The Construction event of the century – Even before its opening, reporters, photographers and adventurers came from around the world to see this colossal undertaking. What they found was truly amazing – Locks with walls 1,000 feet long, gates seven feet thick and the world’s largest man made lake. Despite malaria, yellow fever and 130*F days, the work went on. One foot at a time through fifty miles of jungle, laborers dug an enormous trench, dammed rivers and constructed six locks. On August 15, 1914, the steamer ss Ancon made the 50 mile inaugural transit in nine hours and 40 minutes – saving about 9,000 miles that it would have taken them to go around Cape Horn. Today, almost 100 years after the completion and more than a million ships later, it remains one of the world’s premier tourist attractions – one you can see from a wonderfully comfortable perspective on a cruise ship. You can transit 1/2 of the canal into Gatun Lake like we did or you can do a full transit.
We sailed into the Canal from the Caribbean Sea early in the morning on the Beautiful Island Princess. The ship fit into the first set of three locks with two feet to spare on either side. Once through those first three locks, we entered Gatun Lake where we had several shore tour options to see the Panama area. We decided to take a smaller ferry boat and do a complete canal transit and are really glad we did. This way we got to see the locks both ways, from a large cruise ship which barely fit in the locks and the more personal ferry where we could reach out and touch the canal walls. Either way you do this trip it is remarkable and unforgetable!
To accommodate today’s new larger cruise ships, Panama officials are constructing two enormous sets of single-lane, three-step locks – one on the Atlantic side, and one on the Pacific side. Once again, construction will be on a colossal scale: lock chambers will be 1,400 feet long and 180 feet wide this time, with each lock complex measuring more than a mile and a half – by far the longest lift system in the world.
If your interested in more information on the Panama Canal area and want to know about travel options to the area, please call the office anytime.
Tags: Cruise, Locks, Panama Canal, Princess Cruises
Hope you enjoy the You Tube video. As a travel consultant that spends a good portion of her day trying to explain why most of the rates (on any type of travel) seen online are lower than the cost just quoted to them, this made my day – yes a good travel consultant will have included all the taxes and fees or at least explained them upfront.
Tags: travel consultant, you tube
I have been to Jamaica many times and loved each visit! With so many things to do in each distinctive area of the island, it will take me several more visits to see it all.
Jamaica is in the Western Caribbean, and is completely surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. Jamaica is apx. the size of Connecticut, USA and one of the largest islands in the Caribbean. Prehistoric Jamaica was volcanic, and the mountains that soar to 7,402 feet are higher than any in the eastern half of North America. They run through the center of the island with a narrow coastal plain on either side. There are apx. 150 rivers and numerous waterfalls. Jamaica has a variety of underground caves and off shore reefs. You will also find both black and white sand beaches.
For those who think Jamaica is only beaches & All Inclusive Resorts, and yes the beaches are beautiful and they do have some of the nicest Resorts in the Caribbean, Jamaica is much more. You have Shopping and Entertainment, History & Culture, Gardens & Plantations, Horseback Riding & Marine Parks. You can climb the falls, go horseback & Camel (yes I said Camel) riding, try a Zip line, ATV trail rides, Mountain biking, Kayak, River tubing, & go River Rafting on the Martha Brae.
Dunns River Falls, Ocho Rios Jamaica
The falls are 600 feet of gently terraced waterfalls. You can climb the falls alone or in a group, or you can walk up the outside area of the falls without getting wet and get a view from the top. While in this area of Jamaica you could also visit the Coyaba river garden museum & Mahoe Falls. Maybe swim with the Dolphins at Dolphin Cove. Do some horseback riding through the countryside or at the beach. Maybe you would prefer to vist the Green Grotto Caves. Here you will find an intriguing network of chambers and passageways, stalactites and stalagmites and small lakes. Green Grotto is said to have been a haven for runaway slaves in the 18th century. Another great adventure would be Mystic Mountain, the park at Mystic Mountain offers many activities – Soar above the tree tops up to 700 feet to the top of Mystic Mountain and enjoy a ride through the rain forest on Bobsled Jamaica the parks signature attraction, and a thrilling ride through the tropical landscapes on sleds, or take the zip line through the lush green forest. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground – you can explore one of the many working plantations or one of the beautiful gardens in the area.
