Luxury Cruising – Sumptuousness At Sea

Luxury cruising comes in a myriad of shapes and sizes.  From ocean cruising to river cruising, choices abound.  Yes, luxury cruises may cost more but they are well worth it. Here are some choices for your consideration.

Azamara Club Cruises

An upmarket destination-focused cruise line operations two ships, the Azamara Journey and the Azamara Quest.  Both were just recently upgraded in early 2016.  These are 686-passenger vessels in the luxury cruising family of ships.

The company announced its first-ever World Cruise in 2018 aboard the Azamara Journey to 60 ports in 29 countries over 102 days.  This would be a great way to see the world and visit all those continents and countries you always wanted to visit.

Also unveiled was Azamara’s Overnight Adventures program where it offers two- and three-day land excursions during a voyage. The program includes transportation, hotel and meals in places such as Yangon, Myanmar; Nazareth, Galilee and Jerusalem, Israel; Venice and Florence, Italy; and even a desert in Oman with a Bedouin tent for accommodations.

Crystal Cruises

sorcel / Pixabay

 

This luxury cruising line has been on an aggressive expansion plan since 2015.  In December Crystal introduced the 62-guest adventure yacht Crystal Esprit. In August 2018 it will be joined by a 200-guest polar-class luxury yacht, Crystal Endeavor.

Crystal expanded into river cruising with the Crystal Mozart in 2016.  They company is also building six new luxury river vessels with deliveries from 2017 to 2019.

Three Exclusive Class ocean ships are expected to enter service starting in fall 2019.  These polar-ice-class vessels would accommodate about 1,000 passengers and have 48 private residences.

Crystal has not only looked at ocean vessels and river cruising but has also looked to the sky.  Crystal is building a fleet of private jets.  The first, a Bombardier Global Express XRS jet that accommodates up to 12 passengers was introduced this year.  They plan to add a Boeing 777 in 2017 and a 787 Dreamliner in 2018.

Cunard Line

An old favorite in the luxury cruising family is Cunard.  The Queen Mary 2 just emerged from a major renovation in June.  Cunard also has announced that it will add Britannia Club staterooms to Queen Victoria in June 2017.  This line offers transatlantic crosses from New York to England and back along with other ports.

Oceania Cruises

This upper-premium line welcomed its sixth ship, the 684-passenger Sirena, in late April. The Sirena is similar in size and scope to sister ships Regatta, Insigna and Nautica. Oceania also operates the purpose-built 1,250-guest Marina and Riviera.

The company announced plans for its fifth six-month-long voyage, dubbed “Around the World in 180 Days”. This World Cruise will sail more than 39,000 nautical miles across three oceans while visiting 87 ports in 40 countries on five continents. It will be operated by the Insignia, which will depart Miami on January 3, 2018 and return July 1, 2018.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

This is an all-inclusive luxury cruising line that is welcoming its first new ship in 14 years.  The 56,000-ton, 750-guest Seven Seas Explorer debuted in July and the sister ship is scheduled for delivery in 2020.

Highlights on the Seven Seas Explorer are a new Pan-Asian specialty restaurant with no cover charge and a lavish Canyon Ranch Spa Club with a thermal suite and an infinity-edge plunge pool. The new vessel is operating its inaugural season in Europe and will make its North American debut on December 2 in Miami.

Their other three ships in the fleet are slated for an extensive $125 million refurbishment program beginning with the 490-guest Seven Seas Navigator this spring, Seven Seas Voyager in late 2016 and Seven Seas Mariner in spring 2017.

The company also now offers free, intercontinental business-class air for all guests flying to meet ships on Europe, Asia and South America voyages, regardless of suite category. This is in addition to other inclusions, such as free unlimited shore excursions, wine and spirits, unlimited Internet access, prepaid gratuities, ground transfers and luxury pre-cruise hotel stays.

Seabourn

This luxury line will debut the new 40,350-ton, 600-guest Seabourn Encore in December 2016. A sister ship, Seabourn Ovation, will joint the fleet in 2018.  These ships building upon the popularity of their three highly acclaimed Odyssey-class ships, which entered service between 2009 and 2011.

The Ventures by Seabourn expedition program offers optional excursions led by an expert team of scientists, scholars and naturalists. The mall groups have a guide-to-guest ration of 1:14 maximum.

The line also has partnerships with Swarovski Optik, which supplies high-quality binoculars and spotting scopes on the ships, and with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to promote sustainable tourism at World Heritage properties.

SeaDream Yacht Club

skeeze / Pixabay

This upscale line, which offers a “yachting, not cruising” experience on two 112-guest vessels in 2016 celebrates the 15th anniversary of its founding.  The small ships visit many destinations that aren’t accessible by larger vessels.

