Travel Experts

Queen Victoria Makes its Debute

2007-12-23T19:59:00.000-08:00

First and foremost, of course, is the fact that Queen Victoria is by no means as big, though the 90,000-ton, 2,000-passenger still qualifies as a mega model.More intriguing is that the design really celebrates Cunard tradition -- while at the same time offering a number of fresh twists. "With Queen Victoria what we've done is combined Cunard traditions and heritage and developed some innovations, too," Marlow, the cruise line's president, told Cruise Critic today. Ultimately, she adds, "we try and take the best of what we have on previous vessels and move forward, learning from our passengers as well."Queen Victoria is, for example, designed as an ocean-liner rather than a traditional cruise ship, which means it has a different superstructure -- and a strengthened hull and bow. Inside, numerous public spaces are two and three decks high -- adding an extra sense of space. Many features set to appear on Queen Victoria exist on Queen Mary 2 but have been tweaked, so to speak. Among them?The library will be an elegant two-story facility (situated on Decks 2 and 3) with a spiral staircase. In Cunard tradition, it will stock a voluminous collection of some 6,000 tomes in multiple languages and a broad selection of newspapers, periodicals and reference materials.Grill passengers -- the select suite-holders who qualify for the ship's restaurant-style Queen's and Princess Grill eateries -- get an entirely new atmosphere. The new restaurants will be located on Deck 12 at the top of the ship and feature areas for alfresco dining, not to mention imbibing. As well, the grill-only lounge will feature concierge service.The Winter Garden, which on QM2 is an indoor conservatory, gets an overhaul -- and a move to Deck 9. Even more notably, the new locale, tucked in between the lido buffet and the pool area, has a movable glass roof for indoor/outdoor ambiance, depending on weather conditions.Slight changes to QM2's lavish Royal Court Theater include the addition of private boxes (oh so very 19th century, not to mention the 21st) -- the first theater at sea to have such seating. And, responding to comments about the lack of a drink service on the big ship, Queen Victoria's Royal Court Theater will be adjacent to a lounge that will serve post-dinner dessert and drinks.Instead of a "heritage trail" that wanders through various public rooms on QM2, this ship will get a museum space of its own in which to showcase Cunard history (and a shop selling memorabilia will be housed next door).While Queen Victoria is built for ocean crossings -- and will sail some -- the ship will be much more port-focused than its big sister, though details of its 2008 itineraries have not yet been revealed.Other features that QM2 aficionados can expect to enjoy on Queen Victoria in one form or another include a Todd English alternative restaurant, the 4,000 square ft. Royal Shopping Arcade, a double-height Queen's Lounge, a traditional London-style pub, and a double-deck high Britannia restaurant.What QM2 features didn't make it in the translation from QM2 to Queen Victoria?There's no planetarium. "It was a function of space, not of popularity," Marlow says.QM2 has just revamped their pet kennels and service, but folks cruising with Fido and Fifi will have no other options. There will be no kennel aboard this vessel.There will be no atrium-view cabins though Queen Victoria has a reasonably high balcony ratio. Of the 1,007 staterooms, 86 percent are outside, and of these 71 percent have verandahs.The ship, which debuted on December 11, 2007, was christened by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall (also known as Camilla Parker Bowles, the wife of Prince Charles). For its maiden voyage, Queen Victoria will sail a unique itinerary -- a 10-night Christmas markets tour of Europe from Southampton. Ports of call include Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Oslo, Hamburg and Bruges. After that, for its actual Christmas/New Year's cruise, the ship swings south, heading to the Canary Islands.For Marlow, who joined Cunard from sister cruise line Swan Hellenic, the design, construction and launching of Queen Victoria has been a primary focus for the line over the past two years. But, just as important, she told us, is remembering that Queen Victoria is one of three sisters. "We'll also be focusing on keeping QE2 ship shape," she says, as well as reminding travelers who already know that QM2 is the er, Queen of trans-Atlantic crossings, that the ship will be circling the globe in 2007 -- and offering a number of more traditional port-intensive itineraries.

