Do it All or Do Nothing at All

 That is the best part of a vacation; you can do it all or do nothing.  One of those places where you can take either option is Grand Cayman Island.  There is so much to see and do on this island.  Yet, with some of the most gorgeous beaches, it is a great place to do nothing.

This is a major port for the cruise lines.  There can be a lot of people hustling and bustling around town, which can create a lot of high energy.  It also has it "get always" for a more peaceful adventure such as on the East End.

Some of the beaches on Grand Cayman to consider are Cemetery, Governor's, Seven Mile and Smith Grove.  While it is great to stretch out and maybe catch up on your pleasure reading, don't forgot you are in a Tropical area and take heed of the Sun.

Of course there are all kinds of active things to do that involve the water.  I will only name a few here and you can look them up on the Internet for more information about any one of them.  You can actually get in the water with Stingrays; this has been voted as the number one activity.  There are also riding horses on the beach and taking them into the water for a swim.  There are all kinds of reefs, natural and artificial to go snorkeling and scuba diving.  The ex-USS Kittiwake was sunk to make an artificial reef and a great adventure to dive down and see it.  There is another item, I haven't done this but sounds like fun is called Paddle Boarding again, you can check it out on line.

Lets not forgot about the places to see on land.  There is the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, the Pedro St. James National Historic Site and the Cayman Islands National Museum.  Couple of other interesting exhibits is the Cayman Motor Museum and the Cayman Turtle Farm.  Of course there are plenty of hiking trails and Lighthouses to see.  If you're into shopping then a stop at Camana Bay is a must.  There is so much to do here and a great place to start would be at the National Trust Visitors Center. 

Yes, the Cayman Islands has it all for those want to Do it All or to Do Nothing. 

Foodies Vacation

Food - What can I say about it that hasn't already been said and written about?  So, for this installment of my blog I not going to write about food but, what people have shared about food.

One of the reasons I get from time to time from a client who does not want to take a cruise is because they don't want to gain weight.  When the first person told me that, they must have thought I was nuts because all I could do was to stare at them like I was dumbfounded.  Actually, I was!  Since then I have become more attune to client concerns regarding their personal needs and preferences including their cruise food adventure.

Yes, one has the availability to eat 24 hours a day while on most cruise ships.  I also have to assume that most of us have food available at home on a 24-hour basis.  Yes, most of the food can be considered gourmet and you may eat a little more at dinnertime than normal.  The thing is that you have a program for eating at home and it's not going to change much on the ship, if at all.  So, while you may consume more calories (weight gain) you more likely will be expending more calories with all the activities while taking this fantastic foodies vacation. - Bon Appetit!

No Worries

 The other day I was having a conversation with a real estate agent friend of mine.  While we were catching up on family, friends and local gossip the conversation did turn to our respective industries.  I have always had and interest in real estate, especially older historical homes.  She just loves to travel and has done a lot.  So as you can imagine there was no loss for words since we only had about an hour together because we both had appointments to go to.

During our conversation, Judy asked me a question that really turned a light on.  I had the answer but, never had thought of it as important.  However, as a client of mine, this would be very important!  The question was "What happens to the bookings I have made for my clients should something happen to me?"  Like I said, this question really hit me as something I should be relating to my clients especially at this time since I am a one man operation.  The answer is:  all my clients bookings would be taken over by the CruiseOne franchiser and then re-distributed to other local agents for processing.

I have always wanted my clients to have a "No Worries" vacation as I take care of all the details for them.  I also have always wanted them to not have to Worry with dealing with my agency.  A lot of my clients are from out of state and the fact that I work from home, it is much easier to ease their minds by letting them know that my agency is legit.  So now, I can let them know before they book that my agency is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and that after they book their investment in their dream vacation is protected.  Now my clients can have (before, during and after) a truly "No Worries" vacation.

The Great Lakes

 Late yesterday afternoon, I received a last minute invitation to dinner.  Lucky enough I was able to accept and even though it was an hour drive, I was more than happy to go.  The location was at the Catawba Island Club which sets right on Lake Erie.  Our table for the evening was outside on the patio.  As you can see from the picture, my view, especially of the sunset was spectacular.  Being born and raised in Sandusky, Ohio the view of the Lake has always amazed me no matter time of year or type of weather.

