests and trials and the interior work the ship will be berthed at the pier of Meyer Werft. The ship will leave Papenburg for sea trials and the river conveyance on September 27. Meyer Werft Images: 1869 x 1181 Pixel[1.864KB]Download 1890 x 1170 Pixel[1.788 KB]Download 1890 x 1170 Pixel[1.788 KB]Download 1890 x 1170 Pixel[1.788 KB]Download http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=153 2008-08-18 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Experience the latest News & Views of Solstice. First new ship build in 6 years for Celebrity - a total of 5 new ships orderedCelebrity Solstice: 11/20/2008; Celebrity Equinox: Summer, 2009; Celebrity Eclipse: Summer, 2010; & 2 unnamed ships: Fall, 2011 & 2012 Larger then Millennium class ships (2034 guests) with 2850 guests, double occupancy Ship interiors designed by women - staterooms are 15% larger than standard size, modular closets, unique storage space, larger bathrooms with 5 head shower panels, glass shower doors, foot railing for shaving legs, 32" flat screen TV's and much more! The most veranda staterooms in the fleet! Entire ship is wireless, including suites and staterooms Solstice will offer two new ports, St. Kitts and Tortola, on her alternating 7 night Eastern Caribbean itineraries New stateroom category: AquaClass - 130 veranda double (no triples/quads) staterooms on the 11th deck (near AquaSpa) providing unlimited access to Persian Garden and the Solarium. Plus AquaClass guests will have access to their own specialty restaurant called "Blu Dining Room" Sky Conference Center for meetings and special events is across from Sky Observation Lounge Outdoor pool offers canopied areas for those who prefer shade, and a water feature with synchronized music & lights similar to the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas Youll find all of the signature elements of Celebrity, including the Martini Bar, Library, Nightclubs, Wine Bar, Michael's Club, Fortune's Casino, etc. Three new original shows are being developed for Solstice - "Solstice", "Ghost Light" & "Pulse" - plus a new comedy club called Celebrity Central Unique first-at-sea including Glass Blowing shows, demonstrations, classes and boutique. Plus, the Lawn Club, one half acre of REAL freshly manicured grass on the top deck with a Country Club environment. Lawn games will include bocce ball, croquet and golf putting. Also choose from Picnics on the Lawn with a basket of wine and cheese, Patio on the Lawn, Sunset Bar and the Lawn Club Shop. Some of the world's best hospitality designers have created 10 extraordinary new restaurants for the Celebrity Solstice. A classic steakhouse, a casual cafe & grill, the main dining room with a two-story wine tower, an exotic Asian specialty restaurant, a continental restaurant, a fabulous Bistro, an upscale coffeehouse, the AquaSpa Cafe, a "comfort food" bar & grill and the signature international buffet restaurant make this ship the number 1 choice for multiple dining venues at sea! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=152 2008-07-16 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises has implemented a series of culinary enhancements as a core component of the cruise line's Celebrity's Star Treatment array of fleetwide features and amenities. The culinary program includes more than 200 new menu offerings, a significantly upgraded casual dining area, and a new brunch offering. Celebrity's new evening menus are so varied that even guests on 14-night itineraries will never be presented with the same menu twice. Each menu contains expanded selections in all categories, from appetizers to desserts. Enhancements to Celebrity's lido cafe/casual dining areas include expanding its culinary selections, modernizing the ambience and upgrading signage and equipment, as well as replacing the ice on which that cold buffet items are set with chilled river rocks. The buffet offers more destination-influenced and ethnic cuisine, including Asian, Italian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and English. Celebrity also has upgraded its complimentary coffee to the European Seventh, brand, a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans, which guests can sip from new, full-sized coffee mugs.Celebrity has replaced its once-per-cruise midnight gala buffet with a brunch in the main dining room. The brunch include a wide selection of fresh fruits, made-to-order smoothies, gourmet cheeses, cold cuts, salads, sandwiches, meats, seafood, pizzas, paninis and wraps, sushi and stir-fry selections, eggs of nearly every style and desserts. The line also has introduced an "after-theater" menu in its Cova Cafe venues to replace the former Gourmet Bites served throughout the ships on alternating evenings. The Cova Cafe offers the new late-night menu from 11 p.m. to closing. For more information call (877) 268-8107 or visit http://www.celebritycruisedestinations.com http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=151 2008-07-11 Travel News celebrity|celebrity cruises|food and wine LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises said its new Celebrity Solstice, set to debut this November, will offer guests the chance to purchase a 10-sided diamond cut for the first time, available exclusively on the ship. Named the Solstice Diamond, the patented gem's 86 facets create a visible, distinguishing star pattern even more sparkling than the familiar 58-facet brilliant-cut diamond. Sourced from conflict-free stones mined in Canada, the Solstice Diamond was created by U.K.-based Harding Brothers, which will manage the retail shops onboard. Mounted in hand-created settings and in varying sizes for rings, pendants and earrings, no two pieces will be alike. The diamonds will be available in Celebrity Solstice's "Boutique C," one of 18 shops spanning three decks and 6,500 square feet onboard the ship."Celebrity Solstice's boutique areas have been designed to reflect the stylish and authentic ambience our guests will find throughout the ship," said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Celebrity's vice president of hotel operations. "Each shop will have its own distinct look, feel and, in some cases, even aroma. It will be a phenomenal collection of sights, sounds, styles and scents."In addition to the high-end Boutique C, Celebrity Solstice's retail venues include The Lawn Club Shop, offering golf-oriented merchandise, wine-related items and a casual, contemporary resort line designed by Bobby Chan, plus a "grass"-soled flip-flop sold exclusively on Celebrity Solstice; The Showcase, where guests can purchase creations such as those found at The Corning Museum of Glass, whose alliance with Celebrity led to the industry's first Hot Glass Show and Studio on Celebrity Solstice; The Solstice Shop, which will offer a variety of fashion-forward, private-label apparel, accessories and souvenirs; Exquisites, which will feature a vast array of necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets from new designers, as well as recognized, world-class brands such as Bellarri and H. Stern; and The Artisan Store, a one-of-a-kind jewelry and artifacts where guests can observe and interact with resident artists as they string pearls, carve cameos, and mount gemstones to suit each shopper's interests and preferences.Another shopping venue will be Pieces of Time, which will feature such watch brands as Dior, Gucci, H. Stern and Tag Hauer. In The Collection, guests will find classic and contemporary purses of all styles, sizes, colors and textures, as well as belts, scarves, and other accessories. The Men's Store will feature casual yet sophisticated apparel for men from Newport Blue and Saltaire, as well as Celebrity's exclusive Blue Collection, among other brands. Moda will have offer chic women's fashions ranging from everyday, active wear to cocktail apparel to selections from leading designers such as Joseph Ribkoff, Celebrity's exclusive Blue Collection. Celebrity Solstice's Jasmine will focus on perfumes, cosmeceuticals and other skin care products.At Adagio, guests can find a range of self-tanning products, scrubs, rubs and body butters. The venue also will present many of the world's most popular fragrances, along with new launches. Serendipity will feature an eclectic mix of merchandise that is constantly evolving, reflecting the unique character of each destination on the ship's itinerary. The selections will range from ethnic foods to apparel to accessories. The Sundialer will sell fashionable watches and sunglasses from a variety of designers. Glitz will feature trendy costume jewelry from established international brands as well as up-and-coming designers. Sol Y Mar will offer a vast array of designer sunglasses, suntan lotions, pool cover-ups and other beach apparel, and paperback books. Spirits & Such will offer not only premium liquors, but also bar and kitchen accessories, and tote bags to ease the process of carrying purchases home. The venue also will host wine and whisky tastings. Finally, Travel Made Easy is for guests who need additional luggage to take home. There, accessories, sunglasses, hats and beach blankets are sold, along with luggage, tote bags, and electronics. Celebrity Solstice's first cruise will take place over Thanksgiving. For more information visit: http://www.celebritycruisedestinations.com. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=150 2008-07-09 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) For 10 nights in May, 2008 we explore Quito, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. The land portion of the trip is at the JW Marriott in Quito, the cruise portion is onboard Celebrity's Xpedtion - a 90 passenger mega-yacht that sails the Galapagos Islands year-round. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=12 2008-06-06 Experiences Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises has completed a drydock of the Celebrity Summit in 17 days. The refurbishment included replacing 2,707 square feet of tile, 9,843 square feet of carpeting, and 2,500 yards of fabric, among other things. The ship has resumed its European season with a new 11,000-kilowatt diesel genset (dedicated electrical generation system), which reduces fuel consumption by generating electricity for the ship while in port. Additionally, there's a new floor in the ship's Rendezvous Lounge, a completely renovated boutique gift shop area freshly varnished wood railings and newly-polished surfaces throughout the ship. Call (877) 268-8107 or visit www.celebritycruisedestinations.com. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=139 2008-04-29 Travel News celebrity cruises|europe LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity, Azamara and Royal Caribbean announce new fuel surcharges effective May 1st, 2008: (Executive Summary, surcharges increased from $5.00 per person to $8.00 to a maximum of $112 for first two guests in a stateroom plus additional surcharge of $3.00 for additional guests in a stateroom up to $42) As a result of ongoing record high fuel prices, bookings on or after May 1, 2008, will be subject to a revised fuel supplement. The revised fuel supplement will apply to bookings made throughout the world on Celebrity Cruises.United States and Canada:For first and second guests in a stateroom, the revised fuel supplement will be $8 (U.S.D./CAN.) per-person, per-day, and no more than $112 (U.S.D./CAN.) per-person, per-cruise. Additional guests in a stateroom will be charged $3 (U.S.D./CAN.) per-person, per day, and no more than $42 (U.S.D./CAN.) per-person, per-cruise.Europe, the Middle East and Africa:For the purpose for converting certain European currencies, the amount of the fuel supplement for first and second guests in a stateroom - per-guest, per-day - appears in the left-hand column of the table below. The maximum amount of the fuel supplement for first and second guests in a stateroom - per-guest, per-sailing - appears in the right-hand column. Supplement for first and second guests in a stateroom - per-guest, per-day Maximum for first and second guests in a stateroom - per-guest, per-sailing GBP 4.00 GBP 56.00 EUR 5.00 EUR 70.00 USD 8.00 USD 112.00 CHF 8.00 CHF 112.00 DKK 38.00 DKK 532.00 SEK 47.00 SEK 658.00 NOK 40.00 NOK 560.00 Similarly, for the purpose for converting certain European currencies, the amount of the fuel supplement for additional guests in a stateroom - per-guest, per-day - appears in the left-hand column of the table below. The maximum amount of the fuel supplement for additional guests in a stateroom - per-guest, per-sailing - appears in the right-hand column. Supplement for additional guests in a stateroom - per-guest, per-day Maximum for additional guests in a stateroom - per-guest, per-sailing GBP 1.50 GBP 21.00 EUR 2.00 EUR 28.00 USD 3.00 USD 42.00 CHF 3.00 CHF 42.00 DKK 14.00 DKK 196.00 SEK 18.00 SEK 252.00 NOK 15.00 NOK 210.00Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Asia-Pacific region:For first and second guests in a stateroom, the revised fuel supplement will be $8 (U.S.D.) per-person, per-day, and no more than $112 (U.S.D.) per-person, per-cruise. Additional guests in a stateroom will be charged $3 (U.S.D.) per-person, per day, and no more than $42 (U.S.D.) per-person, per-cruise. The supplement will assist our company in offsetting the widespread increases in fuel prices that have more than doubled in recent years. The supplement will be periodically reviewed, with the intent of being temporary, and may be adjusted as fuel prices fluctuate.We thank our guests for understanding our need to implement this fuel supplement. We have gone to great lengths to minimize the impact of rising fuel costs. Unfortunately, as fuel prices have reached record highs, we are forced to take this extraordinary step to offset our record costs and to remain competitive within our industry. