Royal Caribbean Names Canadian Travel Agent Godmother of New Liberty of The Seas

The public has spoken, and the votes have been tallied. After a six month search, Royal Caribbean International today named travel agent Donnalea Madaley godmother of the cruise line's newest ship, Liberty of the Seas, at Cruise Lines International Association's Cruise3Sixty conference. Donnalea, of Ontario-based Marlin Travel, was selected from among nearly 2,500 nominations of exemplary women travel agents who have demonstrated dedication to philanthropy and service in their communities. In the spirit of maritime tradition, Donnalea will participate in the naming ceremony of Liberty on May 18, 2007, and help launch the cruise ship, a prestigious role often performed by dignitaries and celebrities.

"It is a great honor to congratulate Donnalea Madaley on her selection as the godmother of Liberty of the Seas. Through her, we are demonstrating our ultimate appreciation to the travel agent community; recognizing the important role they play in the success of the cruise industry; and acknowledging their service and contributions to make the world a better place," said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president, Sales, Royal Caribbean International. "In our search, we have learned about the good works of so many women travel agents. These selfless women all deserve recognition of their deep commitment to serve their communities and beyond."

In addition to being chosen as Liberty's godmother, Donnalea also will receive a $25,000 check from Royal Caribbean for Hands Across the Nations (HATN), a service organization created and led by Donnalea and her husband. In addition to maintaining full-time jobs and raising a family of three children, the Madaleys have helped raise funds, provided training, and constructed essential facilities in remote communities in such places as Mali, Bolivia and countries in Western Africa since the mid-1980s. Current Hands Across the Nations (http://www.hatncanada.org/) projects include erecting, furnishing and staffing homes for children of incarcerated parents; school dorms for women; and medical and community centers.

Royal Caribbean's search for Liberty's godmother began in August 2006. Three finalists were selected on March 1, 2007, by a 19-member panel of judges represented by members of the media, executives of the cruise industry and travel partners of Royal Caribbean. Donnalea was chosen by the public through online voting from March 1 through 15, 2007 on RoyalCaribbean.com. In addition to the donation to Hands Across the Nations, the cruise line also will make a donation of $5,000 on behalf of each of the two runners-up, Marie Brouard of American Express Centurion Travel Services in Miramar, Florida, and Carole Weishaar of Carefree Travel in Scottsdale, Arizona, to a charity organization of their choice.

At 160,000 GRT and holding 3,634 guests, double-occupancy, Liberty will share the title of the world's largest cruise ship with sister ship, Freedom of the Seas. She will feature the same popular innovations already found on Freedom, including the FlowRider surf simulator, the H20 Zone aqua park, cantilevered whirlpools suspended 112 feet above the ocean, an ice-skating rink, a boxing ring and the 1,215-square-foot Presidential Family Suite, which sleeps up to 14. In addition, the arrival of Liberty will introduce new innovative onboard programs to the cruise line's fleet such as the Vitality wellness program, Explorer Weddings, the Crown & Anchor Society Youth loyalty program, as well as enhancements to the cruise line's award-winning Adventure Ocean youth programming.

Liberty of the Seas will sail alternating seven-night Western and Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami. Both itineraries will call on Royal Caribbean's private destination, Labadee, Haiti. The Western Caribbean itinerary will include the ports of Montego Bay, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Cozumel, Mexico; while the Eastern Caribbean itinerary will call on San Juan, Puerto Rico and Philipsburg, St. Maarten.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 20 ships currently in service and three under construction. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand through its cruisetour division. For additional information or to make reservations, go to http://www.royalcaribbean.com/ or call (800) 327-6700.

PR-Inside.com

See Sydney & Beyond SmartVisit Card

Sydney’s leading attractions pass combines unbeatable value for money with convenience all for a single, inclusive price to all the best attractions.The See Sydney & Beyond Smartvisit Card is the smart travel companion, whether you travel alone, with friends and family.

Save Money - with free entry to over 40 attractions

Great Value - with activities for everyone and special offers

Save Time - customise your itinerary before leaving home

Security - simply swipe your card and you enter for free

Local Knowledge - discover the local’s best kept secrets

Pre-Plan your Trip - receive a 128 page colour guidebook

Purchase Transport - get unlimited travel on buses, trains and ferries

For the one price the See Sydney & Beyond Smartvisit Card gives you unlimited sightseeing with free entry to over 40 attractions. Visit just 2 attractions a day and you will start to save.

You can visit as many of the attractions as you want. You may even visit the same attraction more than once on different days. Adult and children cards are available.

Unbeatable savings with the top attractions

$750 of entry fees are included for the one low price

It is safe - no need to carry cash

Trusted - SVS is supported by the Tourist Attractions Association

You cannot buy a pass for over 40 Sydney attractions anywhere else

Start planning before you leave with your card & guidebook home delivered


DONT MISS OUT ON THIS MONTH'S EXTRA DISCOUNTS & SPECIAL OFFERS AT SEESYDNEYCARD.COM

Families Save $79! For a limited time, if you order 2 adult and 2 child 3 day passes, SeeSydneyCard.com will only charge you the cost of 2 adults and 1 child pass. That's one child for free!

Group Travel - Save at least $50! If you order over $1,000 worth of See Sydney Cards, get a 5% discount. Purchase over $1,500 and get a 10% discount!

Online Special - Save $10! Buy a 2 day or more See Sydney Card today and receive a $10 voucher to spend at the Pumphouse Bar & Restaurant in Darling Harbour.

