My Cruise Outlet

Early Bird Gets the Worm

2008-10-02T06:24:00.000-07:00

Sometimes travel agents have a hard time convincing clients to book a cruise early. If you are planning a summer cruise, don't wait until the last minute. The best deals are often found as soon as the new itineraries are published. Cruise lines often advertise their best price at this time. The low fares attract attention and for those clients who can book a cruise in advance they get the best deal.
If you are undecided about when you want to cruise in the summer tell your travel agent. Your travel agent may be able to help you find a cruise at a great price that will dictate when you cruise next summer. They only way to lock in the low price of a cruise is to put a deposit on it. Some travel agents will transfer your deposit to another cruise if that particular time does not work out. But remember, this only works if you change your mind before the final payment is due. Don't hold your breath for the same low cruise fares. www.mycruiseoutlet.com

Travel Agents

2008-09-30T08:35:00.000-07:00

I just read this interesting article by Rick Cropp and Barbara Braidwood, Canwest News Service in the Times Colonist:
According to some eMarketers, there is an upward trend in the number of people booking vacations through a travel agent. Why? Customers feel they are getting (and often are) better service and better values when they actually talk to a travel agent who has been there and done that.
They said,"Booking through a travel agent is some of the best insurance you can buy".

Honeymoon

2008-09-29T12:10:00.000-07:00

Honeymoon – for some this is the most anticipated event of our culture’s wedding event. Ideally, start planning your honeymoon six to eight months prior to your wedding. Sounds like a long time doesn’t it? Those of us in the travel business know that advance planning is the key to finding the best vacations at the best prices. Summer is a popular time for weddings, thus honeymoons. You have to take into consideration availability as well as price. Information is key to planning the honeymoon of your dreams.
Travel agents, especially honeymoon specialist, are great sources for information. They know how to make a great honeymoon an unforgettable honeymoon.

Big ship short cruise

2008-09-28T18:55:00.001-07:00

The Carnival Destiny is the largest ship sailing shorter itineraries. The Destiny will sail four and five day itineraries from Miami departing Thursdays, Mondays, and Saturdays for a variety of Western Caribbean itineraries.
Shorter cruises have been a noticeable trend at Carnival. They now have 13 of its 22 ships sailing three, four and five day cruises. Ten of these ships are year round and three sail seasonally. That is 29 different short cruise itineraries from 12 U.S. home ports. No other cruise line comes close to the variety of short itineraries and home ports that a Carnival cruise offers.

Butler Service

2008-08-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

The newest thing in high end cruises luxury staterooms suits is Butler Service. Yep, one more way to make you never want to leave the ship. Services vary between cruise lines but most butler amenities include unpacking and packing your suitcases, making dinner and excursion reservations, stocking the mini bar with your favorite items, wake up coffee or tea in the morning just to name a few. Some services include pressing your clothes and shoe shine service.

Dining, traditional vs anytime

2008-08-15T12:54:00.000-07:00

Traditional dining has long been the standard for cruises. This includes a set time to eat, at a specific table with the same people, and the same waiters. Open seating give passengers the option of when they prefer to eat, generally the choose between first and second seating the main dining room and are seated where there is availability at any table. The good and bad, passenger has control of time to eat, different table each night, different people and waiters. Of course the buffet and casual dining options are always available! ww.mycruiseoutlet.com

Formal Night

2008-08-06T18:35:00.000-07:00

We have seen a recent trend toward a more relaxed dinner attire on cruises. I would not go as far as to call it casual attire at dinner, but more of a "country club" casual attire. Do people miss the formal gowns, sequins, and glitter? I guess some do but believe it or not, the more seasoned travelers and cruisers are the ones who are tired of dressing up and are leaning toward the more casual attire. Actually they may have a point. As the airlines become more weight conscience than ever before they are charging a baggage fee to check a piece of luggage. Image how much space you could save if you did not have to pack the extra dresses, suits, and shoes. Think about this, you only wear them for a couple of hours to take pictures and eat. Then by the time dinner is over you can't wait to get out of those clothes. Is it worth it? You decide!

