Happy Holidays!

Hope those of you that celebrate had a very Merry Christmas yesterday!! We've been in Arizona spending time in the sun for the holidays... although it is a bit chilly here now... has been in the 40's - 50's. Almost like Seattle except no rain!

We're getting ready for the upcoming new year and looking forward to a great 2010!

Linda and Dorsey are leaving for their Vietnam/Cambodia river cruise on AMA Waterways in about 2 weeks, it's been a long anticipated trip for them and am sure they are going to have a fabulous time! I can't wait for the pictures and stories when they return at the end of January... and I'll be sure to post them for you to see!

We also have our 9th annual Great Girls Getaway coming up in April, a few months away still but know it will be here fast. We'll be cruising up the Pacific Coast from San Diego to Vancouver BC, and stopping in some great places! There is still room onboard the ship if you'd like to join in on the fun! Bring your mom, daughter, sister, friend... whoever! It's 6 days full of laughter and fun!

Enjoy the rest of 2009 and have a very Happy New Years!

Azamara Cruises

Azamara Cruises was ranked among the world's top 10 cruises lines in 2009 by Travel and Leisure Magazine and was the Cruise Critic Editors Pick for being Best for Couples in 2009.

Loosely defined, travel means to go from one place to another. But at Azamara Cruises, they believe travel is more than just the voyage. Instead, travel is about taking in all that the world has to offer. It's about discovering that what's new is somehow familiar, thousands of miles from home.

On an Azamara vacation, you won't just sail from one unique destination to the next, but instead develop a new and richer experience of place. From multiple overnight stays in port and exclusive activities in cities large and small, an Azamara vacation offers endless opportunities to not only observe the local fabric of a destination, but also to become part of it, if only for a little while.

And as you discover the world, taste by taste, color by color, city by city, you will also discover a newly enriched sense of self... because at Azamara, travel is not only about where you go, it's also about how you get there. From extraordinary personalized service to an array of healthy-lifestyle options, Azamara puts all of its focus on its guests and your well-being.

Let Azamara redefine travel for you!

Cruise News!!

Princess Cruise Ship Receives New Name...

Princess Cruises is celebrating the new name of its ship "Ocean Princess" (formerly Tahitian Princess) by extending an open invitation to anyone wishing to become an honorary godparent for the vessel, with the first-ever virtual christening.

In a new twist on the time-honored tradition, the naming ceremony will occur completely online, at www.princess.com/oceanvirtualchristening. Each new godparent will trigger a $1 donation from Princess to the New England Aquarium, a global leader in ocean exploration and marine conservation, up to $25,000.

One of the small ships of Princess, Ocean Princess - fresh out of drydock - departed Singapore December 2nd on the first voyage with her new name. The virtual christening will run through the ship's 16-day Southeast Asia cruise, ending on Dec. 18th.

In addition to virtually christening the ship and becoming an honorary godparent, participants will be able to explore many areas of the ship online!

Following its inaugural Treasures of the Southeast Asia cruise from Singapore to Shanghai, Ocean Princess will offer a season of unique Asia, India and Africa sailings, followed by a summer of European voyages. Princess's small ships offer a classic and intimate cruise experience, and carry around 680 passengers. They travel to more remote destinations around the world!

Celebrity Solstice Special Rates

Celebrity "Solstice", departing 9/12/10

As you stroll among the expansive decks, you'll experience the rich color palettes illuminated by beautiful natural light, and revel in the extensive amenities - all delivered with the attentive service for which Celebrity Cruises in renowned. Celebrity Solstice is built around you and the way you long to travel. Voyage with Celebrity, on the newest of their Solstice-Class of ships, and discover a refined level of elegance - an unrivaled experience making a distinctive statement of style and design!

Experience the Solstice in a balcony stateroom for the same rate as an interior and ocean view while availability lasts!! Interior, Ocean View AND Balcony staterooms for $956.00 per person. OR try the Aqua Class for $1305.00 per person.

For those who have entered a spa and never wanted to leave, the Solstice offers the new Aqua Class stateroom. Sharing a deck with the AquaSpa relaxation room, it incorporates select spa elements into the staterooms, allows for specialized access to spa amenities, and features assigned seating at the healthfully delicious Blu restaurant.

And don't forget to visit the Lawn Club onboard! There's absolutely nothing like it! A freshly manicured lawn on the highest deck of the ship. Enjoy casual outdoor activities in a decidedly Country Club atmosphere, and let the grass between your toes take you places no cruise has gone before.

This is truly a unique experience and one you don't want to miss out on, especially for such a good deal! Contact us to put your name on a door!

New "Fun Ship" Just Announced

It was just officially announced that Carnival will be adding a third Dream class "Fun Ship" to the fleet in the spring of 2012!!

This new 3690-passenger vessel will offer many of the same innovations featured on the recently launched Carnival Dream, as well as some exciting new elements to be announced at a later date.

Like Carnival Dream, which has earned accolades for its creative design and onboard amenities, the new 130,000-ton ship will include a WaterWorks aqua park with a 300-foot-long corkscrew water slide, a stunning indoor/outdoor cafe and live entertainment venue called Ocean Plaza, and a wide range of staterooms including deluxe ocean views with two-bathrooms, some of which feature five beds... a great option for families!

Expansive modern facilities for children and teens, a 23, 750-square-foot Cloud 9 Spa, and The Lanai, an outdoor promenade featuring cantilevered whirlpools that extend over the ship's sides, will be included as well.