Exclusive Offer from American Express Selects - Save 15%. As part of American Express Selects, use your American Express Card and save 15% on the total value of your purchase.

List of Attractions:

Arena Restaurant in Homebush Bay, Art Gallery of NSW (Temp Exhibitions), Australian National Maritime Museum, Australian Pacific Touring, Blue Fish Restaurant, BridgeClimb, Bygone Beautys, Chinese Garden of Friendship, Dendy Opera Quays, Elizabeth Bay House, Elizabeth Farm, Everglades, Experiment Farm Cottage, Explorer Bus including Scenic World, Fantastic Aussie Tours, Featherdale Wildlife Park, Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout, Harbourside Shopping Centre, Homebush Bay Brewery, Hyde Park Barracks Museum, Jenolan Caves, JetCruiser, Justice and Police Museum, Koala Park, Listen Live Tour, Luna Park Sydney, Magistic CruiseSmart, Manly Art Gallery and Museum, Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens, Museum of Sydney, Norman Lindsay Museum & Gallery, North Fort, Observation Centre at Homebush Bay, Ocean World Manly, Old Government House, Parkside Restaurant, Parramatta Visitor and Info. Centre, Pier 26, Powerhouse Museum, Purely Australian Clothing Company, Queen Victoria Building, The Rocks Walking Tour, S. H. Ervin Gallery, Shark Dive, Summit Restaurant, Susannah Place, Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Int'l Aquatic & Athletic Centre, Sydney Jet, Sydney Ob'tory: 3D Space Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Skywalk, Sydney Tower and Oztrek, Sydney Tower Restaurant, Sydney Wildlife Park, Taronga Park Zoo, Telstra Stadium Tour, Vaucluse House

A Cruise Through Royal Caribbean’s History

Ever heard of a luxury hotel that moves every half hour?You guessed it: it’s a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, a mass of one hundred thousand tons, that glides on the ocean between Florida and the islands of the Caribbean on a regular basis.

Royal Caribbean International is the second largest cruise ship operator in the world with revenues in excess of $4 billion. It owns 28 ships with more than 65,000 berths on them and is growing. Here’s their story.

Flash back to 1969. An idea suddenly struck Arne Wilhelmsen and Edwin Stephan (Arne was a Harvard-educated investor and Edwin a famous Floridian businessman). The idea was that there was a large community of extremely wealthy Americans in Florida, and that this community would put down top dollar for a short, relaxing luxury cruise to the nearby Caribbean.

Arne and Edwin marketed this brainwave to some of the shipping magnates in Norway who readily bought it and came up with large investments. After a short gestation period, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines (and an entire new industry) was born.

By the next year (1970), the infant company could speak of it’s first possession: The SONG OF NORWAY, a splendid cruise ship, weighing 18,500 tons and equipped for 700 passengers, custom-built in Finland. The most stunning feature of it was a cocktail lounge cantilevered around the smokestack (Edwin Stephen got the idea from the Seattle Space Needle). This lounge was built into many of the Line’s later ships and became the hallmark of the Company’s fleet.

Growth, Growth and More Growth

The founders of the Company pursued their vision of achieving market dominance through a continual program of adding ships and services. A consolidated record of this, which is very difficult to find elsewhere in the media, is presented below:

1971Cruise ships NORDIC PRINCE and SUN VIKING arrive1978SONG OF NORWAY cut in half, 75-foot piece with 164 cabins introduced in between1980NORDIC PRINCE augmented the same way1982SONG OF AMERICA arrives with a larger, more luxurious lounge around the smokestack1988SOVEREIGN OF THE SEAS, the largest cruise ship ever built at 73,162 tons for 2,276 passengers, arrives at a cost of $150 million1990- NORDIC EMPRESS arrives- The Company expands beyond the Caribbean: Mexico, Alaska, and Europe are added as destinations;- Industry’s first computerized booking system introduced1991- MONARCH OF THE SEAS arrives, ready for 2,354 passengers1992- MAJESTY OF THE SEAS delivered, equipped for 2,354 passengers1993- The Company goes public1995- LEGEND OF THE SEAS arrives, built for 1,804 passengers1996- GRANDEUR OF THE SEAS arrives at 74,000 tons and for 2,440 passengers- SPLENDOUR OF THE SEAS, in the same class as GRANDEUR, delivered1997- Name changed to Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited (RCCL)- RCCL buys Celebrity Cruises and its four working ships from Chandris Lines at a cost of $1.

3 billion- RHAPSODY OF THE SEAS, at 79,000 tons and for 2,435 passengers, is delivered- ENCHANTMENT OF THE SEAS, at 74,000 tons and for 2,440 passengers, arrives1998- Enter VISION OF THE SEAS, 79,000 tons and to carry 2,435 passengers- Joint ownership agreement signed with Chicago’s Pritzker family (that has $15 billion in assets) and Haifa’s Ofer family (that owns one of the world’s largest shipping companies, Ofer Brothers Shipping Co)1999- VOYAGER OF THE SEAS comes in at a whopping 140,000 tons for 3,114 guests2000- EXPLORER OF THE SEAS arrives; in the VOYAGER class, it has marine laboratories on board as well2001- ADVENTURE OF THE SEAS arrives: 3,114 passengers accommodated per cruise- RADIANCE OF THE SEAS delivered: 2,100 passenger capacity at 90,000 tons, with gas turbines, it is the first in it’s class- The company buys 20% of UK tour operator First Choice and launches a joint venture cruise line. It offers land-based tours in Alaska through Royal Celebrity Tours.

