It's May 2008 and you know what that means, it's tax stimulus time. This gift from the government is being provided to get consumers spending. A recent Goldman Sacks report showed that stocks like Royal Caribbean are sure to benefit from these dollars as consumers seek out their next vacation or upgrade from an ocean view stateroom to a private balcony with their new found monies.
There are a lot of places to spend the stimulus monies like on a new sofa, paying down some credit card bills, doing some home repairs or getting away on an exciting cruise vacation. But how about spending it on all or at least some of those things? We have some amazing getaways that won't deplete your whole stimulus check.
Getaway with the whole family this summer for as little as $32 a person, a day (for a family of four). Norwegian Cruise Line just announced they are moving a ship to the Caribbean this summer that will sail 3- and 4-night cruises from Miami and for a limited time, Kids Sail Free. There are a number of other ships and itineraries to choose from for under $50 per person, per day. Sail a 4-night Caribbean cruise on the Carnival Imagination from Miami or sail a 5-night Bahamas cruise on the Carnival Fascination from Jacksonville. For under $60 per day you can sail a 4-night Baja Mexico cruise on the Carnival Paradise from Los Angeles, a 4-night Bahamas cruise on the Carnival Sensation from Port Canaveral, a 4- or 5-night Western Caribbean on the Carnival Holiday from Mobile, a 5-night Baja Mexico cruise on the Carnival Elation from San Diego, a 5-night Western Caribbean cruise on the Carnival Fantasy from New Orleans, or a 7-night Florida & Bahamas cruise on the Norwegian Majesty from Charleston. How about sailing in a Balcony stateroom for under $100 per person, per day? You can on a number of 7-night Caribbean cruises on the Carnival Triumph, Liberty or Valor, on Carnival Spirit's 8-night Mexican Riviera cruises or on Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas 12-night transatlantic cruise.
There are a ton of deals out there and your Cruise Specialist is just the person to find them for you. So when your stimulus check arrives, go ahead and use some of it to pay down your mortgage, or make a car payment, but be sure to keep just a little to spend on a holiday for yourself and your family. This might be the only time the government pays for your vacation.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
NCL's new project the F3
I can't say it better then NCL... They are definitly changing their look. I love the bathrooms!! What a neat idea!! They have changed the way of how we dine and now how we sleep. Love it!!
Press Release from NCL...........
Norwegian Cruise Line Throws Cruising A Curve, Introduces New Wave Staterooms By NCL
F3 ships to feature the most innovative living space at sea
Miami - Apr 24, 2008 ---
Today at Aker Yards in France, NCL Corporation revealed the cruise industry's most innovative living space at sea - New Wave Staterooms by NCL. Designed for its next generation of Freestyle Cruising ships, F3, the New Wave standard, New Wave balcony and New Wave deluxe staterooms represent a giant leap forward in cruise ship accommodations with a completely fresh take on bathroom design, contemporary curved architecture and open living space.
"From the introduction of the first Caribbean cruise more than 41 years ago to the launch of Freestyle Cruising in 2000 and beyond, NCL has always blazed a trail of innovation," said Colin Veitch, NCL's president and CEO. "We have thrown away the rule book with the design of F3 and today are revealing the very first element with our New Wave staterooms. Gone are the regimented typical designs and in place are sleek staterooms that are totally outside the box, designed for the needs of tomorrow's guests."
The New Wave staterooms most distinctive design element is its curved walls and lines creating a modern and chic experience. NCL has maximized the living space with a bathroom that is completely unique with a separate shower stall, separate water closet and a modern vanity top sink. The staterooms feature a sophisticated earth-tone palette accented with a splash of color and rich, dark wood. Concealed contour LED lighting and back-lit domed ceilings set a relaxing vibe.
All the amenities and comforts of NCL's Freestyle 2.0 enhancements are included with upgraded bedding, linens and towels, Euro pillows, Elemis bathroom products and MP3 connectivity upon request. Balcony and deluxe staterooms have bathrobes, a customized fruit menu, a fresh-baked cookie at turn down on the last night of cruise, an escort to the stateroom on embarkation day, priority restaurant reservation and reception hotlines and special color keycard for ship-wide recognition.
"Today's announcement is just the first chapter in a series of innovations we will be revealing about our new F3 ships leading up to their launch in 2010," Veitch said. "These ships will further deconstruct the traditional cruise ship experience with innovations in design, accommodations, luxury and entertainment to create a cutting-edge resort vacation experience unlike any other at sea."
