Denali Lodges Expands into Growing Alaska Tour Operator Market

Wasilla, Alaska (PRWEB) January 30, 2007 – The promise of a greater share of Alaska’s $2.4 Billion tourism market has prompted Denali Lodges to launch Alaska Denali Tours, its new custom and packaged Alaska tour and vacation arm.

While coordinating custom itineraries does involve a bit more work on our part, feedback from our clients on this service has been overwhelmingly positive

Denali Lodges, the 15-year operator of the Denali Backcountry Lodge and Denali Cabins, has now expanded into the lucrative Alaska tour and vacation market. Alaska Denali Tours offers custom and pre-packaged Alaska tours, vacations, lodging and transportation throughout Southcentral and Interior Alaska including Denali National Park.

"Given the absolutely phenomenal growth of tourism in Alaska, particularly in the last three years, I believe moving beyond our existing Denali National Park lodging facilities into the vertical tourism market offers tremendous opportunities," said Sham Idnani, President of Denali Lodges & Alaska Denali Tours. "Over the years, out of state visitors to our lodging operations have repeatedly expressed an interest in a convenient, one-stop transportation, activity and lodging provider. It’s that interest that prompted the launch Alaska Denali Tours."

In addition to pre-packaged two to seven-day Alaska vacations, Alaska Denali Tours allows visitors to build custom itineraries à la carte. "While coordinating custom itineraries does involve a bit more work on our part, feedback from our clients on this service has been overwhelmingly positive," said Idnani.

While currently limiting its operations to Southcentral and Interior Alaska including Denali National Park, Idnani doesn’t rule out future expansion to other popular regions in the state. "We’re always looking for additional opportunities for growth and will continue to research those opportunities," he said.

For additional information on Alaska Denali Tours, contact Sham Idnani or visit www.AlaskaDenaliTours.com

About Denali Lodges & Alaska Denali Tours:
Denali Lodges & Alaska Denali Tours is a Wasilla, Alaska based lodging and Tour Company whose holdings include the Denali Backcountry Lodge and Denali Cabins.

Contact:
Sham Idnani, President
Denali Lodges & Alaska Denali Tours
907-376-1900
http://www.AlaskaDenaliTours.com

CoastRentals.com Lists The Top 10 Reasons Why Hotels Suck

(PRWEB) January 28, 2007 -- CoastRentals.com, a division of the Find Your Escape Network, has issued its "Top 10 Reasons Why Hotels Suck" for 2007. For all the inherent hassles of booking and staying in a standard hotel room, CoastRentals proves that vacation rentals offer the perfect alternative - space, comfort and individuality.

Top 10 Reasons Why Hotels Suck
We've all endured the pains of staying at hotels. No matter where you're visiting, your experience at the hotel has a profound effect on how the trip turns out. Here's CoastRentals.com's 2007 version of the top 10 reasons that hotels stink and cause headaches for innocent travelers who are just looking to enjoy themselves.

10. "Waiter, This Isn't the Room I Ordered."
We've all been through this one. Everyone's excited for the vacation to finally start, and naturally the first thing to do is head up to the hotel room to drop off the luggage. Upon opening the door of your hotel room, however, you discover that there has been a horrible, terrible mistake. This isn't the room you reserved. Maybe you wanted two single beds instead of one queen, or vice versa. Maybe you explicitly asked for a view of the ocean, and instead got a view of the murky pool.

9. Waking Up to the Sound of "Housekeeping!"
You stayed up late last night. And why not? You're on vacation! You deserve it. Now, all you want is to sleep in and maybe wake up sometime before the sun sets. But unsurprisingly, the hotel's housekeeper bangs on the door sometime in the early, early morning. Having to deal with housekeeping services in a hotel may seem like a trivial problem, but it's related to privacy in general.

8. Hassles at the Reception Desk
In order to get into your hotel room, waiting in line at the reception desk is a must. During peak holiday seasons, these lines can sometimes be long and arduous. Furthermore, when checking in, some hotels require several forms of identification. In some instances, the concierge working the desk may even take reservations over the phone before speaking with customers in line. All in all, it can be a real mess.

7. Want to Use the Internet? That'll Cost You.
In this day in age, the internet plays a key role in our daily lives. Even when on vacation, some might need to keep checking their email, want to read the news, or keep track of other important information found on the internet. Fact is, getting internet access in a hotel is sketchy at best, and often expensive. It is not uncommon for large, nationwide hotel chains (and even smaller, upscale hotels) to charge between $10 and $20 for internet access per day. This exorbitant price can really add up over a week or more of vacation.

6. Pay-Per-View Can Make You Blue
Sometimes the best way to relax after spending a day out on the town is with a movie. Hotels realize this, and offer guests the option of watching movies by purchasing them via a pay-per-view system. The problem is, these movies can often be $10+ per viewing! This is often more than you'd pay if you were to see the movie in a theater! Let's not even go over the possibility of your children finding the "Adult" section of the pay-per-view movies in a hotel room…

5. Problematic Parking
Hotels are built to cater to hundreds of people at a time. As such, guests are usually required to park in a large lot. This can be stressful for a number of reasons. Hotel guests are often forced to park in a section of the parking lot where their car will not be visible from their hotel room. This can be disconcerting as criminals know that hotel guests often keep valuable luggage in their cars, making hotel parking lots prime locations for breaking into vehicles. To make matters worse, some upscale hotels in urban centers may even charge the hotel guests extra for parking!

4. Additional Charges for Everything
The mini-bar is a testament to the power of capitalism. Here, right in your hotel room, is a tiny refrigerator full of snacks, drinks, alcohol, and sometimes even aspirin or socks. However, while each of these products might be reasonably priced in your neighborhood grocery store, they are outrageously expensive in the mini-bar. Why do hotels charge so much for a tiny bottle of liquor or a few cookies? The convenience of having these items right in your hotel room. Just another example of how hotels will charge extra for absolutely anything. Need to do some laundry? You'll probably have to pay a fee.