2002- BRILLIANCE OF THE SEAS, a vessel in the RADIANCE class, arrives and is ready for duty2003- SERENADE OF THE SEAS, the third RADIANCE class vessel, is delivered2004JEWEL OF THE SEAS, RADIANCE class, makes its debut… and of course, more ships, even larger that the earlier ones, are on order!* Conclusion *With revenues in excess of $4 billion, RCCL is a juggernaut which will not slow down.

Its ships are floating cities, boast amenities such as rock climbing walls, miniature golf courses, swimming pools, ice skating rinks, sun decks, basketball courts, beauty salons, exercise and spa facilities, gaming facilities, lounges, bars, cabaret performances, cinemas, shopping arcades, multiple restaurants and casinos.

Most importantly, when on a cruise, one experiences some priceless bonuses: unpolluted air and a virtually noise-free environment. These are truly, in the modern context, balm for the soul.

If you can afford the entirely reasonable average fare of $400 per person for a 3-night cruise in a luxury stateroom… don’t think twice about it Free Web Content, sign up for a cruise and gain the experience of a lifetime!

Florida Savors the Flavors during April's Annual Food Festivals

If you enjoy feasting on the fresh taste of local fare while taking in the Florida sunshine, then give yourself, family, and friends a real Florida experience by attending one of the many food festivals coming in April!

From mullet to crawfish, frog legs to sausage, mangos to kumquats, garlic to swamp cabbage, flap jacks to chocolate, and anything and everything in between, there's a festival for every taste.

"The best places to find the heart and soul of tasty Florida fare is in the multitude of local food festivals," writes Joan Steinbacher, author of "Food Fest! Your Complete Guide to Florida's Food Festivals" and who offers a free e-mail guide "Five Tips to Fabulous Fun at Food Festivals."

Besides the main attraction--scrumptious food--Florida's food festivals feature a variety of amusements and are ideal entertainment for the whole family. Eating contests are popular, as well as off-beat competitions. And there's often musical entertainment, arts and crafts, car shows, children's activities, and much more.

Florida's food festival season is in full swing. Here is a sampling of mouth-watering events coming in April 2007:


Bonita Springs - Celebrate Bonita District Chili Cookoff (April 1)
Leesburg - Spring Fish Fry (April 5)
Crescent City - St. Johns River Catfish Festival (April 6-7)
Tallahassee - Florida Wine Festival (April 12-14)
Port Saint Joe - A Taste of the Coast An Artful Affair (April 13-14)
Panama City - National Shrimp and Oyster Festival (April 13-15)
Riverview - Spring Jubilee Chili Cook-off (April 14)
Sandestin - Sandestin Wine Festival (April 19-22)
Orlando - Rajuncajun Crawfish Festival (April 21)
Orlando - Great American Pie Festival (April 21-22)
Ponce Inlet - Shrimp Fest (April 21-22)
Starke - Bradford County Strawberry Festival (April 21-22)
Sanibel - Taste of the Islands (April 22)
St. Augustine - An Evening with EPIC Chefs (April 26)
Sarasota - Florida Winefest & Auction (April 26-28)
Pompano Beach - Seafood Festival (April 27-29)
Tampa - Bern's Winefest (April 27-30)
Clewiston - Sugar Festival (April 28)
Fort Lauderdale - New Times Beerfest (April 28)
St. Augustine - A Taste of St. Augustine (April 28)
West Palm Beach - Sweet Corn Fiesta (April 29)
Key West - Taste of Key West (April 30)

Have fun eating your way through the month! For additional information and more events, visit the "Food Fest!".

To get your free "Five Tips to Fabulous Fun at Food Festivals" guide, open the "Contact Us" page on www.FoodFestGuide.com and place the words "Five Tips" in the Comments area. Or you can fax your request (toll-free) to (866) 829-8147.

Land Packages from Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

A moment with Michael of Royal Caribbean International at the Los Angeles Times Adventurers Travel Expo. Michael discusses new packages, 20 new ports throughout Europe, and what's popular in the cruise market. This podcast was produced by Wayfarer Digital for In The Know Traveler.

Watch The Video...

No, Americans Don't Need a Passport to Vacation in Canada

With all the recent publicity warning Americans that they need a passport to visit Canada after January 23, 2007, it seems to have gone unnoticed that you don't in fact need a passport to visit the Canadian Rockies or any other beautiful spot up north. All you have to do cross the 3000 mile border by land, not air - and that, according to travel company Fresh Tracks, can be a good thing.

By taking domestic flights to northern cities in the United States, Americans can still cross the border without the expense and hassle of getting a passport. Government issued photo identification (such as a driver's license) and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate) are all that is currently required for land borders.

So if you want to visit the Canadian Rockies then it's as simple as flying into Seattle. Rail buffs can take Amtrak right into Vancouver. The train station is just five minutes from downtown - much closer than the airport, and there's an extra train ride. There are also a number of bus departures per day and the three hour drive is well worth the splendor of western Canada.

If you want to hear the thunder of Niagara Falls, or the excitement of Toronto then flying into Detroit is the answer. VIA Rail Canada operates trains to Windsor, Ontario, which is just across the border from Detroit. Rent a vehicle and drive through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel or across the Ambassador Bridge - it's that simple.

Canada houses a bit of Europe right in North America and it's easy to reach from New York - no passport or long flight required. Amtrak operates a daily rail connection between New York's Penn Station and downtown Montreal. Quebec City, Ottawa, and Toronto are all within an easy VIA Rail trip of Montreal.