Already under construction is the second sister ship to the Carnival Dream, the Carnival Magic, which is scheduled to enter service in May 2011.

The Dream class of ships embodies the evolution of Carnival's brand by providing the type of fun and affordable cruise vacations that we are all seeking today!

P.S. Stay tuned for more news on her name, itinerary and unique features!!

A New Twist in River Cruising

River cruising has always been a predominately adult experience, with couples, singles and mature ladies boarding riverboats to sail the world's scenic waterways. Increasingly, though, this is becoming a family affair - although not in the way you might think! More and more families are going - like the mother and father who are retired and have sons and daughters in their early 40's. And grown children that want to take their parents to see where their roots are. It's becoming a great way for families to spend quality time together! (If small children are part of the picture, though, be sure to check with us. Most river lines lack kids' facilities and don't cater to families with children. Riverboats may also be too staid for many teens).

Are you an empty-nester? Do you have any adult siblings in a similar situation? Do you have elderly parents who enjoy travel? If so, you may want to think about giving a holiday gift of a 2010 "adult family cruise" through the rivers of Europe. Besides paying in dollars rather than Euros, you can also benefit from current deals such as two-for-one offers, free airfare, and onboard credits.

Passengers will float comfortably from destination to destination - dining, relaxing and sightseeing from the comfort of your own stateroom or on deck as the riverboat sails by castles, cathedrals, historic sites, vineyards and charming villages. When the boat docks in the heart of great cities, quaint towns and small villages, you simply walk off and start exploring or join a guided tour! Meals and entertainment are included in every river cruise, and some lines even include air, gratuities, sightseeing and wine with dinner.

SO, if you have a passion for art, history, architecture, music and culture... you will want to give river cruising a try! This is a great new way to cruise!

Don't Forget... Princess 3-Day Sale

Don't forget...

Princess Cruises is having a 3-day sale starting this Wednesday November 18th.

Sale includes select 2010 Alaska, Europe, and summer Caribbean cruises and cruisetours, and the following:

1. Fare from less than $90 per day
2. Up to $100 cash back per stateroom
3. Free upgrades on all sailings

Just a reminder to all those out there that love sailing Princess and love a great deal!

More Advise Worth Knowing

Question: What is a repositioning cruise?

Answer:
A repositioning cruise is simply that... a chance to reposition a ship from one area of the world to another. Many ships spend their summers in Alaska or Europe with winters in the Caribbean. Shouldn't we all be so lucky!
Repositioning cruises bridge the gap between the seasons and the two different regions of a ship's residence. Personally, I love these long, relaxing itineraries! Typically, a repositioning voyage lasts 8-21 days and only involves one air segment. For example, a client recently sailed from Florida (their hometown) on a Transatlantic voyage to Southampton (England). They enjoyed six straight days at sea where they got to take in every possible aspect of the ship without having to hop on and hop off in various ports of call. Another client also sailed from Vancouver at the end of an Alaskan season on an 18-night voyage all the way back to Florida. Along the way back, they transited the Panama Canal and visited the Mexican Riviera.
Either way you go, it is a great way to experience cruising!

Advice Worth Knowing

Question: Why should I pay extra for an outside stateroom?

Answer:
Before deciding which cabin category works best for you, ask yourself:
Do I like sleeping in a closet without windows?
Does darkness make me happy?
Some inside cabins are similar in size to their ocean view counterparts, so size isn't an issue. The view on the other hand, is. Notice I said "ocean view", because that's what you get with any outside stateroom. My personal favorite is a balcony cabin. There is no experience like a breakfast whale-watch on your own private balcony!

Your vacation is an investment and the nominal charge of an upgrade will vastly improve your experience. In many cases, you can upgrade to an oceanview cabin for a little as $20 per day! So in my opinion, the questions is not "why pay extra for an outside stateroom?" The question is, "why not?"

How To Pack A Suitcase

Extra luggage weight can cost you. Learn how to pack efficiently with the help of a smart step-by-step video!

www.realsimple.com/suitcase

It Pays To Book Early

Did you know that it pays to book your cruise early?

Not only do you get a better choice of cabin selection, but once you have booked and deposited your cruise with us, we will continue to offer you the lowest price available. If the rate for your cruise is reduced by the cruise line before final payment, we pass that price reduction back to you! So there is no need to "wait" for a lower rate before you book!

Azamara Cruises - 3-Days Only

Make your cruise all the more memorable...

Azamara Cruises is offering a limited time offer of up to $500 onboard credit on select sailings to Europe! If you book and deposit a 2010 European cruise October 14th-16th, Azamara is offering $300 onboard credit for verandah staterooms and $500 onboard credit for suites.

Let's find the itinerary that works best for you and take advantage of this deal!

Disney Cruise Line Sets Sail for Alaska

It's a Disney Cruise Line first!
The Disney Wonder cruise ship is sailing to Alaska for a four-month season of 7-night cruises in 2011. Departing out of Vancouver B.C., the ship will call on popular ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway.

The first Alaska cruise sets sail on May 3, 2011, with the last cruise of the season scheduled for August 30, 2011.

Bookings are open starting September 28, 2009!! If you are a Castaway Club member who's completed five or more sailings with Disney Cruise Line, you can book as early as September 11th!

KIDS SAIL FREE ON DISNEY!

GREAT NEWS!!

Kids Sail Free this Winter on Disney Cruise Line!

Starting Monday, August 31st at 8 AM!!!

Kids ages 17 and under can sail free on most 3-night cruises January 7 - April 15, 2010 and most 4-night cruises January 10 - April 11, 2010 with two full-fare Guests in the same stateroom. Government Taxes and Fees not included.