Our Inaugural Cruise --

Now that the gala send-off has passed, Queen Victoria is sailing on its maiden voyage -- an intriguing December trip to Western and Northern Europe where "Christmas market" season is in full swing. Join us for our virtual coverage of the trip, as Cruise Critic Contributor Greg Straub, who also covered Queen Mary 2's inaugural for us, gives us day-by-day reports on the ship and the ports.Straub's a stalwart Cunarder, having first boarded Queen Elizabeth 2 in 1969 when he paid 50 cents to the Seamen's Fund for the privilege of a tour of the then-new vessel. Since his first crossing aboard QE2 in 1977, Straub has sailed many times on Cunard ships including Cunard Adventurer, Vistafjord, Caronia and QM2.Straub's trip will transport you -- virtually of course -- onboard Queen Victoria from Southampton to Rotterdam, Copenhagen, Hamburg, Oslo and Brugge. Stay tuned for his first missive on Friday, December 14. Queen Victoria Central
Day 1: Embarkation and First Impressions Day 2: We Can’t Help But Compare the Queens Day 3: Overnighting In Copenhagen Day 4: Copenhagen Redux Day 5: Moving On to Oslo
Related Links Queen Victoria ship review Northern Europe Cruises Northern Europe Messages Cunard Messages
Day 1: Friday, Embarkation and First Impressions
When I booked the maiden voyage of Queen Victoria more than four years ago, I didn't know what the length of the voyage would be or the ports that would be visited. (I also didn't know how much it would cost.) Cunard chose to showcase its new ship with a Christmas markets cruise, visiting northern capitals before the holiday.Christmas markets are a northern European tradition of street fair. Merchants set up temporary shops, selling prepared meats, cheeses, baked goods (particular to the holiday), decorations and small presents. These markets are generally erected in the shadow of a city's cathedral.I'd never been on a Christmas markets cruise, and I was happy enough with that itinerary. I was not alone. I have met several other passengers who booked the voyage because it was the ship's first, not because of its itinerary. (I have also met a fellow passenger who put a deposit down on a cabin five years ago and forgot she had done so, until the invoice arrived for final payment.)I encountered my first Christmas market before boarding Queen Victoria. Southampton's main shopping street, Above Bar, is a rather forlorn pedestrian promenade dividing two rows of uninspired, post-war shops. (Southampton, like other port cities, was heavily damaged in World War II. The port was rebuilt in a brutally drab, concrete style.) This year, Above Bar became the site of a German Christmas market. Stall keepers sold prepared meats (sausages and cured hams), baked goods, ceramic models of half-timbered houses and all manner of small gifts and ornaments. There was also a rather nice carousel. The stall-keepers didn't look particularly German, or English, truth to tell. Most of them looked, well, Asian, but that was all right because most of the goods came from, um, China.Queen Victoria was easily viewed from Above Bar and the West Quay Shopping Centre. She made a handsome profile docked at the City Cruise Terminal. Unlike Queen Mary 2, she has a properly proportioned, single red funnel, very much like QE2's. Resemblance to either of her running mates ends there, however. Queen Victoria presents a typical contemporary cruise ship profile. She does not have the sweeping bows of QE2 or QM2. Her bow is stubby. She does not have terraced decks aft ending in a lovely rounded stern. Her superstructure runs aft, stops, then drops to the square stern. In short, she is a boxy ship. A friend e-mailed me bon voyage wishes and told me how handsome she thought Queen Victoria. She said, "She reminds me of my favorite Holland America ships." Well, yes, and so she does. She also resembles all the other Carnival family ships of late: lots of balcony cabins, none of which, unlike QM2, are in-hull. Except for the signature Cunard funnel and the iconic font lettering of "Cunard" and "Queen Victoria," this ship could be a ship of any other Carnival Corporation's fleets.I left my hotel by taxi and delivered my bags at the pier before returning to do some High Street shopping (and visiting of the Christmas market) in Southampton. I returned to the pier around 1:30 p.m. and whisked through registration. I have sailed often enough with Cunard to merit its diamond level of past-passenger status, which entitles one to expedited check-in with passengers assigned to grill dining rooms. I was handed a specially colored embarkation card that enabled me to avoid having to sit in the waiting room while other colors were called. I was ushered straight to the gangway. So far, so good. There was a long queue for the inevitable sailaway photo, but those of us who sail often have all these we want, so we were ushered past the ship's photographer. And there we stopped. For 45 minutes, we inched our way up the gangway. Here were the line's most important passengers: those who had spent the most money for their cabins and those who had been most loyal to Cunard Line. The gangway zigzagged up to the promenade deck in a series of switch-backs, where the line continued to a door. Each passenger was photographed for security purposes, but what was the hold-up? I can only imagine we were waiting for stewards to return from escorting previous passengers to their cabins. New stewards were finding their own ways to unfamiliar places, and the process was taking longer than anticipated. We were queuing for an amenity, being shown to our cabins, when everyone in line would have been happy to have been onboard as quickly as possible. I hope the valuing of marketing pretension over passenger convenience and comfort ended with our embarkation.Because the line took so long to move, I had ample time to survey the promenade deck. It is covered in some manufactured substance with lines drawn on it to simulate teak decking. It looks like linoleum, and this is not its only appearance on the ship. The ship's balconies are covered in the same substance, as are the upper, outside decks. Lovely teak deck chairs with bright blue Cunard cushions line the promenade. Rather good powdered-steel tables with nylon mesh chairs furnish the stateroom balconies. But they rest on linoleum! What gives?Cunard had upgraded my cabin category from an inside to a balcony outside cabin. In previous reviews, I have remarked on how spacious my minimum-grade inside cabin had been. Now, I have a top-of-the-line (for Britannia Restaurant) balcony cabin, and roomy is not the word I would use to describe it. First, there are few drawers. There's a drawer over the refrigerator. (It holds the hair dryer.) There is a desk drawer. (It holds the ship's information book.) There is a small drawer in the bottom of each of two bedside tables. (One contains a Gideon Bible.) And that's it. Yes, there are a few shelves in the three closets. (One is occupied by the life vests; another, by the in-room safe.) That's all there is for a ship that is scheduled to make two world cruises. There is, however, ample hanging space with wooden hangers. And someone thought it would be a nice touch to put a tie rack on one of the closet doors -- it holds six ties, which may be indicative of the level of formality Cunard plans for the future.As little storage as there is in the cabin, there is less in the bathroom. There is no medicine chest. There are two small trays below the mirror, but they are already filled with tooth glasses, toiletries, cotton swabs and so on.As I have run into passengers I have met on previous sailings, the first thing we remark is, "Have you seen the drawers?"Most of my fellow passengers are English. There is a sizable number of Americans, including a large contingent who booked with Pied Piper Travel, the New York agency that caters to gay travelers, along with a smattering of Germans and Japanese. I hope to discover what has drawn this group of passengers together.
Today, we put into Rotterdam, the Netherlands. I have not been here in many years, so it was good to walk around the city and remind myself of its layout. Rotterdam is not picture-postcard Holland, so forget about windmills and canals. Cruise Critic's Rotterdam port profile pretty much addresses this: "For the first-time visitor, it can be jarring to see steel and cement instead of canals and cobblestones. But what Rotterdam lacks in historic charm, it makes up for in cutting-edge architecture, world-class museums and sunny sidewalk terraces perfect for enjoying a Dutch beer or two. And the past isn't entirely forgotten; look closely enough and you'll unearth a few remnants of the city's history, like a 1920's statehouse, a 15th-century church and a 400-year-old statue of Erasmus -- a ghost from the past who seems to smile benevolently upon Rotterdam's bright future."Part of the reason -- a major part -- for Rotterdam's lack of charm is that the city was heavily damaged in World War II and is a post-war, industrial port (the largest in Europe). While the city itself is not particularly interesting, nothing is too far by train: Edam with its cheeses; Delft with its pottery; The Hague, the lovely center of government (but ironically not the capital); and the cosmopolitan capital of Amsterdam.If you feel like a low-key day, one of the most interesting buildings to survive the war is just a short walk from the pier. The Hotel New York, at one time the old headquarters of the Holland America Line, has since been remodeled. It has charm, and its cafe/bar, the former ticket hall, is a wonderful place to have a coffee or drink and a light meal. It overlooks the harbor and is a great place for people-watching. I had hoped to catch a glimpse of Rotterdam V, but she has not yet arrived (the retired ship, which was built in 1958 for Holland America Line, will become a floating hotel/conference center in Rotterdam). QE2 was in port with us, but she was docked some distance from the center of town in the container port. Queen Victoria, with her relatively shallow draft, docked at the city pier.Is Queen Victoria a liner? Cunard assures us she has a strengthened bow, but her stubby bow and high superstructure do not suit her for inclement crossings of the North Atlantic, and she is not as powerful as either of her sister ships. When Queen Victoria and QE2 sail in tandem across the Atlantic next month, QE2 will slow herself down to her running mate's speed. With the wrong shape and inadequate propulsion, Queen Victoria is not an ocean liner.Tomorrow, our first day at sea, we'll see what kind of cruise ship she is.

