Norwegian Cruise Line returns to service from US ports this year!!

Norwegian Cruise Line is getting ready to set sail from US ports once again! They have now announced departures from FLORIDA to the Caribbean and The Bahamas; departures from WASHINGTON for roundtrip Alaska sailings; departures from CALIFORNIA for the Mexican Riviera; and HAWAII's inter-island sailings resume this November from Honolulu! All available to book now.

• Norwegian Encore will operate 7-day cruises to ALASKA from SEATTLE sailing every Saturday from Aug 7, 2021, through Oct 16, 2021.

• Norwegian Gem will operate 7-day cruises to the Western Caribbean FROM MIAMI sailing every Sunday from Aug 15 through Aug 29, 2021, and a 4-day Bahamas sailing Oct 17, 2021.

• Norwegian Escape will operate a 7-day cruise to the Eastern Caribbean FROM PORT CANAVERAL sailing on Nov 13, 2021.

• Norwegian Breakaway will operate 7-day cruises to Bermuda FROM NEW YORK CITY sailing every Sunday from Sept 26, 2021, through Oct 17, 2021.

• Norwegian Bliss will operate a 7-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera FROM LOS ANGELES sailing on Oct 24, 2021.

• Pride of America will operate a 7-day inter-island cruise of the Hawaiian islands round-trip from HONOLULU sailing on Nov 6, 2021.

Golf Packages!

 Ready to hit the links this summer or fall, we've got some GREAT Golf packages available, from 3-7 nights or longer.

> Scotland, Palm Springs, Hilton Head, Orlando, Scottsdale, and more. https://tinyurl.com/GolfVacations

ALASKA AT LAST! 2021 Cruises Are NOW POSSIBLE!

Thanks to the work by the US Congress to modify the long-held Passenger Services Vessel Act, there WILL BE an Alaska Cruise Season THIS YEAR! Shortened yes, but cruise ships will be sailing the Inside Passage once again!

There are now five cruise lines sailing Alaska this season. Contact us and book quickly if you want to see Alaska this year.

Here's a list of all your options.

Royal Caribbean & Celebrity

• Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas will sail 7-day cruises roundtrip from Seattle visiting Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Endicott Arm fjord and Dawes Glacier starting July 19th.
• Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas will sail 7-day cruises roundtrip from Seattle visiting Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau and Skagway starting August 13.
• Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Summit will sail 7-day cruises roundtrip from Seattle visiting Ketchikan, Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, Juneau and Skagway starting July 23.

Guests age 16 and older must have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to embarkation and have proof of vaccination. Guests under the age of 16 are only required to provide proof of a negative PCR test in order to sail. However, as of August 1, 2021, all guests ages 12 and older must be fully vaccinated, and guests under 12 are only required to provide proof of a negative PCR test in order to sail. All crew will be vaccinated.

Norwegian, Holland America & Princess

• Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Bliss will sail 7-day cruises roundtrip from Seattle visiting Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Glacier Bay National Park or Holkham Bay Glacier Fjord starting August 7, 2021.
• Holland America Line's Nieuw Amsterdam will sail 7-day Alaska itineraries roundtrip from Seattle visiting Stephens Passage, Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park, Icy Strait Point, Sitka and Ketchikan, starting Saturday, July 24.
• Princess Cruises' Majestic Princess will sail 7-day Alaska itineraries roundtrip from Seattle visiting Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, and Ketchikan, starting Sunday, July 25. On sale now!

Sailings on Norwegian, Holland America, and Princess are available exclusively for guests who have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to embarkation and have proof of vaccination. All crew will be vaccinated.

Hawaii Says You Deserve a Vacation

 

 

The islands are open and would love to get to know you this year. If you've been considering a getaway, the six different islands of Hawaii that you can visit each have their own unique personality and would make for a fantastic getaway.  Reach out and let's have a conversation about it. I'd be honored to help you find your Aloha. 

Summer Getaway Idea - Grand Hotel

 Discover the USA Suggestion... GRAND HOTEL & MACKINAC ISLAND

If you have never experienced the wonder of setting off from the mainland of Michigan and seeing the expansive front porch of Grand Hotel 7 miles away in the distance... or stepping back in time to an island that doesn't allow cars... or enjoying the picturesque beauty of Lake Huron surrounding the island, with the sweeping Mackinac Bridge in the distance then perhaps this is your year to do so!!

