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Showing posts with label Tips on Thursday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tips on Thursday. Show all posts

Thursday, January 10, 2013

The Best Cruise


"What is the best cruise?”  It’s a question that every cruise expert gets at some point in time, often repeatedly.  Variations might include “which is the best cruise line?" or “which is the best cruise for visiting ….. (choose your destination)” .  While the questioner might truly be looking for a solid answer to their question, there truly is no one size fits all response. 

As often as I receive these questions, I never have an easy answer.  Why?  Because the “best” cruise for you might not be the same for your neighbor, or your sister or Uncle Henry.  The best cruise is a truly a matter of personal taste, timing and always a bit of luck - in that order.  What might be the best cruise choice for me might be bust for you, or the other way around.  Therefore whenever I get the inevitable question, I always turn it around and start asking questions back to the inquisitor.

This "best cruise" conundrum causes many of us in the industry a healthy dose of concern.  It is not my place to tell anyone what I think is the best cruise line or best cruise ship, rather it is my job to provide factual information about any given cruise line or ship, not my opinion.  The "best cruise" question will always be a personal opinion, whether mine, yours, or someone else’s.  My own best cruise experiences must be seen in the context of my personal tastes.  In the same vein, I can only tell you what I think is the best cruise for you when I know your personal preferences.  Certainly, as I work through the answers that my clients provide to a list of standard questions that I ask to help determine their tastes, interests, desires, and budget I will make recommendations, but I never tell clients which ship will be the “best” for them.  Providing information about ships, itineraries and various stateroom categories then allow my clients to determine for themselves what the “best cruise” will be for them. 

So the next time that you are ready to start planning a vacation, whether you come to me or another expert in the industry, be prepared to start answering questions yourself so that I can start putting together the pieces of the puzzle to help you determine which is the “best cruise” for you and your loved ones.   In the meantime, feel free to take a look at some itineraries for yourself via my website.  When you’re ready to explore options, I’ll be ready to assist you!



Thursday, December 27, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Your Travel Professional, a Trusted, Best No-Cost Asset for your Travel Needs


Your Trusted Travel Professional – Your Best No-Cost Asset for Cruise Booking

When booking a cruise, the cost should be the same to you whether you book it directly with the cruise line or through a travel agent.  The perception that travel agents cost more persists - that they have large service fees, or that they will steer you to the cruise line they prefer instead of what is best for you. But that perception is truly an incorrect one.  While those things are possible, most travel agents, especially ones that specialize in personalized service and have a track record of satisfied clients, will simply give you exemplary service at no extra cost to you.  The reason is that travel agents survive on repeat business.  Their primary concern is YOUR satisfaction with the cruise vacation that you purchase through them.  If they steer you to the wrong cruise line for you, you won't return to them the next time you’re ready to go cruising.  Or if you find later on that you could have gotten the cruise for less you won't return to them.  Regardless of whether you purchase your cruise vacation directly from the cruise line or through a travel agent, the cost you pay should be the same as reputable travel agents don’t add fees on top of the cruise fare.  Ultimately travel agents will get paid, but the commission payment that they receive is the same amount that the cruise line would simply keep for themselves if you book directly with the cruise line.   

What advantages are there to using a travel agent? First and foremost a travel agent will be your advocate if anything goes wrong along the way.  If for some reason you miss a flight they will get on the phone to book a new one. Of if you have a dispute with the cruise line travel agents have a lot more pull to fix things than you do, because they do more volume buying with that cruise line.  And as a result of volume buying, travel agents can get discounts or other perks which they often pass on to you - depending on how loyal you become to them.  

Travel agents are there to help guide guests to the right ship and itinerary for them.  There are so many different cruise lines, with itineraries from ports all around the globe, it truly can be overwhelming trying to figure it all out.  Travel agents are well versed in the world that they sell, and are happy to help you make a decision on the sailing that will best suit your individual needs and desires.  Simply put, travel agents sell about 85% to 90% of all cruises because they know what they are doing. The cruise lines like it that way, because cruising is a complicated product to sell and the big lines don't have time for a lot of hand holding.  Websites are great, providing a lot of knowledge and information, but when push comes to shove when problems arise, websites and call centers will not provide the personal attention that YOU might need, but your travel agent will.  When you need to seek medical, legal or financial advice, you turn to your trusted professional in each respective field.  Why not be able to do the same when you need advice or help with your travel plans?