Ocho Rios is the garden of Jamaica and the place where, Jamaicans say, heaven spills into the sea. Grassy hills roll gently to white sandy coves and turquoise-blue waters of the craggy coastline. Bargaining for handmade items at the Crafts Market is a treat in itself. Relax and take in some sun at James Bond Beach. Agent 007, the fictional creation of British writer Ian Fleming, was born in Jamaica. His first film, Dr. No, was filmed here. If you are a Bond aficionado, stay at his luxurious home, Goldeneye. Drive a little to the west to find Discovery Bay where Columbus first landed, or to Runaway Bay, so called because slaves used this area as an escape route.
If all that climbing and biking, and hiking around Ocho Rios and Dunns River sounds to strenuous - you need the laid back area of Negril, Jamaica. Imagine a stunningly beautiful ribbon of white sand beach….Seven miles of beautiful white sand & crystal clear waters. I was just kidding about the strenuous/relaxing part though – Here in Jamaica’s most western point you can dive, snorkel, sail, parasail, water-ski, windsurf, kayak or glide along the coastline by catamaran. If you really want – you can ride a horse along the shore or bike on a bluff and go cliff diving. Golf and tennis are both easily available. OR you can do nothing but quietly work on your tan in a secluded cove – this would be the relaxing part… Jamaican sunsets in Negril are mesmerising and magical. Nightspots abound and you can lose yourself in the knowledge that you are in a place like no other on earth. Stay up all night dancing to the beat of a live Reggae band, dance barefoot in the sand, and then sleep for as long as you like to the lullaby of gentle waves lapping at your doorstep. So kick off your shoes, eat and drink, love and laugh, play, party and be happy! Your in Jamaica!
All this and I havn’t even mentioned Montego Bay, or “MoBay,” which offers a bustling, colorful “hip strip” of shops and restaurants. Relax on the beach. Enjoy one of the five major championship golf courses, or experience one of the luxurious spas. Visit Rose Hall Great House where you will hear the shivering tale of the white witch, Annie Palmer. Here is where you can take a rafting trip down the Great River or the Martha Brae. A few miles east of Montego Bay is the town of Falmouth, where the Parish Church built in 1795 and the courthouse built around 1815 complement the well-preserved Georgian architechture. As night falls, the phosphorescense at nearby Oyster Bay Lagoon is so thick, it glows like fire in the dark. Falmouth is the new cruise port in Jamaica for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines.
I have only touched on a few of the great places to vacation here in Jamaica if you are interested in a Jamaican vacation, we are happy to explore all your options with you.
Tags: 007, all inclusive, destination wedding specialist, Dunns River Falls, Falmouth, Goldeneye, honeymoon, Jamaica, James Bond, Martha Brae, Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, Zip line
You must visit this island so rich in cultural history and natural beauty! You will find St. Lucia in the Southern Caribbean nestled in a chain of islands known as the Lesser Antilles. Her colorful history dates back to pre-colonial times, yet it has a legacy of more than 400 years of European influence.
Dramatic Coastlines are enhanced by coral reefs and beautiful white and black sand beaches. The awe-inspiring Twin Pitons soar 2,400 feet up from the southwest shore. The island has a lush rainforest filled with ferns, wild orchids and rare tropical birds, as well as the St Lucian volcanic crater.
The Mountains make a breathtaking backdrop to the main towns of Soufriere and Castries. Mt. Gimie is the highest peak with Mt. Parasol reaching over 3,000 feet & the Pitons are in full view as you approach the seaside town of Soufriere.
Lush with color the National Rain Forest extends for 19,000 acres. Here you can take a tour or hike one of the many nature trails. A favorite is the “Rainforest Arial Tram” located in the mountains of Chassin, Babonneau or view the rain forest from a gondola over 2,000 feet above sea level.