Dating back to 1887 as a summer getaway for the railroad barons of the 19th century, this legendary diamond has dusted herself off with a recent $10M refresh and pool renovation and is waiting for you. Grand Hotel opens for the season on May 7th which runs until November 7th, and the island would love to make your acquaintance! I'd love to help you plan an amazing getaway to this charming island retreat. Give me a call at 317.776.1733, or send an email to clingren@cruiseplanners.com, or submit a request through my website!

Discover the USA... Christopher's RIDING THE RAILS Adventure Suggestions

Suggested Itinerary: NORTHERN RAIL EXPERIENCE

Venture from the breathtaking great plains of the Midwest to the serene waters of the Pacific Coast on this scenic rail journey from Chicago to San Francisco, with a stop in Seattle. Enjoy the landscape as you travel along major portions of the Lewis and Clark trail. Explore Seattle on a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour. Discover the sights of San Francisco. Spend some quality time in two majestic parts of Northern California: Muir Woods and Sausalito. And, then you'll head back to the “Windy City” onboard one of the most beautiful train trips in all of North America.

HIGHLIGHTS:

- Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of Seattle

- Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of San Francisco

- Sightseeing tour of Muir Woods and Sausalito

- Sightseeing cruise in San Francisco

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

- One-way Amtrak® from Chicago to Seattle on the Empire Builder®; Seattle to San Francisco on the Coast Starlight®; San Francisco to Chicago on the California Zephyr® in Coach accommodations

- 4 nights' accommodations; 5 nights onboard Amtrak

- 1 meal included (1 dinner)

Departures available most Thursdays March through November. Reverse itineraries also available.

You can absolutely upgrade the experience with sleeping accommodations, pre and/or post hotel stays in the departure city.

Intrigued? Ask me! I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations and rail vacations!

Discover the USA... Christopher's RIDE IN COMFORT Suggestions

Suggested Itinerary: COASTAL MAINE

Maine...where rocky shores, infinite nature, and endless lobster forge a coastal New England classic. Dig into local delicacies with an oyster shucking lesson and tasting. Immerse yourself in dramatic nature at Acadia National Park. See how lobster traps are retrieved from the ocean. Admire the picturesque Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse. Take part in a vintage wine tasting at Cellardoor Winery. Enjoy the vibrant city of Portland. Ancient mountains, delectable cuisine, and bustling harbors await you in this maritime treasure.

7 Days including 9 meals (6B, 1L, 2D)

There are 9 available departures for this experience between June and September this year. I love helping people find amazing adventures on land, and Maine would be a great destination to explore this summer!

Go Active Itinerary Suggestion: SAN JUAN ISLANDS, WASHINGTON

Suggested Itinerary - Multi-Adventure Vacation

Welcome to the San Juan Islands, where the summer sun shines, the sea glistens and the pace of life slows. Find your rhythm biking along quiet country roads, spend time kayaking in peaceful inlets and connect to nature hiking amid old-growth forests. A hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest, this natural playground is perfect for an active outdoor adventure. 

 

HIGHLIGHTS

• Behold postcard-perfect Pacific Northwest scenery as you ferry from island to island with the locals
• Bike through majestic fir and cedar forests, explore driftwood beaches, and savor the day’s fresh catch
• Sail on a wildlife cruise and keep your eyes peeled for the chance to spot whales from the open water
• Admire views of emerald islands, Mount Baker, and Canada’s coastal peaks from atop Mount Constitution 

 

There are 13 possible itinerary departures from mid-June to late September 2021. These 6 days, 5-night adventures are truly special!

 

Intrigued? Ask me! Know someone who might love this type of adventure? Share it with them!  I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations & active adventures of all kinds. Don't let the agency name fool you...we are SO MUCH MORE than just cruises!  I am a Backroads Certified Specialist, and would love to help you find the right active adventure for you!  

