Travel Lady Blog

Holland America’s Ryndam Shining A Bit Brighter

Terry Jones — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:10:02 +0000

After being in dry dock for a 17 day overhaul the Holland America ship the MS Ryndam returns to service with a complete makeover. The ship now includes a new contemporary lounge called ‘Mix’ and a new Italian restaurant called Canaletto. The makeover also included the complete makeover of the main theater showroom that now sports a whole new look.

In this major renovation each of the ships 1258 staterooms were revamped with all new linens, fixtures, bedding and completely new bathroom vanities and cabinetry. There were also 16 staterooms that were also changed and upgraded to spa staterooms that include extra amenities. The Ryndam will now return to the Caribbean before heading to Alaska for it’s 2010 Alaska season sailings.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Holland America’s Ryndam Shining A Bit Brighter

Sandals Reveals New Martha Stewart Weddings

Terry Jones — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 17:35:12 +0000

Sandals Resorts recently launched their new ‘Sandals Weddings by Martha Stewart’. With the rise in destination weddings, it is a carefully crafted partnership of one of the largest and most popular all inclusive resorts and one of the leading stylist – Sandals and Martha Stewart. Sandals will now offer it’s clientele six new exclusive destination wedding packages created in conjunction with Martha Stewart.

Engaged couples will now have a choice of six wedding packages that will have it’s own distinct theme that coordinate everything from the bouquet and boutonniere to the elegant table settings to the hand crafted wedding cakes plus more. The packages will include every detail imaginable that then takes away the stress and worry for the bride and groom to be.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Sandals Reveals New Martha Stewart Weddings

President Obama Signs The Travel Promotion Act

Terry Jones — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 22:12:09 +0000

Launching the US Federal Government’s first major commitment o promote the USA as a travel destination to foreign countries, President Obama signed Travel Promotion Act in a White House ceremony. This law create a Corporation for Travel Promotion for the US that can raise funds to launch awareness in other countries of all that the USA has to offer in the form of tourism. This new bill was signed in hopes that it will open doors for more international tourist to come visit the USA and see what our country has to offer.

In the years past Convention Bureaus took on this type of promotion and targeted select international tourist markets. This new travel promotion has promises to be far more reaching and comprehensive.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

President Obama Signs The Travel Promotion Act

Celebrity Eclipse Comes Out Of Hiding

Terry Jones — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:23:07 +0000

The newest ship of Celebrity Cruise Lines, the Celebrity Eclipse was brought out into plain view for all to see recently at the ship yard in Germany. The Eclipse is the newest of the Celebrity Solstice Class ships that has been under construction for the past year. The 122,000 ton ship will carry 2850 passengers in true Celebrity comfort and class.

The Eclipse is due to sail out of South Hampton, England in late April 2010. It will sail a series of voyages in the Canary Islands, Scandinavia, Russia and Spanish Mediterranean throughout the summer and fall of 2010 where it will end up heading to the Caribbean for winter sailings departing from Miami beginning November 1010.

As with the Eclipse’ two sister ships, the Solstice and the Equinox, the new Eclipse will be filled with stylish design and more unique innovations. This new ship will offer a lot of extra pampering to all of her guests!

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Celebrity Eclipse Comes Out Of Hiding

Are VIP Lounges Are Becoming A Thing Of The Past For Hotels

Terry Jones — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 03:07:33 +0000

The Sheraton Hotel chain announced that it will be closing many of their VIP or Concierge Lounges across the USA for cost cutting measures. This will no doubt upset the elite customers who have had access to these small lounges in the past. They are a respite to travelers who don’t want to be stuck in their hotel rooms and it adds a place of respite to people who can work, enjoy light snacks and drinks. I know in my travels i have often use these lounges when I have stayed for short or long term travel. I feel safe there not having to be in such a open and noise place like the lobby or having to sit in a restaurant alone.

These lounges have let me work on something by myself in another atmosphere besides my room and they give me limited opportunities to meet other guests and feel safe. The light snacks and drinks are always appreciated by myself I know when I travel alone, so I don’t have to go out by myself, especially at night when i don’t know the area.

I wouldn’t be surprised it the redecorated and changed them a bit then reintroduced the same thing as a ‘new’ amenity to guests sometime in the future. These lounges are invaluable to travelers for many reasons and I am sure that they may close for awhile but they will return in the future. These lounges are valuable space for the hotels and could create income – even on a small level. I guess we’ll all have to wait and see.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Are VIP Lounges Are Becoming A Thing Of The Past For Hotels

Kudos to Southwest Airlines For Continuing No Baggage Fees

Terry Jones — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:34:23 +0000

The CEO of Southwest Airlines Gary Kelly announced that they will continue to allow passengers to check two bags for free on their planes. All other major airlines are now charging up to $25 to $30 per bag each way a traveler flies. That adds up to $50 to $60 dollars more for just one bag for passengers to take. These cost on other airlines also double for two bags and in some instances the cost of a second check bag is even more than the cost of the first bag.

Southwest Airlines has continually offered good service, clean planes and when you buy a ticket from them that is all you are going to pay for – there won’t be any additional costs when you show up for your flights like other airlines.

This to me is not just an advertising or marketing ploy, because up to about 18 months ago to 2 years ago ALL airlines allowed you to check a standard bag onto a flight for free. Southwest just refused to buckle under pressure to compete with the other airlines and these baggage fees.

So, Thank You Southwest for the service you provide to me and by future check bags!

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Kudos to Southwest Airlines For Continuing No Baggage Fees

Notes About Airlines Seats

Terry Jones — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 18:25:36 +0000

Airline seats of the future…

To add more seats to sell, airlines are now constructing smaller seats. Which does not deal well with larger sized travelers. But there are some seats to be found that may help certain travelers get more headroom, leg room or to be able to stretch their elbows out a bit while flying.

There is a website called seat guru that is supposed to help travelers find the best seat in the house for them, but what about airlines like Air Tran that charge travelers $7-$9 more dollars if they want to pick out their seats more than 24 hours prior to their flight.

The airlines actually have information for travelers about their seats size, pitch and more.I know this for a fact because I used to work for an airline. Although if you are looking on line in a website on the internet this information is often not available to customers and a call to the airlines may cause you to have to pay even more fees on top of the fees you have already paid for booking online. Often, even then you’ll not get those few extra inches you seek.

There is an article from USA Today about seats on plane and how their sizes are measured. My suggestion is to ask for bulkhead or exit seat (if you are exit row able by the airlines) for extra leg room. As far as getting a good seat before hand…get online 23 hrs and 59 minutes before your flights leave and grab the seat of your preference be it an aisle or window. If you are a frequent flyer or not sign up for their free programs and get your self pre-approved for and exit row. These seats will afford you the most room. Now sit down and squeeze your self in for the long haul!

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Notes About Airlines Seats

Tampa Getting Set To Welcome NCL Ship In 2011

Terry Jones — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:24:39 +0000

The NCL ship the Norwegian Star will be set to cruise from Tampa, Florida starting in late 2011. This will be the first time NCL has had a cruise ship being docked at the Tampa cruise terminal on a seasonal basis. The Norwegian Star carries 2240 passengers, so it will be the biggest ship to cruise out of Tampa.

The scheduled service will begin on October 16th, 2011 and extend through till April 8th, 2012. The ship will offer cruises to the Western Caribbean area. The ports to be visited will include Roatan, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. These will be 7 day cruises departing from Tampa on Sundays.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Tampa Getting Set To Welcome NCL Ship In 2011

Top 4 Reasons Travelers Pick Hotels

Terry Jones — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 20:43:46 +0000

What at the top 4 reasons pick hotel when the travel?