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=138 2008-04-22 Travel News azamara cruises|celebrity cruises|royal caribbean cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) One of the prime benefits of traveling with Virtuoso is getting expert advise from true insiders. Case in point: Our Alaskan connections live and work across the Great Land, so they can guide you away from the trampled track and let you live Alaska like a local. Here's the inside scoop on the Inside Passage. SkagwayEat at: For a light lunch, try Sabrosa's (off Broadway near 6th). Tucked into a tiny alleyway, this cozy cafe serves tasty, inexpensive Alaskan-Tex-Mex fare and has a nice (albeit small) outdoor courtyard. * Or, save your appetite for the Stowaway Cafe (205 Congress Way), known for its wonderfully "Alaskan-eclectic" ambiance, succulent seafood and inviting deck overlooking the harbor. The blackened pepper prawns are so good, you'll want to lick the plate. Shop at: Rosemary, the owner of Lynch & Kennedy (3rd and Broadway), has a great eye and a soft spot for local artisans. Look for interesting jewelry, carved ivory pieces, and original paintings and sculptures. * Also, stop by Skagway Artworks (555 Broadway #C), a small gallery owned and operted by local artists Ralf Gorichanaz and Tina Cyr. Ralf carves Alaskan fossil ivories, while Tina specializes in watercolors and beaded jewelry. Visit: Stretch your legs and escape the crowds with the one-mile roundtrip Lower Dewey Lake Hike. The beginning is challenging, but the trek quickly levels out and skirts a pretty alpine lake. JuneauEat at: The funky little Silverbow Bakery (120 Second St) makes bagels that would impress any New yorker, along with daily lunch and bread specials. (The bakery is connected to The Back Room Theatre, the only cinema along the Inside Passage that serves cocktails and dinner). * Another good choice for lunch or dinner is Wild Spice Cafe (140 Seward St), an upscale Mongolian grill-style restaurant with straight-from-the-water-fresh Alaskan seafood and amazing sauces. Shop at: Relatively off the tourist route, the gift shop at the Alaska State Museum (394 Whittier St) sells an interesting array of authentic native masks, baskets, bentwood boxes, and other original artwork. * The unconventional Annie Kaill's Gallery (244 Front St) highlights Alaskan artists whose works actually hang in locals' homes. Visit: About 10 miles beyond the city center lies the mysteriously serene Shrine of St Therese, located on a tiny island accessible by a foot-trail causeway. It also offers great views of the marine life-filled Lynn Canal. SitkaEat at: Hands down, the choice here is Ludvig's Bistro (256 Katlian Dr), one of the best restaurants in Southeast Alaska. Named for the owner's beloved dog, this fun, festive venue features imaginative decor and afternoon tapas, perfect for a break from sightseeing. If you're overnighting in Sitka, dinner is a must. Shop at: The Sitka Rose Gallery (419 Lincoln St), located in a charming old house, is filled with Alaskan art in all price ranges, from wonderful wood block prints to significant bronze sculptures. * Another smart choice: The Goldsmith Gallery (407 Lincoln St), which offers the same quality of art pieces available at the original Skagway gallery. Visit: Spend some time wandering the Sheldon Jackson Museum (104 College Dr). With more than 5,000 pieces of Native artworks and everyday objects, it is undoubtedly the finest collection in all of Alaska. KetchikanEat at: Get great food and even better views at the WestCoast Cape Fox Lodge (800 Venetia Way). The lodge sits on a hill overlooking the town; if you're arriving by cruise ship, you can take the funicular from the waterfront. * Tasty treats from KetchiCandles (315 Mission St) always make a nice gift to take home (if you don't eat them first). * Near the candy store, Salmon, Etc. (322 Mission St) sells great smoked salmon. Shop at: The Scanlon Gallery (318 Mission St) offers fine artworks from a wide variety of Alaskan artists. * And make sure to stop by The Soho Coho (5 Creek St), a gallery in the historic Star Building where beloved Alaskan artist Ray Troll offers his witty and satirical pop imagery. Visit: Your kids will never forget their visit to the Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery and Eagle Center (1158 Salmon Rd), where they can actually feed the tiny salmon and see the bald eagles up close. Information on Alaska cruises can be found here:http://www.celebritycruisedestinations.com/celebrity-cruises-alaska.html http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=137 2008-02-18 Experiences alaska|alaska cruises|food and wine|inside passage|shopping|sightseeing LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Azamara Cruises and Celebrity Cruises have made arrangements for ship captains to marry guests at sea. The sister lines plan to launch legal, captain-led wedding ceremonies later this year. Celebrity has long partnered with The Wedding Experience to offer onboard vow renewals at sea and in-port wedding ceremonies. With the recent re-registration of seven of Celebrity's eight ships in Malta, where Azamara's two ships also are registered, government regulations have changed to allow for captains to perform legal marriages while the ships sail.Guests being married at sea will be offered a variety of packages that include private receptions in the ship's specialty restaurant, cake, champagne, and more. Basic captain-performed wedding packages begin at $2,500. Guests should book their wedding in advance of the sailing to allow time for the processing of licenses and other legal documents. Guests can also arrange weddings during Alaska cruise-tours at Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge and The Hotel Alyeska, amid the hanging glaciers of the Girdwood Valley or with Mount McKinley as a backdrop. These ceremonies can take place from June to September. For more information, visit www.celebritycruisedestinations.com and www.azamaracruisedestinations.com http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=136 2008-02-14 Experiences azamara cruises|celebrity|celebrity cruises|weddings at sea LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Unveils New Restaurants for Celebrity Solstice Celebrity Cruises said its new Celebrity Solstice, set to sail on its first cruise on Dec. 14, will feature 10 restaurants. The line unveiled its dining plans at an event at New York's Per Se restaurant last night. "The dining experience has always been central to our guests' cruise experience, and on Celebrity Solstice we'll present the extraordinary service the brand is know for in venues designed to perfectly complement the spectacular cuisine," said Dan Hanrahan, Celebrity's president and CEO. "The larger size of Celebrity Solstice allows us to offer more options for our guests, with menus created by some of the best talent in the business." Celebrity Solstice will carry approximately 2,850 passengers.Celebrity said it has partnered with some of the best restaurant designers in the business to create the new restaurants onboard Celebrity Solstice, among them Adam Tihany, who has created such restaurants as Per Se, Jean Georges, Le Cirque, The Sea Grill and Osteria del Circo in New York; Aureole, Bouchon and Seablue in Las Vegas; and Monte's and the Mandarin Bar in the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in London. Tihany, in his first restaurant aboard a cruise ship, has designed the two-level Grand Epernay dining room; the classic steakhouse Tuscan Grille, and the Oceanview Cafe on the ship's lido deck. Grand Epernay features a two-story wine tower, similar to what Tihany created in Aureole in Vegas. The new menus are being created by Jacques Van Staden, Celebrity's vice president of food and beverage, in conjunction with Celebrity's culinary consultant Blau & Associates. Van Staden was previously one of the top chefs and restaurateurs in Washington, D.C., and Las Vegas. Blau is credited with shaping the dining experience at Bellagio and Wynn Resort in Las Vegas, and is also developing the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino's Simon kitchen and bar.Dining venues aboard Celebrity Solstice will include Grand Epernay, the main dining room open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring French cuisine and the two-story wine tower; Tuscan Grille, a combination of Mediterranean and California Napa cuisine; Silk Harvest, a casual specialty restaurant featuring Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese and Indian selections; Blu, which offers "clean cuisine" exclusively for guests booked on the new AquaClass category of accommodations, with healthy food options; Murano, a twist on the restaurant of the same name on Celebrity Century, blending classic and modern Continental cuisine in an elegant setting; Bistro on Five, a casual dining area where guests can eat or take out sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts and other entrees; Cafe al Bacio & Gelateria, an upscale coffee house serving European cafe fare as well as gelato, signature coffees, teas, fresh-based pastries and more; AquaSpa Cafe, a dining option for guests seeking lighter fare; Mast Grill & Bar, featuring comfort food in a poolside venue; Oceanview Cafe & Grill, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with food stations reflecting where the ship is sailing. For more information visit www.celebritycruisedestinations.com. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=135 2008-02-06 Travel News caribbean|celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice|cruises|food and wine LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) An amazing immersive cinematic experience, Galapagos delves deep into the largely known waters surrounding this famous volcanic archipelago to explore the natural wonders of a realm that is truly a living natural science laboratory. Journey beyond the world that Darwin visited 160 years ago through the use of the state-of-the-art technological equipment to witness the biodiversity and the process of evolution surrounding the isolated Galapagos Islands. IMAX 3D technology will send you plunging 3,000 feet underwater into underground lava tubes, soaring over the peaks of 5,000-foot volcanoes and bring you face-to-face with an abundance of marine life, including marine iguanas and the world's largest shark, the whale shark. Check local movie listings for Galapagos in your town. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=134 2008-01-29 Travel News galapagos Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) When Celebrity Solstice launches in December, vacationers will find that the grass really is greener on a Celebrity Cruises vacation. The ship will offer an industry first on the top deck of the ship -- real, growing grass, set in a new country club environment known as "The Lawn Club." The half-acre Lawn Club on Celebrity Solstice will invite guests to enjoy bocce ball and croquet, practice their putting, picnic with a basket of wine and cheese, or simply feel the grass between their toes, while sailing the oceans of the world. The area also will feature the Hot Glass Show, another first in the industry, developed in collaboration with The Corning Museum of Glass; the Patio on the Lawn; the Lawn Club Shop, and the Sunset Bar."We want our guests to experience the unexpected, like the thrill of sinking a putt on a freshly manicured lawn in the middle of the ocean," said Dan Hanrahan, president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. "The experiences on and around the lawn exemplify what we aim to achieve: to recognize, celebrate and indulge our guests in style." Added Richard Fain, chairman of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Celebrity's parent: "Everything about the Celebrity Cruises brand is authentic. Our vision for a completely genuine experience demanded nothing less than real grass, and we sought out the right innovation to make that vision a reality."Celebrity worked with Boston-based design firm Wilson Butler Architects to design the entire club area, then engaged a team of landscape architects and irrigation specialists along with turf and soil scientists at the University of Florida. Together, they conducted extensive research and tested a variety of grasses to determine which can withstand the winds, sun, shade and temperature variations that will affect the grass and soil as the ship sails in the Caribbean this winter. Other considerations included the ability of the grass to tolerate foot traffic, irrigation and day-to-day care and maintenance of the grass. Even the weight of the grass and soil had to be considered, as well as the water they absorb from the atmosphere and from irrigation.The Lawn Club is the central element of the top-deck experiences on Celebrity Solstice. The Patio on the Lawn offers elegant yet relaxed sitting areas where luxury meets casual country club charm. The Hot Glass Show, presented in collaboration with the Corning Museum of Glass, is the patio's main feature. In its own, dedicated glassblowing studio, the Hot Glass Show will present the history and craft of glassblowing, from its ancient origins to its current countless uses. Three resident "gaffers" -- highly skilled glassblowing artists -- will educate and entertain cruisers with live glassmaking shows, lectures and workshops. The area also features the Sunset Bar enhanced on Celebrity Solstice by the natural grass in The Lawn Club. Located at Celebrity Solstice's highest point aft, the Sunset Bar provides breathtaking views in a relaxed atmosphere.Celebrity's current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, Celebrity Eclipse in 2010, and a fourth Solstice-class ship in 2011. For more information, call 800-268-8107 or visit www.celebritycruisedestinations.com. For more information about Celebrity Solstice, visit www.celebritycruisedestinations.com/celebrity-solstice.html. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=133 2008-01-18 Travel News caribbean|celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises is kicking off the new year by announcing the name of the third "celestial" ship in its 118,000 gross-registered-ton Solstice-class fleet. Celebrity Eclipse will make its maiden voyage in 2010, following sister ships Celebrity Solstice in 2008 and Celebrity Equinox in 2009, bringing the Celebrity fleet to 13 ships.Like its sister ships, Celebrity Eclipse will have larger standard staterooms, 90 percent of which will be outside, and 85 percent of those will have verandas. The 2,850-guest ships will have an exceptional range of guest-inspired services and amenities, and will measure 1,033 feet in length and 121 feet in width. German shipbuilder Meyer Werft will build the new tonnage."Naming Celebrity Eclipse brings us that much closer to making this phenomenal new class a reality," said Celebrity Cruises President Dan Hanrahan. "Our brand is in a period of significant growth and momentum, and our new Solstice class exemplifies that expansion in an incredibly exciting way." The announcement of Celebrity Eclipse comes just one month after the news of Celebrity Quest, the third ship in the line's "Celebrity Expeditions" class of smaller ships designed to round out the brand with tailored-to-market products in exotic locations.Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experiences with highly personalized service, authentic five-star dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Antarctica, Bermuda, California, Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal and South America, and will begin sailing in Australia and New Zealand this year. Noted for "The World's Best Large Ships," as voted by the readers of Conde' Nast Traveler (February 2006 Cruise Poll), Celebrity's current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Journey and Celebrity Quest this year, Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, and Celebrity Eclipse in 2010. For more information, call Celebrity Cruise Destinations at 877-268-8107 or visit our website at www.celebritycruisedestinations.com. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=91 2007-01-20 Travel News celebrity cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Situated in the center of the well-known Alentejo wine region, Evora is recognized as Portugal's most historic city - and at its very heart is the Convento do Espinheiro, Heritage Hotel & Spa. Located in a 15th-century monastery, this lovely hotel is noted for its Heritage Rooms, build in the old monks' cells. Throughout 2008, Virtuoso guests can spend two nights in a double Deluxe Heritage Room, with an upgrade upon arrive (when available). You'll also enjoy buffet breakfast daily; a wine tasting for two with the hotel's sommelier, once per stay; access to the Turkish bath, sauna, and other amenities; and 10 percent off spa treatments, with a complimentary third treatment when you purchase two. From EUR250 per room, per night. Contact us, your Virtuoso travel advisor for more details and availability. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=132 2007-12-07 Experiences virtuoso Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Constantly enhancing it's celebrated onboard experience, Celebrity Cruises has teamed up with Riedel to offer unique wine-tasting seminars at sea. The world's most famous crystal manufacturer, Riedel has created a special hour-long workshop that allows guests to taste the difference the proper glass can make when sampling vintages. Led by Celebrity's sommeliers, the tastings include the world's most popular grape varieties, served in Riedel stemware expressly made for each. At the end, participants receive a complimentary Riedel Vinum Tasting Set. This unique workshop is available on most Celebrity ships; ask us, your Virtuoso travel advisor for details. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=131 2007-12-07 Travel News celebrity cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises will offer live glass-blowing on the Celebrity Solstice, due out in December 2008. Celebrity entered into a partnership with the Corning Museum of Glass, which created the "Hot Glass Show" that will take place at the aft of the ship's upper deck. The show "will present the history and craft of glassblowing, from its ancient origins to its current countless uses. Three gaffers (the artisans who blow glass) will educate and entertain cruisers with live glassmaking shows, lectures and workshops." Some of the details have not been announced yet. The line has not established how many demonstrations there will be during a cruise but there will be several at least. Also, while Celebrity said there will be guest involvement with the glass-blowing, it hasn't been worked out completely what that will be. For more information on the Celebrity Solstice, visit www.celebritycruisedestinations.com http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=130 2007-12-03 Travel News celebrity cruises|celebrity solstice LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Join us as we explore the new cruise line Azamara Cruises and their first ship, the Azamara Journey. We sail from Cape Liberty, New Jersey to Bermuda on a 7-night roundtrip voyage. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=11 2007-10-01 Experiences Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises is revamping its shipboard dining and will have the new menus and cuisine in place fleetwide by the end of January. The news was revealed by Celebrity during a travel industry event in Las Vegas. Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Celebrity's vice president of onboard revenue and entertainment, said the new menus will be more contemporary and will have new presentations "to be more in line with what fine restaurants on land are doing."Overseeing the menu redesign is the Celebrity's new vice president of food and beverage, Jacques Van Staden, who joined the line after working with Blau & Associates, a top restaurant consultant in Las Vegas. Blau is also consulting with Celebrity on the new menus. At Monday night's reception, guests were given a sampling of what the new menus might feature, including mushroom risotto, mini hamburgers with foie gras and tiny parmesan baskets filled with goat cheese. "We want to take our cuisine further to define Celebrity in a new way," Lutoff-Perlo said. The cuisine will be revamped in all restaurants on all seven ships except for the specialty restaurants, she said. Specialty restaurants will be reviewed in a second phase once the new menus are in place. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=121 2007-09-11 Travel News celebrity|food and wine LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) 2007 is shaping up to be an all-too-memorable summer as raging wildfires have repeatedly scorched Greece. This latest spate of wildfires are located near the remote Mani area of the Peloponnese Peninsula. States of emergency have been declared in several areas of Greece. A combination of Greece's vigorous winds, higher than usual temperatures, an overstretched fire fighting system, and arsonists are at fault. The worst of the fires are concentrated in the mountains of the Peloponnese in the south and on the island of Evia north of Athens. Strong winds blew smoke and ash over the capital. What does this mean for the traveler? If you're sensitive to air quality, it's not the best time to visit mainland Greece. You'll be better off on the Greek islands, but fires can strike them, too. While fires are being actively fought, travel by road may be impaired and smoke can sometimes interfere with airport operations as well. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=120 2007-08-28 Travel News Greece Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) "Starring You" is the new TV, print and online advertising campaign of the Celebrity Cruises with primary goal of the cruise operator to make every one of its guests feel famous for the duration of their cruise. "We`re extremely excited about `Starring You,`" said Celebrity`s Senior Vice President of Marketing Ellen Taaffe. "It powerfully delivers on our promise to deliver service with style to every guest who sails with us. While service has always been a Celebrity cornerstone, we filmed this campaign to distinctively convey the style and comfortable sophistication that accompany that service. And we think it very effectively illustrates how we place our guests at the center of everything we do."The TV ads - featuring the music track, "Fame," the timeless hit by rocker David Bowie - air on cable TV began today, and on ABC programming beginning September 24. The print campaign can be seen in the September issues of Bon Appetit and Conde Nast Traveler, and in various travel trade publications. from TravelDailyNews.com http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=119 2007-08-28 Travel News celebrity cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Our second day in Moscow begins with a walking tour of the Kitay Gorod district, in the very center of Moscow. The small narrow streets are lined with artisans selling everything from paintings to clothing. Anna explains this district has historically been the home of "free thinkers" and "artsy" people. Along the main boulevard we found the Moscow Hard Rock Caf where they have the typical selection of logo wear and American food. Leaving Kitay Gorod, we began exploring the Moscow subway system, known as the Metro. This system is amazing, made up of over 170 stations, buried as deep as 300 feet under the city; it transports over 9 million passengers per day! Returning to the Red Square area by metro, we walked to the Soviet Gulag Museum located behind the Bolshoi theatre. This haunting museum chronicles the cruelty of the Soviet regime from 1917-1956. Concentration camps were used to split up families, provide industrial labor and expand the nation through forced relocation plans. Scientists, architects, painters and many other "free-thinkers" were taken to the concentration camps to be killed, eliminating their ideas and influence from society. After this we moved on to a lighter experience, Vodka tasting at a local restaurant. Here we sampled several vodkas and had a great lunch meal. Returning to the metro, we convinced Anna we could make our way back to the hotel. Even after several "practice runs", the metro system is confusing at best. The basic problem is that all of the maps that were available at the hotel and other tourist locations had been translated into English. However, most of the signage in the metro is not translated, so we found it very difficult, if not impossible to translate from the English to the Russian names. We had the same problem with street maps, since none of the street signs are translated. Headed out to dinner that evening, the trip through 3 metro stations, with one transfer and a walk of a few blocks took us over an hour to negotiate. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=70 2006-08-10 Experiences russia Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) After Mexico we are planning a trip to Greece, then Bora Bora, then the bahamas. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=118 2007-07-31 Experiences Bora bora|Carribean|Greece|Mexican|trip Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) I just got back from Egypt and it was the best vacation ever! I went to Luxor, Alexandria, Cairo, and Giza. The water in Alexandria was crystal clear! Here is what I did. Day 1 When I got to my hotel in Cairo, I rested and looked out my window at the pyramids. Day 2 I took a camel down to the pyramids and sphinx, and I went inside one of the pyramids, the camel ride was a wonderful experience and it was so much fun. I went inside a tomb, then I went inside of another tomb called the tomb of Qar, I forgot what the other tomb was called. That night I went on a cruise down the Nile river. Day 3 I went down to the step pyramid Saqqara, then I saw some other ruined pyramids, I went down to a perfum shop and got some perfum, then I went to a carpet school and saw homeless poor kids make rugs, and they gave me a rug so I gave them some money, whitch is Egyptian pound in Egypt. I went to a Papyrus shop, and bought some Papyrus whitch is Egyptian paper, its really cool. Then I went to another store. Then I went to a museum and saw the famous albaster sphinx that was found in Luxor, then I went to the Egyptian museum aka Cairo museum. I saw the fase masked of King Tut and I saw the Sarcophagus's of King Tut. I saw more stuff too, but that was my favorite attraction. Then I went to the Pharaonic village and saw people dress up and act like the Ancient Egyptians. Then I went to Old Cairo and went to the Citidal, then I went to lots of castles. Then I went to lots of Khan el khalili in Cairo. That night I went to a light show were they lit up the pyramids and sphinx. Day 4 I went to Luxor, Egypt by plane. I went to the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Valley of the Nobles, and something called the Valley of the Baboons. I went inside so many tombs including King Tut's. I saw King Tut in his tomb and it was so cool. I went to the Temple of Karnak the largest temple in the world, and I went to the Temple of Luxor. They both were so neat. Then I sailed down the Nile, Then I went to a light show back at the Temple of Karnak. Then I went back to Cairo. Day 5 I went to Alexandria by car, I saw some ruins, I got to see were Cleopatra used to take showers, then I went to this tomb that the greeks made when they came to Egypt, it hade lots to do with Alexander the great. There was so many bodies down there. Then I went to a castle, then I went to a beach, the water was so clear and amazing, it was beautiful. Then I went back to Cairo. Day 6 I went to the hard rock cafe in Cairo, and I went swimming in the pool in my hotel, I stayed at the Le meridien pyramids hotel. As you can see I did alot. Bye!!! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=117 2007-07-31 Experiences Bora bora|Carribean|Greece|Mexican|trip Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) As of July, Hawaiian island-hoppers can skip the airport security hassles with the new Hawaii Superferry. The high-speed vessel will connect Honolulu with Kauai and Maui, with plans to reach the Big Island by 2009. Current fares, $40 to $60 one-way depending on route and booking, are roughly equal to interisland air-fares. The ships boost a degree of comfort en route, offering a childrens play area, gaming arcade, Wi-Fi, bar, caf and for a $20 upgrade, a first-class lounge. www.hawaiisuperferry.com (from Virtuoso Life, June/August 2007) http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=116 2007-07-19 Travel News hawaii Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) This hotel is located in Cairo, Egypt. When I visit Egypt, I will be staying in that hotel. When you go out on to your balcony, there are the pyramids, also they have a pool were you can swim to a tiki bar and get a drink, you can also get a nice view of the pyramids. They also have massage service. Also they have great touring services were they will give you a tour of Old Cairo, Modern Cairo, and the sphinx and pyramids, and the tombs and temples of Giza. They also have great room service. So you wont want to miss out on this five star hotel. Just go to www.Lemeridien.com. Put Cairo under the city, leave state/province blank, and choose Egypt as the country, then click search. Then click on the second hotel listed which is called the Le Meridien Pyramids resort, which has pyramids on the picture. Now you can book your stay or look at some awsome pictures of the hotel, if you want to see more pictures, just get on the inernet and look up pictures of the Le Mereidein pyramids hotel in Cairo, Egypt. I found a lot more pictures. Don't miss out on the best travel destination in the world, Egypt! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=115 2007-07-04 Travel News egypt Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) They have dug up 185 tombs and 89 temples in Giza, Egypt, The tombs belongged to Kings, queens, and princes, they are thinking cleopatra's tomb is nearby the pyramids. The tombs look awsome with statues mummies and paintings and heiroglyphis in the tombs. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=114 2007-06-26 Travel News Giza Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Hi, its Shelby, in 2009, we are going to the Bahamas, we are going to Cat island. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=112 2007-06-07 Travel News Giza Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Hello, I am Shelby, I go by Dogs rule, cats suck, because I am a doglover. I have a list of some websites for you about Egypt travel. Just click on the highlighted websites, and it will take you straight to that website you chosen. I strongly recommend Egypt as a vacation. Me and my sister Sabrina, are going to Cairo and Giza. We are going to skip Luxor all the way. Cairo and Giza is the best places to travel to in Egypt and in the world. We strongly recommend Cairo and Giza. Send me anything about Egypt. If you wish to tour Egypt, go to www.goaheadtours.com, click on browse our tours, scroll down to exotic destinations, then click on Egypt and the Nile. The Egypt and the Nile trip is very expensive, and I recommend going by yourself. So now you can go to www.cheapoair.com, and find some amazing prices on plane tickets to Cairo. I also recommend this website www.touregypt.com, because it has a great travel section. Me and my sister are staying in the Le Meridien Pyramids Resort in Cairo, just minutes away from Giza! You can view the pyramids right from our window, balcony, and their pool! Go to www.LeMeridien.com, type in the city Cairo, leave the state/province blank, then choose the country, Egypt, now search and it should be the second hotel listed! When you found the resort, click more to go to the actual Le Meridien Pyramids page. On the Le Meridien Pyramids page, you can find out cool information, and you can look at cool pictures! You can also book on that website. Another website for this resort you can go on is www.LeMeridienPyramids.com. Also check out the cool website www.Egypt.com, here you can find cool travel news and photos. Also check this website out, www.thenileandegypt.com, this web will help you plan your trip perfectly. Also to help plan your activities in Egypt, go to www.travelegypt.com. If your from the U.S.A, go to www.us-passports.com, to find out info on getting your passport. If your not from the U.S.A, go to www.aaa.com to find out how to get your passport. You may also get your passport on www.aaa.com if you are from the U.S.A too. To find out about getting your visas, go to www.travelvisas.com! I hope I helped! Send me a comment about how I did! We are excited! Bye http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=111 2007-06-05 Experiences Giza Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Hello, I am Shelby, I go by Dogs rule, cats suck, because I am a doglover. What sea is your favorite? My favorite sea is the carribean. The carribean is the sea with the most beautiful parts. The bermuda looks too over rated. The mediterrnean is not as clear as the carribean, the black sea looks over rated, the red sea looks pretty, but not as beautiful as the carribean. Post your favorite sea. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=110 2007-06-05 Experiences Giza Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Hello! Are you going to Egypt? I am. I am going to Cairo and Giza to see the Great Pyramids and Great Sphinx. I will be staying in the Le Meridien Pyramids resort, with a Pyramid view room. We can view the pyramids right out of our window and off of our balcony!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The pool there is also pyramid view with a swim-to tiki bar. This means you swim over to the bar to get your drink. Isn't that cool? While your enjoying your drink in the pool, you can gaze at the pyramids. When you wake up early in the morning, and open up your curtains, there is the pyramids. Then you go out on your balcony, and have a nice cup of warm cofee while gazing at the pyramids from your balcony. That will be me. It can be you too! Just go onto www.Lemeridien.com, search for Le Meridien in the city Cairo, then choose the country, Egypt, leave the state/province blank, click on Le Meridien Pyramids, which should be the second listed hotel, and book a room now for a low price! I am sure glad I did! If this post helped, let me know by sending a comment. Post me a comment on how I did on this as well. This is the best hotel in Egypt! On that website, you can also look at some amazing pictures of the Hotel, and find out some good information about it. This hotel is in Cairo, just minutes away from Giza! I am excited about staying there! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=109 2007-06-05 Travel News egypt|Le Meridien|Pyramids Sabrina (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Egypt Travel Information and things to do in Cairo and Giza Sorry about those few mistakes I made on the other post. My stupid computer is acting up. I am going to Cairo and Giza, Egypt in July, so here is some info Egypt travelers, like me, will need to know. Is Egypt Safe? YES!!!!!! Egypt is extremely safe, with nice people. Some people consider Egypt being the Middle East, but actually, it is north Africa. Egypt is highly safe. What should woman wear in Egypt? Keep your shoulders covered, and don't wear shorts above the knees. Pretty much what I am saying is don't look like a whore. Do not wear Spaghetti Straps. Do not have cleavage. Your shirt must be past your shoulders. You do not have to cover your head, just make sure you put your hair up. You can wear sandals or tennis shoes. Make sure, like in any country, you give the people respect. What religion is Egypt? Egypt is a Muslim country. What is something I will not want to miss? Do not miss the Great Pyramids of Giza, and the Great Sphinx! The Great Pyramid of Giza (The largest pyramid) is the only one of the seven ancient wonders of the world that is still standing. Also they have dug up tombs and temples in Egypt, do not miss that as well. There are also more pyramids in Giza. They are right behind the Great pyramid and his friends, ha ha ha! What is the best hotel in Cairo? The best is Le Meridien Pyramids Resort, this is where I am staying. I have a room where you can view the pyramids right from my window and balcony! This resort allows guest to stay in a hotel you only have dreamed of, for a awsome price! The pool is a pyramid view pool. So while you are swimming, you can view the pyramids. It also has a nice Tiki bar that you swim over to, to get your drink. How cool. I am definantly excited about staying there, and I recommend this amazing hotel with a great price. Log on to www.Lemeridien.com, and search for Le Meridien in Cairo. What is Egyptian money called? Egyptian pound. How do I get Egyptian pound? Order it by asking your local AAA, perchase a Visa Buxx (Note that you can find a ATM to take money from the Visa Buxx, and get bills for you.), or take American money to Egypt, and they will gladly exchange it for you at the airport or a bank. Where do I shop in Cairo? Perchase a city walk, and they will give you plenty of time to shop around the markets. Or just walk around on your own, if your not scared of getting lost. Khan El-Khalili is a really nice market, do visit there. Is Cairo large? Cairo is huge. It is larger, and has more population than New York City. It is the largest city in Africa. Do I need passports and visas? Of course, you need a passport to go out of the country anywhere now. You will also need a visa. Go online and get passport and visa applications, or visit your local AAA. You will need to visit AAA anyways, for passport and visa photos, I did both of mine with AAA. I recommend doing this through AAA. Is Egypt expensive? For flying internationally, it is a damn good price, expecially with CheapOAir. Go on to cheapoair.com, and you can find amazing plane ticket prices. Pharonic Villiage This is a very cool place. It is where modern Egyptians dress up as ancient Egyptians. You will get to see what ancient Egyptians did through everyday life. Pyramids of Giza, Great Pyramid of Giza, and the Great Sphinx These are the best attractions in all Egypt! Pyramids and Sphinxes are all over the world, but there is nothing like these! I can't wait to see the Pyramids and Sphinx. Post your comments. If I left something out you need to know, just let me know by posting a comment, and I will add it right away. I hope this bit of info helped! I hope you enjoy your time in Egypt, I sure will!!! Oh, and remember that in Giza, they have dug up tombs and temples that you can enter when you visit, the tombs and temples look awsome! They found a huge statue in Giza too, so yes I strongly recommend Cairo and Giza for they have the most to see and do in all Egypt. Go to Cairo and Giza, its the best! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=108 2007-06-05 Travel News egypt|Le Meridien|Pyramids Sabrina (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Hi, its me Shelby again. I am going to Mexico in 2008. I am going to Yucatan and Cancun. I am staying in Cancun, then on the third or fourth day, I will take a bus to Yucatan to see Chichen itza, the temple of the warriors, and the other ruins. I am also going to the xcaret theme park in Cancun. Just think of soaking in to the worlds most beautiful sea the Carribean. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=106 2007-06-04 Experiences egypt|Le Meridien|Pyramids Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Hello, I am Sabrina, I travel with my sister Shelby. She goes by Dogs rule, Cats suck on this website. As you know, we traveled around Europe last year. This year we are going to Egypt. And next year we are going to Mexico. Okay, this entry is not about me, this is going to be about you. What is your favorite sea? Here is some examples Red Sea Carribean Sea Mediterranean Sea Black Sea I like all of these seas, but I somewhat seem to favor the Mediterranean Sea. I love the Red Sea and the Carribean too though. So which is your favorite? Post me your favorite sea now! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=101 2007-06-04 Experiences egypt|Le Meridien|Pyramids Sabrina (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Hello, me and my sister went to Europe last year. We went to England, Switzerland, Monaco, Malta, Italy, France, and Sicily. Gozo, Malta has the most beautiful beaches in this world! People compare the Carribean and the Meditterranean. These seas are not comparable, they are both equally beautiful, and the Bermuda looks a little bit over rated. This year we are off to Egypt. We are going to Cairo and Giza. We are going to see the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. We have decided to skip Luxor altogether, and go to Cairo and Giza. If you go to Egypt, we strongly recommend Cairo and Giza. We are staying in the Le Meridien Pyramids resort. We can see the Pyramids right from our window and balcony! Our pool is a pyramids view pool, so when we're swimming, we can look at the pyramids!!!!!!!! Egypt is our Favorite country! Next year we are off to Mexico's Yucatan and Cancun, Mexico. We will be staying in Cancun. Our third or fourth day there, we will take a bus to Yucatan to see Chichen Itza, The Temple of Warriors, and all the other ruins! We are going to Xcaret theme park in Cancun! We will be traveling to a whole lot more places, and when we finish planning more trips, I will post them. WE ARE SOOOOOOOOOOOOO EXCITED! Where have you been or where are you going? Share your experiences, and have a good trip! WE ARE HAVING FUN TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY, AND WE WILL SHARE MANY OTHER EXPERIENCES INTERNATIONALLY! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=100 2007-06-04 Experiences egypt|europe|international|mexico Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Azamara Cruises, the world's newest cruise line, is the high-end, destination-driven line just introduced and operated by Celebrity Cruises. You'll appreciate the personal service and attention you'll receive on this smaller, more intimate cruise line. On an Azamara cruise, you'll not only have access to some of the world's most sought-after, unique ports, like Antarctica and South America, you'll also travel in the most well-appointed accommodations, with nightly culinary artistry inspired by the world's most accomplished chefs and by the bountiful regions through which each itinerary travels.Amenities you will enjoy include: Butler service in all staterooms and suites Concierge-style amenities in all categories Two specialty restaurants with world-class chefs Expanded spa services, including seven treatment rooms and a "wellness" consultant Premium onboard entertainment Exclusive, immersive shore excursions Azamara Cruises, recently opened bookings for 2008-2009 Asia itineraries on Azamara Quest. Also announced were 2008-2009 itineraries for its sister ship, Azamara Journey, in Europe and South America. With the addition of these itineraries, along with the Bermuda and exotic Caribbean itineraries previously announced, Azamara Cruises will visit 175 ports in over 60 countries around the world. These introductory offers now include Complimentary Air from most major US and Canadian cities. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=99 2007-06-04 Travel News asia|azamara cruises|bermuda|celebrity cruises|south america Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Hi, me and my sister have been to Europe. We went to England, Switzerland, Monaco, Malta, Italy, France and Sicily. Gozo Malta has the most beautiful beaches in this world! People compare the Carribean and the Meditteranean. These seas are not comparable, they are both equally beautiful, and the Bermuda looks a little bit over rated. This year we are off to Egypt. We are going to Cairo and Giza. We are going to see the great pyramids and Sphinx. We have decided to skip Luxor altogether, and go to Cairo and Giza. We are staying in the Le Meridien Pyramids resort. You can view the pyramids right from our window and balcony! Egypt is our favorite country. Next year we are off to Mexico's Yucatan and Cancun, Mexico. We will be staying in Cancun. On our third or fourth day there, we will take a bus to Yucatan to see Chichen Itza, and the other ruins. We are going to the Xcaret theme park in Cancun!! We will be traveling internationally a whole lot more, but we haven't planned other trips yet. WE ARE SOOOOOO EXCITED!!! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=98 2007-06-04 Experiences egypt|europe|mexico Dogs rule, cats suck (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Great values available on Celebrity CruiseTours in Europe for 2008! For a limited time, receive $200 and $300 onboard credit on select CruiseTours. Click the links for more information. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=97 2007-03-25 Travel News celebrity cruises|cruisetours|europe Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) A massive celebration including fireworks over the harbor was held in Sydney today when the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth 2 joined each other. A crowd that local papers pegged at more than 200,000 people lined the shores of the harbor to see the historic meeting of the famed ocean liners, the first time since World War II that two Cunard Queens have visited Sydney simultaneously. The three-year-old, 2,592-passenger Queen Mary 2 is on its first cruise around the world, and has been drawing heavy crowds almost everywhere it goes. The Queen Elizabeth 2 is on its 25th world cruise. The two ships set off around the globe simultaneously from Ft. Lauderdale on Jan. 10 but have followed different routes. This will be their one and only rendezvous during their respective voyages. Slideshow of images at Sydney Morning Herald http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=96 2007-02-22 Travel News australia|cunard|sydney Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The Blue Moon has recently undergone major renovations and is looking great. The owners have selected beautiful tiles for all of the flooring surfaces, hallways, bedrooms and bathrooms. White linens and bedding keep the room crisp and clean looking. In a king room for two, there were 4 large bath towels and 4 hand towels provided. They provide the basic shower gels, lotions and shampoos. As an added touch, there is also a small collection containing a toothbrush, paste, a few "hangover" cure pills and some red eye treatment. A fun selection, obviously there some amount of looking pretty after a big night out in "Sin City"! The resort is located between I-15 (the N/S highway) and the strip at Sahara. In our experience of two different cab companies, neither knew where the Blue Moon was located so you might want to know where you are headed. If you're coming from the airport, it's about a 10 minute trip. Our directions of "I-15 and Sahara" were sufficient, and just before exiting the highway you'll spot the resort on the right. It's then the first right off of Sahara which is Highland Drive and then over 1 block to Westwood. Arriving at the property, the lobby is just inside the door on the end of the building near the Westwood Drive. Heading down the long hallway from the receiption desk, you'll pass an room that has a couple of TV's and a flat screen computer that is available for use with the complementary WiFi that is throughout the property. You'll find elevators mid-way down the long hall and a sanua/steam room at the far end. Just before you get to the steam room is a curtained off doorway which is the video room. Inside this darkened room are two TV's showing the typicaly male porn. Exporing a bit futher outside, you'll find a beautiful pool and hot tub area. The hot tub is "groto" like, installed for maximum privacy from the next door neighbors under a landscaped cover complete with waterfall. Next to the pool is a large outdoor BBQ area and a pathway that continues to the back of the property and to an entrance near the sauna. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=95 2007-01-29 Experiences gay and lesbian|las vegas Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises marks fifth consecutive year of top rankings in Conde Nast Traveler's annual review. In the large-ship category, Celebrity's entire Millennium-class fleet - Constellation, Summit, Infinity and Millennium - ranked first through fourth, respectively, marking the second consecutive year the line has held every spot from one through four. Celebrity's Galaxy (ranked eighth) rounded out the top 10. Century, which completed a $55-million revitalization in May 2006 - one month after the annual survey was conducted - earned a 16th-place ranking, followed by sister ship, Mercury - which will receive an extensive series of upgrades in April. Full survey results are published in the February edition of Conde Nast Traveler.Celebrity also is celebrating a "three-peat" in its sweep of the survey's rankings in the category of food/dining, capturing all four top spots. The line also earned the top rating for best crew/service, and the highest marks in design/layout. More than 33,000 discerning Conde Nast Traveler subscribers evaluated cruise lines on seven criteria: crew/service, food/dining, design/layout, itineraries, shore excursions, cabins and activities/facilities."Conde Nast Traveler's annual readers' survey is one of the most meaningful polls in the business, and comes at a time when Celebrity is embarking on a particularly exciting period of growth and momentum," said Celebrity's President Dan Hanrahan. "We're thrilled with this recognition, and committed to continuing to offer our guests an experience that inspires them to honor our brand in this way."Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experiences with highly personalized service, authentic five-star dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Antarctica, Bermuda, California, Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal and South America, and will begin sailing in Australia and New Zealand this year. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe and Australia through its cruisetour division. Noted for "The World's Best Large Ships," as voted by the readers of Conde' Nast Traveler (February 2007 Cruise Poll), Celebrity's current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Journey and Celebrity Quest this year, Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, and Celebrity Eclipse in 2010. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=89 2007-01-20 Travel News celebrity|celebrity cruises|cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Los Angeles is adding "LA" to the names of underused airports it owns in two distant cities in a marketing ploy to relieve passenger strains at aging Los Angeles International Airport. The Southern California cities of Ontario and Palmdale, swallowing their civic pride, are endorsing the name changes. Ontario International Airport, 40 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, is now LA/Ontario International. And the airport in Palmdale, 60 miles northeast of the city, is LA/Palmdale Regional Airport. Other airports that have annexed the names of more-renowned places include the Manchester, N.H., airport, which became Manchester-Boston Regional Airport. Buffalo International Airport made it planer to tourists that it's near Niagara Falls by dubbing itself Buffalo Niagara International Airport. (Page 4A, USA Today) http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=90 2007-01-20 Travel News airlines Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Quest will be the newest vessel to join the Celebrity fleet in mid-October 2007. Celebrity Quest has been slated to sail several 12- and 14-night Long Caribbean voyages, round-trip from Miami, FL beginning on Friday, October 19, 2007. In December 2007 through late March 2008, Celebrity Quest will sail a mix of 14-night Long Caribbean voyages, round-trip from Miami and 14-night East and Westbound Panama Canal voyages from Miami to Acapulco, Mexico and the reverse. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=92 2007-01-20 Travel News celebrity cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Journey has been slated to sail several very exciting and different South America itineraries in winter 2007/2008. The 12 to 18-night sailings will cruise to remote areas of Antarctica, Brazil, the Chilean Fjords and other far away regions.Celebrity Journey will begin the winter season with an 18-night South America repositioning cruise from Miami, FL to Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil on Sunday, November 11, 2007. She will then sail a 12-night round-trip Brazil voyage from Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil; a 12-night Brazil voyage from Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil to Buenos Aires, Argentina; an 18-night Chilean Fjords cruise from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Valparaiso, Chile and an 18-night Antarctic cruise from Valparaiso, Chile back to Buenos Aires, Argentina. Celebrity Journey will sail a 12-night Carnaval voyage on Monday, January 28, 2008 and another 18-night Antarctic cruise both round-trip from Buenos Aires, Argentina. She will then sail a 12-night Brazil voyage from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil; and a 12-night round-trip Brazil cruise from Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil.Celebrity Journey will finish the South America season with an 18-night repositioning cruise beginning in Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil and ending in Miami, FL in late March 2008. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=93 2007-01-20 Travel News celebrity cruises|south america Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The U.S. State Department has finalized their Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) and there are significant passport rule changes and requirements for travelers, beginning January 23, 2007. At that time, U.S. citizens that travel outside of the United States by air, including to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America and Bermuda will be required to present a valid U.S. passport when they return. Birth certificates will no longer be accepted for re-entry into the U.S. Further details and background can be found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html): Additional information: Go here for information on obtaining or renewing a passport:http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html The proposed implementation timeline has two phases: Beginning January 23, 2007, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document. As early as January 1, 2008, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. While recent legislative changes permit a later deadline, the Departments of State and Homeland Security are working to meet all requirements as soon as possible. Ample advance notice will be provided to enable the public to obtain passports or passport cards for land/sea entries. Travel Documents for U.S. Citizens Under WHTI Under the proposed implementation plan, the following documents will be acceptable to fulfill document requirements: U.S. Passport: U.S. citizens may present a valid U.S. passport when traveling via air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, and may also use a U.S. passport when traveling via sea and land borders (including ferry crossings). The Passport Card (also referred to as the PASS Card): This limited-use passport in card format is currently under development and will be available for use for travel only via land or sea (including ferries) between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. Similar in size to a credit card, it will fit easily into a wallet. DOS and DHS also anticipate that the following documents will continue to be acceptable for their current travel uses under WHTI: SENTRI, NEXUS, FAST, and the U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document. As proposed, members of the U.S. Armed Forces on active duty traveling on orders will continue to be exempt from the passport requirement. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=88 2006-12-05 Travel News passport rules|united states LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) WHILE THERE ARE NATURAL WONDERS EVERYWHERE AROUND US, some unquestionably are more wondrous than others. We concur that the generally accepted list of the world's seven greatest - the Grand Canyon, Mount Everest, the Great Barrier Reef, Victoria Falls, Rio de Janeiro's Harbor, Paricutin and the Northern Lights - indeed are natural phenomena not to be missed. Yet we believe the following marvels are equally worthy of being on every world traveler's "must-see" list. GIANT REDWOOD FOREST (NORTHERN CALIFORNIA) - Along California's northern coast lies an enchanted forest of the tallest plant species on Earth. On average, the giant redwoods (scientific name: Sequoia sempervirens) grow to 200 feet; the tallest on record reached a height of 367 feet. They also are among the oldest living things on the planet: A redwood's average age is 600 years old, although some live up to 2,000 years. What's more, fossil records show that relatives of these coastal trees existed some 160 million years ago. Unfortunately, Western expansion would casue more than 95 percent of the old-growth redwoods to be logged. In the 1920s, the Save the Redwoods League was able to protect those remaining by establishing three state parks; the Redwood National Park would be dedicated in 1968. Together, these parks have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as an International Biosphere Reserve. MOUNT FUJI (JAPAN) - Standing 12,390 feet and nearly perfectly symmetrical in shape, Mount Fuji (or Fijisan, meaning "deity of fire") is both Japan's highest peak and its national symbol. Worshipped as a sacred mountain and venerated in art and poetry, this long-dormant volcano - it last erupted in 1707 - stands on the border between Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures and can be seen from Tokyo on clear days. Part of the Fuji-Hakone National Park, Mount Fuji is surrounded by five lakes; they, along with nearby Lake Ashino-ko, offer outstanding views. The mountain was first ascended by a monk in AD 663; today, thousands make the approximately 10-hour roundtrip hike each summer, many climbing at night to experience sunrise from its summit. NILE RIVER (EGYPT) - The world's longest river and the very lifeblood of Egypt, the Nile stretches almost 4,000 miles north from the mountains of Eastern Africa into the Mediterranean. The vast majority of Egypt's population - and its grandest sites, from the Great Pyramids to the temples of Luxor and Karnak - lie in the northern Delta region; being downstream, this area is known as Lower Egypt. (While exploring other lands, ancient Egyptians would note the "wrong" flow of other rivers.) Egyptian culture is filled with river symbolism; its ancient calendar was divided into three seasons based upon the river's cycles. A Nile river cruise - particularily one on a traditional felucca - is a must for travelers. AYERS ROCK (AUSTRALIA) - The Aborigines called it Uluru or "Giant Pebble", and their ancestors lived here some 20,000 years ago. This giant red monolith - the world's largest - is a sacred center of power for Australia's indigenous people, and it has emerged as a compelling symbol fo the country itself. Rising 1,144 feet high, this massive sandstone rock continuously changes a spellbinding array of reds, oranges and pinks (caused by mass deposits of iron); its mystical transformation is most dramatic at sunrise and sunset. Because of its spiritual significance, the Aborigines - who manage the surrounding national park - discourage climbing Uluru; a walk along its base reveals a number of hallowed sites and paintings of ancient Aboriginal tribal myths. CAPPADOCIA (TURKEY) - Across a 50-square-mile area in the Anatolia region of Turkey, a surreal landscape of soft tufa spires, pinnacles and "fairy chimney's" rise up to five stories high from the surface floor. Created by ancient volcanic eruptions, along with millennia of wind and rain erosion, Cappadocia is mentioned as early as 5th century BC, and has been home to various peoples, who created cave dwellings in the tufa cones and cliffs. A Christian community appeared in the 4th century AD; the monastic colony here is believed to have included more than 400 churches and hermitages. Today you can visit 15 of these, including sculpted dome churches with vaulted ceilings, pews and beautiful frescoes. GULLFOSS (ICELAND) - With an average flow of 3,880 feet per second, Gullfoss or "Golden Falls" is Europe's most powerful waterfall. Located along Iceland's glacier Hvita ("white") River, the spectacular cascade - comprised of two separate falls - drops 105 feet into a canyon below; on sunny days, the mist clouds produced create dozens of dazzling rainbows. In the early 20th century, efforts were made to buy the falls and supplant it with a hydroelectric plant, but a local farmer's daughter named Sigridr Tomasdottir valiantly fought to save Gullfoss, making a pilgrimage to Reykjavik and threatening to throw herself over the falls if it was sold. Development plans were halted, and a national park was establihsed there instead. A monument honoring Tomasdottir was erected there in 1978. LAKE TITICACA (PERU/BOLIVIA) - It was from the immense depths fo Lake Titicaca that the ancient Incas believed their progenitors, Manco Capac and Mama Ocllo, first emerged to found their mightly empire. Today, the cradle of Incan civilization has lost none of its mysticism or grandeur. Spanning more than 4,000 square miles and lying 12,500 feet above sea level in the Andes Mountains of Peru and Bolivia, Titicaca is South America's second largest lake and the planet's biggest above 6,500 feet. Pilgrims to this place experience stunning archaeological sites (many pre-Incan), colorful folkloric festivals and lakeshore communities still thriving as they have done for centuries. Saturated in the high-altitude air and suffused in the lake's expansive, sapphire-blue waters, sunrises and sunsets here are known to be among the most enchanting in the world. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=87 2006-12-04 Experiences australia|bolivia|california|egypt|iceland|japan|peru|south america|turkey LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) While Puerto Vallarta may forever conjure up the heated romance it inspired between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, this sun-drenched locale offers plenty of attractions for families, as well. You can: 1) Go whale watching in Banderas Bay, the second-largest natural bay in North America. Its warm waters are a sanctuary for pods of humpbacks as well as other marine-life, including dolphins, sea turtles and giant manta rays. 2) Explore the undersea world at Los Arcos National Marine Park, renowned for its dramatic caves, coves and grottoes. Named a federal underwater park and eco-reserve, Los Arcos claims some of the best snorkeling and scuba waters along the coast. 3) Spend a day in Yelapa, a remote beach community accessible only by boat. This tiny, laid-back village with no telephones is an artists' haven. Play on the beach, take a hike or go horseback riding through the jungle to the dramatic, 150-foot cascading falls. 