Venetian Las Vegas New Neighbor

2007-12-16T01:58:00.000-08:00

Meet The Venetian's New Neighbor, The PalazzoBe among the first to experience The Palazzo in Las Vegas. Connected to The Venetian by shared walks and waterways, The Palazzo welcomes guests to a new era of luxury.Click here for Deal Details

Caribbean Cruises Still a Good Deal and Alaska More Available

2007-12-16T01:54:00.000-08:00

Cruise fares for the Caribbean should remain solid through at least the first half of 2008 despite the volatility of fuel prices and Americans' economic uncertainty, according to Tim Conder, managing director of Wachovia's leisure equity research group. "Pricing continues to improve through first-half 2008 in the key Caribbean market despite growing U.S. economic concerns, driven by the attractive price/value relationship of cruises relative to other land-based vacation alternatives for the consumer," Conder writes in a note to investors. Cruise pricing is monitored more for the Caribbean than any other cruising region because it's the most popular cruise market for U.S. consumers and generally one of the most profitable. Conder writes that European pricing overall is holding up, due in part to increased capacity in the region, while Alaskan pricing indicates a slight decline. (DE)

Kauai's Plush New Property

2007-12-16T01:51:00.001-08:00

Starwood Vacation Ownership, a division of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, will open its first property on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, the Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. The resort, Starwood's third vacation ownership resort in Hawaii, is taking reservations now in advance of its April opening.
Villas are located in seven two- and three-story buildings and contain the signature Westin Heavenly Bed, queen sofa bed, Heavenly Bath with separate whirlpool tub, LCD flat-screen TV, DVD player, Bose AM/FM radio, two dual-line phones with voicemail and data ports, and high-speed Internet connectivity. The guest rooms have a separate dining area, fully equipped kitchen or kitchenette and a private lanai. Visit www.starwoodhotels.com. (MR)

2007-12-16T01:43:00.000-08:00

Feeling the weekday blahs? Then get away for some weekend "Ahhhs!" at one of these luxurious hotels and resorts -

Click on the links below to discover special pricing and amenities that are guaranteed to turn a few days into memories that'll last forever, call 904-703-7815 or email travelexpert@cruiseandvacationagents.com

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & SpaSan Antonio, Texas$50 food and beverage creditHyatt Regency TamayaResort & SpaSanta Ana Pueblo, New MexicoOne spa treatment per personThe BroadmoorColorado Springs, Colorado$200 spa credit per roomThe Whiteface LodgeLake Placid, New YorkRoom upgrade on arrivalTriple Creek RanchDarby, MontanaStay 3 nights and getthe 4th free

Clift HotelSan Francisco, CaliforniaSpecial rates

St. Regis Hotel, San FranciscoSan Francisco, CaliforniaChampagne and flowersupon arrival

Taj Hotel GroupBoston, San Francisco and London$150 food and beverage credit
The BenjaminNew York, New York12-choice pillow menu

The Fullerton Hotel SingaporeSingapore, Singapore180-minute Spa treatmentfor two

The LanesboroughLondon, United KingdomAn evening a LondonWest End musical
The Peninsula New YorkNew York, New YorkGuaranteed room upgradeat booking
The Regent ShanghaiShanghai, ChinaAccess to the Regent Club
Fairmont Hotels and ResortsHamilton and Southampton, Bermuda$300 Resort Credit

Mandarin Oriental, MiamiMiami, FloridaWelcome bottle of champagneThe Royal PlantationSpa & Golf ResortOcho Rios, Jamaica33% saving off suite ratesTHE US GRANT- A Luxury Collection HotelSan Diego, CaliforniaDaily breakfast for twoWaterColor Inn and ResortSanta Rosa Beach, FloridaA Back to the Beach Starter Pack