Onboard, discover something magical for every member of your crew with separate areas for kids, teens, adults and families. There's even a day at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island paradise.

ADVICE WORTH KNOWING!

Q: How Do I Get The Best Deal on a Cruise??

A:
There are so many options out there for cruisers. The Internet is overrun by companies selling cruises and offering the best deal. The trick is, how do you know what really is the best deal?

Personally, I recommend going with an experienced cruise specialist. It can be a maze out there, with 18 major cruise lines, 150+ ships and a world of destinations. An expert can help guide your style and budget with the right cruise vacation.

Not only will you get a lower price, in most cases, than by calling the cruise line, you'll have an advocate looking out for you throughout your trip.

Bon Voyage!!

Ruby Princess Swimming Pool Becomes Latest Canvas for Famed Marine Life Artist Wyland

As Ruby Princess approached Venice this afternoon, passengers aboard the ship were treated to a special live art event as famed marine life artist Wyland painted an unusual canvas – the bottom of the ship’s Neptune Pool!

Known worldwide for his unique works featuring sea animals, Wyland is aboard the ship for special art events and meet and greets with passengers. However, painting the ship’s pool was not on his original agenda. Ruby Princess Captain Tony Draper suggested the idea to the artist after being inspired by watching ship crew members painting the Princess “seawitch” logo on the bottom of the ship’s other main pool.

A first for the cruise line, Wyland agreed to paint the mother dolphin and her baby as a way to increase awareness of his conservation message. Passengers were invited to follow along with a live top-deck event hosted by the ship’s cruise director, including live video of the painting in progress broadcast on the ship’s Movies Under the Stars screen.

“This is certainly one of the most unusual ways we’ve ever painted a pool,” said Jan Swartz, Princess executive vice president. “But it’s a wonderful way to work with Wyland to address our shared concern with the importance of marine conservation, and to give our passengers a unique experience as they witnessed a one-of-a-kind artwork taking shape.”
Passengers were able to enjoy watching the artist at work just prior to the ship’s arrival into the Venice canal system.

Marine life artist Wyland is an accomplished painter, sculptor, photographer, writer and SCUBA diver. His non-profit Wyland Foundation has supported numerous conservation programs since 1993, including the monumental Whaling Wall mural project – and epic series of more than 100 life-size marine life murals that spans 14 countries on four continents and is viewed by an estimated 1 billion people every year.

Wyland and Princess Cruises have a long-time association. Many Princess ships incorporate his sculptures in the swimming pool areas, and are featured in his latest book “100 Whaling Walls.” Wyland’s artwork is also featured in the ships’ onboard art galleries.

Ruby Princess is currently sailing on 12-day Grand Mediterranean voyages between Barcelona and Venice, with calls at Monte Carlo, Florence/Pisa, Rome, Naples/Capri, Mykonos, Istanbul, Kusadasi, and Athens.

LOW RATES ON THE "MARINER OF THE SEAS"

We have some GREAT rates on Royal Caribbean's "Mariner of the Seas" on upcoming sailings between now and the end of the year!

Rates start as low as $399 a person!

Some sailing dates have additional discounts as well if you are a senior, in the military or even a resident of some US states!

Call us for the details and cruise the Mexican Riviera in style!

Q&A Session!!

Q: Is cruise ship dining as good as I've been told??

A: Everything you've heard about cruise ship dining is true!! At each meal, you'll find a varied selection of entrees (Appetizers, salads, soups, vegetables, and desserts too), and each day the selection will be different. If you've ever wanted to experiment with a cuisine or try a dish, you can feel free to order more than one entree or appetizer (or dessert!).
But, just because your cruise ship offers plenty of delicious food, doesn't mean you'll come home out of shape. You can choose low-cal, low-carb, spa, vegetarian or health-conscious menu selections that are just as tempting as the regular menu.
Best of all, except for certain specialty restaurants on some ships, the one thing you'll never see on a cruise ship menu is a price because your meals are included!!

RCI Unveils Oasis Dining Venues

With production of the Oasis of the Seas 90% complete, Royal Caribbean International has released initial details of the dining venues that will be available onboard.
Among the wide array of choices will be familiar favorites like Chops Grill, Sorrentos, Windjammer Marketplace and Johnny Rockets, as well new concepts including 150 Central Park, Giovanni's Table, Solarium Bistro, Izumi Asian Cuisine and Seafood Shack!

Going by neighborhood, dining venues aboard Oasis of the Seas will include:

The Boardwalk will offer family favorite Johnny Rockets, as well as a new alternative the 50s style diner, the surf-themed Seafood Shack. Also, on the Boardwalk will be the Donut Shop, which will offer a rotating selection of 10 to 15 varieties of free donuts every day, as well as complimentary coffee. Also in the Boardwalk will be the Boardwalk Bar, a full-scale bar that will also offer salads and sandwiches, and the 50s-styled Ice-Cream Parlour, which will offer up to 15 different flavors.

Five dining options will be offered in Central Park, including the semi-formal 150 Central Park, the Oasis of the Seas' most exclusive dining venue. Also in Central Park will be the line's signature steakhouse Chops Grill and a new Tuscan eatery, Giovanni's Table, which will offer family style Italian dining. Park Café will be a quick service concept offering sandwiches, made to order salads, soups, full meals and crepes on certain days. Central Park also will feature the familiar Vintages wine bar, but new to the Oasis, Vintages will offer a tapas menu, perfect for wine pairings.