3. Noisy Neighbors
This is an easy one. When staying in a hotel, the walls of your room are usually shared by another room. In some hotel setups, as many as three of your walls may be shared. Depending on the quality of the construction, these walls can range from quite thick to paper-thin. In cases of the latter, this means you'll be hearing everything your fellow guests are doing. This may include partying, yelling, arguing, drinking, snoring, using filthy language, or other illicit activities - many inappropriate for younger members of the family. Furthermore, this is just another facet of the lack of privacy in most hotels. Keep this in mind: with all those people so close, they'll be hearing everything you're doing too. An unsettling thought, but unfortunately one that most hotel guests will have to deal with at some point.

2. Size Matters
Let's face it, hotel rooms are small. This may seem shocking at first, but it's true. In fact, just one bedroom in a vacation rental may be bigger than a standard hotel room. Imagine how much more comfortable you'd be on vacation if you had an entire house to call your own instead of a tiny, stuffy, ugly hotel room.

1. The Question of Cleanliness
Several studies performed in the last decade have proven that hotel rooms are some of the least clean public places. These studies have gotten a lot of exposure in various media outlets, from the evening news to national magazines. And they're not wrong: from the bed to the doorknob to the remote control, hotel rooms can be havens for germs, bacteria and other disgusting things. The sheer amount of people that stay in large hotels should be proof enough that there will be a lot of mileage on those bedsheets, showers, and other items. Yes, most hotels employ cleaning services, but there is no telling how often they clean a room, or how well. Just because a bed is made properly doesn't mean it's sanitary.

Quite the list of unpleasantries. In fact, nearly all hotel stays will have you fighting through a majority of these inconveniences - so what's the alternative? Vacation rentals, which is just a broad term for all kinds of lodging types that are for rent in vacation spots (including homes, condos, townhomes, apartments, cabins, etc.), offer up great alternatives to all the downfalls of themodern hotel. Parking, ample space, privacy, no "add-on" charges, and cleanliness are all a step above when you're talking about vacation properties.

You also can easily find properties that cater to your particular tastes and needs for your vacation. You'll likely have a much more enjoyable experience and you'll save money to boot.

Review: Windstar Cruises Offers Unique Vacations Aboard Motor Sail Yachts

When the frantic, fast-paced flurry of most cruise vacations isn't appealing to you, there is an exceptional alternative: Windstar Cruises.

Distinctive in every way, the most notable difference between Windstar and other cruise ships is the ships themselves. Not your standard luxury liner, Windstar voyages are aboard three stunning, intimate-sized motor sail yachts. With sails billowing in the breeze, you can head out to the far reaches of the world to many of the most sought-after destinations known to man.

Classic in every detail, Windstar cruises offer popular ports of call, luxurious amenities, access to everything onboard and a wide array of choices in dining and other options. Casinos, gourmet restaurants, spas and well-equipped fitness centers are among some of the appointments you'll find, depending on which ship you choose. With a casually elegant atmosphere, Windstar Cruises also delivers some pleasantly unexpected alternatives as well.

Regardless of which ship you sail (Wind Star, Wind Sail or Wind Surf), these intimate-class vessels accommodate no more than 312 passengers. As you might expect, that equates to a level of personalized service unlike any other. From spa treatments to room stewards to dining staff, you'll find your every whim accommodated with lightening speed. That's absolute freedom!

In addition, your Windstar cruise also adheres to an open bridge policy. Stop by and introduce yourself to the captain and his crew, tour the bridge and discover the inner workings of a cruise ship. When you're finished, make your way to the rear of the ship (aft) for skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling and other water sports directly from the water platform of the vessel. (Did I mention they are complimentary?)

Destinations

But the ships themselves are only part of the cruise experience. Not to worry! The destinations available from Windstar offer a grand selection of classic favorites that bear visiting again and again.

St. Thomas and Barbados are frequent stops on Windstar voyages to the Caribbean. Ports in Rome, Athens, Barcelona and Nice are all called upon during weeklong European tours. Costa Rica offers a tropical playground virtually year round and is available to you at any time you choose. Or, for a regal cruise in the tradition of the majestic days of ocean travel, book a transatlantic crossing - two glorious weeks at sea. You'll quickly discover why Windstar gets an amazing 60% repeat booking rate.

Atmosphere

Intimate and casually elegant, all the ships in the Windstar fleet give you an entirely new cruise experience. A far cry from the hustle and bustle of other overcrowded ships, Windstar's philosophy is to make you right at home. Certainly exciting, always fun, these motor sail ships bring a more dignified air to cruising. It's as if you're sailing on your own private yacht with 300 friends.

Dining

As you might expect, the cuisine onboard Winstar vessels is second to none. With a restaurant and a veranda on each ship, you have a choice as to when and where to dine. Gourmet meals prepared to order by expert chefs are served daily for your enjoyment.

Generally catering to adults, Windstar proclaims, these adventures are "180 Degrees From Ordinary." You'll agree. With teak decking, granite-topped surfaces and elegant sails, Windstar gives every appearance of a world-class cruise ship.

If you're a cruise enthusiast who is looking for a new direction for your next vacation, Windstar might have just what you're looking for.

© 2007, All Rights Reserved

About the Author
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including European cruises and Windstar cruises.

Sail to Europe with your Kids Free All Summer Long with MSC Cruises

This summer take your kids cruising with you to the Meditteranean or Northern Europe! With MSC Cruises, children under the age of 17 sail for free (government fees and taxes extra) when sharing a stateroom with two paying guests. Cruise rates start as low as $795 per person based on double occupancy. MSC Cruises’ European itineraries allow families to savor the subtle pleasures of European life, history and culture while visiting magnificent destinations.