SeaDream recently announced seven new Wine Voyages, running 7- to 11-day trips for the 2017 season in the Mediterranean.  These cruises will include premium tastings from celebrated wineries such as Château Gassier, Tenuta San Guido, Taittinger Champagne and Maison Louis Jadot, as well as a Winemaker’s Dinner.  What better way to see the wine countries of Europe and taste these great wines!

Siversea Cruises

Another all-inclusive luxury line is offering a new collection of specialty voyages that blend culture and travel. The “Exclusively Yours – Enriched Voyages” late summer and fall will feature a complimentary onboard program of entertainment and enrichment activities, as well as complimentary shore excursions on select sailings.

The program includes opera shows performed by the world=renowned Accademia Teatro ala Scala, classic ballet performances by soloists from the State Academic Bolshoi Theater of Russia and culinary voyages hosting renowned Relais & Châteaux chefs.

In April 2017 Silversea is planning the arrival of its long-awaited new ship, the 596-guest, 40,700-ton Silver Muse.  The Silver Muse will launch its inaugural season from Monte Carlo and sail in and around the Mediterranean.  Thirteen European ports-of-call feature UNESCO sites.  Then the Silver Muse will make its trans-Atlantic crossing to sail along the East Coast of North America, through the Panama Canal on October 18 and down to South America and the Caribbean.

So, if luxury is in your travel plans, contact me to help you plan that great, relaxing, memorable vacation.

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.jpgCTT logo 2016 - 3-26-2016

 

 

No Matter What Happens, Here’s How You Can Be The Best Travel Companion

Are you a good travel companion?  Whether you’re going for a couple of weeks or even for months together, there are some foundational things that are critical to making travel with someone else successful.  Ashlea Halpern is an editor at Traveler magazine who recently spent a year globe trotting with her boyfriend. Here are some of her best tips for making it work so you can come back from your journey stronger than ever.

Get Clear On What You’re Good At And What You’re Not Good At — And Play Up Each Other’s Strengths.

You might be awesome at small details, or you might be more of a big-picture kind of person. Either one is fine, of course — but be honest with yourself about where you excel. Use your gifts to help make the trip better, and let your travel partner do the same. If you hate navigating and you’re no good at it, then don’t insist on being the one to find the hotel at 11 pm in a city of ten million people. Find another way to get that done. When you see yourself and your travel companion get more done when you balance each other out, then differences don’t have to be catastrophic.

Go Ahead And Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone, But Be Clear About Your Boundaries.

Yes, traveling is all about expanding and learning, and it’s good to try all kinds of new things. But don’t be afraid to set limits. If you absolutely do not want to go skydiving, don’t do it. If it’s someone else’s dream, offer to be there cheering her on. If you really want to try roasted beetles, go for it! But if your friend refuses, respect that and move on. There are plenty more adventures ahead to enjoy together.

Find Small Certainties Within The Chaos.

So much of travel is uncertain — you’re in a new place, surrounded by things you might not recognize, trying to navigate through language and cultural barriers. If you’re traveling long-term, you know the agony and exhaustion of flight changes, train schedules, taxi rules, late nights, early mornings. Fatigue can make you vulnerable to illness, impatience, and arguments. Take an honest look at yourself and identify one or two things you need to do every day to keep you grounded. Is it a good breakfast? A great cup of coffee? A reasonable bedtime? An afternoon walk? Time with a good book? Then, to the best of your ability, try to honor those needs, even when everything is up in the air. Compromise with your travel partner. If he’s an early riser and you’re a sleeper-inner, find a way to meet in the middle, or try to accommodate those natural tendencies. Maybe he gets up at six and reads the paper or works out while you snooze for an extra hour. These small concessions will pay huge dividends later on when the time comes where you have to make sacrifices due to schedules or other needs.

It’s Okay To Spend Time Apart.

Especially if you’re an introvert, you might need alone time to stay sane. Or you might just want to spend an afternoon exploring on your own, talking to new people, doing different things. It’s okay! It’s normal to get sick of spending weeks at a time in close quarters with the same person. A little pre-planned, cordial time apart might be the exact thing that helps you be at your best together.

When Things Get Tough, Stand Together.

It’s normal to bicker about small things. Everyone does. But when there’s something major, remember that you are a team. Hold off on blame, engage empathy, and get to work — together.

Don’t Forget To Be Silly.  

Laughter has saved many a relationship. It brings us back to what matters. It helps us take ourselves less seriously. It reminds us that it’s more important to be connected than it is to be right. Recognize when your travel partner is trying to lighten the mood, and don’t be afraid to let go and be goofy together. That time when everything was going wrong, and you stopped and realized how ridiculous it all was, and you laughed so hard that you both had tears rolling down your cheeks — that will stay with you forever. Go with it.