 

 

Learn more about other biking and active adventures on our dedicated page! 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #discovertheusa #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #bicycletouring #bicycling #biketours #backroadscertifiedspecialist

Group Travel Experience - Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta - AVAILABLE NOW!

 

 

Up, up and away! This is an experience not to be missed! The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta has grown into one of the world’s most photographed events. Set in New Mexico, a place diverse in culture and scenic beauty, the Fiesta is simply one of the most spectacular displays of sound and color you are ever to witness.  Check out these amazing TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:  Balloon Fiesta, Old Town Albuquerque, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Turquoise Trail, Santa Fe, Open-Air Tram Tour, Loretto Chapel, Santa Fe School of Cooking

 

We have limited availability for this incredible annual event, taking place this October, with an escorted tour of the surrounding area as well. Package pricing includes air from IND (but can be changed to a different gateway if desired...just ask!)

 

Learn more and register here

 

 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #experiences #balloonfiesta #seeitforyourself

Destination Florida! Summer Vacation Plans Await

Itching to travel but not yet ready to go too far? Want to have some beach & fun? Then be sure to visit the state where the sun always shines: Florida! You’ll never run out of activities and adventures in this tropical paradise. From the beautiful beaches to the amazing theme parks; the awesome natural wonders to the cultural and culinary delights; from the links to the clubs...Florida has something for everyone year-round!

Whether you're thinking of staying in a lush tropical resort, beach condo, a cute bungalow somewhere near the water, or at one of the many incredible vacation homes available to rent, I can help!

Or perhaps you want more thrills and fun at Universal Orlando or Walt Disney World...I can help with that too. Don't let the agency name fool you...we are SO MUCH MORE than simply cruises.

 

I love helping people find amazing adventures and experiences to create memories for a lifetime through land vacations, as well as cruises. Want to know more? Just ask!  

Go Active Itinerary Suggestion: CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY

 

ITINERARY SUGGESTION:  CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY: Napa & Sonoma Vineyards, Redwoods & Pacific Coast

Legendary vineyards. Soaring redwood forests. And the dramatic Pacific coast. This is Northern California. And for you, it's a fantastic week and an incredible journey. Wine tastings and gourmet meals enlighten your palate. Stunning scenery invigorates. And top-notch spas relax and rejuvenate... all in one remarkable place simply known as the Wine Country.

 

 

 

There are 24 possible itinerary departures from April to November 2021. These 6 days, 5-night adventures are truly special!

 

Intrigued? Ask me! Know someone who might love this type of adventure? Share it with them!  I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations & active adventures of all kinds. Don't let the agency name fool you...we are SO MUCH MORE than just cruises!

 

Learn more about other biking and active adventures on our dedicated page! 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #discovertheusa #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #bicycletouring #bicycling #biketours

Did You Know We Can Book That For You? HAWAII LAND-BASED ADVENTURES

RELAX IN THE ISLANDS! HAWAII!

Home to the world’s most active volcanoes, the only royal palace in the U.S., and the welcoming aloha spirit - Hawaii is like no place on Earth! Discover the glimmering ocean, emerald valleys, and golden sands; get lost in the spiritual beauty of the hula and find out how the warmth of Hawaii’s people wonderfully complements the islands’ perfect temperatures. We invite you to explore the Islands of Aloha to find your own heavenly Hawaii experiences. Aloha.

 

 

There are six major islands to visit in Hawaii: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and the island of Hawaii! Each island has its own distinct personality, adventures, activities, and sights. We invite you to explore the Islands of Aloha to find your own heavenly Hawaii experiences.

 

Whether for your first visit, or one of numerous returns, as a Hawaii Destination Expert, I'd be thrilled to help you discover the wonderful island life that is Hawaii. The islands are open for visitors, though the covid restrictions differ by island, so when you trust me to plan your Hawaiian getaway, I'll be sure to let you know the important details you'll need to enjoy your experience!

 

Intrigued? Ask me! Know someone who might be interested? I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations and Hawaii is one of my favorite destinations to send guests to discover!  For more about Hawaii, visit my dedicated Hawaii page on the website. 