On the Royal Promenade, guests will find Café Promenade, which offers coffees, pastries and sandwiches, as well as Sorrento's, which offers pizza on most Royal Caribbean ships. However, on Oasis, Sorrentos will offer made to order pizzas so cruisers can choose from a selection of toppings and watch as a chef makes the pizza on the spot.

For those seeking healthy dining options, the Solarium Bistro will be offered in the Pool & Sports Zone. Here, guests will find healthy buffet selections for breakfast and lunch, and health food menu for dinner. All items served in the Solarium Bistro will be 500 calories or less. Also in the Pool & Sports Zone, will be Wipeout Café, which will offer all-day soft serve ice-cream, as well as hamburgers, hot dogs and other quick service sandwiches.

Vitality Café will be found in the Vitality Zone and will offer healthy snack items such as wraps, fruits, juices, smoothies, energy drinks and more.

Other dining venues found onboard, which will not be linked to a specific neighborhood, will be Windjammer Marketplace and Izumi Asian Cuisine. While Windjammer is an old favorite for RCI guests, Izumi is a new concept that will offer Japanese cuisine, as well as a sushi bar.

While reservations are not required for any of the specialty restaurants, they are recommended. Guests will be able to go online before their cruise and make reservations for any of the specialty dining venues available on the Oasis.

My Time Dining
With all the attention put on the specialty restaurants, "we have not forgotten about the Main Dining Room," said Kenneth Taylor, director of fleet restaurant operations. Taylor added that RCI expects the Main Dining Room to continue to be very popular, especially with the cruise line's new My Time Dining option in place.
With My Time Dining, "we've designed entertainment and dining to be on your schedule, which is why we think My Time Dining will be successful," Taylor added.

As part of My Time Dining guests can choose when they want to dine, as well as request a specific waiter or table. One entire deck of the Main Dining Room will be dedicated to guests who choose My Time Dining. As of May 1, guests can choose My Time Dining at the time of booking.

Get onboard this beautiful ship and check all this excitement out for yourself!

Cruise on the Mariner of the Seas

Well, they're back! Linda and Dorsey spent a week onboard the Mariner of the Seas and cruised up the Pacific coast.

Stay tuned for details on their great cruise!!

Celebrity's Galapagos!

Celebrity Cruise Lines offers a seamless, ALL-INCLUSIVE, environmentally friendly cruise vacation!

What is included:

• VIP Personalized check-in service onboard Celebrity Xpedition
  All meals including bottled water, wine, beer and spirits, coffee, tea, espresso, cappuccino
• All Gratuities
• Cooking demonstrations including tastings
• All snorkeling equipment... masks, snorkels, fins, wet-suits and floatation devices
• All shore excursions... daily excursions led by our Naturalists with choices of activity levels and intensities
• All onboard briefings and lectures led by our expert Naturalists
• Binoculars and bathrobes
• Pre-post Quito experience

Quite an amazing way to experience the Galapagos Islands!

Carnival Cruise Lines to Resume Port Calls in Mexico

Carnival Cruise Lines will resume visits to Mexican ports of call based on the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, which is no longer recommending against non-essential travel to Mexico. Once all voyages with previously modified itineraries are completed, those vessels will revert to their original routes featuring stops in Mexico.
Most itineraries were modified through mid-June with the exception of the Holiday which was modified through late May.

Please rest assured that the health and well being of Carnival's guests and crew is their highest priority and they are returning to Mexico after careful evaluation and consultation with the CDC. It is important to note that the concentration of H1N1 flu cases in Mexico has been inland rather than in the coastal resort areas where cruise ships visit.

The cruise industry works closely with U.S. public health officials in the CDC's Vessel Sanitation Program in developing and complying with extensive policies and procedures that are effective in mitigating illness aboard cruise ships. Carnival will continue to follow CDC guidelines for cruise ships which include pre-boarding health questionnaires for all guests and crew, along with secondary screening by shipboard medical professionals as necessary. Additionally, all Carnival ships stock influenza test kits and anti-viral medications for treating type A influenzas.

Mexico is one of the most popular cruise destinations and Carnival looks forward to once again providing you the opportunity to enjoy its many wonderful sites and attractions. They are very pleased to be returning to Mexico and would also very much like to thank you for your understanding and patience during the past few weeks.

Sail with Disney Channel Stars

You can sail with popular Disney Channel stars this summer aboard the Disney Wonder® Cruise Ship during the first-ever "Disney Channel Summer at Sea," presented by Kodak.

Popular stars from Disney Channel shows like "Hannah Montana," "Sonny With a Chance," "JONAS," "The Suite Life on Deck," "Camp Rock," "High School Musical" and "Hatching Pete" will join guests on 3- and 4-night cruises beginning July 9 through Aug. 2, 2009!

All eight sailings are available to book now with special fan activities included in the prevailing cruise rate.
During the voyages, Disney Channel stars will help pump up the volume during onboard deck parties and join Guests for Q&A and autograph sessions as well as preview screenings of Disney Channel programming.

The onboard fun culminates with a "Party with the Stars" event, an evening in which guests are invited to join the stars for a special musical performance by a Disney recording artist.

