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Ocean vs. River Cruising: Which One Is For You?

River Cruising

When it comes to taking a cruise on a river or the ocean, it’s pretty tough to go wrong. Both offer incredible views, luxurious amenities, and the prague-226869_1280opportunity to explore interesting ports.

But each one comes with its own unique perks, and depending on your specific needs for your next trip, you might find that one is a slightly better fit than the other. So what are the major differences?

River Cruises

One big difference can be summed up in one word: intimacy. River cruises tend to be much smaller (190 max vs. up to 6,200 on the largest ocean cruises), and as a result, you’re much more likely to be interacting with other passengers and crew members.

That smaller scale translates to all areas of the river cruise. You dine on a regular schedule at tables with other passengers (wine is included in the price of the cruise). Instead of 50 different things to do on board, amenities tend to be more modest with river cruises — think libraries, a workout room, cultural programs, and free Wifi vs. ten kids’ playrooms, glitzy Broadway shows, and a skydiving simulator. There tend to be fewer kids on river cruises, making them popular for couples seeking quiet and relaxed time together.  Entertainment is more cultural.

You stop almost every day at a new port with river cruises, often for walking tours through quaint towns with little tourist traffic, and you’re always in view of land. With ocean cruises, you can go days without seeing land, and ports of call and excursions tend to be more exotic and high-adventure.

Ocean Cruises

Because of their larger size, ocean cruises offer plenty of options for many ages, from young kids to octogenarians, and they are oftencruise-ship-788369_1280 more able to accommodate a wide variety of special health needs. For this reason, they tend to make the best option for multi-generational family gatherings that include young children. For the traveler who is into high-octane adventure, ocean cruises provide a wide variety of activities on board, as well as exotic and more daring day excursions.

Which is for you?

River cruises do tend to be more expensive per person — but that price also includes more things. Ocean cruises have a lower sticker price per person, but you are often charged extra for alcohol and other amenities.

When you’re getting ready to plan your next on-the-water trip, here are a few questions to consider:

  1. How many people are traveling? What are their ages?
  2. What time of the year do you want to travel?
  3. Do you need the amenities of a mega ship — spas, gyms, a dozen restaurants, and many activities? Or are you looking for something calmer, more intimate and easy-paced?
  4. Are you seeking authentic inter-cultural experiences? Or do you prefer more familiar settings?

As always, I’m here and would love to discuss your next cruise. We can look at all the moving parts of your upcoming trip — what you need, what you want, what your dream is — and together we can come up with a cruise you and your loved ones will remember fondly for the rest of your life.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at:

elaine@cruiserstravel.net or 941-979-9798.  

Contact us to help you have that great vacation.

Happy traveling!

Elaine Sklom

Cruiser’s Travel LLC

CTT logo 2016 - 3-26-2016

Elaine-Sklom

June 12, 2016 by Elaine Sklom Posted in Blogging, Hot Travel News Tagged cruise, ocean, ocean cruises, river cruising

Confused with all the travel information on the internet? A Travel Professional can help.

Travel professional

Confused?

Confused about travel? There is so much information available on the internet right now regarding travel.  There are online travel sites for cruises, hotels, air, trains and any other type of travel.  But what is the correct product for you?  Is the location of the hotel where you want to be?  Is the type of room or cabin the right fit for you? Is that cruise line the one you should be booking?  Not all products are created equal nor are the products right for everyone.  How do you tell?  Contact a travel professional.

Do travel agents exist?

There have been multiple articles has said travel agents don’t exist or are going away.  In a way they are right.  Travel agents in the past were just someone who booked a trip for someone who called or came in to the storefront office of a travel agency. Storefront travel agencies are few and far between now a days as most of the “travel agents” have gone home to work. Even the term “travel agent” is going away because what they do now is different than what they did before.

Travel Professionals/Travel Counselors

Travel Agents are now more a counselor and an adviser so they are now called Travel Professionals or Travel Counselor. Even the travel industry is trying to get away from using the term “travel agent”. They no longer just book a trip for someone, they know more than what is available to the traveling client.  The travel professionals now are constantly learning, constantly traveling, receiving input from other travel professionals about where they have traveled and are a resource for what is required to travel now a days.