Unless otherwise stated, rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Offers subject to availability and blackout dates and may change without notice. Restrictions may apply. Prices in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted. Not responsible for errors in pricing. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Photo: Shutterstock. CST#2069091-40 687101 12/07

Hilton For Breakfast Please The Important Meal

2007-12-16T01:37:00.000-08:00

Issue #6- December 2007

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. We want your clients to start the day off right that's why we offer these great choices:•The Hilton Breakfast color-coded guide helps your clients select the breakfast that's right for them. • The Doubletree Eat Right® healthy menu programs, now available at participating hotels, are designed with maintaining the "right" balance of protein, saturated fats, cholesterol, carbohydrates and calories. • Embassy Suites Hotels prides itself on being the first and only upscale, full-service, all-suite hotel brand to offer every guest a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast every morning. • Hampton Inn offers complimentary On the House hot breakfasts and Hampton's On the Run™ breakfast bags (Monday-Friday)• At Homewood Suites by Hilton, we want to help your client start the day off right - so much so that guests can enjoy a daily complimentary Suite Start® hot breakfast . •The Hilton Garden Inn Holiday Breakfast Deal - When your clients stay a minimum of two nights this winter between November 15, 2007, and March 8, 2008, they receive complimentary breakfast for up to four guests in the same room. And on weekends, they'll enjoy our Lazy Breakfast service until 11:00 a.m. Offer available at participating Hilton Garden Inn Hotels worldwide.

Destination: Niagara Falls Winter in Niagara is not to be missed. Niagara Falls becomes a winter wonderland and ice spectacle. The annual Winter Festival of Lights (early November - early January) brings nearly two million lights and over 100 lighting displays and free fireworks on select nights. With over 16 properties in the area Hilton Family has the best hotel for your clients. Check out these special offers: •Doubletree Resort Lodge & Spa Fallsview
•Embassy Suites Niagara Falls - Fallsview

Unlimited Budget® Goes Global for Hilton Family of Hotels

We love booking clients for stays within the Hilton Family of Hotels global portfolio. This includes more than 2,900 Hilton Hotels, Conrad Hotels and Resorts, Doubletree, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hampton Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites by Hilton, and the Waldorf=Astoria Collection™ hotels. For more information, terms and conditions, or to enroll in theprogram, just click here

2008 Imperial Russian Waterways Package

2007-12-16T01:33:00.000-08:00

Imperial Russian Waterways & St. Petersburg
16 Days From Only $3,715(plus government taxes and fees)

NEW: Prices now include fuel surcharges!
Click to Enlarge Map Aboard ms Nikolay Chernyshevsky Moscow • St. Petersburg
This wonderful itinerary along the Volga River lets you explore multi-faceted Russia two ways — for the best possible experience. With four nights in a Deluxe hotel in mighty Moscow plus 10 nights aboard your “floating hotel,” you’ll have ample time to see it all, from the Hermitage to the Kremlin. In between, you’ll cruise the lovely Russian countryside aboard your privately chartered river cruise ship, disembarking to explore the heart of Russia, and meeting fascinating people, thanks to exclusive Vantage Cultural Connections. We’ve included the perfect number of sightseeing tours, so you’ll enjoy a leisurely pace that allows you time to explore as you wish. LIMITED TIME OFFER: FREE HERMITAGE BALLET TICKETS FOR APRIL THROUGH JULY DEPARTURES!
When you reserve this 16-day Russian river cruise with Vantage, you’ll enjoy 19 included sightseeing tours and a host of Cultural Connections. A Moscow city tour, a visit to the majestic Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, and a Russian barbeque lunch are just some of the other Highlights you’ll experience on this comprehensive Russian riverboat cruise. While river cruising is all the rage among today’s savvy travellers, a Russian river cruise is still a novelty for most. Reserve now and be among the first to take this truly unique journey!
Trip FeaturesYour price includes:
INCLUDED roundtrip international airfare from 25 U.S. cities
10 nights aboard the exclusively chartered ms Nikolay Chernyshevsky in a riverview cabin
4 nights in the heart of Moscow at the Hilton Moscow or the Moscow Marriott Grand Hotel (or similar), both Deluxe hotels
35 Meals: 14 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners (including Captain’s Welcome & Farewell Dinners and meals ashore)
19 Sightseeing Tours & Cultural Connections
An experienced, English-speaking Program Manager throughout your trip
All transfers (via private motorcoaches) and baggage handling overseas (except in customs)
Visa service to facilitate obtaining your Russian
5% Travel Credit received upon your return, to use towards your next trip from this special collection of packages.

Why Even Use a Travel Agent/Consultant

2007-11-16T21:24:00.000-08:00

Why use a travel agent? After all, sites like Expedia, Orbitz and Travelocity have all the best deals. Well, if your only goal is to get the cheapest price then I would say go for the big box travel websites. The problem is, there is more and more travel information on the web. You can research and search until the cows come home. In the end, you may get the best price but you’ve spent hours researching and finally you may not have the best vacation value.
One value point to consider is the value of your time. You might spend hours on the web researching when turning your vacation desires over to an experienced travel agent may be a better use of your time – and your money. The travel agent knows where to go to find the best vacation value for you and your family. Often, the travel agent will pick up the telephone and speak with suppliers that she has a relationship with. These suppliers will help the agent find the best value for the money. You as an individual can’t develop these types of relationships by booking your own travel once or twice during a year.
I recently picked up the phone and talked with a Norwegian Cruise Line travel agent representative. This representative knew that I belonged to a large travel consortium and was more than ready to help me get the best deal and the best cabin for my client. The price that I received was the same price the client could have gotten if they booked their own cruise. But, the big thing the client would have missed by booking on their own was the relationship between my consortium and NCL and the willingness of the NCL agent to find my client the best cabin available. I also knew, without doing hours of research, which hotel at the departing port was the best for the precruise overnight stay.
A travel agent is going to be your advocate as you travel. Your travel agent is going to do everything in their power to help you if you run into a problem while you are traveling. When my clients book with me they get my home telephone number, my cell phone number and my fax number. If they run into a problem they can call me night or day and be assured that I will be available to help them through any travel related crisis. Try to get that service from a big box travel website!
If you are looking for the cheapest price when you travel then don’t use a travel agent. Chances are the smart travel agent doesn’t want to work with you if you’re only focused on price. However, a travel agent is good for you if your time is important and you want to get the best value for your vacation dollar. A travel agent adds value because of their knowledge, experience, networks and service.