Thursday, December 20, 2012

Tips on Thursday - First Time Cruiser Tips


First Time Cruiser Tips

More often than not, first time cruisers question whether they will actually enjoy cruising or not, and so those guests tend to want to “sample the waters” as inexpensively as possible and do everything they can to “trim the fat” so to speak.  The temptation to try and do everything as cheaply as possible often leads to headaches or system shocks that can be avoided with a little extra planning and preparation.  Your travel consultant can certainly help with that part of your vacation.

If you aren’t sure you’ll enjoy a cruise and don’t want to break the bank on your accommodations, you can always book a lower category stateroom, such as an inside cabin (no windows or verandah). Depending on the itinerary, these staterooms usually sell for as little as $45/day per person and include food, entertainment and stops in the various ports of call. If you don't like the cruise you haven't lost much; if you do like it, then next time you might upgrade to a more expensive balcony stateroom.

You’ve arranged for the cruise, now you have to figure out how you’re going to get to the port.  If you don’t live within reasonable driving distance, chances are you’re going to be flying to the port city.  Be very careful about flight times.  Do not book a flight that has you arriving in Miami at 3:00 pm the day the ship sails.  Passengers must be onboard ship at least an hour before sailing time, and you have to account for everything in your timing calculations – luggage retrieval, walking between sections of the airport, transfers from the airport to the port terminal, check-in at the port, etc, etc.  Everything adds up, and you cannot control how quickly something that is outside of your control moves, such as baggage handlers, lines, traffic between airport and port terminal and so on.   If you miss the ship it's your fault, even if the airline had a delay, and even if you purchased travel insurance, you will not get your money back simply for missing the ship’s departure due to poor planning.   Many people who live on the West Coast fly into Miami a day early and stay at a hotel - remember that the East Coast is three hours later than the West Coast - so if you have a five hour flight leaving California at 7:00 a.m. you still won't hit Miami until 3:00 p.m.  Consider a "redeye" flight departing California at midnight instead.  Even if the flight has a two-hour layover somewhere in the middle, that flight will put you in to Miami at just about the right time to go to the port and board the ship.  The main difference between getting to an airport really early and getting to a cruise ship really early is that you’re just going to sit around and wait to board your plane typically 20-30 minutes prior to departure;  with a cruise, you can start boarding 3, sometimes 4 hours prior to departure and start enjoying the fun!  Throw on your swimsuit and enjoy the pool or other amenities onboard.   Remember this adage when it comes to planning for your cruise – if you’re on time you’re late, if you’re late you’re out of luck, get there early! 

Ports of Call and the shore excursions into those parts are all part of the cruise experience.  No one has to disembark the ship while in port, and many first time cruisers don’t because shore excursions cost extra.  Not everyone utilizes actual excursions offered by the ship or other excursion providers opting instead to “do it themselves.”  But if you do, consider the options carefully and pay attention to the details – most especially the time!  Whatever the stated return time to the ship is, again, make sure you are back early, with time to spare.  Naturally, it makes sense that if you paid to cruise in Europe you should see the Leaning Tower of Pisa. You paid to get to Italy, after all. But if you have to walk to a train that makes local stops it could take all day.  Instead, you can get a tour from the ship that visits Pisa and Florence with a tour guide.  Make the most of your limited time in port by planning your time carefully and keeping value and margins of error in mind.  You don’t want to get left behind in that beautiful port only to have to figure out how you’ll catch up to the ship at the next port so you can ultimately find your way home again.

Another quick tip regarding shore excursions, especially when you are paying for tours and the like – if you imbibe, don’t drink too much.  Yes, it might be fun and enjoyable dancing the night away, but you don't want to miss the next port of call due to a wicked hangover.  Of course how much you drink is up to you, but keep in mind that on most ships alcohol is an added cost, and it can really add to your cruise costs.  If you plan to drink a lot you can do that at home.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Packing Tips Revisited


Packing Tips Revisited

Packing for a cruise vacation is like packing for any resort-based vacation.  You'll want to bring comfortable, casual clothing for daytime on board and in port, and swimsuits and workout clothes for pools, Jacuzzis, saunas and fitness centers.  Dressing for dinner tends to involve long pants, and often suits & ties, dresses or more formal wear. 