When you use an online travel agency like Expedia, Travelocity, etc. you aren’t able to have someone protect your back.  They book the travel for you and then you are pretty much on your own.  Say your flight gets cancelled, who is going to book a replacement flight?  You are, not them.  If you use a travel professional that travel professional will do it.  If something goes wrong on your trip, if the room you booked is not like what you thought it would be, who is going to make it right?  A travel professional will also check constantly for price drops before final payment and whether a new promotion offered would be more beneficial than what was booked with a deposit.  All these things can be addressed before final payment.

A travel professional works with you from the time you first talk to them until you are home safe and sound and any and all problems have been solved or addressed.

It Costs More to Use a Travel Professional

This is not always true.  True, some travel professionals charge fees but not all of them do. This is because some vendors, like airlines and some hotels, don’t pay commission or some of the vendors have decreased the amount of commissions paid to the travel professional.  In order to make ends meet, some travel professionals charge fees.  I charge $50 per person for airline reservations domestically and $100 for airline reservations internationally.  I will also charge a fee sometimes for hotels for the same reason or if I am putting the various sections of the trip together myself.  If I book a cruise or a tour, I don’t charge a fee as the vendor pays me a commission.  Remember, whether you use a travel professional or not the commission is still being paid as it is automatically included in the price from the vendor.  So, why not use a travel professional and avoid the hassle and save your time?

The rules for traveling are constantly changing and it is the travel professional who is able to keep their clients on track with them.

Examples: Passports

For instance, did you know that come 2017 you may need a passport to travel by air domestically?  This is due to a law called the REAL ID Act.  This requires all travelers to have a REAL ID compliant identification that includes all of these fields:  full legal name, signature, date of birth, gender, unique identifying number, a principal residence address and a front-facing photograph of the applicant. Unfortunately there are still a handful of states that are non-compliant.  Do you know which states are compliant and which aren’t?  Your travel professional does.  By the way, outright non-compliant states/territories are American Samoa, Louisiana and New Hampshire.  The states of Minnesota and New York offer an optional Enhanced ID at a cost, so because it is optional, a large percentage of residents don’t have one.  Some states have applied for additional extensions, but it is unclear if those will be granted.

Because of this law, the passport processing time for all will be affected.  All the passports issued in 2006 to meet the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative that went into effect in 2007 are now expiring, causing a slew of renewals.  So, because of  those renewals coupled with the possible REAL ID enforcement, passport waits are expected to further increase.  The current wait has already increased a week to four to six weeks for standard passports and three weeks for expedited.  Expedited in person could be up to eight days based on travel need.

Ultimately the REAL ID Act will require all state-issued drivers’ licenses to include “machine-readable technology” or chips to help keep us safe and secure while traveling.  For more information on the REAL ID Act go to http://www.dhs.gov/real-id-public-faqs.

Also, passports are recommended for cruises just like they are required to fly outside of the United States.  The reason being is if you do need to fly back to the United States from a foreign port you have a passport to do so.  Just because you are on a cruise leaving a United States port, technically you are traveling internationally just as soon as you step on the ship as most ships are registered outside of the United States! Please remember that the rule of thumb is that your passport must not expire less than six (6) months after your return from your trip.

Example: Visas

A travel professional would be able to help you determine if visas are required to travel to where you want to go.  If they don’t know for sure, they know where to send you for that information and get confirmation that you do or don’t need one for the type of travel you are taking.  For instance, for most cruises if you leave an U.S. port and return to the same U.S. port you probably don’t need a visa to visit the ports.  This is called a “closed loop” trip.  But, again, most of the cruises are requesting passengers have passports.  Always double check to see if one is needed.

