Thursday, February 3, 2011
Deals to Be Found During Wave Season!
Wave Season! Travel agents are familiar with this term, but how many cruise consumers know its meaning? Wave season, is the travel agent's favorite time of year. Historically, most would not relate the winter months to waves and beaches and good times. But to the sellers of cruise travel, the winter season is the time when business picks up and people are planning their summer and fall vacations. "Wave" season is January through March. It propels vacationers toward packed ships in the summer months they can only dream about now. It's a great time to plan ahead and purchase their cruise vacation, because the cruise lines like to take full advantage of the peak buying time. Eager to encourage those on the fence, promotions often abound during this time of year. Early February is an especially nice time to check in with your cruise agent, as many cruise lines will offer a Valentine's special that may not have to be redeemed until later in the year. However, a word of warning in my observations of the travel industry of late. If you are looking for specific accommodations, ships, and pricing, things are "achanging". Planning ahead is key. The recession allowed people to find last minute deals. It changed their mind set to wait for the price to drop lower instead of planning ahead. The analysts are predicting the travel industry to pick up in 2011. When I check pricing for my clients, I usually find the further out they plan, the better price they get. The pendulum is swinging back toward getting better deals by planning in advance. Make sure you don't miss the wave!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Why Use a Travel Agent Instead of Booking Direct?
In 2011, the travel industry is predicting an uptick in cruising and travel. There also seems to be a return to the use of travel agents. "Travel Pulse" recently reported that people are seeking experienced agents who have experienced destinations themselves so they can give firsthand advice. Yet, in this modern age of technology many people feel comfortable searching and booking their travel online. So why use a travel agent? Though the reputation for online deals is far reaching, it may be far exaggerated. If the travel agent one works with is connected to a large agency with "buying power", often the deals that agent can find for their clients are superior to what the client can find for themselves online. At minimum, the agent can almost always match those online deals and provide the personal customer service and advice lacking from the online agencies. But what of the hidden perks and discounts that may be found on occasion by a knowledgeable agent? I'm not saying this will occur with every client and every trip, but as agents get to know their cients they may be able to find those hidden gems that the clients didn't know existed for them. For example, I recently uncovered a little known onboard credit program for honorably discharged military for one of my clients. The cruise line doesn't advertise the program and his previous online agency had never found the program for him. The credit is combinable with all other offers. For his 29 day cruise, this is going to mean an additional $250.00 in his pocket. And what about after the start of your vacation...I, myself, have never had anything gone wrong during a vacation. But just watch the news and you see how frequently the weather or other circumstances can throw a kink into your travel plans. When you're stuck on the road, your travel agent will answer the phone and help you through the trying times, whereas, it will be most difficult to reach that online agency. The best case scenario is for you to find a travel agent you trust - one you can build a long-term relationship with. They should be there as deal hunter, advisor, planner, and friend.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Virgin Gorda: Trekking through The Baths in the British Virgin Isles
What is it about extreme contrasts that are so appealing? That old saying, "Opposites attract" seems to hold true in nature as well as in relationships. As I gaze across the landscape of The Baths in Virgin Gorda, my eyes hasten to take it all in - the cold, smooth surface of the boulders; the hot, grainy surface of the sand; the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea. Steel cold grey set against the blue topaz swimming beneath swirls of white wispy clouds. Here and there a palm tree juts out to make a stark statement. Created by the violence of mother nature, this testament to her power calms my nature and restores me.
Trekking through the crevices, wading through the shimmering pools, and climbing the ladders and boulders of The Baths is a challenge you should not deny when visiting Virgin Gorda. This British Virgin Isle, known as a diver's paradise, is largely unspoiled. So unlike many of the commercialized Caribbean islands. On my recent visit, "Devil's Bay Trail", the path through the Baths was being conquered by young and old alike. The magnificence of the environment brought out a desire in everyone to attempt the challenging trail. This is not a place where you want to be caught in the dark or at high tide, but what a treat when you make it to the end of the path. A large boulder awaits you screaming, "Climb to the top and announce to the world that you have made it through!" Then it's on to the beach for a swim in the rolling surf.
Virgin Gorda: home to coral reefs, the beautiful Baths, and friendly people.