1. Brand Loyalty

2. Free WiFi or internet service

3. Free breakfast

4. Free room upgrades

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Top 4 Reasons Travelers Pick Hotels

Travel Quote – A Moment of Delight

Terry Jones — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 19:02:11 +0000

“There is no moment of delight in any pilgrimage like the beginning of it.” — Charles Dudley Warner

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Travel Quote – A Moment of Delight

The Big Easy To Get An NCL Ship Year Around

Terry Jones — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 02:08:17 +0000

Norwegian Cruise Lines announced that it will have the NCL ship Norwegian Spirit sail from New Orleans year around beginning in 2011. The Norwegian Spirit will offer 7 night Western Caribbean sailings starting in April 2011. Reservations are now open and available for these sailings.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

The Big Easy To Get An NCL Ship Year Around

TSA Swipes For Explosives Now At US Airports

Terry Jones — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 17:08:01 +0000

There is now a new TSA screening process taking place at airports across the US. TSA screening agents are now roaming the airports and randomly (probably not random but profiled) swiping peoples hands to test for residual residue from explosives. These tests will also be done on bags as well.

This program was tested at 5 airports around the USA before being implemented nationwide. The current metal detectors can not spot materials such as powered explosives etc, so the TSA has reverted to using a chemical inspection with pre-treated swaps and wipes. Since the TSA agents are roaming around open areas of the airports these inspections are not expected to induce further delays at TSA check-in scanner points within the airports.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

TSA Swipes For Explosives Now At US Airports

Harry Potter Will Be Wizzing Around Orlando Soon

Terry Jones — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:08:37 +0000

From magical Spells to magical creatures and all that readers have imagined when reading the harry Potter books will soon become a magical reality in Orlando Fl. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is due to open soon at Universal Studio’s.

There Harry Potter fans of all ages can explore Hogwarts castle, visit the shops of Hogsmeade and enjoy other thrilling rides that immerse you in the world of Harry Potter. There will be dining at the Three Broomsticks where you can enjoy a butterbeer or shop for a new wand at the infamous Dervish and Bangs! This theme park will bring alive what so many people have read and seen about the life of Harry Potter.

No specific date has been announced for the grand opening.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Harry Potter Will Be Wizzing Around Orlando Soon

Airline Flight Cancellations May Be Due to New Tarmac Rules

Terry Jones — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 05:15:48 +0000

In December 2009, the US Government announced new rules for keeping passengers ‘hostage’ on the tarmac of an airport for long periods of time. This is an effort to keep the traveling public protected from delays and having to sit on a plane on the tarmac for more than a reasonable time.

Reports and news over the years have told stories about passengers stuck inside a plane, on the tarmac for three, five or even 8 hours or more. The penalty to the airline for these type of delays are now very steep as much as $27,500.00 per passenger. These fees will be charged for flights delayed on the tarmac for 3 hours or longer. They do not include delayed flights when passengers are waiting in the terminal since people can walk around, get food and drinks and overall be more comfortable and safe.

The airlines response to these new rules is to cancel a flight due to weather instead of having the plane sit on the tarmac awaiting clearance from the control tower. This is actually a savings to the airline as well, since canceling the flight all together will save the airline on fuel costs.

The Department of Transportation states that these rules are to protect passengers and that all air line travelers have the ‘fundamental right to be treated with respect’. Actually as a frequent traveler, I would prefer to have to wait for a delayed flight in the terminal or have the flight canceled all together. I can get things done, make alternate arrangements and feel more comfortable. These right have taken a long trip in coming but they will turn out to be a good thing for travelers over all.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Airline Flight Cancellations May Be Due to New Tarmac Rules

Air Canada Adding More Flights To The USA

Terry Jones — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:01:09 +0000

Air Canada Airlines has announced a large expansion of flights into the USA by adding 7 new routes from Toronto, Canada. Beginning in early spring 2010, Air Canada will now have flights to John Wayne Airport /Orange County Airport, CA ; Cincinnati; Memphis,TN; Portland,Maine; Syracuse, NY; Portland, OR and San Diego, CA .

This is considered a sign of a better economy when more flights are added for passenger travel.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Air Canada Adding More Flights To The USA

Reports Of Lost And Stolen Luggage At Airports Down

Terry Jones — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 23:25:07 +0000

The LA Time reported that airlines are announced that lost and stolen baggage claims are down by 25% from 2008 to 2009. Even though TSA efforts to secure luggage at airports have become more stringent, I believe the reason is because people are not checking in their bags but instead are carrying them on board planes to avoid the costly baggage fees that the airlines are charging. I truly do not believe that the airlines have gotten any better at not loosing bags or that the new screening processes have increased bags being lost or stolen. More and more people who do fly are refusing to pay the $25.00 or higher bag fees, so they are keeping their bags with them at all times. So it only make sense that less missing bags claims are being filed because there are now less luggage being checked in by air travelers.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Reports Of Lost And Stolen Luggage At Airports Down

Another Sneak Peek Into Disney’s Newest Ship Being Built

Terry Jones — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 01:59:52 +0000

When someone says ‘Disney’ almost everyone will think of fun, adventure and great imagination. This holds true for the Disney Cruise ships.

Disney Cruise Lines will be introducing their new ship the 2,500 passenger ‘Disney Dream’ in January 2011. It will be the first new ship Disney has added to their fleet in 10 years. In the information being announced by the cruise lines the Disney Imagineers have been busy at work during that time to create fun, innovative features on this next ship.

Disney Cruise Lines is also teasing cruisers of all their new features, by letting them know of their unique features on board with just a sneak peek of a few items at a time. The cruise line announced another few features on the Disney Dream. One will be a miniature golf course themed around Goofy. This will be a 9 hole miniature called Goofy’s Golf and will be part of their interactive sports deck. The sports deck will also have two mini-sized sports courts for small children to play soccer and basketball. There will also be a full sized basketball court that can double as a volleyball court as well. The sports deck will also have ping pong tables and Foosball tables too.

A new water feature for children will be a Nemo themed water play area. This area will have a small water slide, water jets and other water features. To keep down the shouts of joy by youngsters and keep young children safe the area will be enclosed with glass. A signature item of the Disney Cruise ships – the Mickey shaped pool will be found again on the Disney Dream.

Always wanting to take care of all of their guests, Disney has also announced their adult only area which will be called Quiet Cove. This area will boast a freshwater pool that will include a swim up bar for adult passengers to enjoy

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Another Sneak Peek Into Disney’s Newest Ship Being Built

Charleston Wants Just One Ship At A Time

Terry Jones — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 21:48:09 +0000

The mayor of Charleston SC has announced that this historic city would like to keep the cruise ships sailing from it’s cruise terminal but only one cruise line and one ship at a time. He noted that the cruise industry and the tourism is essential for their city but is afraid that too many cruise ships will cause environmental impact on the area.

The mayor also stated that his is wary that the cruise ships visiting the city may overwhelm merchants due to the constant sudden changing influx of tourist. Therefore the city is committed to developing and updating its cruise terminal to accommodate one ship berth and no more. This is part of the plan that the city has for its new waterfront development.

These announcements come as Carnival Cruise Lines is starting it’s first year around sailings from Charleston come May 2010. The Carnival Fantasy which sails with 2056 passengers will be the ship offering Caribbean sailings from this historical port.

The other cruise line that has had ships that have sailed and will be returning to Charleston in the future are Celebrity Cruise Lines. they will be offering 10 and 11 night Caribbean sailings on the Celebrity Mercury.