Example:  Travel Insurance

Again, not all travel insurance is created equal.  Should you purchase travel insurance?  Absolutely!!! I recommend to my clients not to purchase travel insurance, for the most part, from the supplier of the cruise or product.  The reason being the coverage is not as comprehensive as third party policies.  Travel insurance is not only purchased for travel delays, luggage lost/damage or cancellation protection.  Some health insurance companies do not cover you when traveling outside of the United States.  Medicare does not.  Travel insurance will act as your primary health insurance during your travel, from the time you leave to the time you return to your home.  Also, it provides emergency evacuation for health reasons and protects you for other items.  Always read the policy and information provided by the issuer of the travel insurance to see what is covered.  Your travel professional will know which is a good travel insurance issuer.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at:

elaine@cruiserstravel.net or 941-979-9798.  

Contact us to help you have that great vacation.

Happy traveling!

Elaine Sklom

Cruiser’s Travel and Tours

February 20, 2016 by Elaine Sklom Posted in Blogging, Travel Agents Tagged Confused, internet, Passport, travel, travel agent, travel professional

Luxury Cruising – Is It For You?

SirenaWhich do you prefer?  Do you like the larger cruise ships that hold over 4,000 passengers or the smaller ships that hold under 1,000?  Some ports don’t handle the larger vessels and the attention to the passenger is better on the smaller ships.  So, check out the possibilities with these luxury cruise lines.

Some of the luxury cruise lines have smaller ships.  I’m talking Azamara Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruises.  This means you get more choices of ports.  Yes, they may cost more but the benefits may just make it worth it.  These luxury cruise lines give you travel at its best, most are even all inclusive.  That means no extra drink packages, no extras that are unexpected.

Azamara Cruises

Azamara Cruises focuses on Destination Immersion where longer stays, more overnights and night touring are included on 100% of their voyages.  You get to explore everything from nightlife in Stockholm and morning walks in the French Riviera to all-day adventures in Costa Rica’s rain forests.  You’ll experience  boutique-style ships with a maximum of 686 guests, staff and crew can quickly learn your name, tastes, and preferences.  All of this with lots of inclusive amenities like standard spirits, international beers and wines, gratuities, and an AzAmazing Evenings event (on most voyages) – all with their compliments.  Also included for all guests are bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas, English butler service for suite guests, self-service laundry, shuttle service to and from port communities (where available) and concierge services for personal guidance and reservations.

Visit ports like Marseille, Amalfi, Crete or even to the doorstep of Bangkok (while other large cruise lines dock a few hours away), the heart of Seville, and the city center of Bordeaux.  Experience the culture, cuisine, scenery and people of your destinations.  The crew really like to mingle with the guests and are pleased to point out special things at sea and onshore and go above and beyond your expectations.

Crystal Cruises/Crystal River Cruises/Crystal Yachts

Another all-inclusive cruise line. this includes complimentary gratuities, unparalleled choices of dining options including specialty restaurants, complimentary fine wines and premium spirits, open bar service in all lounges, and all non-alcoholic beverages. Also, you get 24-hour room service, high tea, golf lessons, computer/technology classes and a technology concierge, Crystal Visions Enrichment Program, entertainment and complimentary launderettes.  One shore excursion is included on every voyage as part of your “We Care/You Care” program.  And, you can bring your own wine/liquor with no corkage fees!

Predominantly non-smoking indoors (except the Connoisseur Club Cigar bar) this is a great and elegant alternative to the large ships.  They now offer river cruises, yacht cruises, luxury air and residences. Booking is open for 2017 and 2018.  The yacht is an all-inclusive super-yacht with 31 luxury suites and two complimentary Crystal Adventures shore excursions in most every port, depending on the destination.  Water sports from the yacht’s marina platform is also available and don’t forget the state-of-the-art deep-sea submersible accommodating two passengers and certified pilot.  The river cruises will be home based in Paris and will have various length cruises, all suites and will have its first sailing in July, 2016 with 2-for-1 fares and overnights in popular ports.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises lets you see a spectacular selection of diverse and exotic destinations with elegance.  They are unique itineraries specifically designed to showcase the most fascinating destinations.  They are intimate and luxurious, visiting historic cities to modern meccas to charming seaside villages nestled along sparking coastlines.  Each day offers exciting opportunities to experience the history, art and cuisine of a wondrous new destination.  Enjoy dining inspired by Master Chef Jacques Pépin.  Lavish complimentary amenities abound, and there are never supplemental charges in any of the onboard restaurants.  Value packages ensure that sipping vintage wine, surfing the internet or enjoying a shore excursion is both convenient and affordable.

