Cruise Thoughts by Bud & Kevin Thomas

2011-03-31T17:17:00.003-04:00

River Cruising RIVER CRUISING Discover the comfort, convenience, and cultural diversity that can only be found along the world's most famous waterways. The intimate alternative to ocean cruising, river cruising offers travelers access to an enormous array of unusual destinations – destinations that simply can't be reached by larger cruise ships. Huge ocean liners visit mainly coastal areas (their significant size prohibiting passage to interior regions), but river cruising's svelte crafts are capable of sailing almost anywhere. Their flat-bottom designs ensure a safe, smooth journey plus effortless entry into the smaller villages, towns, and city centers that are an essential part of any vacation experience. Smaller cruise ships also allow for lots of warm and cozy atmosphere, not to mention an extra emphasis on personal service. River cruises tend to be truly all-inclusive, too (shore excursions, to name but one example, are typically included in your fare). And when it comes to convenience, a river cruise is hard to beat. You'll unpack just once, and disembarking is a breeze. Simply step off your ship – almost immediately, you'll find yourself surrounded by the abundant scenery, local charm, and historical attractions that are the hallmarks of any river cruise.

Royal Caribbean Balcony Upgrade Sale

2011-03-28T13:04:00.004-04:00

Call Your Cruise SpecialistTo Book This Deal Today(888) 296-2096 *

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Upgrade offer is subject to availability and applies to select ship and sail dates mentioned above. Offer applicable to new individual bookings only. Bookings must be made between 3/25/11 and 4/3/11 in order to qualify for the offer. When booking, select the Z Guarantee category. Mention option code SEE7 to redeem offer. Option code SEE7 must appear on all eligible bookings. All upgrades will occur at the conclusion of the promotion. For Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, bookings will be upgraded to a Neighborhood Balcony (Boardwalk or Central Park) stateroom. For Navigator of the Seas, bookings will be upgraded to an oceanview balcony. Offer is not combinable with any other offer or promotion, including, but not limited to: Crown & Anchor, Shareholder Benefits, Future or NextCruise offers. Offer is not applicable with deep discounted rates, including, but not limited to: Interline, Travel Agent Discounts, Net Rates, and Royal Sales Event. Offer is only available to USA and Canada bookings. Prices are per person, cruise only, based on double occupancy and in US dollars. Itineraries and prices are subject to change without notice. Government taxes and fees are additional. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Certain restrictions may apply. ©2011 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships registry: The Bahamas. 11023151 • 3/25/2011 var s_account=document.getElementById("omnitureAccount").value;

Vacation Super Sale - Incredible hotel and resort savings!

2011-03-18T10:31:00.000-04:00

Vacation Super Sale - Incredible hotel and resort savings!

CruiseOne Receives Award

2010-02-15T16:24:00.005-05:00

This year we participated in an Annual Franchisee Satisfaction Survey conducted by FranchiseBusinessReview in which all 580 CruiseOne franchisees were invited to participate. Franchise Business Review’s survey questions cover areas ranging from training and support, system quality issues, franchisor relationship, financial opportunity and overall satisfaction. Additionally, demographic and lifestyle questions give a 360-degree view of their franchise ownership experience with us. We were one of the top 20 franchisors in the country. Needless to say we are extremely proud to received this award.

The Hidden Cost of Cruising and how to avoid Seasickness

2010-01-06T16:22:00.004-05:00

Hidden Cost of Cruising

Contrary to some beliefs, cruising is not an "all-inclusive" vacation. It is always best to set aside some cash to cover the additional expenses you will be met with while on the cruise of your dreams.
Shore Excursions: The advertised excursions offered by the cruise line can cost between $20 - $200+ depending on what it is. You have the option of going on your own or taking an excursion offered at the port in which you stop. Usually the local tours are at significant savings and can be just as enjoyable as the one offered by the cruise line. Make sure that the local operator gets you back to the ship in plenty of time prior to sailing, or the ship WILL LEAVE WITHOUT YOU! We suggest you do some research prior to sailing to determine what is available at the various different ports. You can purchase tour guides like Fodders and others, maps. Contact the tourist board of the country or island and they will be happy to send you some information.
Alcohol and other Beverages: Alcohol, beer and wine as well as sodas are not included in the price of a cruise. The cost of a cocktail can be expensive plus the cruise line automatically adds an additional 15% to the tab for the waiter. Soft drinks can also add up but many ships offer special packages that can cost from $20 - $45 for an all you can drink program which also gives you a souvenir bottle you can take home with you.
Casino Gambling: Casinos are big ticket items for cruise lines. You can avoid casinos completely or just set a limit and stick with it. The limit could be a maximum dollar amount you can affort to lose. There are plenty of other diversions onboard a cruise ship, like music, live shows, Vegas type production shows, games that will not set you back a single cent.
Spa: A massage could cost you upwards of $125+ or watch for specials that are advertised in the shipboard newsletter daily.
Souvenir Shops: No doubt you will want something to take home as a reminder of the dream cruise, but keep in mind that the shops onboard a cruise ship are not cheap! Souvenirs at ports are normally less expensive and often hand made by local artist.
Laundry: Many ships will have self-service launderettes onboard. If not, they will have laundry services that can add up as well. Consider taking enough cloths for the entire trip or items that can be hand washed, and will dry fast, with you.
Film & Camera Needs: Take enough film to last the entire trip. It aint cheap to buy it onboard. Even better, take a digital camera with plenty of memory cards and wait untill you get home to get pictures developed.
Tipping: Many cruise lines recommend $10 per person/per day for your cabin steward and head waiter and slightly less for the assistant waiter, assistant cabin steward and maitre d'. Many lines are now offering pre-paid graturities which is automatically added to your shipboard account. Many people go this rought because of the ease. However, you can still opt to determine who gets how much.
Fuel Surcharges: Your cruise documents will have wording that states the cruise line may add a surcharge to your account to off-set the cost of fuel if the cost of crude oil exceeds a specific limit per barrel. Lately that cost has been $170 per barrel.