If you’re ready to embark on the fun, crazy adventure of traveling with a loved one, give me a call! I’d love to help you make it the best experience yet.

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.jpgCTT logo 2016 - 3-26-2016

All-Inclusive Resorts – Caribbean

All-inclusive resorts, as mentioned in my previous post, are a great alternative to cruises with some of the same benefits.Beaches, Resorts  Let’s cover a different part of the world where all-inclusive resorts abound.  There are still other areas like in the Tahiti, Bora Bora and other exotic locales.  I thought I would just talk about those closer to home with not a lot of hassle to get to nor with expensive air.  As before, some promote romance and some are for families.

Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

This is an adults-only hotel which fosters intimacy, attracting both honeymooners and couples eager to relight the flame.  Free anniversary package featuring a bottle of bubbly, special turndown service, breakfast in bed, spa discounts and other goodies is offered.  Located on 700 feet of Bavaro beachfront white sand, gentle surf and palm trees abound.  Nightly entertainment, a weekly foam party and main pool activities are also available.

Sandals Emerald Bay, Exuma

It is hard to top this resort for romantic settings.  The resort enjoys a mile-long beach, a soft, pristine Out Islands beach.  There is much to do here from watersports, tennis and scuba to golf.  The golf course is an oceanside, Greg Norman-designed, 7,200-yard par 72 with six signature holes.  There are three pools which include a half-acre, zero-entry beauty with a fire pit in the middle and the six bars include a pool bar, swanky lounge, and British pub.  Daytime and evening entertainment is available.

Three Sandals Resorts on Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia has a combination of scenery rivaling that of Polynesia and some of the most innovative and well-run hotels in the Caribbean.  “The beautiful topography of Saint Lucia, fiery sunsets, secluded beaches, and astounding views create an ideal backdrop for any couple looking to rekindle their romance.” said the deputy director of tourism for Saint Lucia.  The three Sandals resorts are:  Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals Regency La Toc, and Sandals Halcyon Beach, each with its own personality but all offering their guest access to the sister properties’ restaurants for a total of 27 dining choices.

Riu Republica, Punta Cana

This is a new property that has only been open about a month and is already at about 90 percent occupancy.  The target age range is 25-50.  There are 1,007-guestrooms on this adults-only property.  There are activities at the resort and off-property excursions are also available to enjoy the Dominican Republic’s water-based offerings.  The waters in these parts are home to a stunning display of sea life, including an appearance by Dory, as well as Needle fish, ea urchins and other underwater creatures.  Another don’t miss activity is a chocolate-making lesson ($15 pp) at the sister property, RIU Palace Macao.

Family Oriented Resorts

Some of the family-oriented resorts available in the Caribbean are: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa, Beaches Negril Resort & Spa and Beaches Ocho Rios.  Be Live Hotels & Resorts are five-star properties designed for families, couples, friends and business trips in the Dominican Republic.  Club Med is also available in the Bahamas, Dominican Republic and Turks & Caicos.  Hyatt has the Hyatt Zliara Rose Hall and Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall in Jamaica.  The Moon Palace Jamaica Grande is family friendly.

I hope these blogs have given you a brief, overall idea of alternatives to cruising or standard hotel vacations in locations near home.  There are many more all-inclusive resorts available in various areas around the Caribbean, Mexico, and other areas.  Contact me for more information and I will be happy to help you find one that fits your needs and wants for that fantastic vacation.

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 - 3-26-2016Elaine-Sklom.jpg

Five ‘Life-Saving’ Items to add to Your Regular Packing List

You’re getting ready for your next trip. The suitcase is open on the bed, and you’re going down your packing list of everything you’ll need to take with you.

Sandals? Check. Wind breaker? Check. Sunscreen? Check.

Duct tape? Wait….what?

You read that correctly. A small roll of duct tape takes up a tiny bit of space, but can save you in tons of different ways. Patch a tear in your shoes, jacket, or trusty bag. Baby proof a hotel room in ten seconds by covering outlets and taping drawers shut. Hem your pants. Use as a bandage in an emergency. The list goes on and on.

Here are four more things that should become part of your regular packing list:

External USB battery charger.

Nothing is more exasperating or panic-inducing than finding yourself lost and needing to pull up that email with directions, or that map to your hotel, or make a phone call — and having your smartphone konk out on you. Save outlet space in airports, hotels, train stations, and other oft-traveled places. Always have a way to charge up your phone, tablet, or other USB powered electronic device, even if there are no outlets available.

Safety Pin

The humble safety pin can be an amazing asset. Aside from the usual functions — holding your pants or shirt together, for example, when you lose a button — they also can serve to bundle small items like jewelry or keys, to keep everything organized and in one place. Discretely place a pin on the inside hem of a slip or satin jacket lining to eliminate static cling. Use them to attach easily-lost things like mittens to the zipper or hood of your kids’ jackets.