Azamara Journey Ship Review 11/29/10 - 12/11/10
Having just returned from my "azamazing" adventure onboard the Journey for 12 sun-kissed days, I must say I'm having a bit of trouble adjusting to real life. The service onboard this ship was absolutely indulgent. They boast the friendliest crew I've yet to meet. All guests were made to feel as if the crew actually enjoyed making our every wish come true. So impressed with the genuine happiness of the workers onboard, finally, my curiosity got the better of me. "Why do you all seem so much happier than the crew on other ships?", I asked a charming young man making small talk with me while serving my special coffee in the cafe. He explained that they don't work longer than 6 hours at a time. They are also allowed to go onshore much more often than their counterparts on other cruise lines. Aaawww. The secret ingredient. Make your crew happy, and they make your guests happy!
If you are looking for a more intimate experience, look no further. Azamara Club Cruises delivers a small ship experience with extra touches hard to find on other ships. Your special treatment begins on the day of embarkation. Greeted with a glass of champagne as soon as you cross the threshold, feel free to say a toast to yourself for making a great vacation choice. If you've been cruising mega ships in the past, you might be a bit confused as you wonder where the crowds are hiding. Keep looking. You won't find any during the course of your trip. When speaking to fellow cruisers about what they liked best onboard this ship, they often responded: "I love not being nickeled and dimed to death." This exact phrase was repeated by a variety of people from all backgrounds. Not having to sign a slip of paper every time you asked for a glass of wine was a real relief to many. And the wine flowed freely at lunch and dinners as it was included in the cost of the cruise. One of my favorite perks was so simple. As we left the ship each day to go to port, we were offered iced bottles of water to take out with us for the day. Upon our return to the tender, a server with lemonade, water and cool towels awaited us with the greeting, "Welcome Home!"
Let's not forget the importance of the destinations offered by these floating boutique hotels. "Longer Stays and More Overnights". The slow pace allowed for a truly relaxing experience. How many times have you rushed back to your ship in the early afternoon? Azamara wants their guests to experience the ports to the fullest, so they stay later. Want to take advantage of the local cuisine for dinner? On our sailing, we were in Marigot, St. Martin until 11:00 p.m. allowing many aboard to sample authentic French restaurants. Our itinerary also called for an overnight in St. Barths - shopping capitol of the Caribbean. What a great place to spruce up that French wardrobe! Expensive when making the conversion from U.S. dollars to Euros - yes. Fun - definitely!
Entertainment included a guest lecturer, dance classes, a talented cruise director with a voice that should be on Broadway and all your usual cruise fun.
I would recommend this line to anyone looking for a truly relaxing experience who appreciates great food and great service!
If you are looking for a more intimate experience, look no further. Azamara Club Cruises delivers a small ship experience with extra touches hard to find on other ships. Your special treatment begins on the day of embarkation. Greeted with a glass of champagne as soon as you cross the threshold, feel free to say a toast to yourself for making a great vacation choice. If you've been cruising mega ships in the past, you might be a bit confused as you wonder where the crowds are hiding. Keep looking. You won't find any during the course of your trip. When speaking to fellow cruisers about what they liked best onboard this ship, they often responded: "I love not being nickeled and dimed to death." This exact phrase was repeated by a variety of people from all backgrounds. Not having to sign a slip of paper every time you asked for a glass of wine was a real relief to many. And the wine flowed freely at lunch and dinners as it was included in the cost of the cruise. One of my favorite perks was so simple. As we left the ship each day to go to port, we were offered iced bottles of water to take out with us for the day. Upon our return to the tender, a server with lemonade, water and cool towels awaited us with the greeting, "Welcome Home!"
Let's not forget the importance of the destinations offered by these floating boutique hotels. "Longer Stays and More Overnights". The slow pace allowed for a truly relaxing experience. How many times have you rushed back to your ship in the early afternoon? Azamara wants their guests to experience the ports to the fullest, so they stay later. Want to take advantage of the local cuisine for dinner? On our sailing, we were in Marigot, St. Martin until 11:00 p.m. allowing many aboard to sample authentic French restaurants. Our itinerary also called for an overnight in St. Barths - shopping capitol of the Caribbean. What a great place to spruce up that French wardrobe! Expensive when making the conversion from U.S. dollars to Euros - yes. Fun - definitely!