These new additions to Charleston will offer more people to cruise from closer to home and not have to travel to the main cruise ports in Florida.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Charleston Wants Just One Ship At A Time

Barcelona To Host 3 Top Cruise Lines in 2011

Terry Jones — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 23:50:39 +0000

The Barcelona cruise terminal will be bustling come 2011 with three top cruise lines positioning three mega ships to deploy from there. With each cruise ships capacity totaled together – if all three mega ships are full and in port at the same time, there will have a total of over 11,000 people getting on and off at the Barcelona cruise terminal or almost 23,000 people in one day. Hopefully the cruise ships arrivals and departures will be staggered as to not cause a crush of tourist.

Norwegian Cruise Lines will offers sailings from Barcelona on their 153,000 ton 4,200 passenger Norwegian Epic beginning May 11, 2011 with 7 night Western Mediterranean itineraries.

Carnival Cruise Lines will be offering sailings on their 3,690 passenger Carnival Magic with 7, 9 and 12 night itineraries.

Royal Caribbean will be offering sailings on their 3,634 passenger Liberty of the Seas with 7 night itineraries.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Barcelona To Host 3 Top Cruise Lines in 2011

10 New Cruise Ships Start Sailing In 2010

Terry Jones — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 20:13:46 +0000

With cruise ships being a big part of the cruise experience, now more than ever before experienced and novice cruisers are looking forward to the new additions to the cruise industry’s inventory. Below is a list of the new ships due to set sail in 2010. With all their new features and attractions these all will be fun to explore and experience all that have to offer their passengers.

1. Costa Delizosa – Costa Cruise Lines – Maiden Voyage Feb 5, 2010

2. MSC Magnifica – MSC Cruises – Maiden Voyage Mar 7, 2010

3. Celebrity Eclipse – Celebrity Cruise Lines – Maiden Voyage Apr 26, 2010

4. Le Boreal – Ponant Cruises of France – Maiden Voyage May 6, 2010

5. Seabourn Sojourn – The Yachts of Seabourn – Maiden Voyage Jun 6, 2010

6. Independence- American Cruise Lines – Maiden Voyage Jun 12, 2010

7. Norwegian Epic – Norwegian Cruise Lines – Maiden Voyage Jun 24, 2019

8. Nieuw Amsterdam – Holland America – Maiden Voyage Jul 4, 2010

9. Queen Elizabeth – Cunard Cruise Lines – Maiden Voyage Oct 12, 2010

10. Allure of the Seas – Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines – Maiden Voyage Dec 12, 2010

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

10 New Cruise Ships Start Sailing In 2010

USA Today Newspapers Top 10 All-Inclusive Warm Weather Resorts

Terry Jones — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:38:07 +0000

With record snow storms hitting the entire United States so far this year, trying to take a break and thaw out is having more appeal to people with every inch of snow that falls. If you are craving some sun and fun – look to see if one of these destinations sound like just the place to wish to seek out and explore. For more descriptions read the entire article online at USA Today.

1. Almond Beach Village – Barbados

2. Excellence Resort- Punta Cana, Dominica Republic

3. Amelia Island Plantation – Fernandina Beach, FL

4. Mawamba Lodge – Tortuguero, Costa Rico

5. Aventura Palace – Riviera Maya, Mexico

6. Presidente Intercontinental Los Cabos Resort – San Jose del Cabo, Mexico

7. Dream Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

8. Club Med Columbus Isle – San Salvador island, Bahamas

9. Couples Swept Away – Negril,Jamaica

10. Body Holiday at LeSport – Cariblue Beach, St. Lucia

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

USA Today Newspapers Top 10 All-Inclusive Warm Weather Resorts

Southwest Airlines Wifi Service Is Still Up In The Air

Terry Jones — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 22:28:32 +0000

After announcing to implement Wifi on all 540 of their jets, Southwest Airlines recently made clarification that this project should be completed by spring of 2012. Southwest Airlines has been testing this project for the past 2 years on limited flights.

One of the reasons for delay is how much Southwest should charge for these services to make sure that passengers will use the product and that they earn money as well. Air Tran Airways has been offering Wifi service for awhile and their entire fleet was equipped by the end of 2009

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Southwest Airlines Wifi Service Is Still Up In The Air

Reminder To Call Ahead To Check Flights Status

Terry Jones — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:01:37 +0000

I am in Northern Virginia – just a few miles from Dulles Airport. This past weekend we experience the second blizzard in 2 months plus we have had several other snow storms since early December 2009.

One thing I try to tell all of my clients is to ALWAYS call ahead to the airlines or check online to see about canceled flights. Especially with snow, it is always wiser and safer to check ahead of time to ensure that your flights are still going out. Don’t rush out to the airport to check, do it from the safety of your home or office. If there is a snow storm pending such as the one coming this Tuesday on top of the 32 inches we got this weekend, PLEASE make sure to call ahead or even if you can depart a day ahead of time or a day or two later. Almost always the airlines waive their change fees due to weather, so take advantage of that if you absolutely have to travel to try to leave before the storm if you can.

This also goes for Amtrak and bus services as well. Being ahead and safe will make your travel that much easier and less stressful.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Reminder To Call Ahead To Check Flights Status

Travel Quote – Plus And Minus

Terry Jones — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 21:54:12 +0000

“When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.” — Susan Heller

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Travel Quote – Plus And Minus

Dulles Airport In Virginia Gets Rail Link

Terry Jones — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 23:47:33 +0000

Dulles Airport is located in Northern Virginia just about 20 miles from Washington DC. It has been a continually growing domestic and international airport since it opened in the 1960’s. One thing that has been a staple at the airport are it’s unique airport buses. These buses have been known as Dulles ‘mobile lounges’ for years. These buses have carried millions of passengers over the years from terminal to the plane, then from one terminal to another as the airport grew and security procedures tightened.

The Dulles Airport authority recently announced the opening of the new 4 mile underground railway that links the mail terminal with the airports two midfield terminals. The new rail link called AeroTrain will eliminate these mobile lounges all together except for international arrivals, which are not yet set up on the AeroTrain route yet.

I personally have been flying out of Dulles Airport as a child in the 1960’s. I then and through to now have used my few minutes on these mobile lounges to gather my thoughts about the trip ahead of me or reflect on the travel I have just completed. They have been a part of my travel experience for a long time. Though I know that the new AeroTrain will be more effective for travelers over all, I will miss these buses for nostalgic reason for all the places I have journeyed to and that they started me on my travels.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Dulles Airport In Virginia Gets Rail Link

Baseball Greats Cruise With Fans

Terry Jones — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 23:21:41 +0000

MSC Cruise Lines will hold another “Baseball Greats’ theme cruise in 2010 and 2011. MSC announce that it will be host to 5 baseball themed cruises that will also include MVP’s from the port. The 7 night baseball themed cruises will be on the MSC Poesia. They will be sailing out of Fort Lauderdale Florida to the Caribbean. The sail dates are November 14th, 2010; December 5, 2010; January 9, 2011; January 23, 2011 and February 6, 2011.

MSC has not yet announced the roster of ‘Baseball Greats’ yet but from this years list it should be a good line up. Baseball players such as Ken Griffey Sr, Vida Blue, Cookie Rojas and Amos Otis are schedule for the current 2010 baseball themed cruises.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Baseball Greats Cruise With Fans

Top 10 Things People Steal From Hotels

Terry Jones — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 15:21:10 +0000

Even the best of hotels have items bolted down for safe keeping and from being stolen. Below is a list of the top 10 stolen items from hotels provided in an article on the Hospitality Management Schools website.

1. Towels

2. Bathrobes

3. Ashtrays

4. Light bulbs

5. Batteries out of the TV Remote

6. Bed linens

7. Shampoo and lotion sample bottles

8. Blow Dryers

9. Sewing kits

10. Bottle openers

Other items that have been listed in other reports of items stolen from hotel rooms : coffee makers, irons, small hand soaps, radios and ice buckets. I wonder if people re-gift these items at Christmas to their friends and relatives?