I had an opportunity one time to ask a vice president of one of the major cruise lines, "why are there not any cruises available on the Great Lakes?"  The answer was, "how many people would want to visit Cleveland?"  I thought, to myself, you're a vice president and that is the best answer you can come up with. 

Well, I am happy to announce that there is a new cruise line, Pearl Seas Cruises that is going to have a luxury ship on the Great Lakes.  Starting in June 2014 they have several different cruises scheduled from Chicago to Montreal.  There winter schedule will take them to the Caribbean.

While they do not have Cleveland listed in any of their itineraries, there are some fantastic ports of call.  After all, the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Baltic have nothing over on the Great Lakes.  There is something for everyone such as; history, culture, scenery, etc.  I wish Pearl Seas Cruises the best of luck and looking forward to taking a cruise with them myself.

Mother Nature

I love this video!  If you watch it closely it takes you around the world to different habitats.  Some of these are exotic places such as the Galapagos Islands.  Which is on my bucket list of place to see.  Another area is Australia.  I have been to Australia and New Zealand and both are highly recommended travel sites.  The beauty of both islands, along with Mother Nature is quite spectacular!

This locations can be travel to by either land or sea.  In my case to the South Pacific, we flew to New Zealand.  Stayed a week on land to tour around the interior locations.  We then boarded the Celebrity Century for a 12 day cruise to Sydney.  Then a week on land in the Sydney area.  Of course, the habitat along the coast lines is much different than the interior of the islands.  But, in either case, Mother Nature is at her best!!

Too Cold in December?

So, I was reading one of my colleagues posting on Facebook and she stated that her client was looking for a warm place to vacation in December.  Apparently, they went to Dominican Republic last December and it was too cold and windy for them.  HMMMM, in December? Oh well! 

However, the posting did remind me of my very first cruise.  It was February 2002.  Winters in Ohio can be very cold and a lot of snow but, most of the time it is gray, overcast, damp, dreary, sloppy and etc.   To get out of Ohio in February is wish most Ohioans have. 

Off to Fort Lauderdale I go with my traveling companion.  We get there and its 90 degrees.  I'm sitting on the back of this huge ship drinking my beverage of choice at the time, Bud Light.  When about a half hour before we where to sail, the captain announced that the departure was going to be delayed because of a mechanical problem.  However, we where not to fret and all the bars where open for free until we departed.  While the delay lasted only 2 hours, I decided right then and there that "This is the Life!" and sailed every year for the next six years in February!  Was it always 90 degrees in Fort Lauderdale in February?  Of course not but, who cares.  I was out of Ohio and even if it was only 65 degrees, the sun was out and it was beautiful!!

First Time Cruisers

The June Wedding bug has been in force.  I have had several calls for booking a cruise with the intent of having a wedding on board the ship.  What was also interesting about these calls  is that most of the brides and grooms have never sailed before.  They are in for a double treat!!  Being married and first time cruisers on the same trip will definitely be a memorable occasion.

With that in mind, I would briefly like to share with you 7 tips for first-time cruisers.
1. Use a Travel Agent
2.  Research Ports in Advance
3.  Pack Only What You Need
4. Configure Cell Phone for International Travel
5.  Calculate Your Finances
6.  Make the most of Shore Excursions
7.  Purchase Travel Insurance

Bon Voyage Everyone!!

 

Do you need a Travel Agent?

This past Saturday June 22, I attended my niece, Andrea's wedding.  The wedding was held in countryside church in Bellevue, OH with the reception in Sandusky.  While the affair was only an hour away, it does make for a long afternoon.  Therefore, an overnight stay in Sandusky was warranted.