Chamois (or other absorbent fabric)

A few strips of chamois (or other absorbent fabric) in different sizes. You can keep them all in a zip-lock bag (along with a couple of other bags for temporarily storing used cloths until you can wash them) — but having different sizes helps for different situations, and it’s best to choose fabrics that are also quick-drying. Small squares for cleaning glasses. A washcloth for bigger spills or for freshening up at a rest stop. Use a bandana-sized piece to tie back your hair or, when dampened, tie around your head on a hot day to keep cool. A long, narrower strip can serve as an emergency belt, hair tie, ace bandage, or even a way to tie a bag closed if a zipper breaks. They even make fantastic travel towels, because they roll up into a compact size, suck up the liquid, and dry completely in no time at all.

My Contact Information

As your travel agent, my job doesn’t end when your trip starts!  It’s not common, but sometimes complications arise while you are traveling, and I am always available to you to assist with sticky situations you might find yourself in. (This is, of course, just one of the many perks of working with a travel agent!) Before your trip, you can make a “favorites” list in your phone of all trip-related contact info — my number and email address, hotel, car rental, reservations, etc. — for easy access. That way, I’m always just a call away.

To find out more about the benefits of working with me and to plan your next trip, contact me today. Click here now.

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.jpgCTT logo 2016 - 3-26-2016

All-Inclusive Resorts – Mexico

All-inclusive resorts are a great alternative to cruising, with some of the same benefits.  They are available all over the Caribbean.  The benefits are that the meals, beverages and sometimes entertainment is included in the price.  The ones listed here are just a sampling of those available in Mexico. These resorts are luxurious and cater to many types of travelers.  Some are adults only, some are family friendly and some are for couples.  These type of resorts are great for destination weddings as most of them have special deals for wedding parties. Let’s start with some that are located in Mexico and will address those in other locations in future blogs.

ResortsHard Rock Resorts

Hard Rock Resorts is located in Riviera Maya, Cancun and Puerta Vallarta in Mexico, along with the Dominican Republic.  These are part of  their All Inclusive Collection.  They are affordable yet unique beachfront property that features unmatched luxury, all-inclusive accommodations.  Included are in-room double hydro tubs, fine dining, top-shelf drinks, 24-hour room service, custom rockstar memorabilia, live entertainment, expansive pools with swim up bars and so much more.

They offer some extraordinary touches like The Sound of Your Stay where you can use Fender guitars and DJ equipment at no cost. There is also the Music Lab, a free interactive way to connect through music-based experiences. Another is Colin Cowie Weddings & Honeymoons which is an exclusive partnership with the award-winning celebrity wedding planner featuring nine exclusive wedding connections.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts

Hilton first opened its first all-inclusive resort in Mexico back in 2012.  The Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort features 259 luxury rooms and suites.  It is owned and managed by Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe.  The resort is in hotel zone, minutes away from the international airport and the Malecon area.

Hyatt Hotels & Resort

There are four Hyatt-branded all-inclusive resorts owned and managed by Playa Hotels & Resorts.  The Hyatt Zilara resorts exclusively focus on adults and offer activity-driven experiences.  The Hyatt Ziva resorts specialize in family vacations. The resorts are Hyatt Zilara Cancun, Hyatt Ziva Cancun, Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos and Hyatt Ziva Puerto Villarta.

Riu Hotels & Resorts

The Riu Hotels & Resorts offers versatile properties located in choice beachfront locations and offer accommodations for virtually every type of traveler.  There are multiple resorts in Mexico  with elegant palatial architecture, sophisticated decor and fine cuisine.  They are the Club Hotel Riu Jalisco, Club Hotel Riu Tequila, Hotel Riu Cancun, Hotel Riu Caribe, Hotel Riu Emerald Bay, Hotel Riu Lupita, Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas, Hotel Riu Palace Las Americas, Hotel Riu Palace Mexico, Hotel Riu Palace Pacifico, Hotel Riu Palace Peninsula, Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya, Hotel Riu Playacar, Hotel Riu Plaza Guadalajara, Hotel Riu Santa Fe, Hotel Riu Yucatan, Hotel Riu Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit-Nuevo Vallarta.

Luxury Bahia Principe Don Pablo Collection

Located in Mexico, Dominican Republic and Jamaica with nine resorts. In Mexico are the Luxury Bahia Principe Akumal Don Pablo Collection and the Luxury Bahia Principe Sian Ka’an Don Pablo Collection which is adults only.