4) Visit El Eden, a lush, jungle park that served as the movie set of Arnold Schwarzenegger's "Predator"; you can see the helicopter that crashed in the film still stuck in the trees. 5) Expereience the secret world of the Huichol Indians in the Sierra Madre Mountains. One of the world's last remaining indigenous cultures - and believed to be direct descendants of the ancient Aztecs - the Huichol still adhere to their long-held traditionas. You can join a tour to some of their small settlements scattered throughout the mountains. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=86 2006-11-30 Experiences mexico LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Mercury will sail alternating 14-night South Pacific voyages between Auckland, New Zealand and Sydney, Australia beginning on December 9, 2007. Mercury also has slated two 15-night repositioning voyages between Honolulu, Hawaii and Auckland, New Zealand to open and close the season; 15-night departures on November 23, 2007 and March 2, 2008. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=94 2007-01-20 Travel News australia|celebrity cruises|new zealand Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Does your pulse elevate at the sight of wild vertical drops and wicked-fast runs? Here are our top five picks for over-the-top ski resorts. Whistler-Blackcomb, British ColumbiaDouble the pleasure, double the fun: These towering twin peaks offer the biggest vertical drop in North America (more than 5,000 feet), some 30 feet of snowfall a year and 7,000 acres of skiable terrain. Little wonder why Whistler Village will join neighboring Vancouver in hosting the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Zermatt, SwitzerlandLeave St Mortiz for the jet-set: Serious skiers head to this charming village for its Kleine Matterhorn cable car, the second greatest lift-served vertical drop in the world and three ski areas that reach more than 9,500 feet. Vail, ColoradoThe largest single-mountain ski area in the United States - and touted as "America's favorite resort" - Vail claims almost 200 trails crossing 5,290 skiable acres, the world's fastest high-speed quad lifts and a European-style village laden with restaurants, galleries and boutique shops. Banff-Lake Louise, AlbertaSituated in the heart of Banff - one of three Canadian national parks to form the Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site - Lake Louise actually is made up of three ski areas: Louise, Norquay and Sunshine Village. Locals prefer Mount Norquay for its "monster" vertical drops. Portillo, ChileSituated in the heart of the Chilean Andes, South America's oldest ski resort is world renown for its exceptional snowfall and expert runs: The Roca Jack and Condor are so steep they require a special, one-of-a-kind lift while the 125 mile-per-hour speed barrier was broken along the Kilometro Lanzado. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=85 2006-11-19 Experiences alberta|british columbia|canada|chile|colorado|europe|skiing|south america|switzerland|united states LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) While looking toward the year ahead, we decided to take a look back in time - at time, as in how ancient civilizations used their remarkably advanced knowledge of the skies to create calendars, calculate eclipses and determine major life events. Here is our list of the greatest examples of ancient sites dedicated to studying the heavens. Perhaps most remarkable is that these diverse civilizations, spanning five continents and reaching as far back as 3200 BC, devised astonishingly smiliar techniques and theories. Angkor Wat (Cambodia)Constructed during the early 12th century AD by King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat stands as one of Asia's grandest religious mounuments and the benchmark of classical Khmer architecture. Yet this temple, renowned for its detailed bas-refliefs and carved devatas, was built not only to pay tribute to Hindu deities, but to reveal cosmological mysteries, as well. On the morning of the vernal equinox, for instance, the sun rises directly over Angkor Wat's central tower when observed from the temple's western causeway. In addition, the solstice sun illuminates specific segments of bas-reliefs, particular panels of which - such as the Churning of the Sea of Milk (Milky Way) - reveal their own calendrical secrets. Chichen Itza (Mexico)While Europe was in the midst of the Dark Ages, the Maya - a highly advanced people originating in the Yucatan and eventually inhabiting a vast region across Mesoamerica - created a writing system; a complex numbering system, including the earliest known concept of zero; and three distincitve calendars. Chichen-Itza, which was built between AD 700 and AD 1000 during the Mayan "Golden Age", served as the region's political, religious and military power, and claims some of the Maya's grandest structures. Its most famous, the El Castillo pyramid, was constructed so that, on the vernal equinox, the setting sun casts a shadow in the shape of a serpent slithering down the pyramid's steps. The Observatory traces Venus's travels across the sky. Chaco Canyon (United States)Situated in the remote, northwest corner of New Mexico, Chaco Canyon shows evidence of human inhabitance as far back as 2900 BC, although the massive, multi-story stone structures for which it is famous were constructed between AD 850 and AD 1150. Most of these great houses - some of which contained up to 700 rooms - were built along celestial alignments, indicating the expert knowledge Chacoans had of the skies and their influence on the seasons. The canyon's most famous ceremonial site, the Sun Dagger petroglyph, denotes the cycles of sun. Chaco Canyon National Monument was established in 1907 and, 80 years later, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Karnak (Eygpt)Ancient Eygptians believed that the sun god, Amon-Re, created the universe and, in reverence to this foremost diety, they constructed one of the greatest monuments in the world. Located less than two miles from (and virtually synonymous with) Luxor, the humbling Temple of Karnak - built over a period of almost 2000 years - actually comprises three main temples, along with a number of smaller temples. While dedicated to the sun god, the Karnak complex is believed to have at least four stellar alignments; archaeologists believe that many of the temples were altered over the centuries to follow the processional movements of their aligned stars. Jantar Mantar (India)One of six major observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (AD 1688-1743), Jantar Mantar in Jaipur allowed ancient priests to measure time, calculate eclipses, determine the Earth's circumference - even theorize about gravitation - with incredible accuracy. Astronomy played a major role in ancient India, as evidenced by a tour of the Jantar Mantar site. Its equatorial sundial, Laghu Samrat Yantra, can measure time to within 20 seconds, while the site's hemispherical sundials (called Narivalaya) determine the positions of both the sun and stars. The Rashi Yantras, or zodiacal instruments, observed latitues and longitudes of the planets. Machu Picchu (Peru)Although the ancient Inca reigned over the largest pre-Coumbian empire in the Americas - an estimated 440,000 square-mile region extending from Ecuador to the Chilean coast - many of the civilization's greatest feats were lost to conquering Spaniards and the ravages of time. Yet the great city of Machu Picchu - located high in the Andes Mountains and surrounded by dense foliage - stands as a testament to the Inca's accomplishments. Many of the city's structures were built in celestial alignment; the central intihuatana (which translates to "tying the sun") is a stone platform where priests would hold ceremonies to "tie" the sun to prevent it from disappearing during the winter solstice. Newgrange (Ireland)Located in County Meath northwest of Dublin, Newgrange is famous for its megalithic tomb, an acre-sized mound constructed around 3200 BC. At sunrise on the winter solstice, the tomb's 62-foot-long inner passage and chamber are dramatically illluminated for approximately 20 minutes. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, the Newgrange chamber is decorated with a prominent, megalithic tri-spiral design; upright stones both in and outside the chamber are engraved with other designs and images. Tours of Newgrange - along with the smaller tombs that lie nearby at Knowth and Dowth - are available through the Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre in Donore. Admission to watch the winter solstice sunrise, however, is held by lottery. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=84 2006-11-16 Experiences angkor wat|asia|cambodia|chaco canyon|chichen itza|egypt|europe|india|ireland|jaipur|jantar mantar|karnak|machu picchu|mexico|new mexico|newgrange|peru|siem reap|south america|united kingdom|united states LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Just in time for the start of the holiday travel season, The Department of Homeland Security has spearheaded an initiative to inform the flying public about carry-on liquid restrictions. Using simple graphics, a poster and brochure explain what passengers will be allowed to carry on-board the airplane. It emphasizes the 3 oz., 1 qt., 1 bag carry-on limit. You can go here additional information, including the poster and the brochure. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=83 2006-11-14 Travel News airlines|airport security|tsa LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Following are our recommendations for some of the most interesting upcoming events happening around the world. March 15 - 19, 2007St Patrick's Day Festival - Dublin Ireland Everyone's Irish on St Patrick's Day, and where better to celebrate than in Ireland's capital with more than a million other green-donned revelers? The weeklong festivities include musical and theater performances, carnivals, street artists, a treausre hunt, the St Patrick's Day Parade, and, of course, copius amounts of Guinness. May thru July 2007White Nights Festival - St Petersburg Russia A must for ballet, opera and classical music lovers, this performing arts festival derives its name from the short summer season when the sun never sets, and features a seemingly endless list of concerts and performances by leading Russian and international artists. July 2007Singapore Food Festival - Singapore Enjoy culinary workshops, heritage food "trails" and more during one of the world's largest gastronomic celebrations. Event details for 2007 are still being finalized, but 2006 highlights included the unique flavor of Singapore's Chinatown, a garden plaza featuring dishes made with floral and fauna elements and a chili crab gala complete with a crab dance and crab football game. September 25, 2007Moon Festival - Hong Kong PRC During the Mid-Autumn Lantern (or Moon) Festival, which takes place after the Lunar New Year, Hong Kong's streets are ablaze with thousands of lanterns, while the spectracular Fire Dragon Parade is not to be missed. Gaze at the moon at its fullest and fill yourself up with plenty of "moon" cakes. Late-September - Mid-October, 2007State Fair of Texas - Dallas, Texas Since 1886, Dallas's Fair Park has been the site of the largest state fair in the United States, with more than 3.5 million people visiting during the 24-day event. Highlights include an auto show, musicals, livestock auctions, a creative arts area, midway rides and games, food stands and other family fun. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=82 2006-11-11 Experiences asia|europe|food and wine|hong kong|russia|singapore|united states LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Celebrity Cruises has taken its first major step toward physically launching the Celebrity Solstice in fall 2008. Celebrity President Dan Hanrahan on Wednesday ceremoniously pressed the start button for the plasma cutter at shipbuilder Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, creating the ship's first steel plate. "While it's too soon to reveal any details, I'm convinced our travel agent partners and guests are going to find this ship to be the perfect manifestation of what they appreciate most about Celebrity," said Hanrahan. Accompanying Hanrahan at the ceremony were Harri Kulovaara, Celebrity executive vice president, maritime and newbuilding; Solstice Project Manager Jarmo Laakso; Meyer Werft Managing Director Bernard Meyer; and Project Manager Uwe Wulf. The first in a class of three ships, Celebrity Solstice will be a 2,850-guest vessel measuring 1,033 feet in length and 121 feet in width, and will feature larger standard staterooms and a higher percentage of verandas. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=81 2006-10-12 Travel News celebrity|celebrity cruises LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) When you get bad news at the airport, what are your rights? Trouble-free travel these days seems to be the exception, not the rule. About 745.7 million travelers took to the sky in 2005, and consumer complaints with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) skyrocketed as they voiced their unhappiness about lost luggage, delayed flights and missed connections.With planes even more packed this year, your chances of encountering such a situation seem likely to increase. Here's what you should know when you get bad news at the airport. Delays and cancellations What does my airline ticket guarantee? Your ticket is a contract to get you from point A to point B, but not necessarily on time. If a delay creeps into a cancellation, in most cases the airline will only rebook you on its next available flight. Don't expect compensation for the inconvenience of lost time. If the next few flights out are booked solid and another carrier has open seats to your destination, your airline may agree to put you on the other flight. But because it has to pay for your seat, this is a last-resort option, and the cheapest restricted tickets and frequent-flier-award tickets may not be endorsable to another airline.What perks can I expect if I'm delayed?When a delay is the airline's fault, it may offer stranded passengers meal vouchers and even foot the bill for a hotel stay. Mechanical problems and flight-crew staffing issues (but not strikes) usually fall into this category. Unfortunately, weather and air-traffic-control delays two of the most common reasons for schedule troubles do not. These are considered force majeure events outside the airlines' control, along with labor disputes, wars and natural disasters. During force majeure delays, airlines will generally provide information only, and after several high-profile cases of passengers trapped for hours on the tarmac, access to food, water and lavatories. "With force majeure events, all bets are off," advises Terry Trippler. Airlines may provide additional amenities to stranded passengers, but only if delays are under airline control. These vary by carrier and are spelled out in their contracts of carriage, available online. For example, US Airways will give out calling cards after a two-hour delay and a meal voucher at the three-hour mark, while Delta hands out meal tickets after four hours. Overworked gate agents may not distribute these perks, so you may have to ask for them. When am I entitled to a hotel room? Landing a free hotel room isn't easy, and again, it's offered only for airline-caused delays and according to set rules. Continental and Delta give room vouchers only if delays