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Top 10 Things People Steal From Hotels

Hyatt To Add Five Hotels To Their Ranks In India

Terry Jones — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 17:36:34 +0000

Hyatt Hotels has announced it will add five more hotels under it’s brand name in India between mid 2010 and early 2014. The lst of hotels are Park Hyatt Mumbai, Grand Hyatt Goa, Grand Hyatt Pune, Hyatt Place Pune and Hyatt Place Mudra.

Hyatt Hotels already manages 5 other hotel properties in India such as their existing hotels located in Mumbai and Goa.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Hyatt To Add Five Hotels To Their Ranks In India

There Are No Magic Balls When Predicting What Will Happen With Travel in 2010

Terry Jones — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 12:48:26 +0000

So we have rung in a new year. Will there be new things happening in travel to watch and see what develops? Of course TSA Security changes top the list, but what other items will travelers see change or increase in 2010?

Here is a list provided in the USA Today Newspaper with full details. Below is the short version of the list…

1. More Confusion with Airline Security at Airports Worldwide

2. Travelers hold off again to book travel to try to get best deals

3. Travelers will have more access to ‘real’ inventory when booking on the web, like Travel Agents have had access for years

4. More applications on iPhones, cell phone etc for travelers to use

5. Free Wifi that actually works

6. More fees and more confusing costs for passengers for airlines flights

7. Las Vegas still a hot commodity even in these economic times

8. Travel to Vancouver because of the Olympics will grow plus South Africa will host the World Cup Soccer games

9. More travel to countries where health care is more reasonable for American to get treatments.

10. Religious or Faith Tourism still climbing for travelers vacations

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

There Are No Magic Balls When Predicting What Will Happen With Travel in 2010

Celebrity Cruise Lines Plans Updates For It’s Fleet

Terry Jones — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:57:55 +0000

Celebrity Cruise Lines is planning on updating it’s fleet with an extensive new look, new brand platform that includes a new tag line, and a new marketing campaign. This will be a four year project where they will be ‘Solsticizing’ all of their Millennium ships.

The new tag line ‘Designed for You’ is being incorporated into the updates inside the ship with upgrades to it spa, cabins and other public areas. Such changes will include a ‘Bistro Five’ which will replace the current martini bar plus the addition of a new Tuscan Grille restaurant.

The Constellation will be the first ship being sent to dry dock for all these new and exciting changes. These updates are being made for passengers to enjoy more of the new style of comfort Celebrity Cruise Lines has introduced on its new ships.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Celebrity Cruise Lines Plans Updates For It’s Fleet

Travelers Now Must Pay Entry Fee When Visiting Argentina

Terry Jones — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 07:44:59 +0000

Argentina officials began collecting their new $131.00 entry fee for all travelers from the US A visiting Argentina. The new fee must be paid upon their arrival into the country. This fee allows multiple entries for a span of ten years.

Argentina does not require US citizens to have a visa when traveling to Argentina BUT the U.S. does require Argentinians to obtain a visa for travel within the USA for a cost of $131.00.

Gee, I wonder where the Argentinians got the value amount for their new entry fee?

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Travelers Now Must Pay Entry Fee When Visiting Argentina

Oceania Cruise Lines Sets New Ships Inaugural Date

Terry Jones — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 18:52:56 +0000

Oceania Cruise Lines luxury ship inventory will be expanding by one with the introduction of it’s newest ship the Marina. The Marina’s maiden voyage is planned for January 22, 2011 and will depart from Barcelona and cruise to Miami where it will spend its inaugural season in the Caribbean offering East ad Western itineraries. This luxury ship will accommodate 1,258 passengers.

The Marina will also offer two Panama Canal transit itineraries as well. One will depart from Miami and the other will depart from San Francisco. As well as the Caribbean and Panama Canal sailings the new ship will offer some US Eastern Seaboard sailings and a few Bermuda sailings. After it’s first season in the Caribbean the Marina will host sailings from Barcelona for the summer season.

Oceania Cruise Lines has now opened reservations for their newest ship the Marina as of January 18, 2010.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Oceania Cruise Lines Sets New Ships Inaugural Date

Air Line Consumers Site Updated

Terry Jones — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 23:15:44 +0000

With the new rules about tarmac delays for air lines passengers, the DOT (Department of Transportation) has updated and improved it’s consumer website where airlines can file complaints. This site also carries the airlines on time averages and baggage handling performances.

The DOT website is also a good source for information for travel tips for safety purposes. The website has an online for that passengers can fill out and file instantly with the DOT about overall airline service. The website is available to consumers in either English or Spanish.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Air Line Consumers Site Updated

USA Today Top 5 List Of Top 2010 Travel Destinations

Terry Jones — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 22:36:49 +0000

From a recent survey of readers the USA Today Newspaper listed what the believe will be 2010’s Top travel destinations here are the top five… Enjoy reading and exploring all of these destinations!

1. Germany

2. Santa Fe, New Mexico USA

3. Singapore

4. Tampa, FL USA

5. Iceland

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

USA Today Top 5 List Of Top 2010 Travel Destinations

Tallest Building In the World Will Be Host To A Hotel As Well

Terry Jones — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 12:28:13 +0000

With the completion and grand opening of the tallest building in the world (so far), The Burj Dubai ( Arabic for Dubai Tower)will also host a full service luxury hotel. The luxury hotel was designed by Giorgio Armani.

Travelers to Dubai can stay at the hotel and probably never have to leave the building because of all the shops, offices, luxury apartments, observation deck, restaurants and more – all located inside the building itself. Due to Dubai’s declining economy the building is not all occupied, so travelers can return year after year and find more and more inside this huge complex.

Though the actual height of the tower is still being closely guarded, it is expected to reach more than 2625 feet. The observation deck is located on the 124th floor of the building thus offering a sprawling panoramic view for all visitors who have the courage to rise up to that level for a peek!

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Tallest Building In the World Will Be Host To A Hotel As Well

SpongeBob Cruises On NCL in 2010

Terry Jones — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:01:06 +0000

SpongeBob Square pants and other well know Nickelodeon characters will be sailing on board two NCL ships in the coming months. An announcement stating that these characters will be on board the NCL jewel in April and their brand new Epic in July.

There will be interactive shows, character breakfasts, meet and greets with the characters, dance parties and more for passengers and their families to enjoy. Nickelodeon themed events and displays will also be added to their children’s programs during these cruises as well.

This is a launch of a three years agreement between NCL and Nickelodeon…so look out for more announcements of special events like these with Nickelodeon stars, themed cruises and shows premiers to be held on board several of NCL ships in the near future.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

SpongeBob Cruises On NCL in 2010

Royal Caribbean Still Cruising To Haiti

Terry Jones — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 20:07:34 +0000

This is a subject that can be argued in many different ways but Royall Caribbean has decided, in spite of the earthquake that hit there, they will continue to port in Labadee, Haiti. There reasons are two fold and I think they are very valid reasons.

First of all, they have added extra supplies of water and food to leave in Haiti for Humanitarian relief and by still going into port will still support the local economy, which as one of the poorest countries in the world needs support even more now. Plus they have announced that they will donate $1 million dollars to the relief effort in Haiti.

I believe, that if passengers are not comfortable visiting this port right now while they try to rebuild after their countries devastating earthquake they can ask to rebook on an alternate cruise or stay on the ship. The cruise terminal is located on the opposite side of the island and was not damaged by the quake. By Royal Caribbean continuing to support the economy by still stopping at their port is very helpful overall. I am sure that if there were any dangers at all, they would consider all options to keep everyone safe and still extend their hand in support.