About Fresh Tracks Canada
Fresh Tracks Canada is located in Vancouver, British Columbia and specializes in custom vacations in Canada. Fresh Tracks is a web based company that has been booking packages - everything from camping trips to rail journeys - since 1992. 50% of Fresh Tracks' clients are from the United States. Fresh Tracks offers a variety of exciting Canadian vacation adventures including sea kayaking, hiking, rafting, horseback trips, canoeing, cycling, sailing, remote lodges, and natural history. Visit www.freshtracks.ca for more information.

Vancouver, BC (PRWEB) March 27, 2007

Day Tours of Paris from London, Now Easier Than Ever

London-based tour operator British Tours Ltd who have specialised in personal tours of London, Britain and Europe since 1958, have found that Paris is now among the top day tours from London. The travel time to Paris is just 2 hours 35 minutes by high-speed Eurostar train.

"More and more clients are adding Paris to their itineraries. The convenience of touring Paris during their stay in London, without having to pack up and change hotels seems to be a real plus point for this tour" says Jason Doll-Steinberg, British Tours Ltd's Marketing Manager.

The London to Paris tours include flexible train journeys and an expert tour guide who will greet the party at Paris Gare du Nord station for a personal guided tour of the city by private car, as well as visits inside historic attractions. The flexibility and speed of private travel is especially useful on this tour to maximise the seven hours spent in Paris.

Some of the sights covered are Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe, towering above the Avenue de Champs Elysees; Notre Dame; the world famous Eiffel Tower with a visit to the top; Concord where over 1300 people were executed over 2 years; the 18th century Pantheon, resting place of Marie Curie and Voltaire; Hotel des Invalides, where Napoleon is buried; Montmartre, the artists quarter of Paris; the Basilica of the Sacre-Coeur and the largest art museum in the world, the Louvre housing The Mona Lisa. There is also time for shopping and lunch in a typical Parisian brasserie before being taken back to the station.

Prices start at 225 Pounds sterling per person, based on 4 passengers, for a 7 hour tour of Paris with standard class return train journeys, private car and an English speaking driver-guide.

For further information please see http://www.britishtours.com/pariseurostar.html or contact Marketing at paris@britishtours.com.

British Tours Ltd, London 49 Conduit Street, London W1S 2YS Tel + 44 (0) 207 734 8734

10% Off Car Rentals at Budget Rent A Car

BUDGET RENT A CAR COUPONS & DISCOUNTS

Get 10% off car rental with Budget!


BUDGET RENT A CAR OTHER PROMOTIONS

Make your next rental a Lincoln Town car for only $69/day. You'll get more for less - something you've come to expect from Budget.

From Tourists to Travelers – Visitors to Europe Raising Bar as Trends Emerge on Viator

While Europe may be the second-smallest continent as measured by geographic landmass; the countries that make up the region are massive in culture, history and diversity. Evidence of this are the trends that are emerging from Viator’s customer booking patterns, which clearly illustrate a desire to submerge oneself in the local culture, to spend more time getting to know a destination, and to indulge in the traditional experiences for which certain cities have become most well-known.

“These are the types of trends that help the team at Viator validate the broad selection of destination activities we strive to offer to our customers,” said Rod Cuthbert, CEO and founder of Viator. “It is easy to stay on the path most-traveled, but it is a true ‘traveler’ who appreciates what is unique about their destination and does all he or she can to truly experience it.”

Digging Deep into the Culture
To truly experience a destination, whether a new city or old favorite, a deep connection needs to be made. More and more, travelers are choosing activities that help them go beyond their comfort zone and enable them to be moved, to be taught, to be in the moment. How better to learn about Paris than Dining with Parisian Hosts in a private home, discussing culture and unique experiences over a gourmet catered French meal? In the kitchen of a typical Florentine home in Italy, travelers are taught to prepare a traditional Tuscan meal and the appropriate wine pairings during the Tuscan Cooking Course and Dinner, before sitting down to indulge in their accomplishments. Private guided tours of museums like the Louvre, Uffizi and Accademia give travelers the opportunity to gaze upon masterpieces by Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli while listening to compelling narration detailing the impact of those artists and their work on European culture and history.

The Best of Both Worlds
With more than 2,000 activities in 40 European cities, Viator customers can create itineraries that are leisurely and independent, busy and group-focused, or a combination of both. More and more travelers are taking advantage of multi-day tours, in many instances to help them explore smaller, more remote cities, or to consolidate multiple journeys out of the city. Visitors to Dublin can become immersed in the Emerald Isle with the Three-day Rail Tour to Cork, Blarney Castle, Ring of Kerry and Cliffs of Moher. Territory throughout the dramatic Highlands of Scotland can be experienced from Edinburgh with the Three-day Isle of Sky Tour by Minicoach. Travelers to Spain who want to venture beyond Barcelona and Madrid can take a Four-day Excursion to Cordoba, Seville and Granada. With hopes of crossing borders with a group of fellow travelers, the Five-day Morocco Tour from Costa del Sol explores the exotic cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fez, Casablanca and Marrakech.

Tried and True
As more travelers branch out to create unique destination experiences, Viator Traveler Reviews and ‘most popular’ ratings also point to the continued significance of the perennial favorites which can also serve as an important part of the overall experience of a destination. Activities like the Tour of the Vatican and Sistine Chapel and the Papal Audience at St. Peter’s in Rome; Dinner and Show at the Moulin Rouge in Paris; viewing Da Vinci’s Last Supper in Milan; admiring the Queen’s Royal Collection during the Summer opening of Buckingham Palace; may seem conventional and expected but they continue to draw crowds and sell out on a regular basis. By purchasing these activities before departure, travelers avoid waiting on long lines or the dreaded sold-out sign upon arrival, ensuring their memories will be complete.