Seasickness

First of all seasickness is not fatal, though you may think you are dieing. Symptons are nausea, stomack cramps and vomiting and it will put a damper on your dream cruise. It is not caused by choppy waters, rather it is caused by being on an object that is in motion (ship) competing against your body's inclination for balance. It is more prevalent in children and women.

There are a number of remedies available over the counter or by prescription. If you have a concern you should contact your doctor for advise. Some remedies are by prescription only and range from a patch that you place behind your ear or a pill. These often have side effects such as dry mouth, blurry vision, drowsiness and dizziness. Then there are the over the counter type such as Dramamine or Benadryl which are effective for many but also have some side effects like drawsiness and can be exacerbated with the use of alcohol.

Some drug-Free remedies such as the Sea-Band are effective for some. They use elastic bands use acupressure concept by applying pressure to the palm side of your wrist. They are available at most drug stores in your local area. Another remedy is the use of ginger, which is in pill, powder, tea and candy form. Green Apples are also believe to have an effect in limiting nausea.

Hurricane Season Is Here!

2009-08-24T16:54:00.011-04:00

We are now well into Hurricane Season and several storms have already occurred. The largest being Hurricane Bill which skirted the cost of the United States but didn't leave Bermuda without some problems. Ana, the first storm, never reached hurricane strength but drenched Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

It is rare that a cruise line would cancel a cruise, the majority will still set sail regardless of the weather. In the fine print of your cruise documents there is a clause that states the cruise line has the right to skip a scheduled port or change the itinerary during a cruise. If one of your ports-of-call is in the direct path of a tropical storm or hurricane the captain has the authority to change the schedule and go to another port or just stay at sea. The cruise line is also not required to compensate passengers when they make such changes, but some will offer partial refunds, shipboard credits or discounts on a future cruise, usually if taken within a year.

Late summer and early fall is the prime season for hurricanes or tropical storms and can impact your travel plans.

For this reason alone it is important that you purchase some form of travel insurance. Ask your travel agent for direction on what policy forms provide you with the best coverage for instances like this. Often the cruise line coverage is not as broad as those offered by an insurance company. If you are looking to be reimbursed for your trip cost if the cruise is canceled due to weather it is best to look at a policy offered by an insurance company as opposed to one offered by the cruise line. The cruise line may not reimburse you but will offer a credit toward a future cruise. Normally only on a cruise taken within a certain date of the cancellation, i.e. a year. This is why it is critical that you council with your travel professional and/or read the fine print of your cruise documents.

Traveling during hurricane season requires that you be a bit flexible. You might not get the cruise itinerary that you desired. If you are set on seeing specific destinations you may want to cruise when a hurricane is less likely to happen.

Carnival Cruise Line's Pinnacle Club

2009-07-13T15:53:00.007-04:00

We wanted to let everyone know that our Franchiser has received a special recognition from the worlds largest cruise line, Carnival Cruise Lines. Below is a copy of the official announcement:

"CRUISEONE & CRUISES INC. Named to carnival
cruise line’s Elite Pinnacle Club"

"Fort Lauderdale, FL – July 7, 2009 – CruiseOne and Cruises Inc., the nation’s largest cruise retail network as part of World Travel Holdings (WTH), have received another cruise line honor, being named to Carnival Cruise Line’s renowned Pinnacle Club. The accolade was made official during a June 8th presentation by Carnival executives to Brad Tolkin, Co-Chairman/Co-CEO of WTH and Dwain Wall, Senior Vice President/General Manager of CruiseOne and Cruises Inc."

“CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. are in the midst of an outstanding year, both in terms of recruiting new agents to the industry and delivering increasingly high booking numbers to the cruise lines,” said Tolkin. “Carnival Cruise Line is a valued partner and we are so thrilled to receive this recognition, which underscores the diligence of our agents amidst a challenging economic climate.”
The Pinnacle Club was created by Carnival Cruise Line to acknowledge high-volume travel agencies that meet certain sales criteria and exhibit excellence in promoting and selling the “Fun Ship” cruise experience. To be eligible, agencies must meet the company’s sales criteria while demonstrating professionalism, creativity in sales and marketing programs, and outstanding support of the Carnival brand. World Travel Holdings has earned the Pinnacle Award for more than ten years running."

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make While They Are Away From Home

2009-06-17T14:42:00.008-04:00

1. Don't stop your mail or newspaper deliveries while you are away. You may trust your mail and newspaper carrier but you don't know who else gets this information. Have a trusted neighbor collect your papers and mail. Also, ask them to pick up the mail or papers at different times of the day.

2. Don't leave your lights on all the time while you are away. Use timers that turn on the lights and turn them off at different times. Use several timers and don't have them set for the same times.

3. The first place a burglar will look for you most valuable property is in your bedroom. Don't use places like under the mattress, under your underwear in your dresser drawer and a high closet shelves. Keep them in a safe-deposit box. Hide valuable in place burglars don't usually think to look - in the garage, above a removable ceiling tile, in the freezer or fake soup can in the pantry. And don't hide everything in the same place.

4. You don't need a large breed dog either. Most large breeds are not barkers and unless they are trained as guard dogs the burglars can get around them. Get a small breed that is known as a barker like terriers like Jack Russell or Fox Terriers.

5. Posting alarm company signs outside of your home. This gives burglars the information they need to bypass the alarm system. Use a generic sign that says only "Protected By An Alarm System". These signs can be purchased from a home-supply store.