Oceania offers catering to its passengers as it holds just 684 to 1,250 guests, depending on the ship.  It is country club casual ambiance with personalized service.  It offers port-intensive voyages featuring overnight visits and extended evening port stays.  Experience epicurean enrichment programs, including immersive Culinary Discovery Tours in the world’s most fascinating destinations.  The spa is an acclaimed Canyon Ranch SpaClub.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas offers a truly sumptuous and very personal experience.  You can anticipate an unforgettable journey to the world’s greatest destinations where everything is included, without exception and without compromise.  Regent’s fares include 2-for-1 All-Inclusive fares, early booking savings, free unlimited shore excursions, free luxury hotel package in Concierge Suites and higher, free specialty restaurants, free unlimited beverages including fine wines and premium spirits, free open bars and lounges PLUS in suite mini bar replenished daily, free pre-paid gratuities, free 24 hour room service, free transfers between airport and ship and many other amenities.  The dress code is elegant casual dress. An enriching onboard experience is brought to life through The Smithsonian Collection by Smithsonian Journeys.  There are Broadway shows, virtuoso performances, culinary demonstrations and wine tastings and the spectacular Canyon Ranch SpaClub wellness programs.

There are enticing voyages to more than 250 ports around the world in the comfort of a smoke free environment throughout almost the entirety of their ships.  These ports are some of the more intimate ports that larger vessels cannot reach on a vessel that is all suites with 97% of them with a private balcony.  There are only 490 or 700 guests, resulting in stellar service, no lines and no waiting.

Seabourn Cruises

With Seabourn you sail with your own private club, where members share expansive open decks, inviting social spaces, and the personalized attention of an exceptional crew.  There are unique itineraries to must-see cities and hidden gems where larger ships cannot go.  These are intimate ships with no more than 300 spacious suites with sweeping ocean views, most with verandas.  The intuitive staff is passionate about pleasing their guests.  Gourmet dining experiences that rival the finest restaurants anywhere, complimentary welcome champagne and in-suite bar stocked with your preferences, complimentary dining venues where you dine where you wish, when you wish and with whom you wish. This is an all inclusive experience with open bars throughout the ship and fine wines poured at lunch and dinner.  Tipping is neither required nor expected.

Seabourn visits bucket wish destinations and small ports like Saint-Tropez, France and Palarmo, Spain.  Visit the lesser traveled Caribbean islands of Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, the Grenadines, Guadeloupe and Saint Barthelemy and St. Kitts.  Shore excursions are available for purchase with lots of time to explore each port of call.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at:

elaine@cruiserstravel.net or 941-979-9798.  

Contact us to help you have that great vacation.

Happy traveling!

Elaine Sklom

Cruiser’s Travel LLC

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January 22, 2016 by Elaine Sklom Posted in Blogging, Hot Travel News Tagged all-inclusive, luxury cruises, Oceania, Seaborn

Packing It All In A Personal Item Bag

It is possible to vacation with only a 16x14x12-inch bag. So get out your ruler, start packing and prepare to dodge those carry-on baggage fees!Carry-on Luggage

Use Your Pockets

Use a jacket or sweatshirt with large pockets since you will need to remove your jacket at security. Make the most of the pockets by packing any items you’ll use during the flight, such as books, snacks, and music devices.

Excluded Items

Umbrellas, cameras, infant diaper bags, and outer garments such as hats and coats do not count toward your baggage allowance.  So stuff the pockets of the coats too.  Bassinets, child car seats, strollers, and wheelchairs are accepted as checked baggage at no charge.

Reuse Clothing

Coordinate outfits to easily mix and match. Packing neutral-colored clothes (like blacks, whites and grays) make it easy. Pack interchangeable tops and bottoms to help create infinite combinations.

Pack the Right Fabrics

Pick knits over woven items and opt for blended fabrics.  Those with a bit of spandex or polyester avoid wrinkles when packing.

Do a Load of Laundry

Washing, whether by hand, at the hotel, on the cruise ship or around the corner at a laundromat, is a quick way to get more mileage out of the same outfits.