So, those of you who are in the wedding planning stage, one more item for consideration is for overnight accommodations for out of town guest.  While Andrea and Aaron are both from the area of venue one would assume that most of the guest, if not all, where also from the area.  One may think an hour drive is not far.  The arrival yes, the return not so much, especially for the older generation.  With all the planning needed to do for a wedding, do you really want to add more to it?  No! and you don't have to.  With all the people in the planning such as, photographer, caterer, florist, minister, dress maker, cake decorator, etc, a travel agent is just as important.  Even if its not a designation wedding per se, the guest would appreciate the idea of having an opportunity to reserve a room at a group price.

The best part of having a travel agent is, unlike the other professionals, you do not have to pay for their services.  With a little bit of information, a good travel agent will arrange what is need for any overnight guest.  Plus, lets not forget the honeymoon!!  More on that later!

Thank you Andrea and Aaron for allowing me to be part of your very special day!  It was beautiful!!

Sail Away to Your Destination Wedding

Last week I talked about a wedding on board a cruise ship before the ship sailed.  There are two other options available.  Again, the wedding is held on board the ship but the wedding party and guest are all taken the cruise and the wedding is normally held on one of the days that the ship is at sea for the day.  This destination wedding normally is enjoyed by an older couple that may or may not be a second marriage.

The third wedding involving a cruise ship is where the wedding is actually held on an island.  The wedding party and guest may or may not be on the cruise.  If they are not on the cruise, then they would be flying to the island for the wedding.  The selection of islands or exotic ports of the world are available and left only to the bride and grooms imagination.

The greatest part of these destination weddings is, it is easy and stress free.  The cruise lines have a wedding coordinator and handles everything from the beginning to the end.  Basically, the bride and groom have three decisions.  One, which one of the three cruise ship weddings they prefer.  Two, where they want to spend their honeymoon. Three, what are the colors of the wedding.  If you or someone you know is in the wedding planning stage, I would high recommend looking into a destination wedding with one of the cruise ship lines.

Distination Weddings - On a Cruise Ship

      So, it's still June and I just received my third wedding invitation.  Although the furthest I need to go is only an hour away by car.  But, once again, it also reminds me of a time I had attended a ship inspection in Miami.  While going through the ship's various areas, we learned that there was going to be 3 different weddings on board before sailing.

     This is just one way of having a distination wedding involving a cruise ship.  The bride, groom, wedding party and a few family and friends board the ship for the ceremony.  After the officient has preform his/her duty (sometimes the ship's captain) there is a reception.  Here the group will enjoy congratulating the bride and groom while sharing food, drinks and of course Wedding Cake.  Afterwards, most if not all the guest will disembark the ship and the Bride and Groom stay on to enjoy a fabulous Honeymoon!

Destination Wedding - Hawaii

 While June is the month for weddings, I cannot help but remember the destination wedding that I had the privilege of attending on Maui.  As you can see from the picture, it was very dramatic. (I'm sitting in the front row on the very left) The slight breeze off the ocean made it very comfortable for everyone dressed in their best Hawaiian attire.  The venue was a private residence in Makena, right on a beach.  The evening reception, on the same beach, was also very spectacular.  Tiki torches lit the night sky.  Hawaiian style food and cocktails were scrumptious.  The seating area was designated by pillars along with long flowing curtains.  Music filled the night air and a great time was had by all in attendance.  I rate this vacation/wedding as my all time favorite vacations ever.  Thank you to the bride and groom!!

Hawaii

I was texting my niece Kris this week about an upcoming wedding. Kris, her husband and two girls live in Hawaii. I have been there to visit but, not as much as I would have liked to. However, I do remember my first visit and my expectations of what I perceived of what I was going to see there. Was my preception correct? Yes, but only in Waikiki Beach.

While Waikiki is beautiful, it is only a small area of Oahu. Kris and her family live in Ewa Beach which is on the South side of the island and West of Waikiki. I would say it has more of a semi-arid climate. The North side of the island is the tropical area where everthing is lush and green. The middle of the island is where the large plantations are and where pineapple and sugar cane is grown. The East and West sides of the island are going to be a combination and with its own micro climate areas. Oahu with it very diverse climate areas is a lot more interesting then a stretch of hotels on a beach. When you visit Hawaii, which should be on everyone's bucket list, give yourself a minimum of 10 days, rent a car and explore the many wonders of Oahu, Hawaii!