are four hours or more, between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. United will pay for a room only if your flight is diverted overnight to another city but not for flight cancellations or missed connections. If you get stuck overnight and the airline won't put you up, ask if it has negotiated discount rates at nearby hotels.Missed connections What if I miss a connection because of a delayed flight? The onus to rebook you is on the carrier that delivered you late, not the airline whose flight you missed. In the best-case scenario, the airline will make new arrangements before you land, and agents at your arrival gate will fill you in. "We have people on our 'day of departure' desk who work with our airport agents and do nothing but re-accommodate passengers who cannot make their original itinerary," says American Airlines representative Tim Smith. But when widespread delays affect thousands of passengers, you'll probably have to stand in that dreaded long line at the customer-service desk. While waiting, call the airline's reservations number to see if an agent there can fix things faster, but remember that airport agents have more options, such as booking you a seat on another carrier. If you can't get out that day, the airline will provide a meal and accommodations only if the original delay was its fault (see above).Bumping What are my rights if I'm bumped? Airlines oversell flights to offset no-shows, but when they miscalculate, travelers who get the boot may be entitled to denied-boarding compensation. The rules of engagement are set by the DOT, which also spells out required compensation. Airlines must first ask for volunteers and usually try to entice travelers to give up their seats with flight vouchers, often worth $200 to $500. Before volunteering, find out when you'd get a confirmed seat to your destination, whether a hotel will put you up overnight and details of voucher restrictions. If enough travelers don't volunteer, the airline will choose passengers to bump, typically based on who checked in last, the amount of the fare paid and frequent-flier status. Compensation depends on the length of the delay and the price of your ticket.If you reach your destination within an hour of your scheduled arrival time, you aren't entitled to anything. If you're less than two hours late, you'll receive up to $200; for four hours, up to $400. The key words here are "up to," because compensation is based on the fare you paid for that leg of your journey. Carriers usually offer vouchers, though you are entitled to cash. But if you're traveling on a $79 discount fare and the airline offers you a $200 voucher, you're probably better off taking the voucher. The fine print: Denied-boarding compensation rules don't apply if you don't check in on time, or for aircraft seating fewer than 60 passengers.Lost luggage What should I do if my suitcase doesn't appear at baggage claim? With the new prohibition against packing liquids and gels in carry-on bags, fliers are checking more suitcases, further taxing a luggage-handling system already under stress. U.S. airlines lost 10,000 bags a day in 2005, the highest percentage since 1990 and that was before the recent increase in checked luggage. If your luggage doesn't show up in baggage claim, don't panic; 98% of lost bags are located within hours or days. File a lost-luggage report with the airline, and don't leave the airport without a file number and phone number to call to track your bags' progress. Most airlines will reimburse you for necessities you buy while waiting for your luggage. Keep in mind that reimbursement is typically capped at $25 a day, up to a maximum of $125, and you'll have to produce receipts. You may be able to plead for more leeway and cash up front if you need to buy replacement clothing for special events, such as a wedding or job interview, but this is at the airline's discretion. If your suitcase doesn't turn up in 45 days, you'll be compensated by the airline according to its policy and, for overseas flights, international treaty. Domestic fliers can receive up to $2,800 per person for lost or pilfered luggage. Most international fliers will be reimbursed under the terms of the Montreal Convention, which allows for compensation of about $1,500 per bag (depending on exchange rates). No matter how valuable the contents of your bag are, you're not going to get a penny more than the rules specify. There's also a long list of items airlines refuse liability for, including electronics, jewelry and photo gear; check your carrier's website for details. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=80 2006-10-06 Travel News airlines LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Welcome to fall and our Celebrity Cruises newsletter! This is the perfect time of year to take advantage of several exceptional offers for late season Mediterranean cruises in October and November. The weather is warm, the summer crowds have disappeared and the savings are excellent, including complimentary stateroom upgrades. You'll also want to check out our reduced airfare offers for cruises in the Mediterranean, Panama Canal and South America. These are very limited-time specials, so contact us as soon as possible if you're interested in one of these itineraries. For a truly unique vacation, take a look at the intimate, exotic, luxury cruises in the Galapagos onboard the 96 passenger Xpedition. These sailings are offered as a 7-night cruise only, a 10 or 11-night cruisetour with pre and post-stays in Quito Ecuador, or even a 13-night Galapagos and Machu Picchu combination (with nearly everything included in the price). Book any of these exceptional journeys before the end of 2006 and you'll receive a $100 per stateroom onboard ship credit. Finally, you'll also find information on our exclusive Virtuoso Explorer sailings for December and January, which include special pricing, complimentary cocktail receptions and a shore event or special gift. Virtuoso Explorer sailings are available only through us, your Virtuoso travel consultant. We look forward to helping you plan your next cruise vacation and hope to hear from you soon. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=79 2006-10-04 Travel News celebrity|celebrity cruises|newsletter Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Effective today, Sept. 26, 2006, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will adjust its airport security screening procedures as follows: 1) Pre-Screening - Passengers may carry travel-size toiletries (3 ounce or less) that fit comfortably in ONE quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag through the security checkpoints. 2) Post-Screening - Passengers may bring items, including beverages and duty-free items, purchased in the secure gate area on-board the aircraft. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the U.S. is working to align its policies with those found in Canada and Europe, but some differences may currently exist. Details can be found at: http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/9-25_updated_passenger_guidance.shtm http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=78 2006-09-26 Travel News airlines Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Effective Jan 8, 2007, ALL travelers to and from the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America and Bermuda WILL REQUIRE A PASSPORT to enter or re-enter the United States. This initiative will affect all cruise and airline passengers. Passengers who are on cruises or vacations that depart prior to Jan 8th but return to the United States ON OR AFTER Jan 8th will fall under these new requirements. If you do not already have a passport and are booked on a cruise or vacation after Jan 8, 2007, you MUST get a passport. We recommend you do so as soon as possible to avoid the rush that is expected at the end of the year. You can go here to find information about obtaining a passport, including mail-in locations, walk-in locations (including many U.S. Post Office locations). http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html Please contact us if you have any questions. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=77 2006-09-21 Travel News canada|caribbean|cruises|mexico|passport rules|vacations LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Over the next 5 days we'll travel to Seattle, Victoria, Vancouver and Whistler. Along the way we're exploring several types of transportation (airplane, high speed catamaran, helecopter, train and coach) and will stay at Fairmont Hotel properties in Victoria, Vancouver and Whistler. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=9 2006-09-07 Experiences Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Departing Warnemunde at 8pm, we had a longer journey to our next port of call, Gdansk, Poland. We had a half day at sea this morning, before arriving around 2pm. Because of high winds and a driving rain, the ship made port at Gdinya instead of Gdansk. This turned into a bit more of a challenge since instead of a 20 minute walk from the pier into Gdansk, we had about a 30 minute walk to the Gdinya train station, then a 35 minute ride into central Gdansk. However, the extended journey was more than worth it when we arrived in Gdansk and wandered upon a large street fair in the central part of the old town. This fair gave us a great opportunity to sample much of the local foods and better yet, the local beers. After spending about 5 hours wandering around among the crowds, enjoying the live music and sights we headed back toward the ship for an 11pm departure. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=73 2006-08-10 Experiences baltic|oceania cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) After departing Copenhagen at 8pm, the Insignia had a relatively short journey to our first port of call, Warnemunde, Germany. From the pier, the small shopping village of Warnemunde is a short 5 to 10 minute walk. Along the way you also pass the train station, which provides service to central Rostock with a journey time of about 20 minutes. After wandering the small streets and alleys of Warnemunde in the morning, we returned to the ship for a quick snack before catching a train into Rostock. Much of the architecture in Rostock is reminiscent of Amsterdam with it's narrowed, gabled row houses lining the cobblestone streets. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=72 2006-08-10 Experiences baltic|oceania cruises|warnemunde Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) After breakfast at the hotel the next morning we wandered the full length of the Stroget which ends at the Nyhavn. Once the red light district for seaman from Copenhagen its now a fashionable, (though a bit touristy) area of sidewalk cafes & bars and the launching point for canal tours. We opted for a canal tour, which was a very good value and a great way to see much of the city in a short time. After returning to the hotel area, we opted for a quick email check at an Internet Caf and then found a taxi to the cruise ship pier. There appear to be several options for cruise ship boarding in Copenhagen, so make sure you have a detailed address of exactly where youll be boarding or you may be left walking the final portion of your journey. One final note on the port of Copenhagen its beautiful! So many cruise ports are shared with commercial cargo, offering views of huge tanks, containers and shipping vessels. Here, the cruise ships are tied up along side pedestrian walkways, parks and in some cases, very near the famous Little Mermaid statute of Copenhagen. Once onboard the Insignia, we checked into our ocean view staterooms. This is the smallest ship weve cruised on with the exception of the Viking riverboat experience. Accommodating only about 700 guests, it is intimate, however still boasts what appear to be great facilities such as the spa, the pool deck, a beautiful grand dining room and three alternative dining venues, Tapas on the Terrace, Polo Grill and Toscana. We enjoyed dinner at Tapas on the Terrace tonight, which isnt exactly what youd expect at a tapas restaurant, but instead more of a buffet with a huge variety of tapas-like selections. Oceania could do more to promote the tapas feel by plating the selections on the more traditional small tapas plates. However, the Terrace, which also doubles as an outdoor dining venue for the breakfast and lunch buffets, is a great location, and traditionally one of our favorites since it occupies the aft, fantail section of the ship on level 9. The big production show this evening was an introduction of much of the ships entertainment staff. These arent huge, professional productions, and if you are looking for broadway class entertainment, it doesnt appear that Oceania may your best selection however, weve only seen one show so more as the cruise progresses http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=71 2006-08-10 Experiences baltic|oceania cruises Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) We start our first day in Moscow in the Marriott's execute level lounge for breakfast. Listening to the conversations, you'd never know you were out of the US. Plenty of American and English speak going on here. We quickly located our guide Anna, in the hotel lobby. She reminded us that we were in for a full day of walking Moscow, and grabbed umbrellas from the Concierge since the skies were gray and threatening rain. As we walked down Trevorskya, the great street that leads to the Kremlin, Anna told us of a few historic places and buildings along the way. We approached the Kremlin very near Red Square and then made our way toward the entrance nearer the river and the Armory. The city is very clean with flowers and shrubs along the streets, and around the water fountains that adorned the walkway around the Kremlin. Once inside the Kremlin we learned that this was no longer a residence for any political figures, but only hosted meetings and conferences. When asked about Presidents Puttan's residence, Anna explained that he lived at an undisclosed location, nothing like the American White House. On a bit of a political comment, she also noted that Puttan was not generally liked among the countrys young or wealthy or the residents of the larger cities such as Moscow. It sounded strangely familure of the US with the left versus right and Republican versus Democrat arguments. After showing us the grounds and several of the sites within the Kremlin, Anna took us to the Armory. The Armory holds not only arms of Soviet and Russian history, but also from various armies and forces that invaded Russia. In addition to the arms, there is a display of historic clothing, many from coronations of past kings and czars. There is also a display of horse drawn coaches that in many cases were presented to the royalty by foreign royalty and dignitaries. After the Armory tour, Anna took us to a great luncheon at a local restaurant that is built nearly into the walls surrounding Red Square. Formerly apartment like residences, the converted building was catacomb like, with 6 or 7 round roofed rooms. From lunch, we made our way through the rain to the GUM, a huge galleria type store that makes up one side of Red Square. We walked end to end, all the way from the beautiful red museum up to St. Basils. Anna told us that during Stalin's rule, there had been a protest by the people when Stalin decided to destroy St. Basil's to make it easier to get the huge army gatherings onto Red Square. Fortunately the people prevailed, since St. Basil's is a beautiful, amazing structure that now represents Moscow to so many. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=69 2006-08-10 Experiences russia Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Our trip to Moscow begins in Denver on a Saturday morning. After a relatively short flight to Dallas, we board our 10 hour flight to Zurich, Switzerland. Since we had upgraded with miles, the first and business first seats were a welcome relief from our last trans-Pacific flight to Hong Kong in coach. Our "long-haul" flight, on an AA 767 didn't contain an official first class, instead what they called a "Business-First" section. However, it looked like a full complement of very professional first and business class flight attendants were on board - they were very attentive and a pleasure to make the journey with. In Zurich we had about a 4.5 hour layover, so opted to take the train into central Zurich and make the short stroll to the Lake. Since we had arrived in Zurich at 7:30AM Sunday morning, the streets were very quiet. After one false start on the downtown trams, we decided to walk toward the lake. Arriving at the boat pier about 20 or 30 minutes later, we found none of the sidewalk cafes or shops that we had anticipated. Instead there was the boat pier where various lake ferries were boarded, a small coffee/snack shop and lots of small boat slips. So, instead of spending the morning sipping coffee (or something a bit stronger) overlooking Lake Lucerne, we headed back toward town, stopping briefly for a relaxing drink. Back at the airport, we anxiously awaited our flight to Moscow. As expected, the Swiss Air officials had set-up a small passport checkpoint where everyone's Russian visa was checked before boarding the 3.5 hour flight to Moscow. Uneventful, we arrived in Moscow's DME (can you say the Russian word that make up this city code-Domodyedevo?), claimed all of our bags that had been checked back in Denver, and after a few anxious moments, found our pre-arranged city transfer to the Marriott Grand Hotel. Since it's illegal to arrive or depart Russia with local currency (rubles) you'll most likely be finding an ATM or exchange booth at the airport. Don't count on the ATM's working - out of 3 machines; we finally found 1 that actually dispensed cash. As we cruised along the motorway toward central Moscow, all of us were surprised how far out of the city we appeared to be. All around were forested, rolling hills, farms and small clusters of roadside fruit stands. The city sprawls along gentle slopes to the center around the Moscow river. As we arrived at the river, we turned left and got our first glimpse of the Kremlin walls and towers. The Marriott is very centrally located, on Trevorskya (or at least that's what it *sounds* like) Street, about a 15 or 20-minute walk from the Kremlin and Red Square. The first evening our main goal was to get out of the hotel long enough to stay awake until the "normal" time here in Moscow. After strolling the streets a bit, we happen into a sidewalk cafe that served beer, wine and great appetizers. We enjoyed a cheese platter, cold summer soup, cold sliced duck and other appetizers. Overall, an excellent first experience of Moscow - The food was great, the local beers seem to be German pilsner style, and the young waiters and waitresses are fairly fluent in English - which is good since none of us can speak a word of Russian! http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=68 2006-08-02 Experiences russia Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) From cafes to five-star restaurants, travelers are spoiled for choice. Whether it be grazing at an outdoor market or taking a class in whatever your passion, here are some truly iconic ways to experience Australia's food and wine. NORTHERN TERRITORY Sounds of the Silence - An unforgettable evening under a million stars, feast on some of the Northern Territory's culinary delights, including barramundi, kangaroo, emu, crocodile, bush salads and classic Australian desserts. Take in the galaxy of stars with a little help from an astronomer. NEW SOUTH WALES Sydney Seafood School - Learn to cook seafood with the guidance of experts at the Sydney Fish Markets. Bathers' Pavilion - Elegant dining on beautiful Balmoral beach in Sydney. VICTORIA Melbourne's St Kilda - Cafes, restaurants and pubs of St Kilda are found along Fitzroy and Acland Streets. There are many favorite dining spots crowded with eateries - most are open fronted with tables spilling onto the sidewalk. Alternately you can dine with a bay view at one of the renowned restaurants on the foreshore. Specialty tours - try Melbourne's Chocolate Trails or the Queen Victoria Market Foodies Tour. SOUTH AUSTRALIA Chapel Hill Winery - one of the state's best gourmet retreats. Banrock Station Wine & Wetland Centre - see how a clever winemaker combines growing grapes and caring for wetlands. TASMANIA Peppers Calstock at Deloraine - offers Tasmanian organic produce with French-style cooking - captured in a magnificent Georgian home. WESTERN AUSTRALIA Margaret River Region - a wine region of renown in Western Australia has much to offer the traveler when it comes to food and wine. QUEENSLAND Flames in the Forest - located in the world famous World Heritage Daintree Rainforest, you'll feast on indigenous flavors and experience Aboriginal culture. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=63 2006-07-21 Experiences australia|food and wine|melbourne|new south wales|northern territory|south australia|sydney LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) ITS MIDSUMMER. HAVE YOU TAKEN A VACATION YET?A real one? Modern conveniences that keep us in constant touch are great unless you want to get away from it all. Since we can be in touch, we think we should be. Hence the modern syndrome coming to be known as leisure guilt. Consider some of these stats: One in four workers plans to work during vacation this year, according to a recent survey by CareerBuilder.com. Expedia.com even conducts an annual vacation deprivation survey which this year showed that workers will give back 574 million vacation days in 2006. The inability to leave the office behind is not a new psychological phenomenon, but todays modern conveniences are making it a lot harder. According to Dr. Raymond Folen, associate professor of psychology at Argosy University/Hawaii in Honolulu, For decades, white-collar workaholics have packed reports and office correspondence right next to the bathing suits in the suitcase. In the past, though, what helped put some boundaries on this behavior was the fact that taking a vacation made one much less accessible to those back at the workplace. The urge to check in with the office can have any of several roots: a fear of being left out of the loop; the worry that youll seem inadequately conscientious; the image of yourself as indispensable. Work can also be your dominant lifestyle habit, and habits, as we know, are hard to break. If you travel for work, you may also find it hard to separate travel from work. What many people leave out of their cost-benefit analysis is that vacations reduce stress. According to Dr. Folen, A vacation is as important for your body, mind and spirit as exercise and watching ones diet. A vacation might allow the brain to grow some new dendrites branch-like elements of brain cells that tend to break off under chronic stress. A vacation may allow the mind to gain fresh perspectives and allow the body to appropriately repair and maintain itself. If you know youll be distracted by what you might be missing at work, he suggests picking one trusted colleague to watch your back while youre away and notify you only if your input is critical. Overworked and overstressed workers may end up taking vacations regardless, Dr. Folen said, either now at a beach resort, or later in the hospital while recuperating from a stress-related condition. And they dont allow cell phones in hospitals. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=62 2006-07-18 Travel News australia|food and wine|melbourne|new south wales|northern territory|south australia|sydney LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The Travelodge Wynyard is one of several accommodation choices available for Sydney Mardi Gras 2007 inclusive packages. Room FacilitiesAir ConditioningTelevisionTelephonePrivate BathroomMini BarHairdryerIron and Ironing BoardTea/Coffee Making Facilities Travelodge Wynyard is ideally situated next door to all of Sydney's wonderful attractions, whether you are looking for an exciting day in the city, to experience the lifestyle, or a sensational night out on the town. See the Opera House, historical Rocks area, Darling Harbour, many theatres, a variety of restaurants, and a great selection of major shopping outlets. Refurbishment at Travelodge Wynyard will commence on 01 May 06Initial take out of 60 rooms starting from the 9th - 12th floor. Thereafter, there will be between 40-60 rooms under refurbishment. The anticipated working hours will be from 0700hrs - 1530hrs. Refurbishments will not take place between October and November 2006. The anticipated completion for the refurbishment is August 2007. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=61 2006-07-18 Travel News gay and lesbian|hotels Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The Medina Grand Apartments are one of several accommodation choices available for Sydney Mardi Gras 2007 inclusive packages. All the space of an apartmentwith hotel service! The entertainment, nightlife and excitment of Sydney are on your doorstep here at the Medina Grand Sydney. And, our team are here to assistour one, two or three bedroom hotel apartments have all the facilities you will need. We are surrounded by cosmopolitan cafes, bistros and restaurants, gyms and shoppingeverything that you will need for a short or long stay. Sydneys tourist attractions and entertainment venues are all just a stone throw from your door. Medina Grand Sydney is ideally situated for exploring Sydneys famous Darling Harbour, Circular Quay and The Rocks. And at the end of the day, return to your Sydney hotel apartment and relax in the sauna, take a dip in our heated swimming pool or work out in our fully equipped fitness centrewere here to make you as comfortable as can be. Our Hotel Apartments Feature... 144 studio rooms, one, two and three bedroom serviced apartments over 2 levels of accommodation with commanding views of Darling Harbour and the City from the higher level floors Fully air conditioned Broadband access Separate lounge and dining areaFully equipped kitchen with oven, stove, microwave, dishwasher and fridge/freezerIndividual fully equipped laundryBalcony Bath with shower, hairdryer Direct dial STD/IDD, message bank facilities Fax/modem/data lines available Stereo with CD playerIn-house movies In room safe Digital alarm clock/radio Our Hotel Guest Services... 24 hour reception Resident Manager Indoor heated swimming pool Sauna Gymnasium Licensed on site restaurant Brasserie Grill 511 Dry cleaning and laundry services Babysitting available Pantry Service Mini bar Cuisine Courier (Restaurant delivery service) Continental breakfast and starter packs http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=60 2006-07-18 Travel News gay and lesbian|hotels Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The Grace Hotel is one of several accommodation choices available for Sydney Mardi Gras 2007 inclusive packages. The Grace Hotel is an elegantly restored heritage listed Neo Gothic hotel built in 1930. Situated in the heart of Sydney's downtown area, The Grace Hotel fronts three of Sydney's most prominent streets - York, King & Clarence. You're only minutes walk from all the attractions of Darling Harbour, Cockle Bay and King St. Wharf. Also within walking distance, you'll find the best shopping at the Queen Victoria Building (QVB), David Jones city stores, Pitt St. Mall plus Myers in the Sydney Central Plaza. And nearby, you will be delighted to find The Rocks, Circular Quay, Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Grace with 382 spacious Guest Rooms over 11 floors all designed with the frequent traveller in mind with the latest in modern telecommunications such as broadband, voice mail and data points for every room.The Interactive television features in-room movies in every room and also allows guests to set wake-up calls, order room service, view their account at any time during their stay and use Express Checkout. The Grace beds are internationally renowned for exceptional comfort and can even be purchase by customers. Individual comfort is also enhanced with feather comforters and pillows. Each room is conveniently equipped with an iron and ironing board, climate control, in-room safe and fully stocked minibar. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=59 2006-07-18 Travel News gay and lesbian|hotels Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) The Sydney Intercontinental is one of several hotel choices available for Sydney Mardi Gras 2007 inclusive packages. InterContinental Sydney has long been an icon of Sydneys vibrant harbourside lifestyle. As one of the leading five star hotels in the region, the hotel has recently emerged from an $22 million refurbishment with stylish new guest rooms and a stunning rooftop Club InterContinental Lounge. Built around the restored Treasury Building, InterContinental Sydney offers panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the Royal Botanic Gardens. InterContinental Sydney has 509 guest rooms, featuring a luxurious window seat and broadband internet access. Around the clock services include gym, business centre, valet, room service and concierge.For the ultimate Sydney experience, take in the views from the rooftop Club InterContinental Lounge. Glass doors open onto a timber deck revealing a vista that stretches from the Harbour Bridge to the Pacific. Inside, luxurious furnishings and latest technology ensure a private retreat perfect for conducting business or simply relaxing. Club guests enjoy a deluxe breakfast, refreshments and evening drinks, as well as personalised business and concierge services and exclusive use of the lounge. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=58 2006-07-18 Travel News gay and lesbian|hotels Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) There's an excellent article about the value of travel agents, written by Post-Gazette travel editor David Bear. He mentions that travel agents book 87% of cruises, 81% of all tours and packages, 51% of airline tickets, 47% of all hotels and 45% of all car rentals. He also points out some of the many services that travel agents provide. Of course, not all travel agents are created equal, so it's important that you find an agent that you enjoy working with and that works well with you. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?TopicID=55 2006-07-12 Travel News gay and lesbian|hotels LonieG (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com) Singapore, Cambodia, Bangkok and Hong Kong. We start this journal in Singpore for the Virtuoso Overseas Symposium in Singapore. After the conference at the Raffles the Plaza hotel, we fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia for the Virtuoso extranganza at Ankor Wat. After Cambodia it's on to meet friends in Bangkok and Hong Kong. http://blog.globaltraveldestinations.com/?JournalID=4 2006-07-12 Experiences Randy (mailto:blogger@globaltraveldestinations.com)