Everything about the Luxury Bahia Principe Don Pablo Collection brand is designed to provide exclusive and personalized service guaranteeing your ultimate experience of true affordable luxury.  Some sample luxury amenities are luxurious common areas, Canapé and Cava Service every day in the lobby bar, chocolates for your enjoyment in the Lobby bar, exclusive beach area with Luxury sunbeds and waiter service and sunbeds at the swimming pools.

There are several other excellent all-inclusive resorts located in Mexico and other areas of the Caribbean.  For more information about the resorts in this blog and the others please contact me at elaine@cruiserstravel.net or 941-979-9798.

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.jpg

Fathom Cruise Line – A Different Kind of Cruise

Fathom is a cruise line owned by Carnival.  It’s moderate luxury and a moderately priced fare.  But it’s different in that it involves volunteerism.  It is for those that want to make a difference.  Right now it travels to the Dominican Republic and will be going to Cuba in the future.  You will sail aboard the Adonia, an older vessel that has been totally revamped.  I just recently had the pleasure of touring this vessel and it did surprise me.  The decor was elegant but homey.  You didn’t feel like you were losing anything – except the casino as there is none.

Fathom 400 x 300Check outsome of these videos:

Give. Play. Grow.” 

“Tara Shares Her Story”

“Seven Days”

When you get to the Dominican Republic the ship is your hotel so you unpack once and enjoy!  You can make a difference educationally, environmentally, with economic development or special opportunities.  There are up to three impact activities included in each Fathom journey.

Education

During the school year you can go to the schools and help children with their English reading and conversation.  You can also help lower income adults with their English and conversation.  This will help these students to be productive adults and work in the tourism industry which helps their county so much.

As a Fathom traveler you can help with Creative Arts, Music and Sports too.  You can be part of an innovative summer program designed to develop creativity, athletic ability, and life skills in a safe and fun environment. In the mountains above Puerto Plata, a three-day camp is located in a rural community with cooler temperatures, a more picturesque setting, and more expansive facilities than urban schools can offer. The well-planned programs include videos, joint dramatic presentations by students and Fathom travelers, hands-on arts and crafts activities, and a full day devoted to sports and nutrition. The result is the ideal combination of learning and fun, both for the students and for you.

You can help a child create a three-dimensional environmental model from recycled items, or a map of the world using flip-chart paper and old travel magazines. You can share information about your own home town and take part in a student-created dramatic presentation. You can participate in a mini-Olympics event where every child gets a medal, either for physical feats or for perseverance. You’ll watch the students improve their confidence levels, their English skills, and their potential for academic performance. And you’ll share in their victories, every step of the way.

Environment

Environmentally you can help with water filter production where you help them make filters made of clay, which mean far fewer children and adults will miss school or work due to water-borne illnesses.  You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside established organizations and local artisans in the entire filter-making process: gathering and mixing the raw materials, working the clay, shaping and firing the filters, testing the quality of the finished product, and distributing the finished filters to needy families. In this family-friendly activity, even smaller children will find ways to do their part. There is a $20 per person surcharge for participation in this program

You can also participate in local reforestation efforts designed to improve the livelihoods of Dominican families, restore degraded land, and contribute to forest and wildlife conservation throughout the region. Working with schools and local communities, you can participate in activities that range from the simple potting of tree seedlings and transporting plants, to assisting local Dominicans with establishing and managing tree nurseries, to the more strenuous efforts of cultivation and planting. Thanks to the small-group nature of these reforestation activities, you’ll gain firsthand experience in transforming a community by working to protect and extend its natural resources.

Economic Development

The poorest half of the Dominican Republic’s population receives less than one-fifth of the country’s annual GDP. But the economic opportunities are there. And so is the willingness to take advantage of them.  One local women’s cooperative is actively involved in the cultivation of organic chocolate (cacao) plants, an important source of income for the Puerto Plata region. As a Fathom™ traveler, you can participate in the complete production cycle: from planting and cultivating the organic cacao trees, to preparing the raw materials, to producing and packaging the final product for sale. By helping to improve production and increase sales, you’ll also be helping the organization to thrive so it can hire more local women, providing critical income in a region with limited employment opportunities.

Another group of enterprising Dominican women have formed an association to create and sell arts and crafts from locally recycled paper. In addition to participating in the entire paper recycling process, you’ll have the opportunity to support all aspects of the association’s program, including creating new products for sale, expanding the association’s distribution network, and helping to establish a more formal process for taking their products to market. This support provides critical income and will ultimately allow the women to expand their association as their business grows.

As a Fathom traveler, you can have a positive, hands-on impact on both programs, not only helping the women benefit from steady sources of income but also contributing to increased English skills that can help them sell their products more effectively.