Beautiful! Passionate! Italian! Old World with a New World Flair. That is what MSC Cruises stands for. Be ready to relax on your cruise and enjoy the Italian hospitality, impeccable service and authentic Italiano cuisine.





Virtual Europe Brochure

MSC Orchestra Mediterranean
Italy, Greece, Turkey & Croatia (7 Nights)

MSC Musica Mediterranean
Italy, Tunisia, Palma, Spain, France (7 Nights)

MSC Sinfonia Mediterranean
Monte Carlo, Spain, Malta, Tunisia, Italy (7 Nights)

MSC Armonia Mediterranean
Italy, Greece, Croatia AR (7 Nights)

MSC Melody Mediterranean
France, Spain, Ibiza, tunisia, Italy (7 Nights)
Spain, Tunisia, Italy (6 Days) (5 Nights)

MSC Opera Northern Europe
Germany, Sweden, Estonia, Russia, Denmark (7 Nights)
Germany, Norway, Denmark (7 Nights)

MSC Lirica Northern Europe
Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, Russia LI 1 (7 Nights)
Germany, Denmark, Norway (7 Nights)

MSC Rhapsody Northern Europe
Holland, England, Germany, Denmark, Latvia, Estonia, Russia (11 Nights)
England, Norway, Holland (11 Nights)
Holland, France, spain, Portugal, Italy (11 Nights)

Contact your travel agent for applicable sailings to this promotion.

It's More Than Just Entertainment

Gone are the days when ship entertainment consisted of cruise staff doubling as entertainers, with comedians and singers rounding out the shows. High quality, innovation and partnering bring the best of entertainment onboard ships. With their new tagline: "Premium Class™ With a True Italian Signature," MSC Cruises has embraced Italian style aboard, and one entertainment option on the MSC Opera includes Enrico Scotto, "The Italian Tenor," with a repertoire that goes well beyond opera.

When Carnival Cruise Lines' Carnival Valor debuted in December 2004, her 1,400-seat medieval-themed theater, the "Ivanhoe Show Lounge," debuted not one, but two high-energy Las Vegas-style revue shows. These shows fully utilize the lounge's shipboard technology that includes multi-million dollar lighting and sound system.

Specializations that match the cruise line's personality are also prevalent. Onboard Cunard Line's QM2, the Royal Court Theatre features original productions created by Belinda King, a renowned British producer. "Zing Went the Strings" is attribute to the songs, films and life of Judy Garland, while "Rock @ the Opera" is a musical that uses the best contemporary rock music.

Innovation is prevalent as well. When Royal Caribbean launched the first of their "Voyager" class ships in l999, they included a special "Royal Promenade" in the design. Not just an area connecting one part of the ship's interior to the next, this "bustling boulevard" is complete with shops and cafés that come alive at night with street performers and lively street fairs.

The "Royal Promenade" spans the length of two football fields and is four decks high. Another innovative "first" for the cruise industry was Royal Caribbean's inclusion of an actual ice-skating rink onboard each of the "Voyager" class ships. Located in the ship's multipurpose "Studio B," the ice-skating rink serves dual purposes. Guests can use the rink for iceskating and ice skates are complimentary for guests; also professional ice shows are offered periodically throughout the week. Partnering with well-known entertainers and directors is another area where cruise lines have enhanced their entertainment offerings.

In l998, Holland America Line introduced their new production, "Copacabana," on the Volendam, which was produced by singing legend Barry Manilow's management company. "Copacabana" is still playing to capacity crowds who sail on the Volendam and the Ryndam. Princess Cruises launched a unique outdoor entertainment concept when their "Movies Under the Stars" debuted aboard the Caribbean Princess last April. A specially designed giant Times Square-style 300-foot screen located on the Calypso Pool area offers up to three feature-length films throughout the day, ranging from first run hits and family cinema to late night movies.

Major sporting events are also fea-tured. To round out this ultimate poolside experience, passengers can make complimentary chaise lounge reservations, and casual dining as well as special movie-themed cocktails are available. In the evening, the viewing experience is enhanced with free popcorn, a variety of movie nibbles, and the lounge chairs are covered with special cushions and blankets. And once a week, cruise staff members disguised as Dorothy, the Scarecrow, and other Oz characters lead audiences through a full participation routine as the "Sing-A-Long Wizard of Oz" feature is shown.

About The Author - Cindy Bertram

For more Information on Cruise Groups, Online Cruise Visit Leisuregrouptravel.com and Grouptraveldirectory.com

Tips for Traveling on a Weak U.S. Dollar in 2007

Nashville, TN (PRWEB) January 16, 2007 -- The American dollar closed out 2006 in a bad spot, requiring $1.30 to buy one euro and close to $2 to purchase a British pound sterling. For Europeans traveling to the United States or Canada that's great news. For those going the other direction, it's big trouble. Americans and Canadians visiting Europe or a country that ties its currency to the euro are going to experience even worse sticker shock than they have in the past two years.

According to the author of the book "Make Your Travel Dollars Worth a Fortune," there are solutions that will minimize the pain for tourists, however. By using the right strategies and making good decisions, travelers can avoid paying inflated prices caused by currency shifts.

Visit Latin America.
For the most part, countries south of the border are a safe currency bet for U.S. and Canadian travelers. Most Latin American countries tie their currency to the dollar officially or in practice and three actually use the U.S. dollar as their own. There has been little to no loss of value in most areas of this vast region and many countries in Central and South America offer an excellent value at all budget levels.

Pick European destinations carefully.
Going to the most popular destinations in Europe can feel like a shopping trip to Tiffany's, with $100 taxi rides, $500 hotels, and routine restaurant lunches that can top $150. Those bent on traveling to Europe may want to expand their horizons and visit areas where demand has not driven prices to such lofty levels. Eastern Europe and Turkey are still far cheaper than Western Europe, especially outside the big cities. As prices in Portugal and rural Spain have stayed relatively stable, these destinations are now a good 30 to 40 percent less expensive than nations to the north.