6. Never leave the burglar alarm off just because you are leaving for a short period of time. Burglars watch and often know when you leave to run errands and how long you are normally gone.

7. Tall bushes and trees planted in from of windows will permit the time to jimmy open without being notices. Also, bushes with thorns are not deterrents to burglars, they wear gloves and other protective clothing as will have cutting tools to remove the obstacles.

The content of this BLOG entry is from a recent issue of Bottom Line Personal.

Baltimore Sets New Record for Cruises

2009-06-11T11:19:00.004-04:00

With a troubled economy there is one business that is doing quite well. That is cruises sailing out of the port of Baltimore. The attached link is from one of a major local network television news stations. Be sure to read the article as well as click on the link on the right and watch the video.

http://wjz.com/video/?id=56463@wjz.dayport.com

Deals from Cruise Lines

2009-06-03T09:56:00.004-04:00

Cruise lines are offering unprecedented deals on just about every sailing they have. Of course there are exceptions and you need to call your travel agent to see which cruise line and what kind of deals are currently being offered. Alaska is one destination that has some of the best deals out there. We went to Alaska last September with Celebrity and I can tell you the current prices are a lot better than what we had.

Just yesterday I received an announcement that Royal Caribbean has an exclusive deal for all CruiseOne agents on any new bookings made between June 9th thru June 11th where they will pay all the Prepaid Gratuities for any category cabin on any sailing between July 1st and December 31st. This could amount to a significant amount of money. Money perhaps equal to a Spa Treatment on board, a shore excursion or dinner in a Specialty Restaurant.

Deal are out there all you have to do is call your agent.

Passport....Do You Need One?

2009-06-01T11:52:00.007-04:00

The answer to that question is yes and no! As of today (June 1, 2009) you will need to show a passport or passport card to enter the U.S. by land or sea. However, cruise ship passengers who leave from and return to the same U.S. port are not required to have a passport even under the new rolls. It's confusing, isn't it!

As such it makes sense for cruise travelers to have a passport anyway. What would happen if you were on a cruise and an emergency happened that required you to have to fly home? You are required to have a passport if you arrive by air into the U.S. This is why it is best to get a passport. Not having a passport will not stop you from entering the country but it will cause significant delays when you arrive.

Visit the website of the State Department at http://www.travel.state.gov/ for the latest on the requirements and to print off the application. Or you can go to you local post office to secure the necessary applications. If you have to renew your passport you can do it on-line, but you will be required to secure new photos and send them into an address in Philidelphia.

Lunch on the Carnival Pride

2009-05-19T12:03:00.006-04:00

On Sunday May 17, 2009 we were fortunate to be invited to participate in a ship inspection and luncheon on board the newest cruise ship that is sailing year around from Baltimore. This is something all cruise line do for travel agents. It is an excellent opportunity to tour the ship and get a first hand look at what it has to offer. This is extremely useful for an agent if they have never sailed on the ship.

We were treated to a guided tour of the ship to see what the various types or categories of cabins they have available. I was extremely pleased to see that the staterooms were spacious and well laid out for the guest. The different venues of entertainment offer something for everyone's. The decor of the ship was Mediterranean with an emphasis toward the Renaissance artist. The speciality restaurant is David's Supper Club which is right under the trademarked funnel (smokestack) of the ship. There is a red glass skylight that provides the upper level a radish hue and has a copy of Michelangelo's statue of David overlooking the glass staircase that leads to the lower level of the restaurant, very impressive. After the tour we were treated to a private luncheon for the CruiseOne and Cruise, Inc agents. The food was excellent and the service was super. After lunch we were treated to some entertainment by the wait staff. See the attached video.

NEW - Flu Guidelines for Cruising

2009-05-04T15:45:00.004-04:00

We recently were advised that members cruise lines of CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) have enhanced their screening guidelines to ensure the healthiest environment on their ships. In this new guideline all passengers scheduled to board a CLIA member line cruise ship will be required to complete a new health questionnaire prior to boarding at any port. If a passenger reports on the questionnaire flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, runny nose or sore throat, or contact with a confirmed Influenza A (H1N1) case, Medical personnel at each cruise line will make case by case decisions regarding the boarding of those passengers. Passengers will not be permitted to travel if they exhibit influenza-like-illness or meet the suspect case conditions for swine flu as defined by the CDC.

Further information on travel and the swine flu can be found on the CDC Web site at: www.cdc.gov/swineflue

Carnival Cruise Lines Host a FREE Event in Baltimore!

2009-04-20T14:35:00.009-04:00

On Saturday April 25, 2009 between the hours of 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM Carnival Cruise Lines is hosting a fun day at the Baltimore Inner Harbor. Carnival is hosting the event to direct attention to the Carnival Pride which will begin year around cruises leaving from Baltimore's Locus Point Cruise Terminal on Monday April 27, 2009. The Carnival Pride is the newest and largest cruise ship that departs from Baltimore.

Come on down the the Baltimore Inner Harbor on the 25th for a fun packed day of all kinds of stuff sure to entertaining for all ages. Things like karaoke, worlds largest beach ball and interactive programs.

Carnival Fun Booth - on the pier just outside of the ESPN Zone/Power Plant on Pratt Street. Street karaoke at it's best and get your own recording.

Carnival Pride Sand Sculpture - on the pier outside the National Aquarium in Baltimore.

Carnival Entertainment - Live throughout the entire day in the Harborplace Amphitheater.

The World's Largest Beach Ball - as documented by the Guinness World Records

3D Chalk Art of the Carnival Pride's Twister Waterslide - on the corner of Light and Pratt Streets.

Balloon Giveaway - free balloons at the Visitor's Center along Light Street.

Camp Carnivaltm Kid Zone - The place for kids or adults who like magicians and face painting. Visitor's Center Lawn.