Leave Some of the Toiletries Behind

Hotels and cruise lines most of the time provide soap, shampoo and conditioner in your room. Many hotels also offer extras such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, and shaving cream on request. So no need for packing these items too.

Check, and Recheck, the Weather

Wear your bulkiest clothing items (pants, coat, sunhat or baseball cap, and shoes) on the plane.  Pack smaller, lighter items such as your t-shirts, shorts, swimsuit and sandals. Skip the items you can go without or that you can find at your destination, such as hair dryers.

Use Compression Bags

Try putting your clothes in a compression bag to reduce the volume.  This helps you fit more in less space.  It may even free up space for extra items or for souvenirs you want to bring back.  These can be found at Walmart’s or Dollar Tree and other stores or online.

Ship Ahead

Although this costs, the cost is usually more reasonable than the airline charge, depending on the carrier. You can use UPS, USPS or another carrier.  There are companies specializing in this service also.  This frees you from having to worry about lugging everything during your flight.  This is also a good option to consider for any souvenirs.

Pack Nothing

Bring an empty backpack or small duffel with you for the return trip to hold anything you bought.  There are nice foldable suitcases that work too. Purchasing necessities at your destination may be more expensive, but it’s also a great way to ensure you bring home useful souvenirs rather than a bunch of trinkets.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at:

elaine@cruiserstravel.net or 941-979-9798.  

Contact us to help you have that great vacation.

Happy traveling!

Elaine Sklom

Cruiser’s Travel LLC

Elaine-Sklom

weblogo

January 15, 2016 by Elaine Sklom Posted in Blogging, Hot Travel News Tagged clothing, packing, pockets

Safari in Africa in Comfort

baluda / Pixabay

Southern Africa has some of the best safaris and luxury lodges.  So if you want a safari go to Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana.  In Zambia authorities have expressed optimism that the country will be able to capture the targeted 1 million tourists arrivals.

Zambia

Now considered yellow fever free, Zambia is now easily accessible for tourists.There are many ways to experience this beautiful country.  The first is a walking safari at the famed Norman Carr Lodge (www.normancarrsafaris.com).  A walking safari gives a new perspective from the traditional jeep safari. Their main lodge, Kapani, is a luxury facility accommodating up to twenty guests.

The Relais and Chateaux lodge, the first in the country and the Royal Chundu (www.royalchundu.com) was voted Zambia’s Leading Safari Lodge in 2015 for the fifth year running. Royal Chundu is located along the banks of the Zambezi River, between Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park. It offers the perfect balance of adventure, African ambience and nature. There are two separate types of accommodations: the Island Lodge and River Lodge. These consists of four (4) very private and secluded villas with outdoor tubs. The River Lodge is comprised of 10 riverfront suites, features large double showers, an infinity pool and outdoor dining deck.

Botswana

November is the start of Botswana’s green season. Uncharted Africa (www.unchartedafrica.com) is a place to see one of the greatest shows on earth. Not only does the rain transform the barren landscape into a shade of startling green, but nowhere in Botswana do you see a more striking migration than the Kalahari as herds of wildebeest and zebra make their way onto the Makgadikgadi grasslands.

Jack’s Camp is the best place to experience the magic of Botswana in bloom.  All tents of Jack’s Camp are the perfect ‘migration station’ with open views of the expansive Makgadikgadi and nearby watering hole.  Avoiding the peak tourist season gives you discounted rates, avoidance of crowds and guarantees front row seats to the migration of zebra and wildebeest, the second biggest in Africa and the last remaining in southern Africa.

Zimbabwe

The Linkwasha Camp (www.wilderness-safaris.com) reopened this past year. The camp features eight classic African tents situated in the south-eastern private Linkwasha Concession in the Hwange National Park, home to one of the largest concentrations of game in Africa.  The camp also has the best access to Ngamo Plains. It offers some of the most impressive game viewing in southern Africa. These include lions, elephant and cheetah. The tents at Linkwasha offer a mix of traditional and contemporary design along with the original spirit and essence of a safari.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at:

elaine@cruiserstravel.net or 941-979-9798.  