Visit the home front surprises.
Few travelers talk for years about taking a vacation to Kansas City, Boise, or Austin, but with last-minute airfares so prevalent now, it makes sense to be flexible and look beyond the obvious. There is a very long list of places worth visiting across the U.S. and most of destinations are doing everything in their power to make your stay memorable, from new museums and performance halls to free seasonal outdoor concerts. Lodging prices can be half or less what they are in larger cities and most Americans and Canadians are within a few hours drive of a great destination they have never visited.

Be flexible on lodging.
The big corporate hotel chains have raised prices by double-digit percentages the past two years as increased occupancy has given them more pricing power. They're not winning the game all the time though, as anyone using Hotwire or Priceline regularly already knows. For last-minute plans where the area and star level matters more than specifics, these sites can save travelers some serious money. Plus options that are harder to find on the big hotel booking sites, such as bed-and-breakfasts and short-term rentals, have not seen as much of a price jump. For international travel, look beyond the U.S.-based booking sites and use ones that do a better job of covering the region you're visiting. Try Venere, Abaka, or EuroCheapo for Europe, Precision Reservations for Asia, or city-specific sites for these and other continents.

Tim Leffel is author of the book "Make Your Travel Dollars Worth a Fortune: The Contrarian Traveler's Guide to Getting More for Less." See details and access extensive travel resources at http://www.contrariantraveler.com/.

Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii's 3rd largest island, could easily be considered the heart of Hawaii. With looping mountain trails, to monster waves breaking on the gorgeous golden beaches, to beaches where the turtles are swimming right along with you, down to country stores and discovering the uniqueness of Hawaiian culture, where do you begin?

With limited time and a wealth of things to see and do, here's a list of things to do in Oahu, that I hope will help you determine what you'd like to put in your schedule!

Snorkelling in the exquisite Hanauma Bay

The Hanauma Bay Nature Park is actually a State Underwater Park and is a paradise for even the novice of snorkellers! The Bay is the result of the ocean's breaching and incursion into two volcano craters. In addition to the beautiful swimming and snorkelling opportunities, there are also hiking trails with gorgeous vistas and plenty of picnicking sites.

Take an Eco Adventure Tour and swim with the Dolphins!

Discover whales, dolphins and sea turtles with nature-tour operators who are filled with knowledge and carry a deep respect for marine animals in their natural habitat. Cruise out to sea in a relaxed sailing atmosphere and view the mountainous shorelines and pristine beaches. This journey is sure to make an adventure of a lifetime!

No trip is complete without a Hawaii Luau!

The Luau, based on traditional Hawaiian feasts, has become a rite of passage for all tourists! You can expect a flashy show, a huge buffet and a true authentic Hawaiian experience!

Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at surfing!

Originating as the sport of ancient Hawaiian royalty, you can find lessons right on Waikiki Beach. The surf is great for beginners and kids as young as eight can try! If that's too much adventure for you and you're there in the winter time, why not head on up to the north shore and watch the pros compete on the giant surf!

Climb Diamond Head Volcano

The most famous volcanic crater in the world, Diamond Head is located on the southeast coast of Waikiki. It is an easy to moderate hike that is well worth the effort when you see the spectacular view of the entire west side of the island from Waikiki to Koki Head.

Visit the Hawaii Polynesian Cultural Center

An opportunity to visit seven Polynesian Islands in one afternoon! It gives you a chance to learn and interact with the people of Hawaii, Samoa, Maori New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, the Marquesas and Tonga. You'll also see the world-famous and largest night show, Horizons: Where the Sea Meets the Sky.

And of course we have Waikiki Beach!

The place where you can surf, swim and sail by day and dine, dance and party by night! Waikiki is truly legendary and one of the best things that you can do in Oahu. Beyond the gorgeous sand and surf, you can stroll along the flagstone walkway where you'll see fountains, rock pools, statues and surfboard signs that teach you a bit about its history! Waikiki is the world's most famous and most filmed beach. It actually consists of nine individually named beaches which stretch along two miles of shoreline. Do beware, it is also one of the most crowded!

While this is only a very small portion of things to do in Oahu, I hope that this has helped you to discover a little bit about what this truly magnificent island has to offer!


About the Author
At Tropical Beach Destinations we share the secrets of Specialty Travel that your travel agents wish they knew. Learn exclusive travel tips, ideas and ways to save money from REAL experienced world travelers!

Singles Travel International Raises the Bar for Solo Travel with 2007 Trip Calendar

Singles Travel International (www.singlestravelintl.com) takes the lead once again in 2007 and offers the best in adventures for single adults who love to travel and explore. Enjoy the true singles experience through luxurious trips all over the world and meet other singles just like you. It's easy to choose from a variety of trips in the new 2007 Singles Travel International calendar and book right online.

Boca Raton, FL (PRWEB) January 15, 2007 -- Singles Travel International (www.singlestravelintl.com) takes the lead once again in 2007 and offers the best in adventures for single adults who love to travel and explore. Enjoy the true singles experience through luxurious trips all over the world and meet other singles just like you. It's easy to choose from a variety of trips in the new 2007 Singles Travel International calendar and book right online. (additional trips to be announced)

About Singles Travel International
With over 25 years experience in travel consulting and a 75% repeat clientele, Singles Travel International leads the singles travel profession with worry-free travel that meets the unique needs of our discerning solo travelers. Every group with 20 or more guests is accompanied by at least one Singles Travel International escort who is available 24 hours a day to provide assistance and create a fun filled environment. Although a Singles Travel International trip is a terrific way to meet people, it's not to be confused for a dating service. Singles Travel International offers age-specific excursions so you can share your incredible experience with others just like you. Travelers can be as involved as they'd like in the multiple tour activities organized daily by the STI staff, spending time with the group or relaxing and exploring on your own. Singles Travel International guarantees solo travelers a roommate when requested, provided the traveler signs up and pays in full by the final payment date for each program.