Further design details of the New Wave staterooms include: New Wave Deluxe:
A bathroom that's "outside the box," including:
Separate water closet
Separate vanity top sink within the room
Separate bathtub and shower or luxurious shower
Unique curved walls
Concealed contour LED lighting
Back-lit domed ceiling
Comfortable seating area
Flat-screen TV
Mini-Bar
Balcony
Expanded living space New Wave Balcony:
A bathroom that's "outside the box," including:
Separate water closet
Separate vanity top sink within the room
Separate shower stall
Unique curved walls
Concealed contour LED lighting
Back-lit domed ceiling
Comfortable seating area
Flat-screen TV
Mini-Bar
Balcony New Wave Standard:
A bathroom that's "outside the box," including:
Separate water closet
Separate vanity top sink within the room
Separate shower stall
Concealed contour LED lighting
Most inside staterooms feature the back-lit domed ceiling
Flat-screen TV
Mini-Bar
The two 150,000-ton F3 ships will each total 4,200 passenger berths, representing the largest ships in NCL's fleet. The new ship design will offer 60 percent more guest space than NCL's largest ships to date, which will be used to provide guests an even wider range of on-board activities, amenities and stateroom options. The ships' cabin mix will be the richest of any NCL ship with 100 percent of outside staterooms featuring private balconies. In total, each ship will have 1,415 balcony staterooms.
More details about the F3 ships including other innovative accommodations, public spaces, dining, entertainment/nightlife, cutting-edge technology and casino will be announced leading up to the launch of the first F3 ship in 2010.
For the latest updates on F3 with downloadable high-resolution images of the New Wave staterooms, visit F3.ncl.com.
NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line.
NCL is building two new third generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery in 2010. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.
Norwegian Cruise Line Throws Cruising A Curve, Introduces New Wave Staterooms By NCL
F3 ships to feature the most innovative living space at sea
Miami - Apr 24, 2008 ---
Today at Aker Yards in France, NCL Corporation revealed the cruise industry's most innovative living space at sea - New Wave Staterooms by NCL. Designed for its next generation of Freestyle Cruising ships, F3, the New Wave standard, New Wave balcony and New Wave deluxe staterooms represent a giant leap forward in cruise ship accommodations with a completely fresh take on bathroom design, contemporary curved architecture and open living space.
"From the introduction of the first Caribbean cruise more than 41 years ago to the launch of Freestyle Cruising in 2000 and beyond, NCL has always blazed a trail of innovation," said Colin Veitch, NCL's president and CEO. "We have thrown away the rule book with the design of F3 and today are revealing the very first element with our New Wave staterooms. Gone are the regimented typical designs and in place are sleek staterooms that are totally outside the box, designed for the needs of tomorrow's guests."
The New Wave staterooms most distinctive design element is its curved walls and lines creating a modern and chic experience. NCL has maximized the living space with a bathroom that is completely unique with a separate shower stall, separate water closet and a modern vanity top sink. The staterooms feature a sophisticated earth-tone palette accented with a splash of color and rich, dark wood. Concealed contour LED lighting and back-lit domed ceilings set a relaxing vibe.
All the amenities and comforts of NCL's Freestyle 2.0 enhancements are included with upgraded bedding, linens and towels, Euro pillows, Elemis bathroom products and MP3 connectivity upon request. Balcony and deluxe staterooms have bathrobes, a customized fruit menu, a fresh-baked cookie at turn down on the last night of cruise, an escort to the stateroom on embarkation day, priority restaurant reservation and reception hotlines and special color keycard for ship-wide recognition.
"Today's announcement is just the first chapter in a series of innovations we will be revealing about our new F3 ships leading up to their launch in 2010," Veitch said. "These ships will further deconstruct the traditional cruise ship experience with innovations in design, accommodations, luxury and entertainment to create a cutting-edge resort vacation experience unlike any other at sea."
Further design details of the New Wave staterooms include: New Wave Deluxe:
A bathroom that's "outside the box," including:
Separate water closet
Separate vanity top sink within the room
Separate bathtub and shower or luxurious shower
Unique curved walls
Concealed contour LED lighting
Back-lit domed ceiling
Comfortable seating area
Flat-screen TV
Mini-Bar
Balcony
Expanded living space New Wave Balcony:
A bathroom that's "outside the box," including:
Separate water closet
Separate vanity top sink within the room
Separate shower stall
Unique curved walls
Concealed contour LED lighting
Back-lit domed ceiling
Comfortable seating area
Flat-screen TV
Mini-Bar
Balcony New Wave Standard:
A bathroom that's "outside the box," including:
Separate water closet
Separate vanity top sink within the room
Separate shower stall
Concealed contour LED lighting
Most inside staterooms feature the back-lit domed ceiling
Flat-screen TV
Mini-Bar
The two 150,000-ton F3 ships will each total 4,200 passenger berths, representing the largest ships in NCL's fleet. The new ship design will offer 60 percent more guest space than NCL's largest ships to date, which will be used to provide guests an even wider range of on-board activities, amenities and stateroom options. The ships' cabin mix will be the richest of any NCL ship with 100 percent of outside staterooms featuring private balconies. In total, each ship will have 1,415 balcony staterooms.