Each cruise will include multiple Disney Channel stars. Among those scheduled, with more to be announced shortly, are:

3-Night Disney Channel Summer At Sea Cruise Sail Dates and Appearance Schedule*
July 9 to 12, 2009 – Tiffany Thornton (Sonny with a Chance) and Nicole Anderson (JONAS)
July 16 to 19, 2009 – Jason Earles (Hannah Montana)
July 23 to 26, 2009 – Jason Dolley (Hatching Pete)
July 30 to August 2, 2009 – Debby Ryan (The Suite Life on Deck)

4-Night Disney Channel Summer at Sea Cruise Sail Dates and Appearance Schedule*
July 12 to 16, 2009 – Tiffany Thornton (Sonny with a Chance) and Nicole Anderson (JONAS)
July 19 to 23, 2009 – Musical Act Mitchel Musso and Jason Earles (Hanna Montana)
July 26 to 30, 2009 – Jason Dolley (Hatching Pete)
August 2 to 6, 2009 – Alyson Stoner (Camp Rock)

*Schedule and talent subject to change. Not all stars available for each sailing

Pick out the date the works best for you and your family, and call us for more info!

Paul Gauguin Cruises

You already know that the m/s Paul Gauguin is your best choice for sailing among the idyllic islands of the South Seas. But did you know that their exceptional, award-winning ship is now even better than ever?
That's because this five- plus-star vessel has recently undergone a multimillion-dollar refurbishment. Here are some highlights of what you can now enjoy aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin:

More balcony staterooms. They've converted 26 staterooms into balcony staterooms – for a total of nearly 70%. And, as before, every stateroom – bar none – is guaranteed an ocean view.

Elegant new décor. They've extensively restored all of the ship's public areas with new carpeting, upholstery, and refinished woodwork. And with refreshed décor in all of their spacious staterooms and suites, guests now enjoy even greater comfort in their private shipboard retreat.

Enhanced dining options. They've updated their ship's casual poolside restaurant, Le Grill, and expanded the al fresco dining space for the ship's La Veranda restaurant.

Upgraded public areas. Guests can take advantage of an upgraded Internet Center and brand-new, state-of-the-art equipment in the Fitness Center.

Enhanced watersports marina. New sports boats at their exclusive, retractable watersports marina mean you will have even more opportunities to witness the dazzling wonders that await beneath the sea.

One thing that hasn't changed is their ship's signature Polynesian elegance and hospitality. The m/s Paul Gauguin continues to provide one of the best crew-to-guest ratios at sea – an extraordinary 1:1.5!
This intimate, 332-passenger vessel was built specifically to ply the small bays and inlets of the South Pacific islands that larger vessels simply can't reach, and, with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the ship, you will be immersed in the spectacular beauty of Polynesia all along the way.

Don't forget to take advantage of their extended Early Booking Savings deadline! If you book your Paul Gauguin Cruise by July 31, 2009, you'll save up to 45% off select 2010 cruises aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin, PLUS receive two-for-one airfare from Los Angeles on cruises of 7-9 nights (a value of $1,250 per couple) or FREE airfare from Los Angeles for cruises of 10-15 nights (a value of $2,500 per couple).

Call us to get more detailed information. We look forward to getting you out to the South Pacific!

Photographer's Cruise

Traveling with Cruise West means getting up-close and personal with the scenery, wildlife and people in some of the world’s most beautiful destination – in short, it’s a photographer’s dream.
Which is exactly why they've decided to partner with PENTAX Imaging Company, a leader in digital photography, to offer a series of Photographers’ Cruises on select itineraries throughout 2009.

At no additional cost, these departures will be co-hosted by professional PENTAX photographer Kerrick James, who will conduct special field events and onboard workshops throughout the cruise. Whether you're a novice or seasoned photographer and regardless of the brand of camera you use, you will receive valuable, hands-on instruction on everything from image composition and digital image management to tips on how to be in the “right place at the right time.” In addition, PENTAX will provide premier gear onboard this cruise, including their latest top-of-the-line, digital SLR cameras and a full range of lenses, for you to check out during your journey.

While many of their guests are photography enthusiasts, Cruise West's Photographers’ Cruises are for everyone! Each departure includes a full menu of activities as well as the expertise of their Exploration Leaders. Combining small-ship cruising in the world’s most photogenic destinations with world-class PENTAX expertise.
Due to the popularity of these cruises, you’ll want to book early – small ships book up quickly!

Contact us today to find the perfect photographer's cruise for you!!

Oceania's Best Offers Ever!

Oceania Cruises is currently offering up to $2,000 price reduction, 2-for-1 cruise fares and free airfare! Check out their 2009 European Collection and 2009-2010 Winter Collection by visiting our website or sending us an email.

From 12-day voyages Venice to Rome, to 18-day Singapore to Sydney. There is something for everyone.

A voyage with Oceania Cruises is like none other, a luxury granted by the beauty and intimacy of their mid-size ships. Sailing to spectacular destinations and opening new worlds of discovery, a cruise aboard Regatta, Insignia or Nautica possesses the uncanny ability to create an unrivaled vacation experience. Oceania Cruise' service sets an impossibly high standard, and their amenities are wonderfully extravagant. Plus, with only 684 guests to pamper, their 400 staff members cater to your every whim, offering highly personalized service. Guided by the prodigious talents of the legendary Jacques Pepin, who serves as Executive Culinary Director, Oceania Cruises' gifted chefs consistently present cuisine that is, quite candidly, the finest at sea! Open seating in four distinctive restaurants enhances the experience even further by giving guests the liberty to dine when, where, and with whom they wish.

Freedom of choice imbues every aspect of Oceania Cruises. Free from the need to wear tuxedos or evening gowns, you can flourish and enjoy life on your terms. And while such exquisite yet affordable luxury is surprising, it is remarkably possible. Everything you have envisioned in a cruise line is here, as Oceania Cruises presents "Your World. Your Way."

