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!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



"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!

GOING HOME WITH CHEF'S JAN D'ATRI AND MOMMA!!

Check out the details on this AMAZING opportunity!!

Join Chef's Jan D'Atri and Momma as they cruise the Eastern Mediterranean on the new Celebrity Solstice!

Click on the flyer below for more information on how you can be part of the fun! Call us today: 1-800-570-6407

Mexican Riviera Pictures