2007 Schedule:

• Weekend in Ft. Lauderdale (March 16-18,'07) - Starting at $469*.
Stay at Bahia Mar Beach Resort on the ocean and enjoy the St. Patrick's Day festivities on Las Olas Boulevard
• Caribbean Cruise on Royal Caribbean's Jewel (March 18-24,'07) - Starting at $525*.
Our special cruise for ages 30s and 40s visiting Key West, Cozumel, Costa Maya and Grand Cayman
• Caribbean Cruise on the QM2 (April 2-10,'07) Starting at $994* with $100 upgrades.
Celebrate the Easter & Passover holiday at sea and visit Eastern Caribbean (Bonaire, Grenada & St. Kitts)
• Costa Rica Multi-Sport Adventure (April 14-22,'07) Starting at $2,295*.
Experience hiking, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, canoeing, snorkeling and more!
• Galapagos & Optional Ecuador Extension (April 20-May 5,'07) Starting at $4,345*.
Visit these isolated islands and their rare creatures aboard the Celebrity Xpedition
• Ecuador All-Inclusive Multi-Sport Adventure (April 28-May 5,'07) Starting at $1,923*.
Stay at the beautiful Mountain View Inn in the center of the Andean heartland, and explore the nearby wonders by river rafting, mountain trekking and climbing and more.
• Liberty of the Seas Caribbean Cruise Memorial Day Weekend (May 26-Jun 2,'07) Starting at $1,030*. Visit Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Private Island in Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel.
• East African Safari (June 15-24,'07) Starting at $2,795*.
Journey to the land of wide open wilderness and animals galore in their natural settings in Kenya., have a bush dinner with the Masai Mara, and more!
• Norwegian Odyssey Cruise on QM2 (June 16-26,'07) Starting at $1,599*.
Back by popular demand, view the Fjords of Norway aboard the Queen Mary 2
• New York City Weekend (June 30-July 2) Starting from $995*.
3 nights of pure action and romance with a "Sex in the City" Tour, dinner and salsa lessons in the chic Soho district, singles party with the locals, bike ridge through Central Park and first class hotel accommodations. Add the QM2 4th of July cruise for a full week of excitement.
• QM2 4th of July in the Bahamas (July 2-6,'07) Starting at $899*.
Experience a spectacle to remember on the "Greatest Ocean Liner of Our Time" the Queen Mary 2.
• Spectacular Spain for Singles in 30s & 40s (July 21-29,'07) Starting at $1,286*.
An exciting 10 day vacation that truly allows you time to experience all of Spain in a single visit including Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Seville, Cordoba and more!
• Italy's Great Cities for Singles in 30s & 40s (August 1-8,'07) Starting at $1,626*.
Enjoy this magnificent country from the museums to the cathedrals, and the vineyards to the olive groves, you won't miss a thing on this Italian expedition.
• Heart of Alaska Cruise and Tour (August 13-24,'07') Starting at $1,919*.
Experience Alaska's wilder side in this 11 day journey, with a combination of grand class cruising, and luxury, spend 2 nights in the #1 wilderness lodge south of Denali National Park.
• Mediterranean Medley Cruise aboard QM2 (September 10-22,'07) Starting at $2,129*. Discover a cache of treasures on this 12 day cruise from Southampton England to Rome, Barcelona, Portugal, French Riviera
• Transatlantic Crossing on QM2 (September 22-28,'07) Starting at $1,029*.
From Southampton England to New York, think of this experience as a 5-day visit to a luxury spa with no interruptions. A must do for any sophisticated traveler.
• New York Splendors of Fall Cruise aboard the QM2 (September 28-October 7,'07) Starting at $1,729*. A fall colors cruise from New York to Quebec and the exciting stops in Newport, Boston, Halifax and Bar Harbor.
• Five Star Imperial Jewels of China (October 2-11,'07) Starting at $2,858*.
View China's most imperial treasures, an exciting 3 night tour along the legendary Yangtze River, stay in beautiful Beijing, spend a night in Xian, and enjoy the skyline of Shanghai.
• Peruvian Paradise (October 7-12,'07) Starting at $1,795*.
Mountain bike and raft through spectacular river canyons, and hike the ancient Inca Trail to the famous Lost City by way of beautiful stone paths, ancient stairs and mountain tunnels. Add incredible extensions to the Peruvian Amazon and stunning Lake Titicaca.
• Greek Island Cruise (October 20-27,'07) Starting at $749
This magnificent cruise departs Venice, Italy on the Royal Caribbean's Splendour of the Seas, and visits the fascinating Greek ports of Athens, Mykonos, Katakalon, Corfu, Split, and Croatia
• Holiday Cruise (December 20-January 3,'07) Starting at $3,182*
Cruise the holidays like a star aboard the grandest vessel afloat. Visit the unique ports of Tortola, St. Maarten, Curacao, Grenada, Barbados, Dominica, St. Kitts and St. Thomas. Round-trip from New York.

*Rates are per person based on double occupancy.

Singles Travel International contact: Tammy Weiler, (877) SOLO-TRIP, (877) 765-6874 or www.singlestravelintl.com.

Media contact: Vicente Espinoza (847)931-9375

CruisesOnly.com Limited Time Cruise Sale!

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Choose from a variety of ships and sailings when you cruise with Princess. Best prices guaranteed.

Cruised before? You're eligible for Past Guest Rates with most major cruise lines.

Find magical savings on Disney Cruise Line sailings to the Caribbean, Bahamas and more.

Cruise Italian style with Costa Cruise Lines. Guaranteed lowest prices.

Book your Carnival cruise with CruisesOnly.com and you'll get the lowest price in the market. That's our guarantee to you.