Entertainment included a guest lecturer, dance classes, a talented cruise director with a voice that should be on Broadway and all your usual cruise fun.
I would recommend this line to anyone looking for a truly relaxing experience who appreciates great food and great service!
Monday, November 1, 2010
Norwegian Epic Review: "So What's In a Name?"
"So what's in a name?" I ponder this as I reflect on my most recent cruise during the week of October 16th on Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, the Epic, and "Epic" she is. Webster's definition: "grand and noble" most definitely comes to mind when stepping onboard. The first dazzling sight to greet you upon entry is the behemoth of a chandelier hanging from the ceiling and spanning several floors. As lights bounce off the crystals, this show of elegance sets the stage for a week on a ship that delights all the senses.
Innovative has been the word most often used to describe NCL's largest ship. Innovative in design, and in my opinion, most innovative in entertainment. This is the area where the Epic is making a huge splash! NCL is known for their freestyle cruising which means you don't have a traditional dining and show time. Instead you're free to dine when and where you want, either in the traditional dining room or in one of many specialty restaurants. Our two favorites were Le Bistro, French Cuisine in a romantic setting, and Teppanyaki, the Japanese Grill. Delicious! Now, hear a word of warning, freestyle still requires some advanced planning. You'll need to make reservations at some of the specialty restaurants in order to secure your spot. Although we were able to walk in on one lucky occasion. You'll also need reservations for the hit entertainers, Blue Man Group and Second City Improv. As you can imagine from the sound of the line up, the entertainment is some of the most modern I've seen on a cruise ship. Blue Man Group had the crowd laughing from start to finish. If you've ever had a hankering to participate in a murder mystery show, they put on a murder mystery luncheon that's interactive and a lot of fun. The Ice Bar is a novel idea that everyone seems to feel obligated to visit. It was so blasted cold in there I was ready to leave after just 10 minutes! The things we do to have fun while on a cruise. Sit on a block of ice in subfreezing temperatures and drink from an ice-glass. For those of you watching your onboard bill, some of the liveliest entertainment did not require an additional charge. The dueling piano act in one of the bars drew a huge crowd every night with the talented young players taking requests from the audience and amazing everyone with their abilities. If Jazz & Blues is more your style, an excellent band entertained a slightly more mature crowd. Sports enthusiasts and children playing Wii were enthralled by the two story movie screen in the Atrium. Of course, as is to be expected on any cruise ship, the disco was hopping every night, and all the usual newlywed games were to be found.
We were in the Caribbean, so let's not forget about fun in the sun. The aqua park entertained everyone no matter what their age. I even conquered the water slides one afternoon. Hint here: lines weren't bad at all immediately after returning from a port. The children are sure to love the fact that they just might see someone get slimed with all the Nickelodeon activity onboard the ship. And if you have a picky eater, this is a ship where pizza is delivered anytime anywhere.
Personally, I'll have to give one of my highest marks to the spa. I was determined to win something at their raffle, and by some miracle, I won a facial. Always try to attend the sail-away tour of the spa on that first day. Not many people make it to these, so it greatly increases your chances of winning. The spa facilities are gorgeous, and the therapist I was assigned was the best I've had on a cruise. The fitness center was immense with all the equipment you could possibly need to burn off those extra calories you're picking up eating at the buffet.
The cabins on this ship are quite different than those you'll find elsewhere. Looking at cabin and deck lay-outs before you book will really pay off on this ship when considering noise or space. If you're really tall, be sure to choose wisely. Anyone over 5'9" has a tendency to hang off the end of the bed and in some room configurations, there isn't a lot of room between bed and bureau. The bathroom design has received a lot of attention, but I found them to be uniquely efficient with their separate rooms for showers.
The Epic holds 4100 guests and is 155,873 gross tons. At that size, I never felt any motion. We were onboard with a large group of 823 fellow travel franchisees, vendors and travel industry media, the largest group the Epic has accommodated. All group events went smooth as glass. I was sure to ask vacationers what they thought of the ship every chance I got. Everyone I encountered gave her rave reviews. She'll be in the Caribbean until April 2011. After that, you'll have to fly across the ocean and join her on a European itinerary.