More details about the F3 ships including other innovative accommodations, public spaces, dining, entertainment/nightlife, cutting-edge technology and casino will be announced leading up to the launch of the first F3 ship in 2010.
For the latest updates on F3 with downloadable high-resolution images of the New Wave staterooms, visit F3.ncl.com.
NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line.
NCL is building two new third generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery in 2010. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea, and has recently added its latest new ship, the 2,400 passenger Norwegian Gem.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Drink Anyone??
I know we have all heard the saying "booze cruise", however that is a saying most cruise lines do not use in todays market. Cruises are not about the drinking. Sure I have had a few to many on a ship, but that's not why I cruise. I love traveling to new destinations and meeting so many cool people. Anyways, let's now discuss drinking!
Prices- This can differ from ship to ship. I can tell you most ships have a drink of the day. Everyday you get some kind of newsletter sent to your room. It will have a drink special so try it!! My favorite drink is only made on one cruise line!! I tried it as a special of the day.
Souvenir Glasses- This is where allot of money is made when it comes to drinking. Try not to get the souvenir drink. You can always ask for it not in the take home glass and it will be cheaper. Also, it takes up space in the suitcase for your better souvenirs.
Packages- They will sell many soda and wine packages. You really have to know what you plan to drink. You know if you need this or not. It is a good deal if you drink a lot.
Travel Agents- Many give wine or champagne as a gift. Why book with the cruiseline and get nothing??
Parties on Board- Attend, Attend, Attend!! If you are asked to attend a party most likely something will be given out. The Captain usually has a party and if you are a returning cruiser with the line you could have additional parties. I attend about three a cruise now. I love it!!
Crusie Clubs- Each cruisline has some kind of returning member program. Join and let your agent know you belong. I always get a coupon for a free drink on my favorite line.
Volunteer- Sometimes you get a free drink just by assisting the Bingo guy count the balls!!
You can have a $50 bill to a $1500 since its up to you!! Just drink in moderation and you will have a great time. Please don't fall overboard!! (It's usually drunk people who do this) Next time your cruise with RCCL have my favorite drink the BBC!!! It's the best foo foo drink on the planet!!
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Travel Insurance
Do I need travel insurance?? I have been on 23 cruises and two times needed insurance. One time I had it and one time I did not.
My first time was in 2004 due to a hurricane in Florida. Coming from the west coast all flights had been canceled. The ship left with out us!! This time I did have insurance and I was paid back in cash for my trip. I then rebooked it 6 weeks later. The second time I hurt my leg on board. I left with a big bill after seeing the doctor onboard. My health insurance did reimburse me when I got home, but that is not always the case.
Here is what insurance usually covers. I pulled info from a company I sell to my clients as an example.
Trip Cost Trip Cancellation & Interruption
$ 1,000 Trip Delay
$ 1,000 Missed Connection
$200 maximum per day
$ 1,500 Baggage & Personal Effects
$ 500 Baggage Delay
$ 50,000 Accident Medical Expense
$ 50,000 Sickness Medical Expense
$ 50,000 Emergency Medical Transportation
The medical really helps you if your sick in a foreign port. It's not cheap to get you back home. Read the fine print!! How will you be paid back??? Some our cash and some our future credits on a ship. This is huge!! You usually see this on policys that our cancel for any reason. I really love these programs. If your work is a problem get this kind of insurance!! I hope this information was helpful!!
My first time was in 2004 due to a hurricane in Florida. Coming from the west coast all flights had been canceled. The ship left with out us!! This time I did have insurance and I was paid back in cash for my trip. I then rebooked it 6 weeks later. The second time I hurt my leg on board. I left with a big bill after seeing the doctor onboard. My health insurance did reimburse me when I got home, but that is not always the case.
Here is what insurance usually covers. I pulled info from a company I sell to my clients as an example.
Trip Cost Trip Cancellation & Interruption
$ 1,000 Trip Delay
$ 1,000 Missed Connection
$200 maximum per day
$ 1,500 Baggage & Personal Effects
$ 500 Baggage Delay
$ 50,000 Accident Medical Expense
$ 50,000 Sickness Medical Expense
$ 50,000 Emergency Medical Transportation
The medical really helps you if your sick in a foreign port. It's not cheap to get you back home. Read the fine print!! How will you be paid back??? Some our cash and some our future credits on a ship. This is huge!! You usually see this on policys that our cancel for any reason. I really love these programs. If your work is a problem get this kind of insurance!! I hope this information was helpful!!
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