Think about the kind of shore excursions you plan to take and pack accessories, where appropriate, such as hiking boots, ponchos or rain gear, fleece jackets and snorkel gear.  When traveling to tropical areas, such as in Central and South America, it's a good idea to carry insect repellent.   Bring a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses for bright, sunny days on deck. You'll have many opportunities to have your picture taken by the ship's photographers, but you'll naturally want to bring your own camera or video camera as well.  Be sure to bring along extra batteries, your charger(s) and any extra digital tapes or memory cards too.

Most ships have 110-volt outlets in every cabin, which will accommodate U.S.-built hairdryers, travel irons and electric shavers.  Most new ships provide hairdryers as well.  When packing your toiletries and medications, be sure  to put all medications, prescription or otherwise, in a bag you can carry on to your flight and be sure to obtain extra prescriptions from your physician for any medications you are currently taking and carry them with you.  Remember that you and your luggage will be separated for several hours before it is placed in your stateroom, so be sure to pack a daypack or small duffle with what you’ll need when you first board the ship until your luggage is once again available to you.  Having your swimwear inside the daypack is a fantastic idea!!


Thursday, December 6, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Solo Travelers


Singles Want Terrific Cruises Too

Cruising is the most enjoyable and convenient way to see the world, and every year, yet most cruise lines are not in the single traveler business.   Cruise lines generally charge a "single supplement" to passengers traveling solo. From the cruise line's perspective, what they are selling is space on the ship. If there are two or more people in a cabin, they split the cost of that space.  People traveling alone pay for all the space by themselves. 

Typically, the cruise line starts with the per-person rate based on double occupancy and adds 50-100% to the price for a single. That means that a cabin that sells for $1,000 per person based on double occupancy would be sold to a single for $1,500 to $2,000.

Norwegian Cruise Line has developed a terrific program for single travelers, offering single space (and rates without the single supplement) in single rooms with a shared common area “living room” where single travelers can mix and mingle when not in their individual sleeping quarters.  Be sure to check it out on the Norwegian Epic and Breakaway. 

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Passport Information


Passports

Passports are required for all travelers, including citizens of the U.S. and Canada, who enter or re-enter the U.S. by air, land or sea.  

There are a few notable exceptions pertaining to land and sea border crossings: 
  • U.S. citizens on cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port and travel to destinations in Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, the Bahamas or Bermuda are able to re-enter the U.S. with proof of citizenship other than a passport or passport card. Acceptable proof of citizenship includes a U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate (hospital certificates are not acceptable) or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization and a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license). Passports are required for cruises that begin in one U.S. port and end in another.
  • Children under the age of 16 who are citizens of the U.S. or Canada are exempt from the passport requirement for land and sea border crossings. In lieu of a passport, children are able to use a U.S. state-issued original or certified copy of their birth certificate (hospital certificates are not acceptable) or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization as proof of citizenship for entry into the U.S. by land or by sea. Children entering or re-entering the U.S. by air are required to have a valid passport.
  • A new, lower-cost alternative to the passport, called a passport card, is acceptable for entries into the U.S. by land or sea. The passport card is not acceptable for air travel.
  • The following cruise lines require a passport for all sailings, regardless of destination or port of departure: Azamara Club Cruises, Crystal, Cunard, Fred. Olsen, Hurtigruten, Oceania, Orion Expedition Cruises, P&O, Paul Gauguin, Regent, Seabourn, Silversea, Star Clippers, Swan Hellenic, Voyages of Discovery and Windstar.
  • Photocopies of required documentation are not acceptable in any circumstance.
  • Even though passports are not required at this time for U.S. citizens who sail on cruises to the above destinations that begin and end in the same U.S. port, we strongly recommend that all cruise passengers travel with a valid passport anyway. This is because guests who need to fly to or from the U.S. unexpectedly during their cruise will likely experience significant delays and complications related to booking airline tickets and entering the U.S. if they do not have a valid passport with them. For example, a passenger missing a cruise departure due to a late inbound flight to Miami would need a passport to fly to meet the ship at the next port. Similarly, guests needing to fly to or through the U.S. before their cruise ends because of medical, family, personal or business emergencies, missing a ship's departure from a port of call, or a mechanical problem of some sort with the ship, would need a passport. Of course, situations like these are rare, but they can happen.