Hoffman & Hoffman Group in Haqaii Oahu

2007-10-17T21:35:00.000-07:00

More than 800 members of the Orthopaedic Research Society gather for their sixth annual meeting at the Hawaii Convention Center beginning Saturday.
The society, which has 2,200 members worldwide, promotes, supports, develops and encourages research in orthopaedic surgery.
Orthopaedic professionals from the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada, Europe, Japan, Korea and Taiwan are expected to attend the five-day conference.

Members of the Hoffman & Hoffman Incentive & Meetings travel team were on Oahu to great them , special transportation to Oahu's Waikiki Beach including the new Embassy Suites, Hyatt, Marriott and Westin Moana Surfrider -- In the heart of Waikiki Beach, the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort, introduced the world to Hawaiian hospitality in 1901. Often referred to as the “First lady of Waikiki”, this oceanfront Oahu hotel is a legendary landmark. Step back into yesteryear with all the contemporary amenities and unique services to make your Hawaii vacation both memorable and enjoyable contact Hoffman & Hoffman or a Cruise and Vacation Specialist.

Continental Means Mexico This Season

2007-10-17T21:31:00.000-07:00

With its perfect blend of natural reserves, archaeological sites and tourism attractions, Mexico has evolved in recent years to become a unique tropical paradise. Its beautiful beaches of white sand, bathed by the unparalleled turquoise Caribbean Sea, are famous world wide. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities; from exploring the Mayan ruins and shopping, to enjoying an incredible underwater world, diving or snorkeling... the options are endless. The nightlife is unlike any other. With a variety of restaurants, bars and discos to choose from, Mexico has everything to offer to people of all ages to make the dream of an unforgettable vacation come true.
Now when you book your vacation staying at Palace Resorts, you can take advantage of all sorts of savings, such as:
The Palace Passport with more than $400 in Savings - Stays of 3 nights or more get the Palace Passport which includes $50 USD per person toward the purchase of a round of golf, $15 USD per person toward the purchase of a spa treatment or massage, $25 USD per room toward a car rental through Travesias Turisticas, and unlimited sightseeing tours to Chichen Itza, Isla Mujeres, Coba and more.
Book a Honeymoon package and you'll receive a fruit basket, a bottle of sparkling wine, and a romantic candlelight dinner.
Book a Golf package and you'll receive unlimited green fees at the Playacar Palace Golf Club or Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course at the Moon Palace, round-trip transfers to the golf course, snacks and beverages, and a shared golf cart.
Book 5 nights or longer by 12/5/07 and receive 10,000 bonus miles. Enter Promotion Code: COV10000, your OnePass® number, and travel by 12/15/07.
Book by 6/30/07 and receive 20% reduced room rates when you travel by 8/31/07.
Kids stay, play & eat free when you book by 8/26/07 for travel thru 8/31/07.
Cancun
Cancun Palace
Le Blanc Spa Resort
Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort
Sun Palace
Cozumel
Cozumel Palace
Riviera Maya
Aventura Spa Palace
Playacar Palace
XPU-HA Palace
Vallarta Nayarit
Vallarta Palace

Book By: Wednesday, December 05, 2007 Travel Period: Wednesday, January 24, 2007 - Saturday, December 15, 2007

General Conditions: To qualify for bonus miles, you must provide your OnePass account number and the appropriate promotion code at the time of booking. Offer is exclusively for OnePass members and is not valid with any other destinations, discounts or OnePass offer or promotions. In cases of two or more OnePass members traveling together, only the lead passenger will receive miles. Bonus miles will be awarded per reservation – not per person by Continental Airlines Vacations. Other travel restrictions may apply. Bonus miles do not qualify towards OnePass Elite status. Minimum 5 night stay required. Quantities may be limited for this promotion may be altered or withdrawn at anytime without notice. Offers may vary. Please see individual resorts for more details.

Aruba Awaits with Savings at Hyatt

2007-10-17T21:22:00.001-07:00

Sunshine on Sale in Aruba
Now through December 19, 2007, guests staying for four nights at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino will receive a fifth night free, and those who pay with the American Express card receive a $50 Hyatt resort credit. Rates start at $315 based on double occupancy.Click here for Deal Details

Aruba Hotel and Resorts
Experience the all-new Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino, where luxurious pampering and exquisite touches enhance every moment of your visit. Breathe in fresh tropical breezes bringing the captivating scents of our island retreat into each corner of our impeccably renewed Aruba hotel and resort. Delight in the beauty of our new design, from intimate gathering spaces to elegantly modern guestrooms. Discover inner peace as you relax on our silky white sand beach, or as you give in to the nourishing treatments in our serene spa. Revive your sense of adventure with sailing, diving or tempting Lady Luck in the casino of our Palm Beach, Aruba hotel. Select our luxury hotel in Aruba, and transform your island escape from expected to distinctly remarkable.