Stop by the Pigeon Island National Landmark Interpretation Centre. It is brimming with information about the original settlers, the Carib indians. Here you can read accounts of French and British battles over this island in paradise. You’ll find the Centre in the former British officer’s mess building which has been restored to it’s 1808 splendor.
Rodney Bay, connected to Gros Islet, has a man-made causeway on the northern end of the island that stretches for over a mile. Here you can catch a ferry for the day excursion to lovely Pigeon Island. Or take a chance in the new Treasure Bay Casino. The casino has 257 slot machines (90% are penny slots), nine blackjack tables, one craps and one roulette table as well as 31 TV’s in the bar and three poker tables in a private area.
Castries – The captal city, main cruise port and commercial center has wonderful Victorian architecture and duty-free shops. Here in the northwestern tip of the island, you will also find many open-air markets filled with sweet fresh fruits and local crafts.
Be sure you don’t miss the coastal town of Soufriere with its beautiful botanical gardens, drive-through volcano and, of course, the fabulous view of the twin peaks.
St. Lucia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
Marigot Bay - Instantly recognizable from its starring role in the movie musical “Doctor Dolittle”, this secluded bay is a real-life Caribbean fantasy! Steep emerald hills border three sides of the white-sand beach.
Reduit Beach/Rodney Bay – This is St. Lucia’s most popular beach, it has a long stretch of golden sand and is within walking distance of the Rodney Bay Village restaurants and other facilities.
Anse Chastanet - Glowing with ebony sands that reflect its volcanic origins, Anse Chastanet is backed by rolling green hills and lined with lush palm trees that provide a cool alternative to sunbathing. Here is where you’ll find the coral reefs, shipwrecks & clear waters – a wonderful area for divers and snorkelers.
Anse de Sables - one of the islands most popular places for windsurfing. Here you will find constant on-shore trade winds & beautiful white sand.
In the fall of 2010 St. Lucia had a visit from Hurricane Tomas, but they have been quick to recover. In the next few years a seven-jetway terminal will be unveiled at Hewanorra Airport – it is scheduled to be completed by 2013.
If you would like additional information on St. Lucia or help with getting to or staying in one of the lovely towns of St. Lucia, please email or give one of our St. Lucia specialist a call today!
Tags: black sand beach, Lesser Antillies, Marigot Bay, Pitons, rain forest, St Lucia, volcano
Caribbean and Bahamian Cruise:
Bathing suit and cover up – Sunscreen – Sunglasses & hat – T-Shirts & Shorts – Lightweight pants – Jeans – Sundresses – Sandals or sneakers/socks (comfortable shoes for port adventures) Swim shoes & evening shoes – Sweater or light jacket for evenings – Formal dining apparel.
Dinner attire is “cruise casual”, meaning no shorts, swimwear or tank tops. Most cruises will have one or two “formal” nights where they like the Gentlemen to wear a jacket and tie and the ladies to wear a nice dress. The cruise line will always let you know in their daily planner what to expect for that evenings dinner.
Mediterranean and Northern European cruises:
Temperatures can be cooler in Europe-even in the summer-so you may want to research weather predictions before you pack. You will need most of the same items that you would for the Caribbean and these few extras…
Comfortable walking shoes (lots of walking and many cobblestone streets) – Windbreaker or light raincoat – Hat, scarf & gloves in many areas – Possibly a winter coat as well – Binoculars – Foreign-language phrase book and or dictionary – maps & guidebooks.
Alaskan Cruises:
The average summer temperatures in Alaska can range from a high of 62 degrees Fahrenheit to an average low of 45 degrees fahrenheit. Layering is recommended, so pack accordingly. You will need –
Gloves – warm hat & coat – sunscreen & sunglasses – light shirts as well as sweaters, pullovers & sweatshirts – pants – jeans – heavier footwear & socks – umbrella and poncho (it tends to rain a lot) – binoculars – a fleece jacket & dinner attire.
The Basics for all cruises:
Medications (in their original containers)
Passport & travel documentation
Camera & accessories (batteries etc.)