Passports are not required for U.S. citizens traveling to or returning directly from Hawaii or a U.S. territory, including Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Swains Island, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Passports are required for cruise travel to all International destinations not mentioned above, and for cruises that involve air travel that begins or ends outside of the U.S. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the last day of travel.

For information about obtaining a passport for the first time, or about renewing a passport,  visit the U.S. Department ofState's website

Legal U.S. Residents (Non-Citizens)

Legal permanent residents of the U.S. must have a valid passport from their country of citizenship and a valid Alien Registration Card (Green Card) to enter or re-enter the U.S.

Non-U.S., Non-Canada Citizens

The following countries participate in a visa waiver program with the U.S., and citizens of these countries must have a machine-readable passport for entry into the U.S.:

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom

Citizens of the countries listed above who do not possess machine-readable passports, and citizens of countries not listed above must present a valid passport and a valid United States visa upon entry into the U.S. For those whose travel plans include multiple entries into the U.S., such as a cruise that begins and ends in a U.S. port, a multiple-entry visa is required.

Visas

All travelers, including U.S. and Canada citizens, are responsible for verifying visa requirements with consular officials, and obtaining visas where required, for every country visited during their trip, including countries visited via connecting flights.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Holiday Travel with Children


Holiday Travel with Children

Over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house we go. During this time of year, we plan and prepare our family visits, dinner meals and gift-giving and forget one of the most important things- preparing for holiday travel with children. Whether you are driving or flying to your final holiday destinations, be prepared with these helpful tips so that you and your precious cargo arrive safely and happily.

Plan, plan and plan. It’s never too early to prepare yourself. Make sure everyone knows the holiday schedule. Get things prepared ahead of time at your final destination.  Get Aunts and Uncles to purchase baby needs like diapers, milk and baby essentials. Download or rent their favorite movies and music. Pack the ever so loved stuff animal and blankets.

Driving? Get directions ahead of time. Cars these days are loaded with a GPS system. If yours does not have one, get one. Check weather and road conditions for any delays or closed roads. Pack the car with plenty of mobile toys, movies, snacks and drinks. Plot put rest stops.

Flying? The best time to fly with the little ones is in the morning or around their nap time. Shoot for direct flights if possible. If you can, grab a bulk seat for the extra leg room or upgrade your seat to one. This is important if you plan on a carseat in flight. Otherwise, prepare your little tike to kick the seat in front or the seat in front on your child when they lean back.

Packing. It never fails. You always end up forgetting something that because a major importance in your child’s happy stay at grandma’s house. Creating a list an organizing is key. Decide on how many suitcases to pack especially now being that there is a hefty charge for checked bags. Assign bags accordingly. Pack in advance. Always pack a carry-on bag filled with must items just in case your luggage is lost or delayed.

Entertainment. “Are we there yet?” is a common questions by everyone- old or young. Pack the cars with toys, books and movies. Play games with passerby cars and towns. In flight, tablets, iPods and portable DVD’s should be loaded with all their favorites.  And always, hide emergency toys and games for when they really get bored with what’s already available.

No matter what, traveling is taxing on everyone no matter what their age is. During your trip, talk to your little ones about what they are going to experience. Who they are going to see. And what they are going to do once they arrive. Sometimes, with a little conversation, it will continue the holiday spirit in them and soon enough you’ll be at your final destination with a very happy, and excited child. Plus, as parents, you’ll be excited to see them so happy.  

Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Season’s Greetings… Happy Holidays to all. 

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Discounts for Past-Guests


Discounts for Past-Guests

Like any business, cruise lines appreciate the loyalty of customers who sail with them again and again.  You’ll find that some of the lines offer special discounts or shipboard credits to their past guests on select sailings, while other lines will offer their best past guest discounts to members of their respective “frequent sailer” clubs (such as Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society or Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Club).  When booking your cruise vacation, always be sure to mention if you are past guest of any particular line so that the best possible pricing might be applied to your upcoming reservation. 