Experience the best of Mexico on any budget with CruisesOnly.com, where we're always negotiating the best deals in the market.

Treat yourself to free travel and huge savings on 2006/2007 sailings when you call to book select staterooms during the season's biggest cruise sale! You'll receive up to a 3-night stay at a top-brand, four-star hotel plus a free one-day car rental simply for setting sail with your favorite fleet. Every cruise line we sell is eligible and hundreds of incredible year-end departures qualify! And that's not all. Our amazing array of bonus offers – including up to an extra $200 off select itineraries and up to $150 in onboard spending – add even more great value. See our grids below for complete details!


CruisesOnly.com Bonus Offers - Limited Time!

Carnival - Exclusive savings for past guests and free upgrades!

Royal Caribbean - Up to $300 in onboard spending! Up to an EXTRA $200 off! Onboard savings booklet!

Celebrity Cruise Lines - Up to $400 in onboard spending! Up to an extra $200 off! Complimentary wine & cheese! Aqua Spa® Experience!

Norwegian Cruise Line - Up to $300 in onboard spending! Onboard savings booklet! Free upgrades!

Holland America Line - EXCLUSIVE: Prices too low to show! Up to $100 in onboard spending! Free stateroom gifts!

Disney Cruise Line - Up to $50 in onboard spending! Kids sail for just $99!

Costa - Free upgrades!

Crystal Cruises - Up to $300 in onboard spending! Pre-paid gratuities!

Regent Seven Seas Cruises - Up to $500 in onboard spending!

Oceania Cruises - 2-for-1 cruise fares! Free airfare!

Windstar Cruises - Up to $300 in onboard spending!

Orient Lines - Reduced airfare from select gateways!

Princes Cruises - Onboard savings booklet!

Cunard - Up to $300 in onboard spending!

Terms & Conditions Apply. Promotions can change at anytime. See website!

Free 3 Day/2 Night Getaway At CruiseDirect.com

CruiseDirect.com is considerably below what the competition is charging, and marks the arrival of a major new source of cruise bargains - WCBS Newsradio


CruiseDirect.com Coupons & Discounts

Costa, Crystal, Disney, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess, Royal Carribean, Windstar Special Offers: Free Getaway! Book ANY cruise with Cruisedirect.com and receive a FREE 3 Day, 2 Night Getaway! Please check rules and regulations.


CruiseDirect.com Other Promotions

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CruiseDirect.com Hot Deals

Bahamas 5-day Cruise from $229
Bermuda 7-day Cruise from $534
Caribbean 7-day Cruise from $449
Caribbean, East 7-day Cruise from $549
Caribbean, West 7-day Cruise from $349
Europe 2-day Cruise from $576
Hawaii 10-day Cruise from $599
Mexico 4-day Cruise from $244
Panama Canal 10-day Cruise from $1143

Holland America View & Verandah Sale

Book your cruise with Holland America Cruise Lines by February 28, 2007 and you can purchase a verandah stateroom for the price of an outside stateroom, or an outside stateroom price for an inside stateroom on select sailings.

Travelocity has listed the following sailings on the View & Verandah Sale. Prices listed is per person with an upgrade from inside stateroom to outside stateroom. Visit Travelocity for the outside stateroom pricing with an upgrade to a verandah stateroom.

3-Night Bahamas (Ft. Lauderdale Round-Trip) $449
Ft. Lauderdale - Nassau - Half Moon Cay - Ft. Lauderdale

4-Night Eastern Caribbean (Ft. Lauderdale Round-Trip) $499
Ft. Lauderdale - Grand Turk - Half Moon Cay - Ft. Lauderdale

7-Night Eastern Caribbean (Ft. Lauderdale Round-Trip) $649
HOT DEAL!!!! Ft. Lauderdale - Grand Turk - Half Moon Cay - San Juan - St. Thomas - Ft. Lauderdale

7-Night Western Caribbean (Tampa Round-Trip) $599 $599
Tampa - Key West - Belize - San Tomas de Castilla - Cozumel - Tampa

7-Night Eastern Caribbean (Ft. Lauderdale Round-Trip) $649
Ft. Lauderdale - Grand Turk - Tortola - St. Thomas - Half Moon Cay - Ft. Lauderdale

7-Night Alaska (Vancouver to Anchorage) $649
Vancouver - Ketchikan - Juneau - Skagway - Glacier Bay - Cruise College Fjord - Seward / Anchorage

7-Night Alaska (Seward to Vancouver) $749
Seward - Cruise College Fjord - Glacier Bay - Haines - Juneau - Ketchikan - Vancouver

7-Night Canada/New England (Boston to Montreal) $999
Boston - Bar Harbour - Halifax - Sydney - Charlottetown - Quebec - Montreal

10-Night Mediterranean (Venice Round-Trip) $1399
Venice - Messina - Rome - Livorno - Monte Carlo - Corsica - Naples - Dubrovnik - Venice

10-Night Western Caribbean (Ft. Lauderdale Round-Trip) $949
Ft. Lauderdale - Half Moon Cay - Aruba - Curacao - Panama Canal - Gatun Lake - Panama Canal - Colon - Lima - Fort Lauderdale

10-Night Mediterranean (Rome Round-Trip) $1499
Rome - Monte Carlo - Livorno - Barcelona - Palma - Tunisia - Palermo - Italy - Rome

11-Night Alaska Cruisetour (Vancouver to Anchorage) $2129
Vancouver - Tracy Arm - Juneau - Skagway - Land Tour: Skagway, Whitehorse, Dawson City, Tok, Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage

12-Night Mediterranean (Lisbon to Athens) $1699
Lisbon - Valencia - Barcelona - Monte Carlo - Livorno - Rome - Tripoli - Santorini - Kusadasi - Athens

12-Night Northern Europe (London to Copenhagen) $1899
London - Oslo - Arhus - Berlin - Tallinn - St. Petersburg - Helsinki - Stockholm - Copenhagen