Travel Tip #6

2008-08-05T06:58:00.000-07:00

Pack lighter! Many essential travel items can be obtained free of charge in your hotel room or from the front desk — razors, tooth brush and toothpaste, hand soap, hair dryers and more. Instead of packing (and paying for) these items, MSNBC suggests simply requesting them at check-in.

Travel Tip # 14

2008-08-03T18:17:00.000-07:00

If you are traveling out of the country, notify your credit card company and let them know where you are going and how long you will be gone. You don't have to give the specific hotel and room number but general locations are very helpful.

Cruising for free

2008-08-02T07:41:00.000-07:00

Is it really possible to get a free cruise? The answer is yes but you still have to pay taxes. The next logical question is "how?". It is really very simple. Call your friends, family, people you have not seen in years, and have them call a few friends. Then get everyone excited about a cruise, choose a date and destination then book a cruise for your group. My Cruise Outlet's group department can help you get the most for your time and money on a cruise. The general rule is for every 8 cabins with double occupancy you get 1 free berth. "1 free Berth" means one free person in a double occupancy cabin only has to pay port fees, taxes and fuel charges. Want more information? Go to www.mycruiseoutlet.com and find a cruise, then give them a call and ask for a cruise group specialist.

Travel tip #12

2008-07-25T19:50:00.000-07:00

Prepare for travel crisis – always have your passport or photo id with you. When traveling bring a copy of your passport and photo id with you. Remember to keep them separate from the real stuff. Another idea, email a copy of your passport to yourself. That way you can get a copy of your passport anywhere as long as you know how to check your email!

On Board Credit

2008-07-24T07:06:00.000-07:00

On Board Credit or OBC as it is commonly referred to in the cruise industry, is credit that is given to a cabin's on board account. Any extra that you buy and pay for on the ship is charged to your account. such as spa packages or a bottle of wine. On board credit is like "free money" to spend while on your cruise.

Travel tip #28

2008-07-21T13:34:00.000-07:00

If you know you will be staying in a small space with little storage, bring an over the door shoe holder (the kind with pockets). This is a nifty tool to keep small items together and out of the way such as socks, hair spray, shoes, hair clips, books, batteries, cameras. I think you get the idea. Have a good trip!

Europe

2008-07-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

Do you know the best way to see Europe right now is on a cruise? If you did not get to Europe this year because of the weak dollar think about next year. Actually now is the best time to get great deals on European cruises. A European cruise is like a floating hotel that is paid in advance in American dollars. (don't forget this also includes your meals and entertainment on the ship) The ship docks in a different port each morning, your stuff never leaves your cabin and your favorite waiter is waiting for you every night. Starting think where you want to go. Need help? Check our www.mycruiseoutlet.com for more information.

Travel Tip #32

2008-07-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

Name your luggage to increase your chances of getting your luggage to your destination!
Use a luggage tag that is NOT THE PAPER ONES FROM THE AIRLINES and fill it out with your information
Label the inside of your luggage or at least put your business card on the top of your stuff
Personalize your luggage with a bright ribbon, flashy tag or colored tape
Ready to go? go to www.mycruiseoutlet.com to plan your trip!

What exactly is included in the cost of a cruise?

2008-07-15T07:51:00.000-07:00

Basic cruise costs include accommodations, three meals per day plus snacks and room service, onboard programming, lectures, and crew organized games and parties, pool, gym equipment, Broadway-style shows, movies, kids’ counselors and access to lounges and discos onboard.

Port fees, taxes and fuel charges are added to the basic cost of the cruise.

Not included in the quoted price of a cruise, is trip or cancellation insurance, air fare, transfers, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, gambling, shopping, shore excursions and meals off the ship, laundry, internet and spa treatments.

Suggested budget for a 1 week cruise, $150 to $300 per person.
Check out www.mycruiseoutlet.com for some great deals!

Family Reunion

2008-07-11T07:18:00.000-07:00

How was your family reunion? I am guessing lots of family, food, fun, togetherness, confusion, not enough tables and chairs, kids sleeping on the floor, constantly washing dishes and cooking food, bored children…. Was it really fun?
Try a family reunion cruise! Now is the time to plan. Pick a time and a port then call My Cruise Outlet and let us take care of all the details. How easy is that? All you have to do is get to the ship and have fun! Family reunions are a time to celebrate, why not have a cruise reunion?
Start planning now, go to www.mycruiseoutlet.com for great values and ideas.