Introducing the Royal Princess

Discover how Royal Princess' evolutionary design builds on the hallmarks of the Princess Cruises experience to offer new, innovative ways to help you escape completely. From the spectacular Atrium to materials and finishes specifically chosen to reflect warmth and sophistication. New venues like the SeaWalk, a glass-bottom walkway. The Sanctuary is a haven just for adults. Lotus Spa with features like the Enclave. Bars and lounges such as the new Bellini Bar and favorites like Crooner's and Wheelhouse Bar will be there waiting to serve you. Of course, there are the Pools, Boutiques, Sports and Fitness, Youth and Teen Centers for fun and relaxations. Entertainment with Movies Under the Stars and the NEW Princess Live a TV studio presenting broadcast-ready events. There is also fun to be had at the Princess Theater, Vista Lounge, Club 6 and Princess Casino. Dining is not to be outdone with traditional dining in Allegro Dining Room and the NEW Chef's Table Lumiere. There are the Anytime Dining Rooms, Sabtini's, Crown Grill . The NEW Ocean Terrace Seafood Bar for seafood lovers. Also, look for the International Cafe, Vines Wine Bar, Alfredo's Pizzeria, Horizon Court and the 2 NEW venus, Gelato and The Pastry Shop

GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR FUNDRAISING EFFORTS!

With the state of the economy over the past few years, it has been widely reported that the need for charities to provide their products and/or services has dramatically increased for those in need. It has also been reported that the donors to the charities have tightened their belts because of the economy. This has led some charities to not be able to provide for every request that has been made of them. Therefore, we are offering an alternative fundraising idea to help boost those donation dollars.

Singles Cruises

Mingle And Meet New Friends On A Singles Cruise There’s nothing like seeing new and exotic destinations. And when you’re able to share the experience with other available people, it heightens the enjoyment for everyone. Mingle, make new friends and enjoy yourself on a singles cruise designed for you to have the time of your life. Singles Cruise Events As part of your singles cruise experience, your journey is designed with special events and entertainment. Take part in mixers and activities such as karaoke to not only make your trip more enjoyable, but to help you meet and get to know your fellow singles cruise-goers. Your needs will be tended to by professional ship staff to make you feel at home. Dine on mouth-watering food, pamper yourself in spas or just spend the day relaxing on the sundeck. Make your singles cruise venture a trip of a lifetime.

River Cruise Trips

Visit the quaint towns and villages that edge rivers. Mingle with the natives. Watch as the beautiful inland scenery rolls by and lose yourself in the charm that a river cruise has to offer. Choosing a river boat cruise has become more of a popular decision among travelers and vacationers. There is nothing like seeing a heartland in your own floating hotel. Imagine travelling from destination to destination with only having to unpack once. Spend the day exploring, then return to your ship and move on to the next place without ever having to change rooms. Let a Travel Planner Help You with Your River Cruise Package We have a wide range of river boat cruise packages for you to choose from. When you contact us, an experienced travel planner will assist you in finding the right river boat cruise to fit your destination choice and fit your budget needs. Some examples include: •Danube River Cruise •Rhine River Cruise •Provence River Cruise •Normandy’s Landing Beaches River Cruise •Eastern Europe River Cruise We have more destinations, including our Europe River Cruises. Be sure to contact us today to find out more options. We can offer special cruises that are themed or designed for special occasions, such as: •Singles Cruise Trips •Family Cruise Trips •Wedding Cruise Trips •Luxury Cruise Trips

Group Cruise Travel

There is little that can compare to the experience of group cruise ship travel. A cruise ship allows you to see exotic locations, experience magnificent sunsets and enjoy aquatic wonders--just like your own, mobile hotel. When you designate your gathering to a group cruise, it only enhances the enjoyment for everyone. Imagine transforming school and family reunions or business conventions to happen abroad. Perhaps throw a birthday or anniversary party, or just have a general vacation for you and your friends. The possibilities for group cruises are limited only by your own imagination.