Honeymoons at Sea!

DID YOU KNOW?

• Cruising is becoming the number one honeymoon getaway choice.
• Dollar for dollar, cruise vacations give you higher quality accommodations and better service than land-based vacations.
• A cruise allows you to participate in activities you enjoy while giving you plenty of time to be together and continue the romance of your engagement and wedding.

Time of year will certainly be a consideration in your honeymoon planning! While most destinations have year-round activities, some are certainly less desirable at certain times of year. Bermuda, a popular honeymoon destination, is an example. From the middle of November to the middle of March, their weather can be cold and damp. That's why cruise ships only call in Bermuda from April to October. The same is true with European and Alaska cruises. So if one of these destinations is your honeymoon choice, you will need to schedule accordingly.

Length of time available will obviously affect your planning. However, there is a cruise to fit almost any time schedule, from 3 days to 3 months!

Budget is, of course, the other major consideration in planning your honeymoon. Keep in mind that a cruise is an all-inclusive package including cruse accommodations, all meals, and shipboard entertainment and activities. Extra costs include port taxes, gratuities, bar bill and shore excursions. We can advise you as to these costs so you can plan accordingly. When compared with a land-based resort honeymoon, a cruise proves by far to be the best value!

An elegant cruise ship can be the storybook setting for a picture perfect honeymoon!

The Seine River

The Seine

From Burgundy through Normandy to Paris and on to the English Channel, the enchanted Seine penetrates the heart of France at a leisurely pace. Its banks are laden with history, wineries and an appreciation for the arts. The river flows among rich orchards and idyllic pastures appreciated by many famous artists including Monet, whose home can be toured in Giverny. Above the Seine stand wonderful medieval ruins, including Castle Gaillard at Les Andelys, where myth meets reality in the form of Richard the Lionheart (the real-life owner of the castle and friend of the fictional Robin Hood).
Some cruises spend a few overnights as a floating hotel in Paris before setting sail; others emphasize the sights of Normandy, sailing from Paris to the famous beaches of World War II and the well-preserved medieval Le Mont-Saint-Michel, an island carved into a church and its cobbled town.
Best Suited For:
Seine cruises are among the best for multigenerational travel, history buffs, art lovers and those who appreciate classic fine food and wines, not to mention World War II veterans. And who can resist the magic of Paris, especially when coupled with the value of the ship as a home base?

The Rhone River

The Rhone


The Rhone river flows from the mountains of Switzerland through Provence, France, taking in the wild beauty of the Camargue and some of France's most famous cities. It is the only major river flowing directly into the Mediterranean.
The capital of the Camarague is Arles, located at the extreme north of the delta where the Rhone forks into its two branches. The town was established by the Greeks in the 6th century B.C. and made famous in modern times by Vincent van Gogh, whose paintings come to life in the scenery along the river's banks.
Lyon, France, famous for its culinary magnificence and silk, is another popular port on the Rhone. Along with its medieval architecture, Lyon is also known for its fields of lavender, white horses and "cowboys." The great red wines of the region come from vineyards between Lyon and Avignon.
Best Suited For:
Those who enjoy really magnificent French food and wine will find a Rhone itinerary heavenly. It also reveals a much more complex picture of France than the usual stereotype. History and architecture lovers can join food and nature fans in learning about the great artists who left their mark on the region.

The Rhine River

THE RHINE

The Rhine Experience is the quintessential European dream: medieval castles and dark forests in dramatic surroundings - the stuff of pure romance!

Born as a wild river in a Swiss Alpine glacier, the Rhine cuts through gorges as it flows northeast, dropping 75 feet in the stunning waterfall to wind through Germany's Black Forest and join the Main in Mainz. It follows the Rhine Valley from Bingen to Bonn, flowing through the Rhineland Plateau and eventually emptying into the North Sea after connecting Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany, France and the Netherlands. Along its banks formidable German cities have grown: Cologne, Dusseldorf and lovely Rotterdam, the leading port of continental Europe, near the mouth of the Rhine. Amsterdam is accessible through the Rhine Canal, as well.

River cruises can sail from the North Sea to Basel, Switzerland, which is a distance of about 500 miles. There are longer cruises between Basel and the diamond center of Antwerp, Belgium, as well as shorter ones between Nuremberg, Germany, and Basel.

In the fall, hundreds of wine festivals along the Rhine celebrate new vintages with fireworks, boat races, regattas, local food and music.

The region's fairytale castles, half-timbered buildings and cobbled village streets satisfy a traveler's romantic dream, and there are attractions that appeal to multi-generational groups. Among them are Siegfried's Mechanical Museum, which contains one of the largest collections of self-playing musical instruments in the world, and the Speyer Technical Museum with an explorable Boeing 747, a historic Soviet spacecraft and a U9 German Navy submarine.

Best Suited For:

The Rhine is a wonderful river for romance. It encompasses mythic Germany and is a natural choice for German-American fraternal groups. Its appeal to wine-lovers and foodies is obvious, but anyone who loves scenery and fun combined with oom-pah bands and hearty, delicious food can appreciate a trip through the Rhineland.

Cruising the Rivers of Europe

I thought I would share some information about river cruising this week... as cruising rivers can have a magical quality!

Unlike oceans, they are intimate, closely tied to the life of the thousands of villages and cities what grew up along their banks. And in the morning, when the river mists lift, the surroundings that are revealed are often breathtaking - from the rock where the legendary Lorelei leaped to her death to ancient Egyptian tombs.