The Viator Europe Trip Planner and the Viator Travel Blog are useful resources for anyone planning a trip to Europe, whether first-timers or return visitors, featuring suggested itineraries, first-hand accounts and Traveler Reviews.

*Specific details regarding the activities mentioned including prices and availability can be found at Viator.com.

About Viator
Viator is the world’s leading online resource for travel experiences – the things you do when you get there – providing access to more than 5,000 sightseeing tours, attractions and activities in 450-plus destinations in more than 75 countries, as well as customer reviews, star ratings and the Viator Travel Blog. Viator -- the Latin word for traveler -- offers online consumers a one-stop shop to plan, research and book trip activities that meet a variety of tastes and preferences, including sightseeing tours, theater tickets, soft adventure trips, attraction passes, wine and culinary excursions, and many “well kept secrets” off the beaten path. Viator’s in-house travel experts help take the guess work out of planning by hand-picking respected and trusted local operators to ensure a quality experience, value and service. Viator, founded in 1995, sells its products directly to consumers at Viator.com and through its growing global network of more than 3,500 affiliates that include major hotel and airline companies, online travel agencies, city-specific sites and more. Viator is headquartered in San Francisco with regional offices in Sydney, London and Las Vegas.

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) March 26, 2007

Discount Boston Hotel Rates Available At The Hotel Club

Boston is expecting a very busy cruise season this year with travellers embarking on cruises to Bermuda, Canada / New England, and the Transatlantic.

We recommend arriving at least a day or two early for various reasons - eliminate the rush from the airport to the port, and to get a chance to explore what this beautiful city has to offer. Just because Boston is the starting point of your cruise, does not mean that it should not be a part of your itinerary. Give yourself some time to see the historical sights, experience the food and wine, and do a little bit of shopping before your cruise.

The first step is to search for a hotel within your budget. A great starting point is The Hotel Club. Just a quick tip from the folks here at Cruise Headlines - if you want to save money on your hotel stay in Boston, book it online at The Hotel Club. The rates will be definitely be cheaper than booking it directly with the hotel, and they're only available for booking through the internet. Boston hotel rates are as low as $65 a night for a three-star hotel!

So, how do you know which hotel to choose when staying in Boston? Just a quick trip to The Hotel Club's Discount Boston Hotel's website, you will be able to find information on all the hotels close to the port, or right at the heart of downtown Boston. You can search easily to accommodate your preference by price, by hotel rating, or even the amenities you want included in your rate.

What we really like about The Hotel Club is that it provides you with activities you can enjoy close to the hotel of your choice. "The property is 40 minutes from the North Shore, which is famous for its beautiful beaches, whale watch cruises and sensational Salem Witch trials. Excellent shopping and dining areas are also placed close by to the Inn. For lunch or dinner you can dine at the Chateau Restaurant, which is located right next door to the Inn that serves the finest in Italian cuisine. During leisure, you can relax at the pool or soak out the kinks in the Jacuzzi hot tub. In addition, tennis buffs can also serve up a few games at the outdoor-lighted tennis courts." Sounds like a fantastic start to your cruise vacation, doesn't it?

One last tip before you finish planning your trip, make sure you plan on having a great time on your holiday and don't forget to send us folks here a quick note on how easy it was to save money on your hotel stay in Boston!

This is a Sponsored Post by The Hotel Club.

Where is My Luggage?

Were you one of the unlucky travelers caught in the pre-Christmas blizzard that dumped over 2 feet of snow on Denver International Airport, shutting it down for two days, and stranding 4,700 passengers and snarling holiday travel around the country? If so, believe it or not, you may have been one of the lucky ones because at least you probably eventually received your luggage once you arrived at your travel destination. Several air travelers were not as lucky recently when their transfer bags were stolen from Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport. It was reported that 68 bags were found outside of a pet store dumpster near the airport and several more were recovered at another Houston location; a total of 90 pieces of luggage were recovered of the 150 pieces allegedly stolen. According to Houston officials, the suspects arrested were not employed or contracted by the airlines or the Houston Airport System, but were members of a local theft ring.

The important thing is the alleged thieves were caught and justice will be served, but could it happen again and could it be your bag this time? While many air travelers are still trying to understand the latest carry-on and checked baggage restrictions, more and more travelers are becoming increasingly concerned about baggage security and how to guard against baggage theft, regardless of where the theft may take place. In an effort to reduce the risk of baggage theft, many air travelers are now shipping their bags in advance of their trip. Highly recommended companies such as The Luggage Club, today's premier door-to-door luggage, sports equipment and business goods delivery experts, offer their services to help minimize the stress travelers experience over possible baggage theft and the security of their personal effects. The Luggage Club is positioned to meet the needs of this growing trend of travelers who have decided to play it safe by shipping their luggage in advance of their trip. Travelers' luggage can be picked up at their home, office or location of choice and delivered to their final travel destination and returned again at the end of their trip. Plus, The Luggage Club has no limits on size, weight or number of pieces that can be shipped. Services are available throughout 220 countries worldwide.

"Customer security and privacy are our top priorities," says Gene Langenecker, President of The Luggage Club. He goes on to say, "Today's travelers deserve the peace-of-mind of knowing their bags are going to be safe and secure, and waiting for them when they arrive at their final travel destination."