Fun Force - picture break dancing with a side of "how'd they do that?" Evening entertainment before the Oriole's game between 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM at the Diamond Tavern in the New Hilton hotel.

Fun Decoder Cards - will be distributed which will provide several chances to win a free cruise.

New Cruise Ship Coming To Baltimore!

2009-03-25T14:52:00.010-04:00

We attended a seminar yesterday with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and found out that the Enchantment of the Seas will begin year around cruises out of Baltimore in 2010. She is replacing the Grandeur of the Seas that currently sails out of Baltimore during some of the summer months. The Enchantment is larger with more balconies and will assume the same itineraries as the Grandeur but in October she will begin 9 and 12 night cruises and will continue year around. This is fantastic news for local people who want to take a cruise close to home.

Job Loss Insurance

2009-03-13T16:52:00.004-04:00

We are happy to announce that we now have insurance for cruisers that lose their jobs. If you feel you may lose your job and want to take a cruise you need not fear. We offer "Cruise Assurance" which is the first ever comprehensive job loss travel insurance policy covering travel on all cruise lines. This is an exclusive benefit to consumers booking through our agency that has to cancel their cruise because of an unexpected layoff.

All you need do is purchase the basic travel insurance policy to receive this coverage.

We understand consumer challenges. Cruise Assurance takes job loss insurance to a new level, easing your concerns and at no cost to you.

All you need do is book a cruise with us and you can cancel your trip up to the day of departure, or even during your vacation. Your only requirement is that you must purchase the basic travel insurance policy with us through Travel Guard and present a copy of your termination/layoff notice. You must have been employed for a minimum of one year though. This offering applies to new bookings made between March 1 through May 2, 2009 and is offered in addition to an already comprehensive travel protection policy.

Free and fun things on a cruise!

2009-02-03T10:46:00.004-05:00

Many cruise lines charge for ice cream if you order it....why, when you can get it for free. That's right nearly every cruise ship out there has a ice cream bar on the ship. It may be at the buffet or perhaps on the Lido Deck near one of the pools. All you have to do is help yourself!

The same holds true for coffee/cappuccino bar. It is free depending on where you are on the ship. Besides, all have complimentary coffee in your stateroom...right!

If wine is your thing, most cruise lines will bring you a bottle every night if your pre-arrange for it and pay a flat fee. Why pay by the bottle if you can get the same thing at a flat rate. Some cruise lines offer wine tasting seminars on-board for free or a nominal fee. And they offer premium wines that can go for at much as $45+ a glass at the dining table.

You no doubt have heard that you can gain a lot of weight when you take a cruise. That is because of the generous portions of the entries and a buffet that is out of this world. You can easily gain at least a pound a day. If that is your plan, take stock of what is on the menu that evening and if you don't find what you want....JUST ASK FOR IT! Even if the item you want isn't to be on the menu until Thursday and it is Monday, ask for it and chances are your waiter will bring it to you.

Now, since you may have eaten too much and you feel you have to work some of it off, don't miss out on taking advantage of the free services of the ship's state of the art gym. It will have all the latest equipment and while you are running on the treadmill you will have fantastic ocean views. Plus you will have the services of a personal trainer that will be happy to help you with your workout and it is free. In addition you might want to take advantage of some of the free exercise classes they offer, like Pilates and Yoga. Don't overlook the FREE pool, sauna and steam rooms that are available to you either.

If your idea of a perfect cruise is just sitting in a deck chair with a good book. Not to worry, all ships have free libraries where you can check out a book on the honor system. Or bring you favorite author's latest and relax on any of a number of decks with chairs. Many have special quite areas where you can read or relax without any distractions.

Taking the kids with you? Don't fret, all ships have special activity programs for kids of all ages. Services you would have to pay through the nose for on land. Programs are geared toward the age of the children and are all under the supervision of trained instructors. And all with excellent child to instructor ratios. In the evening you may have available babysitting services for a nominal fee. The older kids have teen programs geared for their interest. If the kids are tired and don't want to go to dinner with the family, how about just calling in room service which is offered 24/7 on cruise ships and many with the same menus that are in the main dining room. All you have to do is pay a nominal tip for the waiter.

New Passport Rules

2009-01-23T14:34:00.003-05:00

You might want to apply for your passports now to avoid the rush. The new passport rules go into effect on June 1, 2009. These new rules are in compliance with the "Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative which requires all travelers returning the the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda - including those who go by land or sea - to have a passport or other federally approved ID.

For complete details and down loadable applications and all the requirements go to www.travel.state.gov.

Parking at Port of Baltimore

2009-01-23T14:28:00.006-05:00

Parking for passenger cars for 2009 will be $15 per cruise night. There are over 1,500 parking spaces on 3 different lots that are in close proximity to the passenger terminal at Locus Point. You can pay by cast, traveler's cheques or major credit cards.

New Cruise Season sailing out of Baltimore

2009-01-23T14:08:00.007-05:00

Carnival will be the first cruise line to offer year-round sailings from Baltimore. The Carnival Pride will begin six and seven night sailings on April 27, 2009. Itineraries include Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas. Their schedules will continue through out 2010 with seven and eight night Eastern Caribbean.

The Norwegian Cruise Line's Majesty will return on May 24, with five and seven night sailings to Bermuda, The Majesty will cruise from Baltimore through August 2009.

The Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas will return again this season on June 19, 2009 with five night Bermuda and nine-night Canada/New England and nine-night Eastern Caribbean sailings. They will be offering a special repositioning cruise in November.

New this year is the Celebrity Mercury that will begin sailing out of Baltimore on November 9, 2009 and will make twelve night-cruises to the Eastern Caribbean and nine-night cruises to the Bahamas and will continue through February 2010.