In addition, fertile soil lines each river's banks, producing some of the finest regional food and drink in the world with festivals built around them.

Cruise lines are increasingly offering extensive overnights with the vessel serving as a floating hotel - often docked in the heart of a major city. It's a tremendous value, particularly in European capitals where hotel and dining prices can be downright shocking!

Here's a look at what types of experiences you might find along some of the world's most popular waterways. I'll start with one river today... and the rest will follow!

The Danube

The Danube is the longest river in the European Union and second only to the Volga in all of Europe. From Strauss' "Blue Danube" to the Bulgarian national anthem, its praises have been sung through the centuries. Since the opening of the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal, the river connects the Black Sea with the industrial centers of Western Europe.

For Americans, the Danube is more exotic than the Rhine, leading to Central and Eastern Europe's lesser-known destinations. Flanked by the Austrian Alps and crowned with forts, castles and vineyards, the river carries travelers to cultural centers like Vienna and Budapest from its origin in the Black Forest to the Black Sea.

The Danube connects Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova and Ukraine. Along the route are areas of great scenic beauty and natural attractions.

The Danube courses through Austria's wine-bearing Wachau Valley between Melk and Krems, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Wachau is particularly well known for its apricots and unbelievably good apricot liquor, jams and cakes.

Best Suited For: History lovers and experienced travelers who want to really see Central European countries and their cultures. Music flourishes along the Danube, and those who appreciate a mixture of beautiful nature and great cities will be very happy with this area too!

Call us today to discuss the many river cruising oppurtunities down the Danube!

Pictures of the "Mariner of the Seas"

Visiting the "Mariner of the Seas"

WOW, what a weekend we had! We left early Friday morning to hop onto the beautiful Mariner of the Seas in Los Angeles. It was a great pleasure to be invited to view Royal Caribbean's ship on a Cruise Specialist's Only weekend. The Mariner of the Seas will now be sailing on the West Coast out of Los Angeles for a fabulous Mexican Riviera itinerary!

We started Friday off with a great lunch in the Wind Jammer cafe, along with a couple of glasses of Champagne! We toured the entire ship including the suites that were open for viewing. I must say... the next time I am back on the Mariner of the Seas... I want to be in an Owner's Suite! Saturday was spent with the executives of Royal Caribbean and just enjoying everything the ship has to offer... from strolling down the Royal Promenade to having lunch in Johnny Rockets and laying poolside.
The dinners were fantastic and the service outstanding... everyone onboard made us feel like a million bucks and I know that is how our clients feel when we book them onboard Royal Caribbean.

Come Sunday morning, we didn't want to go home as our time onboard was just TOO short! But it was a blast being able to be apart of the experience, I know we'll all be back to sail for a longer period of time.

I'll post some pictures shortly and you can see for yourself what is in store for you, onboard the lovely Mariner of the Seas!

Holland America Line's Signature of Excellence

Spacious, Elegant Ships------------------------------------------------------------

• Graceful, mid-sized ships, featuring more space per guest than other major premium cruise lines.
• Spacious public rooms adorned with fresh floral arrangements and fine art and antiques from around the world.
• Staterooms with more space and verandahs that are the largest of any premium cruise line.
• "Mariner's Dream" stateroom featuring plush Euro-Top mattresses, flat-screen TVs, DVD players and other find amenities.

Gracious, Award-Winning Service--------------------------------------------------

• Nearly one crew member for every two guests.
• 135 years of polished performance and service.

Worldwide Itineraries---------------------------------------------------------------

• More choices, more destinations and more ports of call than any other premium cruise line.
• Quick getaways and longer voyages, ranging from seven to more than 100 days.
• Medallion Shore Excursions featuring unique historical, cultural and naturalist explorations.

Extensive Activities & Enrichment Programs-----------------------------------------

• Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine magazine, featuring tasting events, demonstrations and cooking classes.
• Explorations Cafe, powered by The New York Times, offering Internet, music listening stations, over 2000 books more.
• Explorations Speaker Series on cruises of 10 days or longer.
• Award-winning Greenhouse Spa & Salon.
• Lavish world-class production shows.
• Club HAL, offering a variety of supervised children's activities with special activities and space devoted to teens only.

Sophisticated Five-Star Dining-------------------------------------------------------

• "As You Wish" dining with flexible times and seating (excluding Grand Voyages).
• Elegant, two-tier main Dining Room with five-course menus.
• Intimate reservations-only Pinnacle Grill, featuring aged Sterling Silver Beef, Bvlgari china, Riedel stemware and Frette linens.
• Complimentary 24-hour in-room service.

Fiesta For Your Eyes... Siesta For Your Soul!!

WELCOME ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL'S "MARINER OF THE SEAS"

7-Night Mexican Riviera departing from Los Angeles, CA

Prices starting from $599 per person!

Call today to find the best date for you and cruise the beautiful Mexican Riviera!

Crystal Cruises Message

Dear cruise enthusiasts! I'm including a letter from the President of Crystal Cruises. They are a fantastic luxury cruise line and should definitely be considered for your future cruise planning. Call us anytime to learn more about the world's best!