The Luggage Club offers a variety of money-saving programs including a program for Physically Disadvantaged Travelers, Corporate Program for business travelers, Affiliate Program for travel professionals and a Frequent Traveler Program offering volume-based price discounted packages, plus Gift Cards are available for purchase. For more information go to The Luggage Club or call Toll-Free 1-877-231-5131.

Singles Travel International Cruises through 2007 in Luxury Discerning Solo Travelers Cruise Caribbean, Galapagos, Alaska, Greece, and Norway

Singles Travel International takes the lead once again in 2007 and announces the best in luxury cruises for single adults who love to travel. Enjoy luxurious cruises all over the world, including the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Trans-Atlantic, Greek Islands, and more. Allow yourself to indulge in the epitome of luxury cruising while meeting other singles just like you; it has never been easier. Choose from a variety of luxury cruises in the new 2007 Singles Travel International cruise calendar (see below) and book your trip online.

2007 Adventures Schedule:

Caribbean Cruise on the QM2 (April 2-10,'07) Starting at $1,099*.
Celebrate the Easter & Passover holiday at sea and visit Eastern Caribbean (Bonaire, Grenada & St. Kitts)

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.

Liberty of the Seas Caribbean Cruise Memorial Day Weekend (May 26-Jun 2,'07) Starting at $1,180*. Visit Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Private Island in Labadee, San Juan Puerto Rico, and St. Maarten.

Real Estate Investment Cruise (June 1-June 4,'07) Starting at $399*
A must for any new investor, from Miami aboard Royal Caribbean's Majesty of the Seas visit the private islands of Coco Cay, and Nassau, Bahamas.

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.

QM2 4th of July in the Bahamas (July 2-6,'07) Starting at $889*.
Experience a spectacle to remember on the "Greatest Ocean Liner of Our Time" the Queen Mary 2.

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 $1,059*.
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.

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,'08) Starting at $2,762*
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.

New Year's Eve Caribbean Cruise (December 29, '07-January 5, '08) Starting at $1,290*
Set sail from Miami aboard Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas! Visit RCCL's private island in Labadee, Haiti; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Grand Caymen and Cozumel, Mexico.

*Rates are per person based on double occupancy.

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.

Singles Travel International contact: Tammy Weiler, (877) SOLO-TRIP, (877) 765-6874 or http://www.singlestravelintl.com/ to view entire 2007 Trip calendar, with additional trips to be announced.

(PRWEB) March 22, 2007

Aloha Airlines Sale - $19 Inter-Island Flight Specials

If you are planning on taking a cruise around the Hawaiian islands between now and April, plan to stay just a little bit longer and explore....

Say Aloha to the Islands of Hawaii! Aloha Airlines is making it very easy for you to hop from one island to another with their last minute sale on inter-island flights - just $19 one way to Kona, Lihue, Hilo, and Kahului from Honolulu!> It's such a great incentive to stay a couple of days longer, enjoy the beautiful weather and fly to islands that isn't on your cruise itinerary, or ports that you wish you could stay longer at.

You need to book by March 23rd to get this rate, and travel is only good between now and April 23rd!

Just a quick note .... Norwegian Cruise Lines always has limited Hawaii air inventory, and if you have booked a cruise to Hawaii without air because of this, take a look at Aloha Airlines rates because they are price competitive. Or better yet, want to Fly First Class to Hawaii? Aloha Airlines rules the Trans-Pacific skies.

New Travel Coupons From EasyClickTravel.com

Easyclicktravel.com is having a fantastic sale on everything you need to go on a cruise - air, hotel, transportation and car rentals! Here are their current promotions!


EASYCLICKTRAVEL.COM CRUISE COUPONS & DISCOUNTS

Today's deals at EasyClickTravel.com

Cruises for less on EasyClickTravel.com

Carnival Cruises on EasyClickTravel.com!

4 Night Baja Mexico Cruise from Carnival

3 Night Bahamas Cruise from Carnival

7 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise from Carnival

7 Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from Carnival

4 Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Carnival

7 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Carnival

4 Night Canada - New England Cruise from Carnival

7 Night Southbound Alaskan Cruise from Carnival


EASYCLICKTRAVEL.COM HOTEL COUPONS & DISCOUNTS

CLICK HERE for the best hotel value in New York!

Dallas Hotes - Up to 60% off!

Orlando Hotels Starting at $23 per night!

Miami Hotels - up to 60% off!

Los Angeles Hotels - up to 60% off!

London Hotels - up to 60% off!

Honolulu Hotels - up to 60% off!

Ft. Lauderdale Hotels - up to 60% off!

Barcelona Hotels - up to 60% off!


EASYCLICKTRAVEL.COM CAR COUPONS & DISCOUNTS

Great Rental Car Deals, Click Here!

All About Caribbean Cruises And A Glossary Of Cruise Terms

Caribbean cruises are the most popular of all cruise destinations. And there are good reasons that they are the cruise destination of choice. Caribbean cruises offer you intriguing ports of call, beautiful white sandy beaches with azure blue water, all while enjoying the supreme service aboard your magnificent cruise ship. Caribbean cruises offer many activities for all age groups, so it makes a great family cruise vacation. And don't worry about cruise terms, we've included it here.

During family cruise vacations there are activities all day long and they're free. You have already paid for it in the price of Caribbean cruise. You get all your meals, your cabin, and entertainment included in the price of you family cruise vacation. This is one of the many reasons Caribbean cruises are such a great value.

The best aspect of Caribbean cruises is that once you board your ship you unpack once for the entire trip. No schlepping bags from airport to hotel over and over again. You will be in a new island almost every day with the travel between each port done at night, while you sleep. What could be easier?