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Themed Cruises


Themed Cruises

Are you into something specific and want to find a way to enjoy your particular area of interest while on vacation?  Well themed cruises provide travelers the opportunity to indulge in a favorite hobby and increase your knowledge of a wide variety of subjects - from culture, history, music, gourmet cuisine and fine.  Programs may include special guest speakers, performances by special entertainers, theme-related shore excursions and the chance to interact with leading figures in a particular field.  Theme cruises are very popular and often sell out early.

Many cruise lines specifically offer themed cruises, while others are happy to set aside a portion of a ship and itinerary for groups looking to host such a themed cruise offering.  Many such themes include:  
  • Food & Wine
  • Health & Well-Being
  • History & Culture
  • Pop Culture (i.e. movie or tv related, Disney related and more)
  • Hobby & Sports
  • Music (i.e. themed to musical groups or individual artists)
  • Science & the Environment
  • Singles
  • Special Events
  • Theater & the Arts
  • and more!

If you have a particular theme in mind that you would like to explore hosting onboard ship, don’t hesitate to give me a call at 855.776.1733 to get the planning started.  Or visit my websites:  www.neverlandadventurestravel.com or www.neverlandadventurescruises.com.  Be sure to follow me on Twitter, like my page on Facebook, circle me on Google+, and pin me on Pinterest

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Tips on Thursday - It's All About the Food


It’s All About the Food!

Choices abound!  Choices galore!  Choices, choices, choices!  With newer cruise ships, it's all about choices! One evening you might enjoy the elegant atmosphere of the main dining room while another you opt for your ship's casual dining restaurant or one of the ship's specialty restaurants; and yet another you might enjoy the choices inside your own stateroom thanks to 24 hour room service. 

Regardless of how or where you choose to dine, you're sure to a seemingly endless selection of entrees, appetizers, salad, soups, sides and desserts every time you sit down.  Did you also realize that here's virtually no limit on what or how much you order?  But just because your cruise ship offers plenty of delicious food doesn't mean you'll come home out of shape; as more and more ships offer low-calorie, spa or fitness menu selections that are just as tempting as those on the regular menu.  Watching what you eat has never so much fun!

Not only do you have choices in where you eat within the variety of fabulous food and restaurants, a growing number of cruise lines are now allowing guests to choose their own dining time. Norwegian Cruise Line pioneered the concept with their “Freestyle Dining”, which has been well-received by guests loving the freedom to dine whenever and wherever they like.  Six-star lines such as Regent and Silversea also leave the option of dining time up to guests.  Princess' “Personal Choice Dining”, Holland America's “As You Wish Dining” and Royal Caribbean's “My Time Dining” are now available in addition to their traditional dinner seating.  

Traditional dinner seating, however, with the same wait staff and table companions each evening, has not gone the way of the dinosaur, and is still available on most cruises, and remains a favorite among new and past cruisers alike.

No matter what line or itinerary you choose, you’re bound to find the dining choices to be an amazing part of your cruise vacation. 

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Gratuities


Gratuities

The subject of gratuities can and often does provide much angst among travelers.  How much should I give?  To whom should I give to?  Do I give to one and not the other?  How should tips be given?  Many cruise lines provide travelers with the option of pre-paying their gratuities when booking, some do not.  If you feel this amount needs to be adjusted, whether increased or decreased, arrangements can be made onboard the ship, generally at the end of your cruise. Tipping guidelines vary slightly between the individual cruise lines, and are usually detailed fairly well once onboard.  

On most ships, plan on tipping your room steward about $3.50 - $4.00 per person per day, and an equal amount for your dining room waiter, with half of that amount for the busboy; tip the maitre d' or dining room captain only if you ask for special favors or table-side service - $5 to $10 is normal;  tip bartenders and wine stewards approximately 10 to 15% of your bill, however many cruise lines will automatically add the amount directly to your bar or beverage bill.  Be sure to check your bill to see how it is handled.  

Tips for special services such as salon & spa treatments and room service are left to the discretion of the guest, depending on services rendered.