12-Night Alaska Cruisetour (Vancouver to Anchorage) $2099
HOT DEAL!!! Vancouver - Tracy Arm - Juneau - Skagway - Land Tour: Skagway, Whitehorse, Dawson City, Tok, Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage

12-Night Alaska Cruisetour (Vancouver to Anchorage) $2149
Vancouver - Tracy Arm - Juneau - Skagway - Land Tour: Skagway, Whitehorse, Dawson City, Tok, Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage

15-Night Transatlantic (Rio de Janiero to Lisbon) $1199
Rio de Janeiro - Salvador de Bahia - Recife - Senegal - Casablanca - Cadiz - Lisbon

15-Night Western Europe (Venice to Copenhagen) $1999
HOT DEAL!!! Venice - Dubrovnik - Rome - St. Tropez - Marseille - Barcelona - Gibraltar - Lisbon - Vigo - Paris - Dover - Copenhagen

16-Night Transatlantic (Rome to Ft. Lauderdale) $1499
Rome - Livorno - Monte Carlo - Marseille - Barcelona - Valencia - Almeria - Ponta Delgada - Half Moon Cay - Fort Lauderdale

16-Night Western Europe (Athens to London) $1699
HOT DEAL!!! Athens - Kusadasi - Santorini - Tripoli - Rome - Monte Carlo - Marseille - Barcelona - Cadiz - Lisbon - Paris - London

Holland America Cruise Line is known for luxurious travel, exquisite food and no tipping required policy. Travelocity wants to make these deals extra sweeter by combining the View & Verandah sale with the following Travelocity's promotions:

Use Your MasterCard® Card For a Chance to Win up to $125,000! No Purchase Necessary. Book any cruise with your MasterCard® card and be automatically entered in our exclusive daily and grand prize drawings. Fifty-six (56) daily winners will each receive $2,500 and one lucky winner will receive $125,000. Void where prohibited. Starts 1/4/07. Ends 2/28/07. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec), 21 years or older. Restrictions Apply. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. See Official Rules for how to enter without purchase & complete details. See Official Rules.

Limited-Time Offer! Receive $100 Onboard Credit. Book a qualified sailing by February 15, 2007 and we'll put $100 in your onboard account. See Terms & Conditions.

Resolving to Get Fit for the New Year? Cruising Is the Way to Go!

Countless people make New Year's resolutions to get into shape and lose weight. Many of them fail reportedly due to lack of motivation, support or a viable plan. There is a new trend developing among fitness enthusiasts, however, that overcomes these three obstacles while delivering luxury, scrumptious food and fun. What's the trend? Cruising into shape.

Cruise ships have offered well-equipped fitness centers on their vessels for years. However, with fitness and nutrition experiencing an increase in popularity, many ships have taken great strides to create an atmosphere that nurtures a healthy lifestyle without compromising the lavish cruise experience. With onboard fitness instructors, innovative and fun exercise opportunities and healthy gourmet meals, a cruise ship has become the perfect starting point for your New Year's resolution.

Fun Is the Key to Exercise

If you don't enjoy exercise, chances are you won't keep up any fitness routine you establish. But with exciting activities available to you 24/7, you can quickly discover new ways to keep moving while having a blast.

For example, instructor-led aerobics, stretch and cardio classes are available on most cruise ships as are jogging tracks, volleyball (on deck or in the pool) and dancing. With professionally created fitness sessions designed to be fun, it doesn't seem like exercise at all. Royal Caribbean offers ice skating, rock climbing, trampolines and even boxing. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) provides a bowling alley and basketball while Holland America offers personal trainers plus yoga and Pilates classes.

Each cruise line has its own key fitness features, so check for the one(s) that pique your interest.

Exceptional Dining for Those on a Diet

But what about the food? One of the greatest pleasures of cruising is indulging in gourmet meals prepared by world-class chefs. Fitness buffs are often nervous about entering a den of food sin and blowing everything they have worked for. The question that is often asked is, "Can I indulge and not regret it later"? The answer is a resounding yes!

The cruise lines constantly have their pulse on public opinion. That includes requests for amazingly delicious meals that offer less fat, sugar and other undesirable carbs. These flavorful meals are just as luxurious, just as tempting and will have you feeling just as spoiled. All without any guilt.

You can even make special dietary requests before you embark on your voyage. Check with your cruise line for details.

What better way to get into shape than while surrounded by a staff that can pamper and spoil you 24/7? Would you rather suffer through the beginning stages of shaping up or be counseled and aided by personal trainers? Would you rather starve yourself with rabbit food or dine on scrumptious meals prepared by professional chefs? Would you rather pound out mile after mile on a gym treadmill or take part in activities that get you moving while having the time of your life?

If you're serious about shaping up, then you won't find any better place to begin (or to maintain!) than a voyage at sea.

© 2007, All Rights Reserved

About the Author
Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including European cruises and Mediterranean cruises.

Regent Seven Seas

The Butler Did It! - Regent Seven Seas Cruises Penthouse Sale
For us commonfolks, cruising itself is a luxury away from the daily humdrum of our lives. We hunt for the best cruise deals and you know you've hit jackpot when you get a verandah for the price of an inside cabin. Read The Full Article

Experience A Chocolate-Dipped Caribbean
Someone once said, "Chocolate doesn't make the world go around. But it certainly makes the trip worthwhile." That must have been the inspiration behind Regent Seven Seas Cruise Line's annual Spotlight is on...Chocolate theme cruise Read The Full Article

Plan That Family Summer Cruise Now

If you have never taken your family on a cruise before, consider taking them on a Disney Cruise.

We are seeing some fantastic rates for 4-nights and 3-nights aboard the Disney Wonder on the last week of August. Compare it to cruising any other time during the months of June, July and August, rates go as high as twice as much per person.