 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #getbacktonature #beachgetaway #beachvacation #hawaii

Christopher's GO ACTIVE Adventure Suggestions - WYOMING'S YELLOWSTONE & TETONS MULTI-ADVENTURE TOUR

WYOMING'S YELLOWSTONE & TETONS MULTI-ADVENTURE TOUR

 

The Tetons. Majestic peaks above, meadows, and glacial lakes below. And the Snake River winding through the valley. Yellowstone is one of a kind. Geysers really do erupt hourly. Sulfur-scented hot springs glimmer like jewels. Bison and elk are as common as tourists. As you hike, bike, kayak, raft and explore these epic regions, your experience will be just as spectacular.

 

HIGHLIGHTS

• Paddle through the twisting rapids of the Snake River with a professional white-water guide

• Bike a spectacular route beneath the jagged peaks of the Teton Range, one of the most beautiful car-free paths in the west

• Hike in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a geologic wonderland and home of the park's biggest waterfall

• Experience thrilling sightings of wonderful wildlife in the air, on the water, and across the land—have your camera ready!

• Activity Level: 1-4

• 6 Days, 5 Nights | Starting at $4,099 pp double occupancy

• There are 16 available Trip dates for this tour in 2021 between June and mid-September.

 

WHAT'S INCLUDED? A LOT!

• Your Choice: Performance Road Bike, Touring Bike, Electric-Assist Bike, Carbon Bike, or Tandem Bike

• All breakfasts, 5 lunches, & 4 dinners

• Expertise & services of experienced Trip Leaders

• Snacks & beverages between meals

• Additional guides & experts from the region

• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options

• All gratuities at hotels & restaurants

• On biking & multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped titanium bike plus helmet & accessories

• Trailercycles, carriers, & kid-sized helmets for Family Trips

• Equipment & experienced guides for rafting as described

• Park & other entry fees

• Fares for trains, ferries, & other modes of travel

• Select coach transfers

• Baggage transfers & porterage

 

 

Intrigued? Ask me! Know someone who might love this type of adventure? Share it, please! I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations & adventures of all kinds. Don't let the agency name fool you...we are SO MUCH MORE than just cruises!

 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #discovertheusa #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #kayaking #bicycletouring #bicycling #hikingadventures #rafting #raft

Did You Know We Can Book That? ALASKAN RV RENTALS

IT'S A DIFFERENT KIND OF ALASKAN CRUISE...EXPLORE BY RV!

 

 

The pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the cruise industry with Canada banning large ships in their waters until February 2022. But that doesn't mean that the people in the great state of Alaska need to suffer through another year of economic turmoil. Land vacation opportunities in Alaska are open and plentiful! Getting out and discovering this amazing destination by RV is your opportunity to really cruise in a different manner, at your own pace! Here the top five reasons you should consider an Alaskan land-based RV vacation...

 

1. 1. Plenty of wide-open spaces that only Alaska can provide. Alaska has open spaces like no other. Within its half a million square miles, there are 33,904 miles of shoreline; three major mountain ranges; 12,000 rivers, and a state population of just over 731,000 people. That equates to 1.3 persons per square mile!
2. Peace and relaxation. When was the last time you took a vacation? In the US, only about 45% of people actually use their well-earned vacation days. And this is way better than any quarantine at home could ever be!
3. Safety among the wild. Of its geographic makeup, 60% of Alaska is devoted to national parks, wildlife refuges, and protected lands. Within these boundaries, habitats and wildlife are able to grow and thrive with little impact from humans.
4. Time with family. Build family memories that will last a lifetime. Alaska is unique in that it brings the adventurer out in all of us – 1 to 99!
5. Privacy - away from it all. When you RV Alaska, you have the option to get away from it all. See birds instead of tweets. Enjoy handmade items instead of headlines. And there’s no instant replay, so be ready to view a different type of live stream in real-time.

Intrigued? Ask me! I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations and definitely ALASKA vacations!

 

 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking

#seeamerica #alaska #rvalaska #rvtravel #getoutontheopenroad #wildlife

Group Travel Experience - America's Music Cities - AVAILABLE NOW!