Gratuities are generally placed in envelopes from your cabin's stationery supply, and passengers on cruises of 10 days or less will tip at the end of the cruise.  On longer voyages, you might find that tipping weekly is the norm.

Please note that most luxury cruise lines discourage tipping, including Azamara, Paul Gauguin Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, SeaDream Yacht Club, Silversea, and Swan Hellenic.  Crew members on these lines are paid at a higher rate than other cruise lines, and therefore are not as tip dependent; therefore many will outright refuse the gesture when offered by travelers. 

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Corporate Gatherings Onboard Ship


Corporate Gatherings Onboard Ship

When it comes to corporate gatherings, meetings or retreats, cruises offer the best overall value for businesses.  Whether simply organizing an annual meeting, offsite retreat, building an incentive for the sales team or designing a special event for the staff, partners or clients you simply cannot overlook the nearly all-inclusive nature of cruises.

Modern megaships provide so much!  They offer the perfect social environment for professional groups to mix and mingle; opportunities for your group to dine together in a gourmet restaurant; gather by the pool for sun and fun or other recreational activities; enjoy a Broadway-style show; comedy clubs and so much more.  Additionally, cruise ships provide those participants looking to break away from the official company action for a while can find solace on a secluded balcony, retreat to the spa, or enjoy a book in a well-appointed alcove.  And it doesn’t have to just be the employee either – many companies encourage their employees' families to come along too, especially since there are plenty of activities to entertain the spouse and kids onboard, including extensive youth programs run by trained counselors.

When it comes to booking, groups often get the best overall value, when planned well enough in advance, particularly when you factor in special group amenities like complimentary wine or champagne, shipboard credits, cocktail parties, chocolates, casino credits, spa services, and private gatherings.  Cruise lines will also work to brand your company's event at every opportunity with items such as ice sculptures of your corporate logo. For full charters, cruise lines will even let you set your own itinerary!

So what’s included on a group booking?   Typically, your group will receive:  
  • Stateroom accommodations
  • Gourmet dining
  • Fitness center, exercise classes, spa
  • Pool, water sports
  • Transportation to interesting ports
  • Access to business facilities and meeting rooms including small and large conference rooms with variable lighting and food & beverage services
  • High-speed internet access
  • Digital projectors
  • Audio systems
  • Showrooms for group presentations
  • Informal gathering venues
  • The planning process for all details
  • Vegas- or Broadway-style shows
  • Discos, clubs, bars
  • Youth programs (as needed)
  • Movies (theater and in-room)

Every corporate and incentive group must sign a contract with the cruise line that covers the prices, amenities, terms, and conditions for their group booking. Cruise Planners’ industry standing provides you with strong buying power and access to competitive rates on every ship which enables us to negotiate the best contract on your behalf.   We succeed when you succeed, and are here to make sure that your corporate group function comes together as easily as possible.  But know that all successful corporate and incentive groups require the involvement of a dedicated travel manager within the company working together with your Cruise Planners travel consultant.  This professional is responsible for designing the meetings and events the company desires onboard and communicating booking details like the payment process, documentation requirements, and dining requests to all participants.  Together we’ll make your event a knockout success! 

For more information about how you might take your company's next gathering out to sea call 855.776.1733 or submit a request at: www.neverlandadventurestravel.com or www.neverlandadventurescruises.com.  Be sure to follow me on Twitter, like my page on Facebook, circle me on Google+, and pin me on Pinterest

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

© Disney

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with your family at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, a special event held select nights in November and December at Magic Kingdom theme park!

This festive celebration is filled with spectacular fireworks, a very special holiday parade and live entertainment featuring your favorite Disney Characters. Purchase of an additional event admission ticket is required to attend this event, and tickets sell out quickly.
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party features:
  • The enchanted Castle Dream Lights on Cinderella Castle
  • Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, complete with a special appearance by Santa Claus himself
  • An exclusive holiday fireworks extravaganza — Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season
  • Live entertainment featuring Disney Characters
  • Meet and greet opportunities throughout Magic Kingdom theme park with some of your favorite Disney Characters
  • Complimentary cookies and hot cocoa
  • A magical snow fall on Main Street, U.S.A.
  • Special access to many of the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is held from 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight on select nights.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Dress Codes by Day and Night