Extra glasses or contact lenses
Reading material
Our Travel Consultants are always here to help and explain just what you need for the cruise you choose, check with us for all your planning needs.
Tags: Alaska, Bahamas, Caribbean, Cruise, Mediterranean, northern europe, pack, packing tips
Depart 4/27/11 for 5days
Revel in the biggest event in London for 2011 in a royal way! Our travel partners have made all the arrangements for you to embrace your inner royal watcher and celebrate Prince William and Kate’s nuptials.
Share this unique experience with our other travelers on a private tour of the procession route before the big day. After the wedding enjoy a private tour of Windsor Castle. Toast the royal couple with champagne in your room, a pub or get out into the crowds to catch a glimpse of the newest couple in British royalty.
Feel free to stay a few extra days in London or extend your vacation to other parts of Europe. We are happy to assist you with all your travel needs.
Book now before space is gone!
Tags: British Royalty, Buckingham Palace, Kate, london, Prince William, royal wedding, Windsor Castle
The week we spent sailing in the Western Caribbean on an all Suite luxury ship with Regent Seven Seas Cruises was spectacular.
The cabin was wonderful and the views from the veranda breathtaking, but my very favorite part was having breakfast set up every morning in my stateroom. This was not your average cruise ship room service breakfast. First they come and set up a table top (looks like the top of a card table) that attaches to your small in-room table. So everything actually fits on the table and your not balancing things on your lap or the sofa….Then they bring in your cooked to order breakfast, set it all up for you and make sure everything you ordered is there and correct. What a way to start your day - actually they will do the same for lunch and dinner. We wanted to enjoy the ports and try the food in each area so while in port we ate in town and on our at sea day we enjoyed a terrific pool side BBQ for lunch. In the evenings we had four restaurants to choose from (no additional costs for any of them) – Compass Rose, Prime 7, LaVeranda & Signatures - each one had something special to offer and I’m really not sure which I liked the best, they were all wonderful!
The food and service were amazing – I have sailed on most of the cruise lines and this was the best in both areas so far. Since they are a small ship, their evening entertainment is on a small scale. We didn’t mind as we explored a new port everyday except one, so we were pretty tired each evening as we did a lot of walking and hiking, so a small Cabaret show after dinner was just fine with us.
This is definately not a ship for everyone – It is small, so it does not have all the action and excitement of the larger ships. This is for the person that likes excellent service, food, accommodations, very few children (we were on over a holiday and only saw a handful of kids….) an all-inclusive cruise so your not signing for things all the time, a truly luxury cruise experience. I am looking forward to sailing on one of her sister ships soon!
Tags: all suite cruise, Luxury Travel, Regent Cruise, Voyager, Western Caribbean
Alaska, the people, the places, the beauty – it’s like nothing else on earth. When you visit, Alaska becomes a part of you forever. Alaska has something for everyone. From small bed and breakfasts to magnificent lodges, from river rafting to glacier cruises and so much more! Incredible scenery, spectacular wildlife and friendly hospitality.
Peak Season is Mid-May to Mid-September. This is when Alaska gets the most visitors. The days are longest and the temperatures are their warmest. Some activities and accommodations are only available during this time. This is the ideal season for hiking, river rafting, flightseeing and fishing.
Shoulder Season is Early May, Late September and October. This is when you are likely to find discounts on travel and activities. The weather is often mild and most of the summer activities are still offered.
Winter Season – this is when Alaska really sparkles. This is when much of the land is covered by snow. This is the time to see the Northern Lights and share in the excitement of the world-famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. The race is from Anchorage to Nome. You will find an abundance of winter activites, including downhill, heli- and cross-country skiing, dog mushing, and snow shoeing.
Travel by Land, air or sea. Many visitors choose to combine modes of travel, arriving by air, then using the Alaska Railroad, a cruise ship, or motorcoach tour. However you prefer to see Alaska, it is something to see!