An unforgettable family vacation is an effortless endeavor in Aruba. The sheer number of options, combined with the island’s safe, friendly environment and proven great weather, makes Aruba a natural choice for family vacations.
Spontaneous smiles and laughter often accompany a family adventure in Aruba. Inquisitive kids are most often enchanted with the island’s wildlife of lizards and prehistoric looking iguanas, the parakeets that streak through the sky with a bright, piercing call and the abundance of tropical fish found at snorkeling sites.

Active adventures are plentiful and range from a heart racing ride on a speedboat, the sail on a wooden “pirate ship” or a dive on a real submarine. Teenagers seeking greater challenges may want to steer their own kayak, ride a horse through the Aruban countryside or catch their own dinner on a fishing trip. An easier route for an entertaining meal is to choose from among a diverse number of cuisine offerings, from the exotic to never-fail-to-please pizza.During the DayExperience sun, sea and sandFrom the vantage point of the beach, families delight in prime views of the expanse of clear, turquoise waters stretching out and deepening to an azure blue at the horizon. The soothing sounds of the water’s ebb and flow, the brilliance of an ever-present sun and the caress of a soft wind slowly lulls sunbathers as the kids create their sandcastles and relish the refreshing splash of the waves.Water play is brought to even greater heights with waterparks presenting innovative ways to dash into cooling waters. Winding, colorful slides draw bathers as sprays of water rain down on smiling groups of adults and children as they revel in the easy joy of a day spent together.Experience overland adventuresThe slow rise of the trail reveals a landscape full of surprises with cacti-studded views opening up to reveal the stretch of rock-hewn coastline and the jump of salt spray with the incoming tide. Accompanying the scene are the reliable sounds of a horse’s hoof beat, the hum of an ATV or even the steady rhythm of your own breath as your family group travels along bike and hiking trails lined with the silent sentry of ancient rock formations.On other days, the satisfying splat of a paintball hitting its target, the thud of a ball making contact with the tennis racket or the crack of wood before a golf ball sails serenely into the distance help mark a vacation filled with memorable moments and challenges. A variety of sports captures the interests of the entire family.Experience Aruba’s animal farms/sanctuariesChildren relish their first encounter with a donkey, listening to the bray of a donkey’s welcome or feeling the soft fuzz of its snout as it nuzzles at a proffered carrot. A menagerie of different animals and discoveries await intrepid, young explorers, whether it is a visit to the Donkey Sanctuary, the Ostrich Farm, Bird Sanctuary or Butterfly Farm.During the eveningThe spotlight follows the dancer’s quick movements with the light momentarily flashing across the face of the young spectator, enthralled with the talented performer, shimmering in sequins and moving in perfect step to the vibrant Latin rhythms. The choices of live shows at the various theaters or even the latest film releases at the cinema highlight an evening family outing.Aruba’s mild evenings offer yet more opportunities for excitement, whether it is a round of eight holes on the miniature golf course or opting for the brilliant, flashing lights drawing young gamers to a game room, go-kart track or batting cages.

One Cool Family Vacation Details(Special Offers for Families with Kids 12 years & under)
Family Travel (Jun 1 – Sep 30)Aruba’s safe, friendly environment and proven great weather have made the island a natural choice for family vacations. The FREE “One Cool Family Vacation” (OCFV) promotion offers Bed & Breakfast free from the ‘kids’ menu in the hotel restaurant along with daily free kids activities and a complimentary family gift at participating resorts. Some restrictions apply. Ask for the One Cool Family Vacation package when reserving at your resort.

RESORT SPECIAL OFFERS:
- Kids (12 years and under) get free accommodations when sharing the same room with one or two full paying adults.- Kids (12 years and under)get free breakfast daily at the designated hotel restaurant, using children’s menu.- Kids (12 years and under) get free De Palm Pleasure Snorkel adventure and Island Sightseeing Tours. - Complimentary Children’s activities (can vary and are upon availability).- Family Gift (varies by hotel), presented upon check-in.

PARTICIPATING RESORTS:
Amsterdam Manor
Aruba Marriott Resort
Aruba Phoenix
Aruba Renaissance
The Boardwalk Retreat
Divi & Dutch Village
Holiday Inn
La Cabana
The Mill Resort
MVC Beach Club
Radisson Aruba
Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive
Tierra del Sol
Westin Aruba Resort

Hawaii Is Hot this Winter

2007-10-17T21:10:00.000-07:00

Even Surpassing Caribbean Travel from the East Coast ... Hawaii Is hot this Winter .....

Welcome to The Inside secret on Winter Travel

We don't know anyone who has visited Hawaii who hasn't been enchanted by the beauty of this lush tropical paradise and charmed by the spirit of Aloha. Whether you seek the excitement of Oahu, the action of Maui, the beauty of Kauai, the diversity of the Big Island, or the privacy of Lanai, the islands of Hawaii offer an unforgettable experience that are sure to make you want to visit again and again.

Hawaii Trip Tip 2007:

Don't miss the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival, which runs from November 2 to November 11 this year. It's two weeks of food, parades, crafts, contests and the world's best coffee. Another great November event is the World Invitational Hula Festival -- a celebration of Hawaiian culture, language, art and history -- which takes place at the Waikiki Shell from November 8 to November 10 .

Are you going to CRUISE TO HAWAII?

Most people don't think of Hawaii as a popular cruise destination but it's the perfect way to experience all of Hawaii in just 7 days! Norwegian Cruise Line offers year-round 7-day Hawaii cruises departing from either Honolulu or Maui. Extended length seasonal cruises to Hawaii are offered by Holland America Line and Princess Cruises from September until April departing from San Diego or Los Angeles.