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"I’d like to take this opportunity to begin the New Year with a personal message and my sincerest wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2009.
Today, we find our world in the midst of the most dramatic economic change many of us have ever experienced. And while this time of transition presents a unique set of challenges for each of us, I have noticed an unexpected positive surprise: We are spending more time with family and friends, refocusing our priorities on the people and experiences that reward us with life’s most treasured moments. More than ever, we are giving thoughtful consideration as to how we will spend our money, but equal importance is also being given to how and with whom we will spend our time.
I consider you part of the Crystal family, not only because of your standing in our Crystal Society, but also because of our shared passion for world travel and personal enrichment. I understand that travel is not a frivolous option for you, but rather a valid necessity that provides you with the much-needed and well-deserved time to relax, decompress and rediscover yourself and your loved ones – both friends and family.
As we navigate these uncharted economic waters, I have asked my staff to create new programs, revise existing policies and introduce new lower fares. I know that your vacation is an important investment, and I take that very seriously. Initiatives such as our new 2009 Crystal Assurance Plan allow you to book your vacation with confidence, guaranteeing you the best applicable fare even if it is reduced after you’ve booked, as well as reduced deposits and a relaxed cancellation policy. What’s more, our enhanced Share the Experience plan and popular Crystal Family Memories program allow you to travel with family and friends enjoying even greater rewards and savings.
Close to home or far away, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony will continue to explore the world in 2009, offering journeys to virtually every corner of the globe. Equally as exciting, our new Celebration Fares salute 15 years of “World’s Best” accolades by rewarding you with incredible savings on 15 popular Mediterranean, Northern European and Trans-Atlantic voyages in 2009. And, if indeed, you are looking ahead to your 2010 travel calendar, please keep in mind that when you book any 2009 Europe or Trans-Atlantic sailing, including these Celebration Fare cruises, or any Crystal Symphony Asia cruise by March 31, 2009, you will receive a 20 percent savings on most 2010 voyages with our just announced “Save Now. Save Later” program.
Speaking of 2010, our Exploration of Ancient Empires World Cruise 2010 showcases a fascinating 108-day journey through the world’s most exotic empires. I think you will be as intrigued as I am with the must-see maiden calls and new destinations included on this global odyssey. From ancient lands in places like Iran and Bahrain to the natural wonders of Africa and South America, you have the rare chance to truly explore the very cradles of civilization and world history, plus an exciting segment featuring the Black Sea – never before offered on a Crystal World Cruise… all revealed through the comfort and security of our award-winning ships.
In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to send you details on these and any other initiatives we develop to keep you doing what you love most – traveling. Your next issue of Passport will be arriving later this month and includes a wealth of information on our savings plans, itineraries and shipboard news.
I hope the programs highlighted here will provide you with the comfort and assurance you need to make your Crystal travel plans with the utmost confidence. Again, I sincerely appreciate your loyalty and give you my personal commitment that I will work to ensure that your Crystal vacation continues to meet and exceed your highest expectations, and that you always have a place to call home, no matter where in the world your sense of discovery and adventure takes you."

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

FREE AIR plus FREE UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS AT SAVINGS UP TO 45%

Regent Seven Seas is offering some amazing deals to Alaska on the Seven Seas Mariner. For a limited time, we are pleased to present you with FREE unlimited shore excursions on select 2009 cruises.

Simply book your sailing by March 31, 2009 and your cruise fare will include complimentary, award-winning shore excursions during your voyage. This is in addition to the all-inclusive cruise experience you have come to expect for the World's Best Cruise Line!

Call us today for details!

Great Deals with Royal Caribbean and CruiseOne!

Right now, when you book any future sailing, you'll receive a 50% reduced deposit. Plus, when you book an Ocean View or above stateroom you'll also save up to $200 per stateroom on select sailings.

Be sure to book by February 28, 2009!

If that's not enough, when you book an Ocean View or above stateroom on any 7-night or longer sailing before January 31, 2009, you'll also receive a pair of luxurious Royal Caribbean bathrobes!

4-Night W. Caribbean, Sailing roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale
Enchantment of the Seas
Oceanview from $449 and save $50 off

7-Night Mexican Riviera, Sailing roundtrip from Los Angeles
Mariner of the Seas
Oceanview from $749 and save $100 off

7-Night Caribbean, Sailing roundtrip from Miami
Liberty of the Seas
Oceanview from $799 and save $100 off

10-Night Mediterranean, Sailing from Venice to Lisbon
Spendour of the Seas
Oceanview from $1149 and save $200 off

We know you want to get the most value from your hard earned dollars. Call us today and let your personal Cruise Specialist show you how much you can get for so little!

Green Ships At Sea

Most major cruise lines have fleet-wide environmental programs, but this week we are focusing on the Celebrity Solstice!

While Celebrity Cruises uses a fleet-wide sustainability plan to make its ships more environmentally friendly, the newly launched Celebrity Solstice is the first ship to implement all of the initiatives from the get-go, since they were included in the ship's construction. For example, the Solstice is the first cruise ship equipped with solar power technology. It also has glazed, high-efficiency glass windows, which prevent solar heat gain, thus reducing the amount of air conditioning required. Celebrity worked with paint manufacturers to develop environmentally safe silicon coatings for a smoother hull, creating less water resistance. In addition, the Solstice is equipped with common rail diesel engines, which reduce energy consumption and have lower nitrogen oxide content within air emission standards at all engine loads.

Initiatives on the Solstice that are being implemented on other ships in the Celebrity fleet include air-conditioning equipment that results in a 25 to 30 percent improvement in air-conditioning efficiency over ships built as recently as five years ago; Advanced Wastewater Purification (AWP) equipment; chilled river rocks in the buffet area instead of ice beds, reducing water consumption; technology and appliances that reduce the use of water-producing equipment that consumes fuel or electricity; fluorescent and Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting; and high-efficiency appliances.

KUDOS to Celebrity Cruises and all the cruise lines that are being GREEN!