Good news in troubled times

2009-01-12T11:23:00.004-05:00

We are inundated every day about how bad the economy is, the unemployment rate and so on. But not all is bad. The cruise industry is doing it's part to help alleviate some of the doom and gloom of the every day. Cruise lines have been taking some very proactive actions to attract customers. Here are some examples of what they are doing:

Reduced pricing

Reduced deposits

Ship-board credits of $200 or more

Two for one pricing

Free or discounted air fares

It is important to note that not ever cruise line or every sailing is eligible for such offerings but give us a call and we can let you know which one are offering something when you want to travel.

Another piece of good news is that cruise lines are opening up new ports-of-call in the Caribbean. If you have been a frequent cruiser to the Caribbean it should be of interest to know that there are some places you may not have been to yet. There are new ports in Tortola, Bonaire and the Turks and Caicos. Carnival Cruise Lines has invested $60 million in the Grand Turk Cruise Centre in the Turks and Caicos Islands which opened in 2006 but is still being expanded upon. A new 13-acre complex that features a 800-foot-long private beach, swimming pool and FlowRider attraction that offers body boarding and stand-up board surfing in addition to multiple retail outlets..

Jamaica is developing it's fourth cruise destination on it's northern coast. By the end of this year the Falmouth cruise port is expected to open. The Falmouth port is designed to accommodate the new Oasis of the Seas from Royal Caribbean Cruise Line which is currently the larges cruise ship on the seas, which is scheduled to launch later this year.

Several cruise lines will be launching newer and bigger ships in the next couple of years. The Oasis of the Seas is the largest and features a Zip-line, 2 Rock Climbing Walls, an antique Carousel, an Aqua Theater, a Tattoo Parlor and much much more. It is a destination of it's own. Celebrity has a new ship that set sail a few months ago called the Solstice who's home port is Ft. Lauderdale. Carnival, Holland American and others have new ships due to set sail in 2010 and later.

Cruising is still one of the best vacation values out there today. Your room, food, entertainment, health club, pools and others are all included in the one price. The only items not included are your drinks/sodas, gift shop purchases, casinos and shore excursions. You only unpack once and in most cases visit a new destination every day.

Our Economic Stimulus Package – Best Values Ever

2009-01-07T15:08:00.002-05:00

Now is the time to cruise. Our January Cruise Sale has offers and reduced prices NEVER offered before. Take advantage of our buying power and the amazing deals we secure on your behalf, so that you can travel at an incredible value ( direct cruise line pricing with personal, attentive service). Prices this low and offers this great won't last! Act now and travel to the destination of your dreams for the best prices ever!

We have many special exclusive gifts to express our appreciation to our customers including reduced deposits, shipboard credits, dollars-off pricing, onboard value booklets, cabin upgrades and much, much more! Why pay more for just a plain old hotel room when you can have fabulous accommodations, gourmet meals and Las Vegas-style entertainment for less than you ever imagined? Call us today for the getaway you deserve.

Toddlers on Cruise Ships

2008-12-31T11:28:00.005-05:00

Recently a family took a cruise aboard a Royal Caribbean ship with their two year old that was not potty trained...yet. They were upset and a bit surprised to discover that the cruise ship would not permit the diapered toddler in the pool. So much so that they wrote to the CEO of Royal Caribbean to complain. Unfortunately they failed to do the proper due diligence prior to sailing. If they had they would have discovered that no cruise line would permit a toddler into a pool with a diaper on. If they had investigated properly they would have discovered that the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) and the Prevention's Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP), whose mission it is to prevent gastrointestinal illnesses on board cruise ships. The VSP will conduct unannounced inspections of cruise ships, scrutinizing a checklist of sanitation standards, from food-handling safety to swimming pool maintenance.

The intent is to prevent pool contamination and ward off the spread of norovirus, cryptosporidium, giardia and E.coli - all illnesses that have caused serious outbreaks after fecal accidents in pools.

Some cruise ships have special wading pools for children that are engineered for children that aren't toilet-trained. These VSP approved facilities feature isolated water systems, secondary UV disinfection and increased filtration systems. Royal Caribbean has Baby Splash Zones on only three of their ships (Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Independence of the Seas), Disney features a toddler fountain play area on the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic.

The swim-diaper policy is on Royal Caribbean's website (royalcaribbean.com), though it can be hard to spot. Look at the All About Cruising tab and choose Family Cruising; the details are at the bottom of the page. You can find the diaper restrictions on the website of all cruise lines or just ask your travel agent what the limitations are.

Royal Caribbean's Royal Tots group programs are designed by early-childhood experts at Fisher-Price who is in partnership with them for the children's programs on board all of their ships.

We highly recommend that everyone check with their travel agent before booking a cruise when you are traveling with young toddlers that are not potty trained. Do your investigation early and make sure your family cruise vacation is not hampered with disappointments because the young ones aren't allowed in the pool.

Cruising in '09

2008-12-19T16:07:00.007-05:00

The following is a copy of an article found on MSNBC from a notable travel expert yesterday 12/18/08. From the content of this article you can clearly see that the cruise business is doing quite well. With all these new builds and refurbishments it is clear that 09 and beyond are expected to go well for the industry. Currently there are a number of discounts, deals and other enticements out there that you can benefit from.

Cruising in ’09: So long fuel surcharges, hello zip-lining

Hitting the high seas in 2009? Here's a preview of what you can expect
By Anita Dunham-Potter - Travel columnist

At this time of year, just about everyone devotes a column to predictions for the year ahead. I don’t have a crystal ball, but I can tell you the shape of things to come on the high seas in 2009: no fuel supplements (for now), massive tonnage, new luxury, greener ships, ship makeovers and — would you believe? — zip-lining and a carousel.

Ship class of 2009
Eight new ships will be ready for their close-ups next year, with one being the largest cruise ship ever launched. Here’s a summary for the Class of 2009, in order of the month they debut.