Special Opportunities

In addition you’ll have the opportunity to help improve the lives and health of the Dominican people from the ground up. Literally for a small charge of $20 per person.  In the homes of poorer communities, the common basic dirt floors are a genuine health risk. They pick up dust during the dry season and retain dampness and puddles in the rainy season. And they’re impossible to clean, which means that anything spilled on the floor or tracked into the house, however unhygienic, tends to stay put.

Every month, homes in a different small area of a community will be chosen to be upgraded with new concrete floors. And, if you can’t see yourself pouring concrete, there are plenty of other tasks at hand: painting the house, fixing broken furniture, cleaning and improving the outside surroundings, making improvements to common areas in the community, or planting fruit trees as part of a beautification effort that can also provide long-term nutritional benefits. The overall project will also include the addition of latrines and mosquito screens to reduce the prevalence of waste-borne and mosquito-borne diseases. You’ll work alongside the homeowners and other members of the surrounding community, including children and teenagers, helping them create surroundings they’ll be proud to maintain and take care of.

Don’t worry, not everything is work.  You can also play and take advantage of everything all other cruises offer.

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.jpgCTT logo 2016 - 3-26-2016

Luggage – 5 Questions to help Choose

Almost all travelers have a Nightmare Luggage story. You spent a lot of money on a fancy brand-name bag that broke on the first leg of the trip. Or you skimped on the spending and got exactly what you paid for. Or the bag that you thought would be comfortable and versatile turned out to be neither as you dragged it over the cobblestones of Florence or humped it on aching shoulders through the crowded, narrow streets of Kathmandu.

luggage

Choosing the right luggage will free you up to enjoy your trip without any unnecessary aggravation. To help you pick the best possible bag for your next adventure — here are five simple questions you can ask yourself to help you decide which type of bag is best for you.

What are the baggage restrictions and limits of all the airlines I will be traveling with?

Some countries have more restrictive guidelines that are more stringently enforced. Smaller airlines in Europe, for example, require smaller and lighter bags than in the US. Make sure you know what the requirements will be so you don’t get stuck having to pay hefty fines or finding new luggage at the last minute.  I am always happy to answer your questions regarding airline baggage restrictions and will advise you on the requirements of all the airlines you will be flying with.

Am I an over-packer or a shopper?

If you know that you tend to bring more than you need and buy when you get there, opt for an expandable bag as your carry-on, and slip in an empty, durable nylon bag to bring back new things with you. (Note: be prepared to pay any additional fees that might apply for additional bags, or if your bag becomes too large/heavy as a result of over-packing!)

How much attention do I want my luggage to get?

Yes, sometimes it’s tempting to get the stand-out, fashion-forward luggage set in fuchsia — but if you’re heading to a destination that’s known for theft, sometimes the better option is to pick a suitcase that blends in with the crowd. There are always things you can do to help with identification — a colorful ribbon, a sticker, a unique tag — but if you don’t want your luggage to be a target for opportunistic thieves, just opt to keep it simple.

How much transferring will I be doing on this trip?

Are you heading to one main location that will be your “home base” of travel operations? Or will you be constantly on the move from city to city, hopping trains, getting taxis, taking buses? Will someone be available to help you lift your bags if you need assistance (partner, children, tour assistant), or will you be the one fully responsible for handling your luggage at all times? The more you’ll be moving and hefting, the more you should aim for simple, lightweight, durable, and versatile. Pack only the essentials, and look for bags that offer more than one transport method — for example, a carry-on with hidden pull-out straps and can be transformed into a comfy backpack for hands-free movement.

Does my luggage match the type and terrain of the trip I’m taking?

Wheeled suitcases are great — if you have lots of flat floors and smooth sidewalks along which to roll them. But after two days of lugging a heavy suitcase through bumpy streets, broken sidewalks, dirt paths, or up endless flights of stairs in old, gorgeous elevator-less buildings, you’ll be praying to the luggage gods for a simple backpack with padded shoulder straps.

The last thing you want to be focused on while you’re on the trip of a lifetime is some annoying, avoidable luggage irritation. With a little investigating and preparation before you pack up and head out, you can make sure your luggage fits seamlessly into your travel plans.

Ready to plan your dream vacation? Want an experienced Travel Advisor to advise you about the best luggage for your upcoming trip? I’ve got the knowledge and passion for great travel to help make this a year to remember. You can set up a consultation with me now by clicking here.

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 - 3-26-2016Elaine-Sklom

River Cruise Lines – Part 2

A river cruise is a great way to immerse yourself in the areas you are visiting.  Be it local cuisine on board, shore excursions where you learn how to cook local cuisine, visit a family on their farm or take a bike trip on your own.  In my last post I talked about some of the river cruise lines available. In this post I will discuss a few more.  As mentioned before, most of the river cruises are all inclusive and elegant.