Innovative has been the word most often used to describe NCL's largest ship. Innovative in design, and in my opinion, most innovative in entertainment. This is the area where the Epic is making a huge splash! NCL is known for their freestyle cruising which means you don't have a traditional dining and show time. Instead you're free to dine when and where you want, either in the traditional dining room or in one of many specialty restaurants. Our two favorites were Le Bistro, French Cuisine in a romantic setting, and Teppanyaki, the Japanese Grill. Delicious! Now, hear a word of warning, freestyle still requires some advanced planning. You'll need to make reservations at some of the specialty restaurants in order to secure your spot. Although we were able to walk in on one lucky occasion. You'll also need reservations for the hit entertainers, Blue Man Group and Second City Improv. As you can imagine from the sound of the line up, the entertainment is some of the most modern I've seen on a cruise ship. Blue Man Group had the crowd laughing from start to finish. If you've ever had a hankering to participate in a murder mystery show, they put on a murder mystery luncheon that's interactive and a lot of fun. The Ice Bar is a novel idea that everyone seems to feel obligated to visit. It was so blasted cold in there I was ready to leave after just 10 minutes! The things we do to have fun while on a cruise. Sit on a block of ice in subfreezing temperatures and drink from an ice-glass. For those of you watching your onboard bill, some of the liveliest entertainment did not require an additional charge. The dueling piano act in one of the bars drew a huge crowd every night with the talented young players taking requests from the audience and amazing everyone with their abilities. If Jazz & Blues is more your style, an excellent band entertained a slightly more mature crowd. Sports enthusiasts and children playing Wii were enthralled by the two story movie screen in the Atrium. Of course, as is to be expected on any cruise ship, the disco was hopping every night, and all the usual newlywed games were to be found.
We were in the Caribbean, so let's not forget about fun in the sun. The aqua park entertained everyone no matter what their age. I even conquered the water slides one afternoon. Hint here: lines weren't bad at all immediately after returning from a port. The children are sure to love the fact that they just might see someone get slimed with all the Nickelodeon activity onboard the ship. And if you have a picky eater, this is a ship where pizza is delivered anytime anywhere.
Personally, I'll have to give one of my highest marks to the spa. I was determined to win something at their raffle, and by some miracle, I won a facial. Always try to attend the sail-away tour of the spa on that first day. Not many people make it to these, so it greatly increases your chances of winning. The spa facilities are gorgeous, and the therapist I was assigned was the best I've had on a cruise. The fitness center was immense with all the equipment you could possibly need to burn off those extra calories you're picking up eating at the buffet.
The cabins on this ship are quite different than those you'll find elsewhere. Looking at cabin and deck lay-outs before you book will really pay off on this ship when considering noise or space. If you're really tall, be sure to choose wisely. Anyone over 5'9" has a tendency to hang off the end of the bed and in some room configurations, there isn't a lot of room between bed and bureau. The bathroom design has received a lot of attention, but I found them to be uniquely efficient with their separate rooms for showers.
The Epic holds 4100 guests and is 155,873 gross tons. At that size, I never felt any motion. We were onboard with a large group of 823 fellow travel franchisees, vendors and travel industry media, the largest group the Epic has accommodated. All group events went smooth as glass. I was sure to ask vacationers what they thought of the ship every chance I got. Everyone I encountered gave her rave reviews. She'll be in the Caribbean until April 2011. After that, you'll have to fly across the ocean and join her on a European itinerary.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Fun For All Ages: Disney Cruise Ships Aren't Just for Children Anymore
When planning a special vacation that's all about the kids, Disney is top of the list. Disney's reputation for first rate entertainment and service isn't confined to their whimsical land resort and parks. Guests will continue to experience the "Disney Difference" onboard their magical ships. Set sail with Disney and create lasting memories for the entire family. The adults may be surprised to find what's in store for them onboard a Disney cruise.