Believe it or not, by going into port in Haiti, they are doing more good than harm!

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Royal Caribbean Still Cruising To Haiti

Jamaica To Open Casino’s In The Future

Terry Jones — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:02:51 +0000

The Jamaican Parliament was first introduced to the idea of Casino’s and gambling by Prime minister Golding in April 2008. This proposal is expected to pass legislation within the next few months here in the 2st quarter of 2010. With the legislation passed the first casino is expected to pen by the end of 2010.

With the regulation pertaining to hotels and resorts that have more than 1000 rooms, this will be an additional boon for the tourism to the island. Several major hotels and resorts have announced that if this legislation is passed they will open casinos within the next three year time period.

If I were a gambling person, I would say that this legislation will pass and casinos will be popping up all over the island very soon.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Jamaica To Open Casino’s In The Future

Travel Quote – Travel Light

Terry Jones — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 20:24:13 +0000

“He who would travel happily must travel light.” — Antoine de St. Exupery

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Travel Quote – Travel Light

New Travel Products

Terry Jones — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 22:35:16 +0000

Here are some simple but useful products that any travelers will enjoy!

1. My Little Steamer – get rid of those travel wrinkles in your clothes with a portable mini steamer. It is only 5 inches high and takes about two minutes to smooth out the toughest wrinkles in clothes. No irons needed and it fits in any size luggage.Formore details visit www.homebrands.com

2. Need new luggage to fit as carry on for a plane flight? Try Travel Pro 26 inch rolling duffel bag. It is light weight but durable and expands to use as checked baggage as well. There are zippered pockets and side grab handles. Visit www.travelpro.com for more details and prices.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

New Travel Products

Southwest Airlines Adds More Service In Near Future

Terry Jones — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:01:24 +0000

Southwest Airlines will be adding more service around the country in the near future. Travelers will be happy to know that Southwest Airlines is adding service to their area and their bags are still free!

Non-stop service is planned for between St. Louise and Los Angeles, Nashville, new orleans, Raleigh/Durham, San Diego and Seattle beginning May 9th, 2010

They will also offer new non-stop service from Seattle to Baltimore, Kansas City and Nashville. Also service will begin from Las Vegas, Nv to Norfolk, Va and Panama City Beach, Fl plus Nashville, Tn; Orlando, Fl; and Houston Hobby.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Southwest Airlines Adds More Service In Near Future

St. Lucia Is Getting Sweeter By Adding Chocolate

Terry Jones — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 06:32:13 +0000

Once Bananas and sugar cane ruled as the top agricultural product of the Caribbean but the cocoa bean may rule soon. A British chocolate company is planning on building a chocolate plantation and factory with which tourist may visit and enjoy this sweet treat. The boutique hotel is planned for the island of St. Lucia in the midst of the fragrant growing fields!

This will be another treat for visitors to the Caribbean and will help create a revival of the cocoa plantations which are spread out within the Caribbean islands. The Caribbean products are indigenous to the Caribbean , so this is a sweet deal for everyone…the locals for more jobs, the tourist for s sweet way to enjoy the Caribbean sun, sand and sea and for the revival of the historic cocoa plantations of past.

Sounds like a sweet deal for everyone. This will also be a fun shore excursion for cruise ship passengers as well.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

St. Lucia Is Getting Sweeter By Adding Chocolate

Uniworld Riverboat To Be Given A Small Face Lift

Terry Jones — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 21:52:56 +0000

Uniworld River Cruises announced that it will be giving it’s 82 passenger river boat the ‘River Tosca’ a small face lift. The ‘River Tosca’ offers Nile River cruises for cruise passengers.

The vessel will go into dry dock for painting, wood finishing and upgrades in other areas from February 1st to March 19th, 2010. While the River Tosca is being fixed their 110 passenger ship the Miriam will be accommodating all of their passengers. Uniworld River Cruises has a wonderful fleet of ships that cruise the worlds rivers in country’s around the world. These cruises are unique that cruisers actual get a closer look at the areas they cruise to.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Uniworld Riverboat To Be Given A Small Face Lift

Luxury Cruise Lines Silversea Introduces New Ship

Terry Jones — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 15:22:47 +0000

The Silver Spirit is the newest ship in the Silversea’s Cruise Lines fleet of ships. It is their first new ship in nearly 10 years. The new Silver Spirit is a 36,000 ton all suite ship that will carry only 540 passengers.

Along with their already legendary luxury service and accommodations the new Silver Spirit will have an expansive spa that will offer botox and acupuncture. The new ship will also have their well know pillow menu for passengers and all the little extra special amenities that have set this line apart in the luxury cruising.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Luxury Cruise Lines Silversea Introduces New Ship

Don’t Get Denied Boarding On Your Next Cruise

Terry Jones — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 21:46:37 +0000

You booked your cruise, you have paid in full for all of your shore excursions, you went online and pre-paid for your gratuities BUT did you check to see if you needed a visa to visit any of your cruise ports?

This is a growing trend unfortunately for cruise passengers who book themselves a cruise and don’t find out until they are checking in for their cruise vacation that they will be denied boarding for their cruise.

Why? They had their cruise documents, their passports and all their id’s. What they did not have is a Visa. many international destinations are now requiring a tourist Visa even for cruise tourist. Without the proper Visa documentation you will be left at the pier of embarkation. Some passengers think that if they don’t plan on getting off the ship at that destination that they don’t need a Visa but sadly that is not the case.

The cruise line will deny passengers boarding and will not refund lost monies. So no matter where in the world you live or travel to seek out all the information needed to travel anywhere in the world.

So don’t be left behind, use a professional travel agent when booking your next travel and get all the facts about what is needed for any trip you may be taking in the future. You’ll be surprised at what you’ll learn and happy to have a professional on your side!

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Don’t Get Denied Boarding On Your Next Cruise

Do You Dream In Chocolate? What About A Chocolate Cruise?

Terry Jones — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:09:43 +0000

I have a sign up on my desk that has been with my for many of the twenty years I have been in the travel industry. The sign states “I can be bribed…with chocolate.”

Yes, I am addicted and love to try all types of recipes with chocolate. I even decorate my home in hues of chocolate so imagine my glee when I learned about combining two of my favorite things…chocolate and cruising!

Windstar Cruises has announce that they will be offering a chocolate themed cruise that will be led by master chocolatier Fran Bigelow of the world renowned Fran’s Chocolates. The seven night voyage will depart from Rome, Italy on board their 312 passenger Windsurf. This cruise is part of their cruise lines Signature Collection Cruises they are offering for 2010. The chocolate cruise will depart May 2, 2010 and it will include lectures plus shore excursions to Gay-Odin chocolate factory in Naples, Italy. Plus there will be chocolate tastings!

I am sure that all passengers will be eager to see what treats await on their pillows each night on this cruise!

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Do You Dream In Chocolate? What About A Chocolate Cruise?

Travel Quote – Speak With Those From The past

Terry Jones — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 21:03:34 +0000

“Traveling is almost like talking with men of other centuries.” — René Descartes Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!Travel Quote – Speak With Those From The past

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Travel Quote – Speak With Those From The past

Travel Quote – No Matter Where You Go

Terry Jones — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 17:50:41 +0000

“No matter where you go, there you are.” – unknown

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Travel Quote – No Matter Where You Go

Disney to Offer Fun Family Friendly Shore Exursions In Europe

Terry Jones — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 18:56:34 +0000

With Disney Cruise Lines new Mediterranean cruises they will offer a series of family friendly shore excursions such as a treasure hunt in Tunis. This event will bring passengers to several stops to find the clues. One stop will be a traditional Tunisian house, another will lead them to a story teller who will regale them of the areas past, one stop will include getting a hand painted temporary henna tattoo. Other activities will included haggling with a local merchant, enjoy a refreshing cup of mint tea and a stop to get their name written in Arabic as a souvenir. Each stop will allow passengers to experience and learn about the regions past and enjoy what is available now to see and do.