It is Never to Soon to Start Panicking - Universal Orlando

2008-06-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

September 26, 27, October 2-5, 9-12, 16-19, 22-26, 29-31, November 1, 2008
It’s Never Too Soon to Start Panicking.
On select nights in September, October, and November, your worst nightmares will soon be taking shape in the shadowy darkness of the country’s premier annual Halloween event—Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights.
This year promises to break new ground by being the most immersive horror experience ever. Every step, every turn takes you into a new realm of fear. In the houses or on the streets, there is nowhere safe and nowhere you can hide. It’s the greatest exhibition of pure terror ever unleashed anywhere, and you can experience it all, LIVE, only at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights.

Universal Orlando works to make travel planning stress free

2008-06-17T11:24:00.000-07:00

Severe Weather “No Questions Asked” Cancellation Policy
At Universal Orlando Resort, we know how important your vacation is to you and your family. We appreciate how much you've been looking forward to riding the all new The Simpsons Ride™, experiencing The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®, kicking back by the pool, and enjoying all the action and excitement of Universal Orlando Resort.
And while we can guarantee an incredible vacation experience here at Universal Orlando, we unfortunately can't make any guarantees about the weather. However, we can make your travel planning stress-free with our "No Questions Asked" cancellation policy. In the event you are not able to travel to Orlando due to an active named storm, we'll help you re-schedule your vacation or give you a complete refund - no questions asked. Your safety and peace of mind come first when you're visiting us, and we hope to see you here soon!Additional elements including air, car rental or other theme park tickets are separate and not part of this policy.

Royal Caribbean expert

2008-06-13T12:05:00.000-07:00

MY CRUISE OUTLET - ROYAL CARIBBEAN ANNOUNCES CRUISE EXPERT!
MIAMI, June 13, 2008 –In their commitment to providing the best sales and service to their clients, the professional travel consultants at MY CRUISE OUTLET recently graduated from the Royal Caribbean International University of WOW! as Cruise Experts. “We are very proud of the travel consultants at My Cruise Outlet and their desire to continue their education,” said Lisa Bauer, Senior Vice President of Sales, “it shows their dedication and commitment to providing
their clients with the best brand, product knowledge and service available.”

The University of WOW is an innovative and comprehensive online training program for Travel Agents to learn all about brand itineraries, services, and tools offered by the cruise line. The University of WOW is a virtual classroom where travel agents can reinforce their knowledge of the line in a fun and informative format. “The University of WOW is the most robust training tool in the industry,” said Bauer. “Knowing that a Travel Partner has undergone this extensive training should instill further confidence in consumers that they will receive excellent service from a knowledgeable Royal Caribbean Cruise Expert.”

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and two under construction. Liberty of the Seas, the cruise line’s newest ship, which debuted in April 2007, shares the title of largest cruise ship at sea with sister ship Freedom of the Seas. At 160,000 GRT with a capacity of 3,634 guests double occupancy, Liberty of the Seas sails alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand through its cruisetour division. For additional information or to make reservations, go to or call My Cruise Outlet at 877-543-0815 or visit them in Fort Mill, SC at 2752 Pleasant Rd Suite 107.

Make a Wish and Royal Caribbean

2008-06-09T10:13:00.000-07:00

Royal Caribbean Cruises LTD. Sets Sail To "Destination Joy"