SEE ALL THERE IS TO SEE

We definitely recommend that you rent a car when you visit Hawaii. Many of the fun places you will want to visit are not served by public transportation (for example, the volcanoes on the Big Island, stunning Mount Haleakala on Maui, and beautiful Waimea Canyon on Kauai).To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of our best tips on renting a car and even offer car rental services on our web site. So get out and explore!

TOP 10 HAWAIIAN SIGHTS There is no question that Hawaii offers endless options for fun. We are so often asked for our favorites, that we decided to list them here (in no particular order): 1. Pearl Harbor Tour 2. Old Lahaina Luau 3. Haleakala Bike Tour4. Sea Life Park 5. Kealakekua Bay Snorkel6. Mauna Kea Summit & Stars7. Molokini Snorkel Cruise 8. Ulalena 9. Na Pali Snorkel Sail 10. Polynesian Cultural Center

CALLING ALL GOLFERS!

Hawaii is a golfer's paradise. There are world-class courses on every island that are both breathtakingly beautiful and fun to play. But before you pack up your clubs, check out our round-up of Hawaii's best golf courses.

Spring Cruisers Taken in Europe at a Savings

2007-09-29T22:00:00.000-07:00

Waterways of Holland & Belgium
TULIPS, WINDMILLS & CANALS

FREE AIR!
12 Days from only $2915*
Prime spring departures are selling quickly!

Dear ALLAN,

Celebrate spring 2008 on our newly enhanced 2008 Waterways of Holland & Belgium: Tulips, Windmills & Canals. This 12-day river cruise features only “prime” dates — when famous Keukenhof Gardens is scheduled to be open! You'll also enjoy more daylight sailing for windmill spotting. Plan to be aboard this delightful river cruise that sells out quickly year after year. Due to the short duration of the spring tulip season, space is extremely limited, so make sure you call today — 1-904-703-7815 — for best choice of dates and cabins.

What’s more, by reserving now you can receive FREE international air from 12 cities, plus a $200 per person Advance Purchase Discount. Also, as in 2007, your 2008 price is guaranteed not to change once you reserve! Call today to take advantage of this great offer.

For the value-packed price of only $2915* per person you’ll enjoy:

FREE roundtrip international airfare from 12 cities
10 nights aboard a deluxe Vantage river cruise ship in an outside, riverview cabin
30 included meals
12 included sightseeing tours plus Cultural Connections — a $570 value per person!
European Vantage Program Managers
All transfers and baggage handling while overseas (except in customs)
Vantage 5% Travel Credit to be used towards your next Vantage Memorable Journey®
And more!

We invite you to compare — you'll get more with Vantage!

To recap, when you reserve right now, you can save by:

1. Advance Purchase Discount
You'll automatically save $200 per person for making your travel plans early.

2. Take advantage of Vantage's SmartPay® Discount Plan
For March 19 through April 8, 2008 departures, you could save $42 to $100 per person off the cost of your trip when you pay in full by check by October 20, 2007.

In total ($200 + $100 x 2 = $600), that adds up to savings of up to $600 per couple!

In addition to the great value, what makes this the best Holland and Belgium cruise on the market is that Vantage shows you so much more than flower displays! You’ll see windmills galore … cruise the canals of enchanting Bruges and Amsterdam ... watch artisans painting Holland’s celebrated Delftware … view the works of Dutch and Flemish Masters … taste Belgian chocolate and Dutch cheese … and visit the Eise Eisinga Planetarium.

And of course, there are flowers, too! During your visit to world-famous Keukenhof Gardens you’ll encounter a vibrant rainbow of blooms, featuring flowers from around the globe, and of course, Holland’s own world-famous tulips. Plus, we include a visit with Dutch bulb growers!

Don't miss out on excellent opportunities to extend your journey. Add our 3-Night Optional Extension to Brussels, Belgium or our
3-Night Optional Extension in Amsterdam, or BOTH!

Remember, reserve early to lock in your “prime time” spring departure at our Guaranteed Price, which now includes fuel surcharges, as well as the newly added FREE airfare from 12 cities! But again, this popular trip is selling out quickly! Take advantage of this special, early notification by reserving your cabin today! To make sure you’ll be joining us next spring call 904.703.7815.

We're Single Friendly
If you’re travelling on your own, take note: Single Supplements begin at just 25%! You won't find a more single-friendly travel company than Vantage, as other companies begin their Single Supplements at 40% or more. Ask for details at time of booking.

*Price shown is per person based on the March 28, 2008 group departure, Cabin C. Price includes airline fuel surcharge. Price also includes the $200 Advance Purchase Discount which can be withdrawn at any time. Prices do not include government taxes & fees.

Delight in the ‘Magic’ and ‘Wonder’ of the Holidays

2007-09-29T21:55:00.000-07:00

CELEBRATION, Fla. -- From the happy haunts of Halloween through the revelry of the new year, guests will discover an extra dose of pixie dust aboard Disney Cruise Line this holiday season. From traditional Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts to "snowflake" sightings and seasonal caroling, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder will sparkle with the joy of the holiday season.

The festivities begin on the Oct. 27 and 28 sailings, where guests can take part in some Halloween fun. Children will enjoy a trail of candy stations that culminates in a dance party on the top deck and special costume parties in each of the youth activity areas. For adults, there's a dance party and costume contest with prizes for costume categories such as best group, most original and most Disney. With Halloween decorations throughout the ship and scary -- as well as not-so-scary -- movies playing in various venues, children of all ages will enjoy a uniquely Disney twist on this autumn tradition.