May: Costa Cruises 92,700-ton Costa Luminosa will carry 2,828 guests and will homeport in Amsterdam for the summer of 2009 with sailings to the Baltics. The ship will transition back the Mediterranean for the winter.

June: Costa Cruises is yet again receiving another vessel. The 114,500-ton Costa Pacifica, 3,780-passenger will sail seven-night sailings year-round from Rome (Civitavecchia) in the Mediterranean.

June: Seabourn is launching its first new yacht in eleven years. The ultra-luxury 32,000-ton Seabourn Odyssey will accommodate 450 lucky guests. The yacht’s itineraries will begin with sailings through the Black Sea, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean before it embarks on its 108-day world cruise where it will visit 42 ports in five countries.

MSC Cruises’ 133,500-ton, 3,300-passenger MSC Splendida is the second ‘Fantasia-class’ vessel to enter the fleet. The ship will sail year-round in the Mediterranean.

August: Celebrity Cruises’ 122,000-ton Celebrity Equinox is the line’s second ‘Solstice-class’ ship to be launched. The 2,850-passenger vessel will sail ten-, 11-, and 13-day sailings in the Mediterranean before crossing over in early November to sail 10- and 11-night Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale.

October: The 130,000-ton, 3,652-passenger Carnival Dream is Carnival Cruise Lines biggest “Fun Ship” to date. Carnival Dream will set sail with a few 2009 Mediterranean itineraries and will then cross the Atlantic Ocean to New York, finally making its way to its homeport of Port Canaveral, Florida to sail 8-day Western and Southern Caribbean itineraries.

November: Spanning 16 decks and weighing 220,000 tons, the Oasis of the Seas will be the world’s largest ship to-date. The ship will carry a whopping 5,400 guests at double occupancy and 6,300 maximum capacity when all upper and lower berths are occupied. Oasis of the Seas will sail year-round from Fort Lauderdale offering 7-day alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.

December: Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises will launch its first newbuild ship in eight years. The 36,000-ton, 540-passenger Silver Spirit will transport guests in the style of 1930s art deco period. The vessel will sail in South America in early 2010 and will return to the Mediterranean for the spring and summer.

Old ships get facelifts
It’s not easy being an older ship in a sea of newbuilds. Many cruise lines are finding they must modernize older vessels to keep pace with the newer ships vast offerings and expanded on-board activities.

Holland America is sending the Rotterdam and Veendam to dry dock to receive a series of the line’s “Signature of Excellence” enhancements to cabins, pool decks and entertainment options. Carnival’s “Evolutions of Fun” makeover of the line’s Fantasy-class ships continues. The Carnival Paradise, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Elation, Carnival Ecstasy and Carnival Fascination will get major pool deck upgrades along with stateroom enhancements. Princess Cruises’ is upgrading Caribbean Princess with a Crown Grill steak and seafood venue, adults-only Sanctuary, and adding seven suites. Additionally the Atrium will be transformed into the now-signature Piazza. Sea Princess will receive the new adults-only Sanctuary area.

Silversea Cruises’ Silver Wind and Silver Cloud will receive major upgrades where all suites receive new bathrooms and the vessels will gain a new lounge, enhanced spa, and eight additional suites. Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Mariner will get an updated look with new casual dining options near the pool. In addition, every area of the ships will be refurbished with new furniture, fabrics and colors, carpeting, wallpaper, upholstery, light fixtures, and drapes.

New at-sea thrills
Oasis of the Seas will have seven distinct neighborhoods including Central Park, the Boardwalk, and the Royal Promenade. The ship will also feature two at-sea firsts: A zip-line and authentic carousel. The MSC Splendida and Costa Luminosa will offer 4-D cinemas with sound, lighting, images and special effects that combine to create a multi-sensory experience unlike anything ever found on a ship.

Greener machines
The cruise industry is making great strides in lessening its carbon footprint around the world. Celebrity Solstice is the first cruise ship to use solar power and sister ship Celebrity Equinox will follow in August 2009. There are 216 solar panels throughout the ship and energy collected becomes part of the ship’s power grid — enough to operate 7,000 of the vessel’s 25,000 energy efficient LED lights. Additionally, Solstice and Equinox’s hull design and coating make the ship more fluid dynamic, which means less fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida will feature and Advanced Water Treatment system for the treatment of gray and black waters. This system filters all the water on board and ensures that any that is released into the sea is clean and has an almost zero pollution level.

Burning diesel fuel to generate electricity when a ship is in port generates unnecessary pollution, so a number of ships are converting to an Alternative Maritime Power (AMP) system that allows vessels to plug directly into shore power while at port. Seattle, Juneau and Los Angeles offer this to cruise ships and Civitavecchia, Italy is set to become the first Mediterranean port to provide shore power to cruise ships using electricity generated from renewable resources like photovoltaic and wind power.

Fuel supplement limbo
Cruise lines began adding fuel surcharges a year ago when oil prices first spiked to $100 a barrel. Needless to say the practice stirred up a lot of controversy among passengers and the travel agent community. It also caught the eye of the law when the Florida attorney general’s office opened an investigation into possible cruise line collusion when the lines set the extra charges and another into the legality of assessing the fees retroactively. Carnival ended up refunding about $40 million in retroactive fuel supplements to passengers, and Royal Caribbean refunded $21 million.

Fortunately tanking fuel prices have been a bright spot for cruise lines whereby the majority recently suspended their fuel supplements. Still cruise lines cautioned that they reserve the right to reinstate fuel surcharges should the price of oil again rise above $65 per barrel.