We Have Another Shared Group Travel Experience to Consider! AMERICA'S MUSIC CITIES 

 

 

This October enjoy a finger-snapping, toe-tapping time on a tour of America’s most famed musical cities – New Orleans, Memphis, and Nashville this October on an incredible escorted tour of some of the American music landmarks.  This is an air-inclusive experience from IND, but the air gateway can be modified if needed, for a small additional fee. It's a Shared Group Travel Experience that currently has EXTREMELY LIMITED AVAILABILITY, so be sure to RESERVE YOUR SEAT SOON!

 

Check out these Trip Highlights: French Quarter | Choices on Tour | Swamp Tour |Mardi Gras World | Jazz Revue | Graceland | West Delta Heritage Center | Ryman Auditorium | Grand Ole Opry Show | Country Music Hall of Fame | Historic RCA Studio B | Hands-on Chocolate-making Lesson

 

 

Learn more and register

 

 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #americasmusic #musiccities #escortedtours #DiscoverTheUSA

Did You Know We Can Book That? MOUNTAIN CABINS & RENTALS

How about a nice, somewhat remote, woodsy getaway this year? How does a cabin, condo, lodge, mountain home, chalet, bungalow, or luxury villa sound? Whether for just yourself or the whole clan, we can help reserve your woodsy lodging from coast to coast. From traditional inns and hotels to 1, 2, 3 Bedrooms, and more, we've got you covered. PLUS RV rentals in Alaska, too! You might only think of me as a cruise guy because of the name of the agency, but we are SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST CRUISES.

 

Here's just a sampling of where we can find a vacation rental for you:

 

Gatlinburg | Mammoth Lakes | Sun Valley | Aspen | Adirondacks | Park City | Lake Tahoe | Branson | Petoskey | Whitefish and many more

 

 

Intrigued? Ask me! I love helping people get out & explore with land-based vacations and vacation rentals!  You can learn more about what we can do and request a quote on our dedicated Mountain Cabins & Rentals page.

 

 

 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking #getbacktonature #woodsygetaway #cabininthewoods #mountains #mountainvacation

Group Travel Experience - Colorado Rockies with National Parks & Historic Trains - AVAILABLE NOW!

Adventure lovers...we've got another incredible opportunity to explore this beautiful country of ours in the very early fall (late September early October). It's a Colorado Rockies tour, complete with National Parks and historic trains. This one is also a little shorter in duration than our National Parks tour posted earlier. There aren't very many seats left on the train...so if this one appeals to you and you'd like to get out and explore a nice part of the western US this year...sign up soon!

  

Check out these Trip Highlights:  Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado National Monument, Grand Junction, Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point State Park, Arches National Park, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Mesa Verde National Park (UNESCO), Choice on Tour, Royal Gorge Route Railroad, Garden of the Gods

 

Learn more & register here

 

 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking

Group Travel Experience - America's National Parks - AVAILABLE NOW!

NEW GROUP TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AVAILABLE NOW.   

 

Which of my friends would like to experience an incredible adventure this year?  Our agency has just a few seats remaining for a truly remarkable incredible National Parks tour in August 2021.   Check out these Trip Highlights:  Scottsdale, Lake Powell, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Choice on Tour, Zion, Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks, Old Faithful, Sheridan, Bighorn Mountains, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mount Rushmore

 

Learn more and register here

 

 

#travel #adventure #tourism #vacation #exploremore #supportsmallbusinesses #travelagent #theinternetisforlookingbuttravelagentsareforbooking

Such Amazing Beauty When You Come to Anchorage in Winter

Not my pictures since I flew overnight, but these are from one of my FAM colleagues who arrived in Anchorage this morning. Such amazing beauty when you come to Anchorage in winter. And the Iditarod is a great reason to come in winter!

#anchorage #Alaska #visitanchorage #iditarod #takethetrip #makememories #useatravelagent #icanshowyoutheworld

Just How Big is Alaska?

How well do you know Alaska? It's pretty big! The state itself is huge. The city of Anchorage alone is 1,961 sq miles...or about the size of the state of Delaware!

#alaska #adventure #explore #seetheworld #takethetrip #tomorrowisnotguatanteed #icanhelpyouplan