Then, beginning in late November, the spirit of the season will surround cruise guests from the moment they arrive at Port Canaveral, Fla. Disney characters decked out in their finest holiday attire will welcome guests to the lavishly decorated private cruise terminal. Onboard, the festivities continue with special themed activities, decorations, and even a transformed winter wonderland on Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

On Thanksgiving Day, guests will delight in a traditional Thanksgiving feast complete with roast turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings. After enjoying as much as they care to eat, guests can relax in a deck chair or partake in some of the many shipboard activities such as themed craft projects for the children. To top off the festivities, Mickey and Minnie will don their Thanksgiving costumes.

After Thanksgiving, guests will discover continued holiday cheer along with:

A nearly three-deck-tall tree festooned with decorations in the atrium lobby, where "snow" flurries fall and a tree-lighting ceremony occurs.

A Christmas Day visit from Santa Goofy, with surprises for all the kids.

International holiday caroling by crew members from around the globe (exclusively on the Christmas cruises).

Special family time for designing and decorating gingerbread houses.

A reading of "The Night Before Christmas" by Mrs. Claus.

Traditional holiday feasts in Disney's three themed dining rooms (Christmas cruises only).

Multiple faith and interdenominational holiday services (Christmas and Hanukkah cruises only).

A ship-wide party to ring in 2008 and a New Year's Day tailgate party.

The holiday fun even extends to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. When the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder arrive at the sandy Bahamian isle just after Thanksgiving, the island will be transformed into a Magical Wonderland -- a "snowy" holiday hideaway. "Snow" flurries will fall like magic, Christmas trees will glow and carolers will croon. Mr. and Mrs. Snowman, wearing shell noses and tropical attire, will greet guests with a sleigh full of presents. The tram that transports guests across the 1,000-acre island will be reindeer themed, complete with antlers and tail. At the beach, kids can dive into holiday-themed activities that include making candy cane reindeer, paper plate angels and snowflake mobiles.

The festivities begin on the Disney Magic on a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise departing on Nov. 24, and on a special four-night Bahamian cruise leaving Nov. 21. Guests wishing to spend the Christmas holiday onboard Disney Cruise Line can enjoy a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise beginning Dec. 22, or a four-night Bahamian cruise departing Dec. 23.

From an extra treat on Halloween to a magical holiday season Thanksgiving through the New Year, Disney Cruise Line guests will cherish the memories made on board the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent @ planethoffman@bellsouth.net! Disney The First name in Family Cruising!

Disney Cruise Line Recognized As A Top Cruise Experience

2007-09-29T21:43:00.000-07:00

Port Canaveral/CELEBRATION, Fla., (Sept. 6, 2007) -- Disney Cruise Line continues to gain top honors in the cruise industry, most recently being named to Travel + Leisure magazine's "World's Best" awards.

Known for bringing family travel to the cruise industry, Disney Cruise Line continues to raise the bar on the cruise experience, with specifically designed areas and activities for each member of the family allowing for both quality time together and wonderful individual experiences.

Based on reader surveys of thousands of world travelers, the Travel + Leisure "World's Best" awards recognize the best cities, hotels, islands, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, safari outfitters and car-rental agencies each year. Disney Cruise Line ranked No. 4 in the "Large-Ship" cruise line category. The ranking was determined from answers given by readers when asked to rate cruise lines on cabins, food, service, itineraries, destinations, activities and value.

"We are delighted to be recognized by such an esteemed travel community," said Tom McAlpin, Disney Cruise Line President. "This award is a testament to the continued dedication in creating an unparalleled family cruise vacation. Families know they can trust us to provide a quality, immersive Disney experience."

Up against industry staples known for the best in cruising, Disney Cruise Line has continued moving up on the Travel + Leisure list each year, earning top honors and further confirming a niche position as a family product.

Disney Cruise Line has received nearly 50 distinguished awards and recognitions from the travel industry, since first setting sail in 1998. These awards have included all aspects of the operation from dining and entertainment, to youth activities and spa facilities.

Just this year, Disney Cruise Line earned seven additional top honors including:

Conde Nast Traveler -- Rated the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder in the top 10 of the "Top 80 Cruise Ships in the World" and named Disney Cruise Line on their "Gold List", which recognizes the top 10 in overall best experience.
Conde Nast Traveler -- Ranked the Vista Spa and Salon as the #3 cruise line spa.
Porthole Cruise -- Awarded Disney Cruise Line with a Readers' Choice Award.
TravelAge West -- Recognized Disney Cruise Line with two Editor's Pick WAVE awards for best overall spa facility and best onboard entertainment.
AAA -- Awarded Disney Cruise Line with the "Preferred Partner of the Year" designation for surpassing excellence in providing products and services to AAA and its membership.

Disney Cruise Line established the family market within the cruise industry, providing a cruise experience for families to reconnect and recharge while creating vacation memories that will last a lifetime. From a theater featuring live musical spectaculars to a luxurious spa for adults and nearly an entire deck dedicated to children's activities, the ships offer something for every member of the family. Disney Cruise Line continues to grow by attracting passengers who say they would not have cruised if it had not been for the Disney brand.

Just this spring, Disney announced the expansion of its cruise business, signing a contract with Meyer Werft shipyard, of Papenburg, Germany, to build two new ships, scheduled for delivery in 2011 and 2012.

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line ventured to Europe, offering 10- and 11-night Mediterranean itineraries to Spain, Italy and France this summer. The extremely successful itineraries created a brand new family cruise experience by combining the history and culture of Europe with the fun of a Disney cruise.

Next summer (2008), Disney Cruise Line will again return to the Port of Los Angeles for another stint of seven-night Mexican Riviera itineraries, following a wildly successful summer in 2005.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent @ planethoffman@bellsouth.net