Contact us to help you have that great vacation.

Happy traveling!

Elaine Sklom

Cruiser’s Travel LLC

Elaine-Sklomweblogo

 

 

 

 

P.S.  If you enjoy writing, try blogging for fun or a source of income.  To learn how to blog click here and here.

 

 

January 8, 2016 by Elaine Sklom Posted in Blogging, Hot Travel News Tagged Africa, Botswana, Safari, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Caribbean Ports of Call Are Multiplying

Cruiser's Travel & Tours Posted on December 31, 2015 by Elaine SklomDecember 30, 2015

The Caribbean continues to be the most popular cruise destination industry-wide, accounting for more than a third of the cruise business globally. An estimated 60% of cruise passengers are repeaters, which heightens the need for the Caribbean to constantly re-invent itself and for cruise lines to find or create new … Continue reading →

Posted in Blogging, Hot Travel News | Tagged Amber Cove, Barbados, Belize, Caribbean, Grand Cayman, Harvest Caye, St Kitts, Tortola

Puerto Rico – A Caribbean Gem

Puerto Rico is considered by some as the best island in the Caribbean and others as the best destination for weddings. The island offers a large variety of recreational options that range from coastal spots and ocean activities to the inland adventures found beyond their shores. Explore Puerto Rico’s beautiful landscapes, hundreds of years of history, four distinct cultures and – above all- friendly and good-spirited people who leave their mark on the hearts of everyone who visits.

 

Distinctive Municipalities

With 78 distinctive municipalities, virtually any type of special interest can be found in Puerto Rico. From hiking in a forest or exploring a cave, to superb cuisine, sizzling nightlife and exciting casinos, to romantic walks on a moonlit beach.  Renting a car lets you discover small towns, fishing villages and an amazing variety of cultural activities; to an island escape with a stay in a Parador – Puerto Rico also has it all, including the perfect settings for weddings and honeymoons, and spectacular venues for meetings. The Puerto Rico Convention Center is the largest facility of its kind in the Caribbean.

Six Regions

The island is divided into six regions, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions.

San Juan Metro

Greater San Juan is one of the top-25 metropolitan areas in North America bustling with big-city business, culture and entertainment. However, the cobblestone streets have visitors traveling 500 years back in time. The massive fortifications of San Juan have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a seven-block museum, but also contains living neighborhoods, with plenty of places in which to party, dine, shop and stay.

North “Porta Atlantico”

Filled with historic sites, beaches, lagoons, lakes, caves and forests. In the heart of the island’s fourth-oldest city, Arecibo, settled in 1616.  This region is home to the famous Rio Camuy Cave Park, Arecibo Observatory and Barceloneta Outlets.

West “Porta del Sol”

Visitors can explore 17 small towns; discover dome of the world’s greatest surfing areas and beaches, excellent seafood, outstanding coastal forests and unique coffee and sugar farms, numerous regional festivities, and several golf courses and marinas.  The important secondary airport in Aquadilla (BQN) is located here with stateside direct air service, serving major eastern cities such as New York, Newark, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale year-round.

South “Porta Caribe”

Twelve towns with beautiful beaches and enchanted forests, freshwater lakes for fishing, golf courses, fishing villages, carnival-style festivities and stately Victorian homes in the area’s major city of Ponce.  Flights from Orlando and New York are available all year to Ponce Airport (PSE).

Central “Porta Cordillera”

This is an important agricultural area with unique mountainous terrain world famous for its coffee and noted for its outdoor adventure opportunities and numerous natural attractions, including its beautiful waterfalls. The area is also rich in archaeological sites, annual festivals and shopping opportunities for unusual items from noted local artists.

East

There are fantastic beaches, golf courses, nature reserves, impressive underwater reefs and small cays. This area boasts the quaint off-shore islands of Vieques and Culebra.   Vieques was named among the Top 10 Islands in the Caribbean and Flamenco Beach in Culebra was voted among the Best Beaches in the World in 2014 by Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Awards.

Hotels and Resorts

There are several spectacular resorts on the beach to a great variety of value-packed hotels on or hear the beach, in the mountains, towns and villages, near historical sites and nature preserves, as well as at or near the airports.