River, Cruising

Emerald Cruise Line

An Emerald cruise gives you panoramic views of stunning scenery and features contemporary boutique hotel styling.  Deluxe in-suite comfort, fine dining options and exceptions service are all included in the price.  This cruise line is truly all-inclusive with airport transfers, complimentary beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, complimentary wi-fi, all tips for shore side and onboard staff, shore excursions in every port, bicycles and 24-hour complimentary tea and coffee.

It has a dual purpose area aft of the ship where it is a pool by day and a cinema at night.  The pool is heated with a retractable roof.

Bedroom windows drop half way down at the touch of a button on the Vista and Horizon decks.  Their cabins are larger that average.

Scenic Cruise Line

Scenic is a luxury cruise with five dining options.  It is also all-inclusive with a personal butler, unlimited drinks day and night, all airport transfers, wifi throughout the ship, in-suite mini bar that is restocked daily.  Nightly turndown service, tips and gratuities, laundry concierge and local guides and excursions are also included along with ebikes, self-touring devices and enrichment events.  The only extras are for the spa and hair salon.

Called space-ships, suites and staterooms are 24% larger than the competitors and 84% of the cabins have balconies. There are six dining venues, open seating, and no dress code but country club casual is recommended.  Certain itineraries offer home-hosted meals.

Free choice shore excursions offer a coach tour with local guides, electric assist bikes and walking tours.  Scenic provides tailor-made devices with docking station for two in each cabin.

UniWorld Cruise Line

This is a boutique cruise line and all-inclusive with airport transfers, all meals with unlimited beverages, hosted excursions with personalized options, wifi access, all gratuities both onboard and onshore and shore excursions.  Shore excursions include travelers choice – hiking, biking and walking.  They offer “do as locals do” excursions, “village day” where you get an up close look at rural European and Russian towns and visits to local homes and workshops.

UniWorld has themed cruises and generations cruises with spirits included in the price throughout the day. No matter what category you book 24-hour room service is available.

Viking Cruise Line

Viking Cruise Line offers both river and ocean cruises.  Their river cruises have the ability to dock in the heart of small towns.  Most have al fresco dining featuring regional cuisine and always available American classics.  On shore and on board you get an immersive experience with an included excursion in every port.  Pricing includes onboard meals, lectures, shore excursions and more with wine, bar and soda with lunch and dinner, bottled water and internet.

Onboard world-class lectures on the history and art of the areas being visited, cooking demonstrations, restaurant menus inspired by the local cuisine and other opportunities to share the region’s culture with clients are all part of the trip.

Cabins have floor to ceiling windows.  There are 7 Veranda suites that are 275 square feet with French balconies. The 2 Explorer suites are 445 square feet with separate sleeping/sitting rooms and a private wraparound veranda with a 270 degree view. There are 39 full-size Veranda staterooms and 22 staterooms with French balconies.

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 - 3-26-2016Elaine-Sklom.jpg

River Cruise Lines – Part 1

River CruiseRiver cruising is a great way to see Europe.  There are various river cruise lines available to choose from.  Almost all of the river cruise lines are all-inclusive and much more intimate with a small number of passengers.  This means they include meals, entertainment and shore excursions.  Most river cruise lines include bicycles so you can explore on your own and they provide commentaries on what you are seeing and a GPS so you don’t get lost and can find the ship again.  These cruises are a fantastic way to experience the rich culture, art and history of Europe.

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways always focuses on finding ways to give their guests more — more experiences, more onboard amenities and more choices. Shore excursions are offered in every port.  In most cases, guests will have a choice of activities, including Limited Edition Tours that provide unique opportunities to become immersed in local culture. See brilliant architecture in Vienna, taste Belgian waffles in Antwerp, navigate the canals of Amsterdam — there are so many ways for guests to not only discover but also experience.  AmaWaterways can accommodate those who want action.  They offer special hikes and carries a fleet of bicycles on board. Guests can hop on and join a guided bike tour or just go explore on their own.  Each day is packed full of excursions designed to make sure guests see and do as much as they can — and it’s all included in the cruise fare.

AmaWaterways has partnered with Adventures by Disney on a new seven-night, family-focused Danube River cruise to Austria, Germany, Slovakia and Hungary.  The AmaViola is built with new family-friendly design elements including six sets of connecting staterooms.  Some staterooms and suites can accommodate three- and four-person families.  On each family sailing, AmaViola will be staffed by Amawaterways crew and crew director, plus eight “adventure guides” from Adventures by Disney.  Activities will be tailored to multiple age levels, ranging from wine tasting and music classes for adults to karaoke and relay games for children.  There will also be teen-related activities and themed nights.

Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways invites travelers to experience the view they deserve when sailing the world’s rivers. They offer staterooms so beds face the window — and the incredible sights river cruising is famous for.  In fact, on two full decks of every Suite Ship in Europe and Southeast Asia, Avalon offers travelers a unique point-of-view: One where the view is the whole point. They have innovative Open-Air Balconies (in every Panorama Suite) to make full use of the intended balcony experience. These let you have the balcony experience in any weather condition, in any season, without compromising on room space.

Crystal River Cruises

From the world’s most awarded luxury cruise line comes an entirely new way to explore the grand waters of Europe — Crystal River Cruises.  There are five intimate all-suite river yachts in their fleet. There are four new purpose-built river yachts currently on order with the Lloyd Werft shipyard, set for delivery throughout 2017.  This cruise line is where all inclusive is all inclusive.

Their Crystal Mozart, currently undergoing a stunning transformation, with unmatched space and luxury. This exceptionally elegant river yacht will boast butler service for every suite, superb cuisine and an extraordinary level of personalized service with the highest staff-to-guest ration in all of European river cruises.  Among the most defining characteristics of the Crystal River experience will be the dynamic and cultured experiences shore.  Curated itineraries are distinguished by authentic and immersive activities in some of the world’s most fascinating places.

CroisiEurope

CroisiEurope delivers the best value in river cruising today — an all-inclusive experience with unlimited beverages, complimentary shore excursions, free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment, along with superb service.  This cruise line is family-owned and operated for over 40 years.

Guests onboard are from all over the world, including France, Germany, the UK and Australia, which creates an enriching experience.  The line French roots inspire its itineraries and cuisine.

CroisiEurope adds new river and barge ships to its fleet every year and just added a paddlewheel designed ship in 2016 and more paddlewheelers are planned to be added to their fleet.

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

Travel Insurance – Five Things You Need To Know

Travel insurance is confusing to even the most seasoned travelers sometimes — what’s out there, what it covers, whether or not they need it.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance

While coverage and policies vary from state to state, of course, here are some basics of travel insurance to get you started:

  1. There are five main types of travel insurance. What you might need depends largely on what kind of trip you’re taking, what kind of traveler you are, and how frequently you travel. The five main types are:
    • trip cancellation and interruption (full or partial reimbursement for a trip you need to cancel prior to departure, a trip that gets cancelled because a tour company or resort goes out of business, or a trip that gets cut short for a wide variety of reasons)
    • medical (for health issues that occur outside of your normal coverage area)
    • evacuation (due to disaster, dangerous weather, political emergency, or medical emergency)
    • baggage (reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage)
    • flight insurance (also called “crash coverage,” this is basically a life insurance policy that covers you while you’re on the plane, in the event of a statistically-rare crash)

Travel expert Rick Steves explains the way they generally work is like this:

“The various types are generally sold in some combination — rather than buying only baggage, medical, or cancellation insurance, you’ll usually purchase a package that includes most or all of them. If you want just one type of coverage in particular — such as medical — ask for that (though it might come with a little cancellation or baggage insurance, too). ‘Comprehensive insurance’ covers all of the above, plus expenses incurred if your trip is delayed, if you miss your flight, or if your tour company changes your itinerary.”

  1. Just because you have health insurance at home does not mean that it will cover you on your trip. You need to check the ins and outs of your particular health insurance policy. It may cover you while you travel, but many do not. In fact, some insurance policies don’t even cover health emergencies experienced on foreign-flagged vessels — which is what most cruise ships are. Check with your provider, ask your travel agent for suggestions, and of course direct any insurance-related questions to the provider. As Steves puts it, “Before purchasing a policy, ask your insurer to explain exactly what’s covered before and after you get to the hospital.”
  1. Avoid purchasing travel insurance from the company that’s also hosting your trip. The reason for this? If that company goes out of business, chances are, so does their insurance.
  2. Some companies offer comprehensive coverage that can serve as your primary coverage while you’re traveling. What does this mean, and how can it benefit you? It means that the insurance company will pay first, regardless of what other insurance you have. They don’t even inquire about additional insurance, saving you tons of paperwork and out-of-pocket expenses. TravelGuard and Travelex are two such companies that provide these policies as an option.
  1. Weigh the cost of the trip with the cost of insurance. If you just bought a $79 ticket for a quick weekend in Chicago — is it worth it? Maybe, maybe not. If, however, you’re headed out on a once-in-a-lifetime trip that you’ve been saving for for months, travel insurance is likely a great idea.

If you’re looking to maximize your fun and minimize your risk, travel insurance might be just the right option for you. Take your time, ask tons of questions, and find what works best for you and your family.

Have questions about insurance – or any other travel-related topic? I’d love to sit down with you in person or over the phone and get to know you and your travel plans better. To get in touch, just click here.

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

CTT logo 2016 - 3-26-2016Elaine-Sklom.jpg