Another sample of activities while exploring Europe will be that children can spend some time with ship counselors creating a traditional fresco painting in Florance while their parents spend more time touring the historic Palazzo Vecchio.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Disney to Offer Fun Family Friendly Shore Exursions In Europe

3 Great Gift Ideas For Travelers

Terry Jones — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:26:43 +0000

Here are some suggestions that would be appreciated by those travelers on your gift list…

1. Portable Electronic Luggage Scale – price ranges fro $20.00 – $40.00 a luggage scale is so important now that the airlines are making people pay extra for luggage.

2. Quikpod – Price rage ids about $40.00 – a lightweight rod that holds your camera farther away from you so you can get yourself in a picture better and easier

3. Noise canceling headphone – Prices start about $100 – get rid of all the noise around you – no matter where you travel or have to wait to travel.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

3 Great Gift Ideas For Travelers

New International Flights Appear When They Once Had Flown Away

Terry Jones — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 20:26:52 +0000

A few years back several airlines cut back on many international destinations due to the cost of gas and other factors. Recently Midwest and Frontier Airlines have announced that they will be offering new flight schedules to many popular destinations. These two airlines have come together to offer travelers flights under their airlines banner.

From Toronto Canada these new flights will be operating soon to San Jose, Costa Rico Plus Cabo San Lucas,Cancun, Cozumel, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico. No dates have been announced when these new code share flights will begin.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

New International Flights Appear When They Once Had Flown Away

Spirit Airways Adds Myrtle Beach SC Flights

Terry Jones — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 21:22:34 +0000

Spirit Airways will be adding flights and destinations with their newly announced seasonal flights to Myrtle Beach, SC. These new non stop flights will operate from Atlanta, GA to Myrtle Beach, SC starting on May 1, 2010 and will run through to November 1, 2010.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Spirit Airways Adds Myrtle Beach SC Flights

Ahhh A Cruise – Can’t You Just Smell It?

Terry Jones — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 21:15:16 +0000

Smell is one of the strongest senses to evoke emotion and memories to people. Most people who cruise would first say their thought of a cruise would be the smell of the fresh ocean breeze but what if you smelled almonds and figs?

In an effort to enhance their passengers cruise experience MSC Cruises is planning on using signature fragrances and infuse them on their newest ship the MSC Splendida.

The fragrances will be used to enhance the senses of well being and evoke the smells of the Mediterranean. Many hotels have been using this concept for awhile and have found it successful by creating memories by the fragrances they have used. These scents will be used in select areas of the ship.

Silver Sea Cruises introduced the same menu of scents that will be infused through the cabins upon request by passengers. Of the choices on Silver Sea there is orange to calm, lavender to de-stress and others to evoke boundless seas.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Ahhh A Cruise – Can’t You Just Smell It?

Alaska Loses More Ships

Terry Jones — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 20:18:28 +0000

Due to increased costs and lack of sales two more ships have been pulled from the Alaska Cruise Season of 2011. Princess Cruise Lines has announced that it will decrease it’s ships sailing in Alaska for 2011 – that leaves just a total of 6 ships in all.

There was already a reduction of ships for 2010 Alaska sailing. Holland America and Princess Cruise lines are two of the longest running cruise ship lines in Alaska. This means with less ships and the short season Alaska has, that passengers will see itineraries sell out faster and cost be higher than they have been in the past years.

Travelers may consider booking early now for the 2010 Alaska cruise season fills up with the few extra ships that will be there now vs. in 2011.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Alaska Loses More Ships

I Need A Nap After Traveling Don’t You?

Terry Jones — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 20:52:44 +0000

In the Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport you can now find small sleeping rooms. This is a great thing! When I travel I always seem to need a nap during and after my travel, so the addition of sleep rooms is well overdue but a much welcomed sight for travelers. The sleep rooms at the Atlanta Airport will be 7 ft by 8 ft rooms equipped with a daybed sofa,pillow and fresh blankets plus a desk with Wi-Fi connection.

These types of rooms have long been used by travelers in Asia but are new to the USA. There arrival will be a welcome to travelers who have to make long connections or waiting for delayed flights. The rates for these are based on the hour vs.traditional hotels that charge for the whole night. I have spent many a flight delay trying to rest in an airport chair on on the floor and these ‘Minute Suites’ as they are call will come in very handy for many travelers.

San Francisco is the next airport in line for these ‘Minute Suites’. These can be used for more than just napping, they will be good for families traveling with children or business travelers looking to get some quiet space to work on presentations. They are being built to help mask the general noise found at airports so this could be away to find some solace while traveling.

These rooms won’t have toilets or showers, travelers will have to use the public facilities nearby in the airport terminals. At $30 per hour some travelers may not use them because of the cost but when there is an overwhelming need for a nap I am sure these will become overweeningly popular.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

I Need A Nap After Traveling Don’t You?

Disney To Hold Royal Ball In St. Petersburg, Russia

Terry Jones — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 19:41:34 +0000

Cinderella is creating her guest list of her friends to the Disney Ball that will be held in the famed Catherine Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia. Disney has announced that they will host a series of royal balls for their cruise passengers on board their Disney Cruise ships that will be visiting Russia.

Several of Disney’s Princesses will be on hand for these balls including Cinderella, Snow White and Belle. Each will be arriving in horse drawn carriages to the ball being held in the palace’s gilded Grand Ballroom. Disney will also have characters on hand dressed as royal courtiers in period costumes and powdered wigs to lead the guests in song and dance. These balls will all be family friend events and there will be special kid counselors on hand to help with the children’s activities.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Disney To Hold Royal Ball In St. Petersburg, Russia

Sculpture At San Juan Cruise Pier Gets In The Way

Terry Jones — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 20:56:34 +0000

Ironic as it may seem, a sculpture purchased by Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines as a gift at the San Juan, Porto Rico cruise terminal inhibited Carnival’s newest ship The Carnival Dream from docking at the pier.

The large metal sculpture hangs out over the water to act as a canopy as well as a sculpture. The assigned pier has overhanging wires and metal canopy structure. Part of the sculptures metal would have caused damage to the ship and it’s lifeboats. After attempting to berth the ship departed without the port stop. Due to other ships in the port there were no other spaces pier side that the ship could be accommodated. They will in the future be assigned in a pier slot away from the sculpture.

The Associated Press quotes the San Juan port director saying that they are considering plans to dismantle the sculpture due to it would cost too much to relocate the sculpture.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Sculpture At San Juan Cruise Pier Gets In The Way

New Chicago to Rome Flights Offered by United Airlines In 2010

Terry Jones — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:29:02 +0000

Anyone traveling to Rome, Italy from the mid-west USA will be happy to learn of United Airlines new non-stop flights from Chicago, IL to Rome, Italy starting May 1, 2010 thought to August 2010. These flights will be on United Airlines Boeing 767 aircraft.

This is an easy option for those who want to travel to Italy for a land or sea vacation. Most cruise lines that depart from Italy during the European cruise season will find that flying into Rome the easiest airport for their cruise though the cruise terminal is about 1 hour away.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

New Chicago to Rome Flights Offered by United Airlines In 2010

Win A Trip To See A Cruise Ship Being Built – Then Set Sail

Terry Jones — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 19:21:42 +0000

Looking for a unique experience? For cruisers or even non-cruisers – visiting a shipyard and seeing in person the building of a cruise ship would have to be one of the most unique thing to do and see and not something everyone can brag about either!