Small hotels, inns and guest houses (many offering bed-and-breakfast arrangements) along with a number of eco-lodges can be found in the metropolitan area as well as throughout the island.  These are family-oriented inns with ocean views, a Mediterranean-style boutique hotel in a restored Spanish villa, small European-style bed-and-breakfast hotels a short walk from the beach, a hillside villa with a panoramic forest view, full-service facilities with pools and direct beach access, a restored 16th-century former convent in the hear of Old San Juan, a former Spanish sugar plantation great house, one and two-bedroom villas set in 40-acres of nature preserves – the choices are endless.

Paradores de Puerto Rico

Let’s now forget these little gems. Best known for their affordable rates and picturesque, out-of-the-way locations, each of their 15 country inns offer a comfortable starting point for nearby exploration outside of metropolitan San Juan.

Paradores range from centuries-old haciendas to small properties in local fishing villages. Quite often, the Parador’s restaurant is also part of the Mesones Gastronomicos program which designates restaurants featuring genuine Puerto Rico cuisine with the highest level of quality, high standards, and the best local dishes at reasonable prices.

As you drive around the island you often see the Parador symbol. The word Parador in the name of the property is reserved for properties meeting and maintaining the required standards for this program.

There is a lot more to learn about Puerto Rico.  If you liked this information and would like more, please contact me and I would love to help you.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at:

elaine@cruiserstravel.net or 941-979-9798.  

Contact us to help you have that great vacation.

Happy traveling!

Elaine Sklom

Elaine-Sklomweblogo

 

 

 

P.S.  If you enjoy writing, try blogging for fun or a source of income.  To learn how to blog click here and here.

 

 

 

December 25, 2015 by Elaine Sklom Posted in Blogging, Hot Travel News, Travel Tips Tagged Caribbean, destinations, Puerto Rico, weddings

Princess Cruises Offers a Cruise for Romance Lovers

Attention romance lovers!  Princess Cruises has teamed up with Amazon’s online romance community Kindle Love Stories to offer guests three free, original stories to enjoy during their cruise vacations and special sailings with bestselling romance authors. The short love stories, written by well-known authors Carolyn Brown, Heather Burch and Barbara Longley, were inspired by their own Princess cruise experiences sailing to the beautiful Caribbean.

Brown, Burch and Longley, along with New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Linda Lael Miller, will be sailing aboard a five-day Eastern Caribbean cruise aboard Regal Princess, departing Ft. Lauderdale November 3, 2015. Onboard the authors will participate in meet-and-greets, book club discussions and also offer book signings. Rates start at $549 per person.

Princess guests and Kindle users, including those using a Kindle app on any device, can easily download the free stories at www.amazon.com/allamour, beginning in October.

For more information contact elaine@cruiserstravel.net.

Where to you want to travel next?  Please comment.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at:

elaine@cruiserstravel.net or 941-979-9798.  

Contact us to help you have that great vacation.

Happy traveling!

Elaine Sklom

Cruiser’s Travel LLC

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September 21, 2015 by Elaine Sklom Posted in Blogging, Hot Travel News Tagged cruise, Princess, romance authors, Romance lovers, short stories

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Change in Gratuities

Cruiser's Travel & Tours Posted on September 21, 2015 by Elaine SklomApril 16, 2016

Guests sailing Norwegian Cruise Line will now find it harder to remove the daily service charge from their onboard accounts, this according a story published this morning by CruiseCritic. Previously cruisers could have the daily service charge removed at their request by visiting the Guest Relations desk. Now guests will be required … Continue reading →

Posted in Blogging, Hot Travel News

About Me and Cruiser’s Travel

Cruiser's Travel & Tours Posted on August 31, 2015 by Elaine SklomJuly 10, 2016

I developed my love for travel as a child when my family would visit Greece every three years for two to three months to visit my grandparents.  Visiting in Europe allowed me to see other countries and sites.  A good nickname for me would be Aliti, which in Greek means … Continue reading →

Posted in Travel | Tagged port charlotte, punta gorda, travel agents

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