Dress Codes by Day and Night Onboard

Cruising can be a lot of fun, but for many, it can be a bit vexing when the subject of what to pack and wear comes up.  Throughout the daytime hours, shipboard dress is casual.  Even in the dining room, shorts and tasteful T-shirts are acceptable, however, as evening rolls around, and it’s time for dinner, dress codes will vary daily.  Each cruise line is different The most common evening attire includes:

  • ·         Casual: Slacks and sport shirt for men (no jeans); slacks and blouse, sundress or pantsuit for women.
  • ·         Informal: Jacket with or without tie for men; dress or pantsuit for women.
  • ·         Formal: Dark suit or tuxedo for men; evening gown or cocktail dress for women.


Most 3- and 4-night cruises have one formal night; most 7-night cruises have 2 formal nights;  most 10-night cruises have 3 formal nights, etc.  While it’s not a hard fast “rule” per se, in general the longer more expensive cruises (on a daily basis) will be the most formal on formal night, but a dark suit and tie is acceptable attire on even the most exclusive ships.  In other words, there’s truly no need to buy a tuxedo for a single cruise.  However if you truly want to don a tux, go for it if you plan to wear it over and over again – or – if only needing it once, many lines have formal-wear rentals onboard.  Be sure to inquire with your travel consultant about a specific line and itinerary’s evening attire policies. 

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Festival of the Seasons

© Disney

Celebrate the holidays with Festival of the Seasons! Enjoy live entertainment, festive décor, fun photo ops and so much more—all in the Downtown Disney area at Walt Disney World Resort from November 2012 to January 2013.

Behold a stunning transformation as Disney magic melds with holiday cheer. With twinkling lights, a grandiose tree and yuletide touches at every turn, the Downtown Disney area invites Guests to embrace the spirit of the season.

Live Entertainment
Holiday sights and sounds are plentiful during Festival of the Seasons. Discover a variety of delightful diversions, including:
  • Holiday carolers
  • Latin, jazz and pop performances of cherished holiday songs
  • Costumed stilt walkers and street performers
  • A lively holiday dance party with deejay
Visit Santa Claus
Santa Claus is coming to celebrate the season in November and December 2012! Visit with Santa, share holiday wish lists and enjoy a unique photo op!

Shopping
With corridors of specialty shops—including Once Upon a Toy, World of Disney and Disney's Days of Christmas—the Downtown Disney area offers a variety of options to satisfy your holiday shopping needs. Find the perfect gift for that special someone, shop for stocking stuffers or select a sentimental keepsake for yourself!

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Gizmos, Gadgets and Cruise Ships



Gizmos, Gadgets and Cruise Ships

If you don’t know a USB device from a motherboard and are otherwise “electronically challenged”, then this news from Crystal Cruises will be welcomed.   Did you know that the cruise line has on-board technical concierges to assist guests with all types of personal electronics from iPods and iPhones to Androids, Blackberries and regular laptops. 

The concierges provide consultation at no charge to anyone onboard. They're located in the ships' computer centers, where guests can check e-mail and use the Internet, aboard Crystal Symphony and aboard Crystal Serenity.

Personally my favorite button on these devices is the one that turns it off so I can enjoy a holiday on my holiday.  A lot of folks today, go on vacation to get away from it all and then try to bring as much of “it” with them as they can.  While staying in touch on your  cruise is an important consideration, too much of a good thing can be distracting.  However, like everything else connected with vacations at sea, there are multiple choices and options and this is just one more to be added to the list.

Crystal operates two 5 Star luxury lines on voyages to ports throughout the world.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

© Disney

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a Halloween-themed special event held on select dates in Magic Kingdom theme park. Purchase of an additional event admission ticket is required to attend Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

During Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes. Even better, you can collect delicious candy as you trick-or-treat around Magic Kingdom theme park.

In addition to many favorite Disney attractions, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is filled with special entertainment, including:
  • Mickey's "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade —including Disney Characters and the stars of the Haunted Mansion attraction. The parade begins with a spook-tacular ride by the Headless Horseman.
  • Happy HalloWishes — a spectacular fireworks show where the Disney Villains go trick-or-treating in the sky.
  • Many favorite Disney Characters and Disney Villains in special Halloween costumes.
  • Special lighting, music and theming effects transforms special areas of Magic Kingdom theme park into happy haunted hollows.
The tone of the event is, well, "Not-So-Scary", and is appropriate for children of all ages.