Celebrity Cruise Lines is now offering this opportunity which is usually off-limits to travelers – a chance to visit their newest ships the ‘Celebrity Eclipse’ and it’s still unnamed Solstice class ship, while it is still being built. There will be 10 lucky winners and the sweepstakes provides many exciting details.

The winners will be brought to the Meyer Werft Shipyard in Germany to get a behind the scene tour of the ship yard and the building of the newest Celebrity ship plus the chance to sail on the new Celebrity Eclipse as it sails out of the shipyard in Mid March 2010.

Another extra special amenity to this sailing is that the Celebrity Eclipse will be sailing from Papenberg, German to Emshaven backwards! Check out this extraordinary backwards journey planned by Celebrity. The Celebrity Equinox made the same backwards sailing.

The winners will enjoy their accommodations in the ships Aqua class staterooms and everyone will enjoy sampling Celebrity’s award winning ship cuisine. The contest begins December 7th, 2009 and ends January 14th, 2010. To enter the contest fill out the sweepstakes contest form online. Only US and Canadian citizens are able to enter. The winners will also be given free airfare and pre and post hotel stays in Dusseldorf and Amsterdam. The winners will be announce on January 28th, 2010.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Win A Trip To See A Cruise Ship Being Built – Then Set Sail

Carnaval Cruise Lines Place Order For New Ship

Terry Jones — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 18:13:21 +0000

Carnival Cruise Lines announced the order of it’s newest ship, yet unnamed. The new ship will be a sister ship to the newly unveiled Carnival Dream. The new ship will be the same 130,000 ton vessel that will hold 3,690 cruise passengers.

Carnival stated that it doesn’t have plans for making any ships larger than this 130,000 ton vessel like the newly christened Oasis of the Seas by Royal Caribbean. The Carnival Magic’s currently being built in Italy and is the same 130,000 tons as the Carnival Dream. Carnival Corp stand is that for them and their product – bigger is not necessarily better, so they are sticking with this current size.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Carnaval Cruise Lines Place Order For New Ship

New River Cruise Options Available In The USA In 2010

Terry Jones — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:40:45 +0000

The new owner of the Queen of the West – American Cruise Lines has announced their new offering of 7 night river cruise itineraries along the Columbia and Snake rivers in the USA. These cruises will begin starting in August 7, 2010 through to October 30, 2010.

The 230 foot stern wheeler river cruise ships were previously owned by Majestic America Lines. After purchasing the ship American Cruise lines updated the ships and expanded the cabin sizes too. Formally the ship accommodated 142 passengers, now it will offer cabins for 120 passengers due to the remodeling changes.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

New River Cruise Options Available In The USA In 2010

Here Is A Tip On Tipping On A Cruise Ship

Terry Jones — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 22:29:35 +0000

When I am given good service by anyone in any industry I try to make sure that the person who has helped me knows how much I appreciate their great customer service. I try to write a note of thanks or in many instances I provide a monetary tip. This is expected in many industries including the cruise industry. This has been the case for years, that when you too a cruise you had to expect to leave a tip for the people who served you – if you have cruised once or more, you also know that tips are how many of the people who work on cruise ships earn a bulk of their money.

This is not the case around the world and many people in foreign lands feel that it is crass the way people from the USA tip. I see it as a form of appreciation – that is my opinion and everyone is entitled to their own opinion. In a move to better serve cruise customers from around the world who travel on the multiple cruise lines Carnival Cruise Corp has announced that they will be revamping the mandatory tipping that has been added to passengers cruise bills in the past.

This decision should actually be applauded because it gives back each and every cruise the option of choice. I personally like adding my tips ahead of time to my bill so I don’t have to worry about it later on the ship. I have also been know to give extra tips to some of the crew above what I have paid for already. This is my personal choice. This also helps me with my travel budget – I know I have already paid that amount and it has already been factored into my budget for that trip. Many people may not like that and it is and should be a personal choice – so this is a good move for everyone.

Just one more tip – don’t you wish someone would slip you a few bucks at home after you have cooked and cleaned for them? I sure would but I do get Thank You’s from my family and friends when they are at my home, so that is golden to me as well. Put yourself in the other persons shoes appreciate what is being done for you to make your travels really extra special.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Here Is A Tip On Tipping On A Cruise Ship

5 Great Gift Ideas For The Traveler On Your Holiday List

Terry Jones — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:29:43 +0000

Have a traveler on your gift list? Here are some travel products that would be great gift ideas for anyone who travels or even just dreams of traveling…. Happy Gift Giving!

1. 500 Places for Food and Wine Lovers – Travel Guide book from Frommer’s

2. The Travel Book – presenting A-Z coverage on every country in the world in a friend compact book format

3. Digital Picture Frame – for those travelers who can’t decide which picture they want to display now they can enjoy a montage of favorites

4. Leather Passport and document holder – great place for travelers to always carry their travel information

5. TSA approved airline carry-on luggage – many of the older suitcases do not fit in the overhead compartments for airlines and with many charging a fee getting a bag that is durable and easily fits in the overhead compartments is essential.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

5 Great Gift Ideas For The Traveler On Your Holiday List

Great Gifts For The Traveler On Your Shopping List

Terry Jones — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:01:17 +0000

Have someone who travels and you never know what to get them for special occasions? Here are a few suggestions that are new that will be appreciated by everyone, not just the traveler on your gift list.

Kensington Nightstand Charging Dock – convert your iPhone into a retro bedside alarm clock with a dock and a cable that charges the phone at the same time – all while you sleep.

Fitbit – if you travel or not but want to know how much exercise you are getting everyday doing your regular routine try a Fitbit. This little device fits in your pocket and records steps taken, calories burned, distance traveled.

iBend – stand your iPhone or iPod up to view from any desk , nightstand or table. This is a simple, small, portable and economical gadget for everyone. This is a fun stocking stuffer!

Mini Power Outlet – a 6 inch long compact power outlet – containing 4 AC outlets. Great for all those items that need to be recharged while on travel and limited outlets. Monster Outlets to Go have these available for under $25.00

Flat automatic umbrella – Brookstone offers this small and convenient rain umbrella that fits into any and all computer cases, backpacks,briefcases and purses.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Great Gifts For The Traveler On Your Shopping List

Oasis Of The Seas Announces 7 Godmothers For Their 7 Neighborhoods

Terry Jones — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 18:39:30 +0000

On November 7th, 2009 at 5:30pm the Oasis of the Seas had it’s formal naming ceremonies after it’s 6 years in planning and building. The naming ceremony was seen from all over the ship in all the 7 different neighborhoods. The main event was held in the Aqua Theater. There is a Godmother for each of the 7 neighborhoods and they are as follows…..

Gloria Estefan

Jane Seymour

KeishaKnight Pullman

Dara Torres

Daisy Fuentes

Michelle Kwan

Shawn Johnson

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Oasis Of The Seas Announces 7 Godmothers For Their 7 Neighborhoods

Cyber Monday Airline Fare Sale….

Terry Jones — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:11:37 +0000

Several Airlines such as Jet Blue, Virgina America and United have announced a air fare sale for Cyber Monday. Since Cyber Monday is touted as one of the biggest sales days for purchases online for the Christmas season. The air fare sale is for one day only and the seats are limited, so that means so are the deals.

The travel dates for this sale are for January 5th, 2010 through to February 11th, 2010. This sale is to help spark sales in one of the airlines low lull season. These sales are not for travel for this coming 2009 holiday season – so be aware.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Cyber Monday Airline Fare Sale….