Most of the top cruise lines offer Caribbean cruises. Royal Caribbean, Princess, Celebrity, Holland America and Carnival all offer a great variety of Caribbean cruise vacations. There are very formal Caribbean cruises or the fun and casual party cruise. Caribbean cruises are good if you are looking for adventure, golf or scuba cruises. Or maybe you would like to go on a relaxing cruise to enjoy the sea on a sailing cruise. You could plan a Caribbean cruise as a second honeymoon, even the first honeymoon, or a family reunion, or a special anniversary. You don't even need an excuse to take a Caribbean cruise, do it just for fun. Or do it because there is five feet of snow and you need to see the sun and the sand.

Be sure to inquire about any discounted cruises for special groups, like teachers, police or fireman, or nurses. Many times a cruise line sees a certain cruise at a certain time of the year is filling up slowly so they offer special discounts to these groups. And if you belong to one of these groups band together, says as teachers from Pennsylvania and get additional discounts.

Now that you have decided to take a Caribbean cruise here is a glossary of terms used on Cruise ships. It's the cruise terms or cruise lingo.

* Aft is the rear or near the rear of the ship
* Amidships is the middle of the ship
* Bow is the very front of the ship
* Bridge is the navigational control center
* Colors are the national flag flown by the ship
* Deck Plan is an overhead diagram of the cabins and the public rooms
* Dock is where your ship will "park" when in port
* Forward faces the front of the boat
* Gangway allows you access on and off the ship
* Knot is a nautical mile
* Leeward means out of the wind
* Pitch is how much the ship will roll (not very much, if at all)
* PAX is cruise terms for passengers
* Book a cruise is to make a cruise reservation
* A Cruiser is you, the passenger
* Port is the left hand side of the ship while facing forward (bow). Easy to remember since port and left have four letters
* Stack (sometimes called smoke stack) is the ships "chimney"
* Starboard is the right side of the ship while facing forward (bow). .
* Stateroom or berth is your cabin
* Steward's are personnel on the ship for your cabin and dining room
* Stern is the very back of the ship
* Daily Activity Log lists the various activities on board
Now that you can know your Cruise terms, all you have to do is call your cruise travel agent and book one of the many Caribbean cruises that are offered. Book as a family cruise vacation, your honeymoon or anniversary or just because you want to experience Caribbean cruises.

Happy Cruising!

Do I Need Vaccinations For My Cruise?

It is a common misconception amongst cruisers that vaccination is only required on certain cruise itineraries - the more exotic the travel itinerary, the more chances that there will be a need to be vaccinated for protection against regional diseases such as yellow fever, malaria and hepititis. So what if you are not travelling to Egypt or Africa? Just because the cruise line does not expect proof of immunization for your cruise doesn't mean that you shouldn't take extra steps to protect your health on your holiday.

Did you know that The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended preventive measures and special vaccinations even for popular cruise destinations such as Belize, Turks & Caicos, Beunos Aires and Barcelona?

Here are just some of the latest travel notices from CDC:

Dengue - tropical countries throughout Asia (including the Indian Subcontinent), the South Pacific, the Caribbean, South and Central America, and Africa.

Polio - Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

Malaria - Jamaica

Bird Flu & Avian Influenza - Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, China, Hong Kong (SARPRC), Indonesia, Korea (Rep of), Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Measles & Mumps - Eastern Europe and Africa.

When booking your cruise, always ask your agent for a list of vaccinations required for your itinerary right away. CDC recommends that you see your doctor at least 4 - 6 weeks before your trip to allow time for shots to take effect. If it is less than 4 weeks before you leave, you should still see your doctor. It might not be too late to get your shots or medications as well as other information about how to protect yourself from illness and injury while traveling. If vaccinations are not required, be pro-active with your health and visit CDC's Traveller's Health Guide to see vaccination recommendations for each port city and preventative measures you can take during your travel such as:

In developing countries, drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated (bubbly) drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes. If this is not possible, learn how to make water safer to drink.

To prevent fungal and parasitic infections, keep feet clean and dry, and do not go barefoot, even on beaches.

Do not eat food purchased from street vendors or food that is not well cooked to reduce risk of infection (i.e., hepatitis A and typhoid fever).

Avoid dairy products, unless you know they have been pasteurized.

Do not handle animals, especially monkeys, dogs, and cats, to avoid bites and serious diseases.

Always carry medications in their original containers, in your carry-on luggage.

Winter's 10 Most Outrageous Travel Stories Selected by Adirondack Towels and Scrubs

Adirondack Towels and Scrubs, a national supplier to the hospitality industry, announces their selection of the most outrageous travel stories for winter 2007.

Adirondack Towels and Scrubs keeps their customers up to date on important industry developments with daily news links posted on their web site's home page as well as weekly newsletters sent via email. Every 3 months the company issues their most outrageous travel stories for the previous quarter.

Among the travel stories selected:

This sure doesn't look like Sydney
A 21 year old German tourist entered the wrong destination on a travel web site and ended up on the wrong continent. Tobi Gutt wanted to go to Sydney, Australia, but the flight he incorrectly booked was for Sidney, Montana. Gutt didn't notice the mistake until he reached a stop in Portland, Oregon. "I did wonder, but I didn't want to say anything," he said. "I thought to myself, you can fly to Australia via the United States." Gutt spent three days in the Billings airport before he was able to buy a new ticket to Sydney with cash sent from his parents and friends in Germany.