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Tips on Thursday - International Food & Wine Festival


A food and wine lover's paradise awaits you at Epcot® with the EPCOT® INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL, held September 28, 2012 to November 12, 2012!

There's something to satisfy most every taste and interest. In addition to the attractions Guests already enjoy at Epcot theme park, this annual autumn event features a delectable array of offerings, including:
  • International kiosks featuring tasty tapas and refreshing beverages
  • Cooking demonstrations and dining events—including experiences with celebrity chefs!
  • Mixology classes and wine tastings
  • Live musical performances by popular hit-makers

Enjoy all this—and more—when this annual event returns to Epcot theme park in fall 2012. Dine your way around the world. Cultivate your cooking skills. Savor a rare vintage. Enjoy an exhilarating outdoor concert. Make magical memories to last a lifetime at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Please note: Epcot theme park admission is required and some events require additional fees.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Lanai or No Lanai


A Good Buy on a Lanai

What is a Lanai, anyway?  You have probably lived in an apartment or house that claimed to have one but never quite figured out the difference between a patio and lanai.  Well, it would appear that they are one and the same.   So, why the buzz from Holland America about “lanai staterooms” being introduced on the Veendam?   Well, it’s due to the fact that oceangoing lanais are a rarity and Holland America seems to be cornering the market on them.  These staterooms offer direct access to the open decks.  It is funny how old things become new again because many early cruise ships introduced in the 1950s had outside corridors for access to staterooms.  

The addition of 38 lanai staterooms on Veendam is a key feature in the latest round of Signature of Excellence enhancements at Holland America. Similar in size to the premium line’s outside-view staterooms, the new lanai accommodations were recently added to the ship and feature large sliding glass doors with direct access to the Lower Promenade wrap-around teak walking deck. Lanai staterooms will be added to ms Rotterdam this year and three other ships by 2013. Each lanai stateroom also features reserved deck chairs outside sliding glass doors that have a one-way mirrored coating to ensure privacy.

Thirty-two new verandah staterooms also were built on the aft portion of the ship, along with eight new inside staterooms. All staterooms aboard Veendam received new decor, modern wall sconces, carpeting, drapes, pillows, and bed runners, and resurfaced desks and vanities. Bathrooms saw an “extreme” makeover with new vanities and cabinetry.

A final stateroom enhancement was the creation of 15 spa staterooms -- 12 outside converted to the verandah in drydock and three other inside -- featuring a variety of exclusive spa amenities. The rooms offer their own ambiance with a decor reflecting natural elements and soft earth tones. A counter-top water feature in each stateroom provides a natural, ambient background sound and the artwork reflects serene images in nature. Exclusive spa treatments and a spa room service menu are offered only in these staterooms.

For more information and to reserve your next vacation, contact me at 317.776.1733 or via my website  

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Tips on Thursday - Building Memories Together!


A family that vacations together builds memories together!


A family vacation takes on a completely different meaning when it’s aboard a Carnival® “Fun Ship®” cruise. Everything you need to fulfill your child’s wishes is just a deck or two away – from sports to waterslides to outdoor movies. And when you and your spouse are ready for some alone time, “Fun Ship®” cruises cater to you too. Many ships offer Serenity SM, an adults-only retreat with relaxation whirlpools, soothing music, comfy lounge chairs and oversized umbrellas. Even late-night babysitting service is available from 10 pm to 3 am. A Carnival vacation is “Fun for all. All for fun.SM

Family Travel Tip
Here is a great way for kids to make their own vacation memories. Before your vacation, purchase disposable cameras for each child. Ask them to take as many photos as they want, of whatever they want. It’s a fairly inexpensive way to have them feel like they’re contributing to the family trip. Once you return home, view the photos together and relive the adventure. Then, create a scrapbook for each child featuring their favorite photos.

For more information and to reserve your next vacation, contact me at 317.776.1733 or simply visit my website.