Holiday Deals Come with Difficulties

Terry Jones — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 21:42:19 +0000

Want to take advantage of some of the newly announce Holiday deals with cruises, like the Costa $199.00 7 night Caribbean cruise? Be aware that the air fare to get to most destinations is tight and expensive due to air fare sales that were going on in October. Flights are full and expensive, so consider that when making your plans.

As a travel agent, during the winter months, I always try to recommend to my clients to travel the day before the cruise departure date to be able to handle any weather and or flight delays. The cost of one night hotel room at the port departure city may also be less than the cost of the actual flights. Another suggestion is to make sure you get travel insurance, such as teh Cruises, Inc travel Companion that also covers weather delays. This type of insurance is very valuable when you have bad weather and the airlines themselves call this an ‘act of God’ and do not compensate travelers at all. With travel insurance any delays can be reimbursed to the traveler. It is always best to be safe than sorry. With the airlines overbooking flights could also cause travelers to be bumped from flights which again could cause delays in getting to the cruise ports – again another reason to travel the day before.

Whatever your plans, ask a professional travel agent for their help, most of us like myself have been in the business for many years and know all the tricks to find the best rates for everyone and to get everyone to their destinations as easily as possible.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Holiday Deals Come with Difficulties

Thanksgiving Blessings

Terry Jones — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 19:14:35 +0000

If you are driving near or far, by car, train, plane or boat, may all your travel bring you safely into the arms of those you love. Life gives us an abundance of blessings each and every day – from the sun that rises in the morning offering us all a brand new start or the stars at night that let us make wishes for dreams to come true. May each and everyday bring your wishes to fruition.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Thanksgiving Blessings

Holiday Travel Vs. Staying Home – 10 Reasons to Get Away

Terry Jones — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:42:14 +0000

I have a small group of clients who are in the processing to board a cruise ship today, the day before Thanksgiving and heading towards a Holiday adventure. They are all couple who didn’t want to have to travel and stay on someone’s sofa bed and feel displaced (even with their own families). So off to travel during the holidays.

I asked them, out of curiosity and I got a varied amount of answers to why travel away from home and family for the holidays. Below is the list I have complied from them and other people as to why taking a vacation is great during the Holidays.

10. Someone else is doing all the work – making beds, cooking, cleaning.

9. No having to decorate someones place after you already did your own home

8. The adventure of seeing someplace new

7. Meeting new people – creating new friendships

6. No set adgenda – nobody saying what is planned for you

5. Pampering – nobody in your family will offer you a 60 minute hot rock message do they?

4. Fun

3. No leftovers!

2. Flexibility of schedule – maybe take a nap at 1pm instead of 3pm….

1. No Stress

Now wrap that up with a nice bow and give the gift of travel to someone you love – they will thank you for years!

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Holiday Travel Vs. Staying Home – 10 Reasons to Get Away

Travel Quote – A Good Traveler

Terry Jones — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:39:49 +0000

“A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.” — Lao Tzu

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Travel Quote – A Good Traveler

Airlines Announce That High Peak Fees Will Be Added To Fares

Terry Jones — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:59:32 +0000

I don’t know which phrase gives me more pause when deciding to purchase airline tickets for my future travel dates. Air fare increases or additional fees. I think that the airlines have decided that marketing the phrase as ‘increased fees’ gives consumers a false sense of an item of being taken off in the future. Most people assume fees are temporary items that have been added to get through a short period of time. Increased air fares are straight foward – they are increasing their rates and they is no chance that they will go back down – well unless they have a sale. But even those fall under a false security – sales often happen after an airline announce a fare increase.

Recently several major airlines have announced that they will be adding a ‘high peak travel fee’ to their air fares. Basically that means that during the times when the most people travel, such as during holidays and summer breaks that they will be adding an additional fee starting at $20.00 per person.

I understand that cost increases are necessary at times, I also understand people in business trying to make a profit. So I ask that the airlines to consider being honest with the traveling public – just make a fare increase and stop with all the ‘fees’ and the false hope of the possibility that all these fees will someday just go away. They won’t and I’d personally would like to just have pricing up front and simple.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Airlines Announce That High Peak Fees Will Be Added To Fares

Travel Safely – Inclement Weather Tip

Terry Jones — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:58:39 +0000

Many people travel via car or get a car while they are traveling, so everyone should be aware of local and state laws. Many states such as Virginia, Maryland, DC and New Jersey require motorist to have their headlights on while driving in inclement weather. Having your headlights on at all times is never a bad idea, so other motorist can see you on the road, but at the very least be sure to have them on during rain and snow. Many states have mandatory laws that require drivers to have their headlights on whenever using their windshield wipers.

So ask when getting your car rental about these laws or check out the local DMV rules for the states you may be driving to for travel. It is always best to be safe than sorry and avoid a ticket or worse.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Travel Safely – Inclement Weather Tip

The New Carnival Dream Experience

Terry Jones — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:26:15 +0000

I brought my sister with me to the inaugural name ceremony and one night stay on board the brand new Carnival Dream. We both had a wonderful time. It was fun to see the ship from my sister’s eyes because she has never been on a cruise ship before. Yes, as their ads have said there is the new ship smell and everything looked shiny and new.

The cabins were a good size and I really liked the new colors of chocolate brown and rust as their accent colors. The accent pieces such as throw and pillows and dust ruffle really gave the cabins a clean sophisticated look. Though do expect to see Carnival’s signature bold modern are accents all over the ship. The bathroom in the stateroom was a fair size (par the norm for the industry) with their special added pieces such as including shower gel and shampoo dispenser in the shower stall. The cabin also had a signature glass sconce which I personally like and they had different designs in each of the cabin types. Lots of storage, in the draws, closets and under the bed – this made an impression on my sister as to that there was lots of space to tuck away items and keep the cabin uncluttered.

I was happy to see a family room that sleeps 5, yes five. The stateroom also came with 2 bathrooms, yes two bathrooms. One with a sink and shower/tub combo and the other with a sink/shower/toilet. This is so very necessary for families and I am glad to see that Carnival has these to offer.

The main theater was beautiful and we both were Wowed by the show. I have been on 17 cruises and always enjoy the shows for their entertainment factor but I was personally blown away by the show, the quality of the performer and the items they added to the show that really made it different from other shows I have seen in the past. I don’t want to disclose what the show was all about but I would rank it among the best I have ever seen on a cruise ship.

We both enjoyed our dinner and the service was very good. For a crew that has just been together for a short while, they really did work well together. My sister was really impressed by the pampering service we got in the dining room and compared it to going out to dinner at a fine restaurant vs. one of the local places many of us dine so often.

After diner there was so much to choose from that anyone would need to sail on the Carnival Dream to enjoy all the late night options for entertainment. These included several small bands, a comedian, a movie under the stars and this was all after the main show.

The Carnival Dream was a beautiful ship to see and experience from a veteran cruiser and from a never been on a cruise eyes. We were delights with all that the ship had to offer everyone including the kids programs and their special areas. For many people I am sure they will definately enjoy Carnival’s Dream…..come true.

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

The New Carnival Dream Experience

Taylor Sailor Set Sail For NYC Dream Inaugural

Terry Jones — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:30:24 +0000

Taylor Sailor and Terry will be traveling up to New York City tomorrow to spend a night on the brand new Carnival Dream. We will be enjoying her inaugural festivities, so we’ll let you know all the scoop. We will post pictures and tell you all about this new wonderful ship soon… Bonn Voyage!

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Taylor Sailor Set Sail For NYC Dream Inaugural

Travel Quote – Explore

Terry Jones — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 23:58:46 +0000

“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home.” — James Michener

Travel Lady Cruises, always providing you with TLC!

Travel Quote – Explore