Man tries to steal $76 million hotel
A Staten Island man faces prison time for allegedly trying to steal the trendy SoHo Grand Hotel by filing phony papers with the city. Kouadio Kouassi tried several times to file paperwork that would have transferred ownership of the hotel to him. But the paperwork itself was one of the things that uncovered the scam and led to Kouassi's arrest on December 29. "The documents were not filled out in a professional way or not filled out at all," says Gill Hearn, commissioner of the city's Department of Investigation. "It was just not the kind of filing you would see if it was a real commercial transaction."

Probably not "American Idol" material
A night porter at the four star Holiday Club Hotel in Are, Sweden, got in trouble for signing over the hotel's intercom. In an attempt to amuse himself and the cleaning crews, the porter sang songs containing a lot of foul and risqué language. Unfortunately, many of the hotel guests also heard him and complained. Some of the guests were so upset they threatened to beat the porter up if they saw him again. The hotel paid guests $5,000 in compensation and offered free stays if they visit the area again.

Those sneaky hotel managers
Employees of the Royal Arkansas Hotel and Suites made a shocking discovery when they arrived for work on February 5. The business was shut down with guests still inside. They found the office safe empty and the door left open. A cash drawer from the restaurant had several thousand dollars removed, and employees said managers had ransacked offices, ripped out hard drives, and skipped town after the business closed the night before. Furniture and fixtures had also been removed from several areas of the hotel.

To view the entire list, please visit: http://www.adirondacktowelsandscrubs.com/most-outrageous-travel-stories-winter-2007.html

Milton, VT (PRWEB) March 16, 2007

Tour Hawaii By Helicopter

You know that Hawaii is so spectacularly beautiful and that is why you intend to have your next vacation in Hawaii. However, with so many interesting places to visit and discover in your short vacation trip, you will have insufficient time to visit all the tourist attractions there.

Well, there is a solution actually. You can have an overview tour of Hawaii without spending too much time traveling from one place to another. Yes, have a bird'

The birds in Hawaii are certainly very fortunate to be able to gaze down on one of the most awesome sceneries on Earth such as from the skies of Kauai, they can get to view the Waimea Canyon, Mount Waialeale's majestic waterfalls, hidden reclusive sandy coves and the jagged Na Pall Coast. Now you too can have a bird's eye view by taking a helicopter tour on your vacation holiday Hawaii.

Take a flight over Hawaii's Big Island and view the resplendent volcanic activities of Kilauea, especially when it is erupting can be very exhilarating.

I want to sound word of caution here. Do not be like many tourists who regretted for the rest of their lives because they have forgotten to bring along their cameras. However, do not get too engrossed taking too many photographs and videos because you will miss the scope of your beautiful surroundings.

Many tourists have a tendency to glue their eye to their camera's viewfinder that they forgot that the main purpose for the helicopter tour is to experience the space and the breadth of their surroundings.

Yes, a picture paints a thousand words but no photographs could ever hope to capture the panoramic view as you hurtled across the Hawaiian sky! How can the photographs or the videos capture the feeling of the land suddenly dropping off beneath you as you fly across the edge of cliffs and volcano craters? Your helicopter tour of Hawaii will certainly be wasted if you do not enjoy the experience of your freedom in space.

However, there is a controversy in experiencing your trip over Hawaii in a helicopter. As there is a profusion of companies offering chopper tours there are many such tours everyday and this creates noise pollution which is very jarring for tourists and locals alike who wants to enjoy Hawaii's famed tranquility. There are loud calls for the number of helicopter trips and tours to be cut down.

So if you want to enjoy a memorable holiday vacation in Hawaii, try taking a helicopter tour.


About the Author
Chris Chew is an avid traveler. Holidays in Hawaii and Weight loss vacation

CheapTickets.com Cruise Specials

CHEAPTICKETS.COM COUPONS & DISCOUNTS

Pick Your Port!

Cruisin' with CheapTickets

Cruise with the whole family!

Exclusive Cruise Promotions on Cheaptickets.com!

Ship Out Soon: Last-minute Cruise Deals

Sea Europe - Cruises for any budget!


CHEAPTICKETS.COM HOT CRUISE DEALS - NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINES

Save on 3rd and 4th guests, plus 50% off on deposits! Top off your cruise with big savings on 3rd & 4th guests on 5-9 Day Caribbean Cruises and 8 day Mexican Riviera. Plus, 50% off on deposits. This offer ends March 18, 2007

5 Days Western Caribbean
Norwegian Pearl • Oct. 14, 28; Nov. 11, 25; Dec. 9, 2007 From $389pp

5 Days Western Caribbean
Norwegian Jewel • Nov. 4, 18; Dec. 2, 16, 2007 From $379pp

7 Days Caribbean/Bahamas
Norwegian Sun • Oct. 27; Nov. 3, 10, 24, 2007 From $529pp

7 Days W. Caribbean
Norwegian Majesty • Nov. 24, Dec. 1, 8 ,15, 2007 From $499pp

7 Days E. Caribbean
Norwegian Dawn • Nov. 11, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2007 From $529pp

7 Days W. Caribbean
Norwegian Spirit • Nov. 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2007 From $499 pp

7 Days W. Caribbean
Norwegian Sun • Dec. 1, 8, 15, 2007 From $549pp

9 Days Eastern Caribbean
Norwegian Pearl • Oct. 19; Nov. 2, 30; Dec. 14, 2007 From $999pp

9 Days Eastern Caribbean
Norwegian Jewel • Nov. 9, 23; Dec. 7, 2007 From $899pp

8 Days Mexico
Norwegian Star • Oct. 7, 15, 23, 31; Nov. 8, 24; Dec. 2, 10, 2007 From $579pp