Entertainment for all ages, day and night, is delivered in Disney style on all three ships, the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, and the latest edition to this fun-filled family, the Disney Dream. While the kids are taking pirate lessons from Captain Hook or making discoveries in the Oceaneer Lab, parents are free to relax at the adult-only "Quiet Cove Pool." Even child-centric Disney understands the need for adults to have a few quiet retreats with no children allowed. There's a late night entertainment district with clubs, including Pink, the classy champagne bar, and the Skyline Bar, a great place for viewing the evening sky. The indulgences don't stop there. If you happen to choose a Bahamian itinerary, you'll be treated to a stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. After entertaining the kids in the family area, you just might want to leave them in the care of the youth counselors while you check out the adults-only section of the island and luxuriate in that much deserved massage.
Back onboard the ship, the dining experience will be a nightly hit for young and young at heart alike. Rotational dining will keep everyone from getting tired of the same old thing. Just what is rotational dining on a cruise ship? Disney has come up with a unique way to allow their passengers to dine in a different restaurant each night. You move to a differently themed restaurant on a nightly basis, but the same servers rotate with you ensuring that personal touch. Once again, the adults have not been forgotten. A romantic French cuisine is offered in the adults-only restaurant for that all too precious alone time.
So yes! Disney Cruise Line is an enchanting escape for adults, but what about the little ones? Will they have the time of their lives? You bet! Who wouldn't with a 65-foot-long winding water slide adventure or a place like Andy's Room (inspired by Disney-Pixar's Toy Story - where they'll think they've shrunk and entered the land of toys. For the older tweens and teens, age appropriate clubs and lounges will keep them entertained, make them feel their age, yet allow them to be supervised.
Disney thrives on going the extra mile for their guests. They're one of the few cruise lines that includes sodas in their cruise fare, a small but nice touch. No one beats Disney's entertainment. The nightly shows are out of this world! They also give back to the community, offering military discounts to honor out servicemen and women.
Disney is a great choice for families, multi-generational groups or your good-old Disney fans. Next time you're thinking about visiting the Bahamas, Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, the Panama Canal or the Mediterranean, consider taking Mickey along. Kids, your parents will thank you.
Entertainment for all ages, day and night, is delivered in Disney style on all three ships, the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, and the latest edition to this fun-filled family, the Disney Dream. While the kids are taking pirate lessons from Captain Hook or making discoveries in the Oceaneer Lab, parents are free to relax at the adult-only "Quiet Cove Pool." Even child-centric Disney understands the need for adults to have a few quiet retreats with no children allowed. There's a late night entertainment district with clubs, including Pink, the classy champagne bar, and the Skyline Bar, a great place for viewing the evening sky. The indulgences don't stop there. If you happen to choose a Bahamian itinerary, you'll be treated to a stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. After entertaining the kids in the family area, you just might want to leave them in the care of the youth counselors while you check out the adults-only section of the island and luxuriate in that much deserved massage.
Back onboard the ship, the dining experience will be a nightly hit for young and young at heart alike. Rotational dining will keep everyone from getting tired of the same old thing. Just what is rotational dining on a cruise ship? Disney has come up with a unique way to allow their passengers to dine in a different restaurant each night. You move to a differently themed restaurant on a nightly basis, but the same servers rotate with you ensuring that personal touch. Once again, the adults have not been forgotten. A romantic French cuisine is offered in the adults-only restaurant for that all too precious alone time.
So yes! Disney Cruise Line is an enchanting escape for adults, but what about the little ones? Will they have the time of their lives? You bet! Who wouldn't with a 65-foot-long winding water slide adventure or a place like Andy's Room (inspired by Disney-Pixar's Toy Story - where they'll think they've shrunk and entered the land of toys. For the older tweens and teens, age appropriate clubs and lounges will keep them entertained, make them feel their age, yet allow them to be supervised.
Disney thrives on going the extra mile for their guests. They're one of the few cruise lines that includes sodas in their cruise fare, a small but nice touch. No one beats Disney's entertainment. The nightly shows are out of this world! They also give back to the community, offering military discounts to honor out servicemen and women.
Disney is a great choice for families, multi-generational groups or your good-old Disney fans. Next time you're thinking about visiting the Bahamas, Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, the Panama Canal or the Mediterranean, consider taking Mickey along. Kids, your parents will thank you.
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