Up the river without a paddleboat
The saddest cruise story this year was Majestic America Line going out of business. The line’s seven paddlewheel boats are now in extended drydock across the country awaiting their fate. Some parts of the fleet might be sold off piecemeal and could sadly end up overseas. They are truly a piece of Americana and a product of a by-gone era. I hope a dynamic investor can swoop in to save these boats.

2009 sure looks to be an interesting and fun year in cruising.

NCL Resolves to Offer Shipboard Credits

2008-12-17T17:02:00.003-05:00

As you ponder your New Year's resolutions for 2009, create a goal to experience "Freestyle Cruising" on Norwegian Cruise Line. Enjoy your cruise at your pace. Dine when, where and with whom you want. Make your NCL cruise that much more merry with a shipboard credit of up to $500 with our NCL Freestyle Resolution Sales Event . Relax under the warm sun of the Bahamas with soft sand between your toes and cool sea breezes throughout the day. Feel the ocean waves cascade against your body as you take in views of pristine beaches. Book your cruise in 2008 before the prices increase next year!

Everyone should experience a Freestyle Cruise at least once in their lifetime so what are you waiting for? Take that vacation you've always dreamed of and enjoy a wonderful experience on the cruise vacation of a lifetime. Call us today and we'll take care of the details while you enjoy the cruise vacation of your dreams!

Being Safe Abroad

2008-12-11T15:58:00.005-05:00

In recent weeks there has been a number of incidents where travelers became victims of crime and/or terrorist. I am sure many of you have concerns over how safe it may be to travel in today's world. The truth is there is always risks in traveling abroad depending on the destination.

Your biggest risk though is not planning ahead. Think of the worse possible scenario and how you might react to it. What should you have with you? How would you escape a fire? What if you are taken hostage, and how you should behave. Things like this are important to think about if you are a seasoned traveler or just a beginner. Actually, people who don't travel that much are more likely to be more concerned than the seasoned traveler and also be better prepared.

It is important to anticipate events; and don't let recent events dictate your travel behavior.

If you are taken hostage, the first few minutes are the most critical. First of all DO NOT RESIST. Also DO NOT engage your captors in any way in hopes that it may help.

Before you go, get information about the political environment in the area you plan on visiting. Visit the State Departments website to find out what travel advisories there are; http://www.travel.state.gov/.

Survey your hotel and find the emergency exits and mentally plan your escape.

Be sure to keep your travel documents in a safe place along with some cash. Also, carry a photo copy of your passport and itinerary in a separate safe location and be sure to leave a copy of it with your family and/or friends back home.
Ask for a room in the rear of a hotel as opposed to one in the front and away from roads.

Be sure NOT to have a room on the first floor or one of the top floors.

These are suggestions from notable experts in the travel security business and for the most part are common sense.

Cruise Prices Lower then Ever!

2008-12-10T12:55:00.003-05:00

Tired of paying extra for fuel when you cruise? Well, the good news is now you don't have to! Most cruise lines have eliminated those pesky fuel surcharges and that means extra cash in your pocket when you cruise. If you've always dreamt about visiting Hawaii now is the time to go with cruise prices more affordable then ever! Why not experience the cruise vacation of a lifetime?

And it only gets better. Take advantage of our Carnival 2-Day Sale and we'll upgrade your cabin up to six categories. You can also save up to $200 per stateroom TODAY AND TOMORROW ONLY with our Carnival 2-Day Sale! Why pay more when you can act now and pay less? Get ahead of the game and plan your 2009 vacation now before cruise prices increase. Call us today and we'll take your cruise planning to the next level!

Cruising for Value in Europe

2008-11-21T11:23:00.005-05:00

Good news fellow Americans! The Euro and the Great British Pound are weakening in comparison to the US dollar. This means that going ashore on a European cruise has just gotten much more affordable. To be exact, the US dollar has improved 18% versus the Euro, and the dollar has seen an 18% improvement versus the Great British Pound in the last 90 days. $1 US is now worth .80 Euros, while just 90 days ago it was worth .62 Euros. And one US dollar now buys .68 British Pounds when 90 days ago it was worth just .50 British Pounds. These exchange rates are amongst the best in the last 2 years.

Compound this with the fact that pricing on European cruises is now at a low (7 night Mediterranean as low as $599 on Norwegian Gem), and we're seeing much more value in Europe than we have in the past. Many past passengers already have a passport, and are ideal for European Cruising. Even if you don't have a passport, it has become easier to secure one lately. If you have always wanted to travel to Europe, take a river cruise down the Danube, cruise the Mediterrainan or Greek Islands, now may be an excellent opportunity to make those dreams come true.

Cruises Provide Travel Value

2008-11-10T11:38:00.005-05:00

Studies have shown that despite the economy, Americans are not willing to give up their vacations. That is why more and more are looking toward taking cruises because of the value they provide. There is no other vacation option that enables you to unpack one time and feel at home while visiting a different port-of-call or country every day. All your lodging, food and entertainment is included in the pre-set price. You have access to state of the art health facilities with all the latest exercise equipment and adviser's that are there to help you. In addition there are facilities on-board that are geared toward children from toddlers to teens with trained counselors.

There are somethings we suggest you pay attention to and make sure you budget accordingly. First of all, use a Travel Agent. They know the cruise lines and can better direct you to one that will meet your expectations so your experience is more rewarding. Using a travel agent does not cost you anything extra. They can help you find a vacation cruise that fits your budget and provide details on fees and the on-board extras.

Many cruise lines offer discounts for seniors, repeat passengers and active duty or retired military personnel. You can save money by planning and reserving your cruise a year or two in advance. The more flexible you are with dates the better deals you can get. Consider booking your shore activities through an independent provider. They are often times less expensive than going through the cruise line. Just be sure the provider can get you back to the ship in time before it departs.