A family of four - 2 adults and 2 children 10&under - can sail to the Bahamas for $2335.00 US including taxes. This is based on Disney's most economical inside cabin pricing for the August 26th 4-Night Sailing of the Disney Wonder This rate is without air arrangements, ground transportation and trip insurance. It's a very good price considering that is a summer sailing on a 5 star ship.

We still checked around to see if we can get a better deal for the same sailing. After a thorough search through Cheaptickets.com, Vacationstogo.com, Travelocity, and Orbitz, they all yielded approximately the same price as booking your cruise directly with Disney. Disney also has an additional promotion you might possibly combine with your cruise - if you apply for your Disney Visa Credit Card, you might be able to save an additional $40!

The cruise starts and returns to Port Canveral. The itinerary will take you to Nassau and Disney's Private Island Castaway Cay. Life aboard Disney Wonder is full of fun for kids of all ages - The Oceaneer Club (ages 3-7), The Oceaneer Lab (ages 7 - 12), Ocean Quest, Aloft, The Stack, Studio at Sea, Spa & Fitness, Three Pools, and Deck Activities. There are also Live Shows, Character Experiences, Night Clubs & Loungers, and Movies as part of the daily activies. A three day land extension stay at The Walt Disney World Resort before your cruise is also available at an additional cost.

Booking your cruise is very easy. You can book directly on line at Disney Cruise Lines, or you can talk to a cruise representative at 1-800-951-3532. At this time, only a deposit is only required to hold your cruise so that you can take advantage of the great rates. If your family vacation plans change before final payment - June 12, 2007, you can still cancel your cruise and receive 100% of your deposit back.

Most families do not give their summer vacations a serious thought until sometime in the Spring. Family staterooms that can accomodate 3+ passengers will be hard to acquire that close to the summer sailings. The last thing you want is to have to break your family into two separate staterooms, one floor away from each other. It looks like there are still midship cabins available that can accomodate quads, so don't wait too long in securing yours! Booking early can also guarantee that you get your preferred dining times.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Five Carnival Corporation & plc Brands to Launch On Deck for the Cure(TM) Breast Cancer Fundraising Initiative
Five Carnival Corporation & plc brands -- Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Lines, Seabourn Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, and Princess Cruises -- have joined together to launch "On Deck for the Cure," Read The Full Article.

Family Cruising may be the Perfect Vacation for Your Family

Vacationing with your family seems to be the most looked-forward-to activities of the whole family. What better way to enjoy your free days than to spend it in a place that would be most enjoyable for you and your loved ones. Family vacation packages have become more fun-packed and affordable for most families.

Different hospitality companies have concocted packages that suit your taste and budget. Among the many packages offered these days is family cruising. If you have days to spare, why don't you bring your family into a cruise in a ship that has facilities even for your children of all ages. There are ships that have amenities suited for your family's needs.

Since you are traveling as a family, your children will usually travel at a discounted rate.

The price for family packages already includes all meals and snacks while on-board. It also includes your room, all activities and wonderful entertainment in the ship. Above all, it includes your tour to any place of your choice. Your choice of destination depends on what type of enchantment and culture you want to experience in your trip.

Cruising eliminates the hassles that accompany an ordinary vacation. The package is convenient as activities are planned for you each and every step of the way. No more worries of dinner reservations or even the nuisance of packing and unpacking.

With family cruising, you don't have to worry about your children getting bored during the trip. Cruise lines have designed pleasurable activities for kids that are supervised by trained youth counselors. They can enjoy swimming, sports activities, film viewing, games and adventures to new places. You'll be surprised at how easily your kids will adapt to life in a ship. You also need not worry that activities may be designed only for little children; even your teenagers have activities that are appropriate for their age.

Most ship lines have the following amenities and services: babysitting services, day or night for a minimal fee, teen centers, discos, playrooms, family cabins, movie houses, and arcades.

Family packages come in different themes. The most popular family cruises that have children in mind are Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney, Princess, Celebrity, Holland and Norwegian.

Let me describe briefly what you can expect from some of the cruises. Disney cruises will let you discover the amazing world of Disney-fashioned activities for all cruisers. Children ages 3 to 17 will have the time of their lives as they enjoy Mickey Mouse magic and real-fun activities like Detective School, Professor Goo's Magical Experiment and so many others. Your teeners, on the other hand, can go to special hideaways where they could party with other teens till midnight. Areas are designed with video games, Internet access and music. Surely, your teens will love it!

Another popular cruise is the Princess cruise. Activities on-board are well-taken cared of by youth counselors. This cruise comes with a Youth Center that offers endless activities for your young ones. They can go splashing in its special splash pool. They can also enjoy an afternoon pizza or ice cream party or even a pajama party and many more. Teens can enjoy their own Jacuzzi, Karaoke and giant TV's.

With all the fun-packed activities supervised for each of your child, you and your spouse could truly relish moments together alone as activities are also designed for your pleasure.

Family journeys may bring you to places that could serve as a perfect family adventure. Beautiful beaches and fabulous scenery can be found in CocoBay and Labadee. Your kids will definitely be thrilled with the Aqua Parks that are state-of the-art and the Splash Bash at Labadee. Parasailing and snorkeling are only some of the activities that can be enjoyed by your bigger kids. The whole family will love the land excursions to ancient ruins, museums and numerous sights in your chosen destination.

If you haven't tried cruising before, this is the perfect time to vacation in a different way. Your enjoyment and convenience are primary concerns of all cruise lines. After all, it's a vacation, you need not do the usual chores that you do while traveling aboard a plane or a car. This is going to be a thrill of a lifetime for your children and an endearing time of bonding for you and your other half.

About the Author
Dr Nathalie Fiset is a family doctor and a certified hypnotherapist. For more information go to: http://www.bigfloridavacation.comhttp://www.blogger.com/ or www.a-1hypnosis.com