If you are interested in traveling to Alaska contact one of our Alaska cruise advisors, they are knowledgeable experts certified by the Alaska Travel Industry Association. They know Alaska, as upfront and personal as you know your hometown.
What’s an Alaska Certified Expert?
They are real experts about Alaska’s geography, history, culture, climate, seasons, and travel to and within the state. They are able to provide trip planning assistance and information about local transportation, attractions, accommodations and dining. They are uniquely qualified to assist you in your Alaska cruise or tour vacation plans.
Money-Saving tip: Booked directly with a cruise line or tour company? If you booked your Alaska cruise or tour directly with the Provider, you could be paying to much. Even if you are currently under deposit, call us and find out if we can save you money, provide insider knowledge and extra benefits such as shipboard credits, cabin upgrades and more. It’s easy to do. You keep all the arrangements you made, including your cabin assignment and possibly get a much better deal – what have you got to lose – give a call today!
Tags: Alaska, Anchorage, Bear, Cruise, Cruise/Tour, Deer, Denail, Dog Sled, Fairbanks, Glaciers, Iditarod, Moose, Mt Mckinley, National Parks, river rafting, Seward, Talkeetna, Whittier, wild animals, wildlife
The new Royal Caribbean Oasis Class ship “Allure of the Seas” has a starring role in the new Adam Sandler film Jack and Jill. The film crew will be aboard the Allure between November 12th & 23rd and will be using some of the Royal Caribbean employees as extras. The film starring Adam Sandler as both Jack and Jill will also feature Katie Holmes as his wife and Al Pacino as himself. The Allure will be hosting many Travel Agent and Press related functions onboard prior to sailing from Ft. Lauderdale on her maiden voyage December 1st 2010. The Allure and her sister ship the Oasis will be sailing 7 night itineraries from Ft. Lauderdale to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Please give us a call for more information on these two exciting new ships.
Tags: Adam Sandler, Allure Of The Seas, Blue Planet, Chicago, cruise consultant, Dreamworks, Jack and Jill
With all the attention to detail the new Solstice class sets itself apart from the rest and creates a very nice upscale vacation experience. This ship even has a lawn where you can play lawn games or just relax and have a picnic…..
Grand Epernay Restaurant – the main dining room is centered around an astonishing two-story wine tower that offers up to 480 different wine selections. I was told their most expensive bottle in the collection was $7,000. The entire scene looks as though it was transported from a movie set.
Cellar Masters – a richly decorated wine lounge offers Enomatic dispensers that allow you to sample a wide variety of wines. Then you have Crush, the martini bar. This is a great ice bar - the bartender will pour you a terrific Martini and put on a little show just for you. Then there is the Mixology bar. This is where your “liquid chef” will use all natural ingredients to make a one-of-a-kind creation and drinkable masterpiece just for you!
After all that fabulous eating & drinking, the Solstice has a wonderful fitness center & Spa area to work out or relax. Unfortunately, I did not get time to utilize the equipment or spa treatments this week. This was a working cruise for me & on the at sea days I had meetings and details to check on for a large group (” The Swinging Flamingos” ) I have sailing on her next month. I guess I will just have to sail on her again…
As for the staterooms – in addition to the standard Inside, Outside, and Balcony staterooms – the Solstice class ships offer – Aqua Class, these staterooms are close to the celebrated AquaSpa by Elemis and are full of amenities sure to please even the most enthusiastic spa lover. Concierge Class staterooms are designed to delight those who know how important the little details are in making a big difference. Suites are the ultimate in carefree travel-where your butler attends to you 24/7. All three options offer stunning views from private spacious verandas.
We had a wonderful week on the Solstice visiting the Eastern Caribbean ports of San Juan, St. Thomas & St. Maarten. Here are a few of my photos…..
Martini tasting time……
Having a good breakfast on our veranda before a full day of Sailing and Snorkeling in St. Thomas.
Sailboat – Bones – great Snorkeling and Dive trips – terrific crew
Horseback riding in the El Yungue Rain forest – San Juan Puerto Rico
Tags: celebriy, mixology, solstice class