MIAMI – June 6, 2008 – Throughout the month of June, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. will be participating in the Make-A-Wish Foundation's "Destination Joy" fundraising campaign, allowing guests onboard Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises ships to make donations to the Foundation. All funds raised will be given to the Make-A-Wish Foundation so they can grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. "We are proud to take part in Destination Joy and help the Make-A-Wish Foundation make every child's wish come true," said Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard D. Fain. "Our company is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, and this includes the wonderful work the Make-A-Wish Foundation provides for some of the neediest children." Throughout June, Make-A-Wish donation cards will be available on all Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Azamara ships. Guests will be able to donate any amount they choose and their donation will appear as an onboard charge. Along with the donation cards, guests will be able to participate in auctions where they can bid on unique onboard experiences, such as an opportunity to be on a ship's bridge while it departs a port, a behind-the-scenes galley tour and lunch with the ship’s executive chef, or priority seating for all shows.Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has been a national partner of the Make-A-Wish Foundation since 2000. Through the company's Wishes at Sea program, Royal Caribbean has helped make cruise wishes possible for more than 1,100 children. Royal Caribbean works with Make-A-Wish chapters to help create the perfect wish for each child whose desire is to have an unforgettable, dream-come-true vacation with his or her family. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisieres de France. The company has a combined total of 38 ships in service and seven under construction. It also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America.

Repositioning Cruises

2008-05-28T10:11:00.001-07:00

What is a "Repositioning Cruise"? The "repositioning cruise" is the shifting of a ship from one location to another.
Why reposition a cruise ship? Some parts of the world are not suitable for year round cruises. Alaska is a great example, the sailing season is from May to September when plenty of sunlight is available. The better known repositioning cruises are from Europe to the Caribbean, or vice versa.
How long is a repositioning cruise and what is there to do? Most ships stop in a couple of ports prior to crossing the ocean. These cruises are often 13 to 17 days of true ship relaxation, a cruise with many more sailing days than ports.
What is so great about a repositioning cruise? First of all it is a long relaxing, non hectic cruise. For people who really need to get away from it all, or just need down time and relaxation this is the best. Even better, these cruises are a very good value, some as little as $45 a day!

What is a cabin "Guarantee"?

2008-05-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

Great question! When booking a cabin for a cruise, sometimes you have a choice of a cabin assignment or a cabin guarantee. Cabin Assignment is just as it sounds - your cabin is assigned the day you book the cruise. A cabin guarantee means that you paid the lowest possible price for a particular cabin category with the chance of being upgraded to a more expensive cabin.
That leads us to the next logical question - "Which one should I choose?" There are pros and cons to both:
Cabin assignment - you can choose, based on availability, your cabin. To be assured your cabin is mid ship or as far away as possible from the elevators, cabin assignment is the way to go.
Cabin Guarantee - you save money by being flexible with the location of your cabin. Sure you may book an inside cabin really cheap, and actually get the bottom line cabin or you may book the cheapest cabin possible and get bumped up to a higher deck or larger cabin. Then consider how much you saved.

best time to book a cruise

2008-05-16T13:04:00.000-07:00

Someone asked me the other day, "when should I book my spring break cruise for next year?" That answer seems like a no- brain er, "book it now!" But why should someone commit to spring break more than a school year in advance? The big reason - price. When the cruise lines release their schedules for the following year, the initial prices are very low, to encourage people to book their space in advance. However, it does not take long for the price to go up. Take for instance Spring Break 2009. Port Canaveral FL is a very popular departure port especially for the the southeast United States where the distance is drivable. Disney, Royal Caribbean and Carnival sail from Port Canaveral. Next spring, Royal Caribbean will not offer a seven day cruise from Port Canaveral. What does that mean? High demand and higher prices for a seven day cruise.

I know there are people who don't feel like they can see that far into the future. Seriously, if you are booking a cruise for spring break, you probably have children and they are probably involved in something that could possibly upset your scheduled spring break cruise. But think about it, if you are thinking about going on a spring break cruise why not go on and book it, and lock in a lower price. My Cruise Outlet encourages clients to lock in the lowest price and they remind clients that all deposits are 100% refundable prior to final payment. No risk! The next question is always - "what if the price goes down?" MCO will honor the lower price. See no Risk!

Call or email for more information 877-543-0815 or info@mycruiseoutlet.com

Need Something to Look Forward to This Summer?

2008-05-08T08:19:00.000-07:00

Check out this great price for the Carnival Truimph sailing to the Exotic Eastern Caribbean on Aug. 31, 2008.

Inside cabins starting at $250.00 per person plus tax $277.32 - Oh my gosh - taxes are more than the cruise! Balconies start at $500 per person plus tax.

Hurry call now - these prices are good through June 15, 2008