Soda and alcoholic drinks are extra on a cruise ship. But, cruise lines offer a pre-paid soft drink card that can help cruisers control their spending. You get a sticker to put on your "Seapass" card and a insulated bottle and are able to get unlimited refills of the soft drink of your choosing. These can be very cost effective, particularly if traveling with kids.

Gratuities are a major expense in a cruise and are not included in the fare. Many cruise lines automatically include the gratuities on your ship-board account and it amounts to as much as $10 per day/per adult and $5 per day/per child. Depending on the number of days you cruise this can add up pretty quick. Some cruise lines do not include the tips on your account automatically but encourage them at the end of your voyage. We suggest putting aside money for this at the beginning of your trip.

All cruise line offer Internet access and it can be as much as 55 cents per minute or you can sign up for special Internet packages such as 60 minutes for $28; 90 minutes of $38 and 150 minutes for $55. All cruise lines offer cell phone usage but the cost can vary. Your telephone providers roaming and international rates will probably apply.

It has become common on many cruise lines to offer "Speciality Dining" options in a fancy Italian, Japanese, Steakhouse or some other speciality restaurant where they have a cover charge of $15 to $30 per person and advance reservations are required. Note, these are additional dining options and you do not have to use them. You still have a regular restaurant with it's own menu which is included in the cruise fare. You will also have the buffet dining that is a very popular option for many cruisers. You can also opt for room service from the main dining menu at no additional cost except perhaps of a gratuity for the delivery.

Another possible option to consider is to get a group of your friends or relatives and put a group cruise together. Most cruise lines consider a group to be a minimum of 8 staterooms with two people or more in each cabin. Your agent will have the cruise line block a group of staterooms for you and normally at a reduced price. If the group is larger a tour conductor designate could sail for free depending on the number of cabins sold in the group. In addition, if the group is large enough the cruise line will offer amenities such as a group cocktail party; chocolate covered strawberries in every cabin just to mention a couple. A group can consist of just about anything you can think of. Examples of a group is a family reunion; class reunion; scrap-booking groups; clubs; fraternities; sororities or just about any affinity grouping you can think of.

Travel Tip when traveling abroad.

2008-11-10T11:09:00.006-05:00

1. Sign your passport and visa, if required, and fill in the emergency information page of your passport.

2. To avoid being a target of criminals, do not wear conspicuous clothing or jewelry and do not carry large amounts of money. Don't leave unattended luggage in public areas and do not accept packages from a stranger.

3. Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data and visa with family or friends, so you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

4. Be familiar with the laws and customs because you are subject to their laws. The State Department website at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html has useful safety and other information about the countries you will visit.

5. Ask you medical insurance company if your policy covers you while you are overseas. Also, if it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. Mose domestic policies do not cover you out side of the U.S. and it is highly recommended taking out travel insurance that will provide the coverage you may need while traveling.

6. In the event of an emergency while traveling overseas contact the U. S. Embassy. The embassies and consular offices are open 24/7 to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens. Contact information can be found on the Embassies and Consulates website at http://travel.state.gov/. The Office of Overseas Citizen Services in the State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs can be reached for assistance at 1-888-407-4747 if calling from the U.S. and Canada or 202-501-4444 if calling from overseas.

7. You may want to register your travel plans with the State Department through a free online service at https://travelregistration.state.gov/. This will help get in touch with you if a family emergency in the U.S., or if there is a crisis where you are traveling. The information provided on this site is protected by the Privacy Act and will not be released to anyone without your permission.

Top 40 Cruises under $40 per day!

2008-11-01T20:58:00.002-04:00

Most people don't know that going on a cruise is the best "bang for your buck" that you can find for a vacation.

CRUISEONE, NATION’S LEADING RETAILER OF CRUISE TRAVEL, RELEASES LIST OF “TOP 40 CRUISES UNDER $40/DAY”

Cruise Bookings Surge Amidst Economic Pressure Because of Extraordinary Value Available

Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. – With a declining economy comes less discretionary spending. However, CruiseOne – the nation’s leading retailer of cruise travel – is seeing cruise bookings continue to rise. Why? Because of the unrivaled value consumers can now find when booking a cruise vacation.

As a result of increasing demand from consumers for affordable cruise packages, CruiseOne today released a list of the “Top 40 Cruises Under $40/Day.” All 40 special offers are available now through the end of 2008. Some 2009 packages are also available upon request.

A few of the sample itineraries and pricing available on the CruiseOne list include:
· $37/Day – Carnival Imagination, 4-night Western Caribbean, Departing Miami 11/3/08 and 11/10/08
· $31/Day – Norwegian Sun, 19-night Voyage to South America, Departing San Francisco 11/4/08
· $39/Day – Celebrity Infinity, 14-night Panama Canal and South America, Departing Fort Lauderdale 12/7/08
· $35/Day – Royal Caribbean Majesty of the Seas, 4-night Bahamas, Departing Miami 12/8/08
· $35/Day – Norwegian Sky, 4-night Bahamas, Departing Miami 12/15/08

“Now is the perfect time for travelers to take advantage of the incredible deals major cruise lines are offering through CruiseOne Franchise Owners,” said Steven Hattem, Vice President of Marketing and Sales for CruiseOne. “We know the economy is struggling, but we also know cruise bookings are on the rise because of the deals available. Our ‘Top 40 Under $40’ is the ideal solution for consumers balancing less disposable income with the desire to take a vacation at a great value.”

For the full list of CruiseOne “Top 40 Cruises Under $40/Day” or with interview requests, please contact Samantha Jacobs, Director of Public Relations.

To book one of the “Top 40 Cruises Under $40/Day,” consumers should contact their local CruiseOne specialist. To locate a Cruise Specialist, log onto www.cruiseone.com. Inventory is limited and prices are subject to change.

About CruiseOne:
CruiseOne, with 552 independently owned cruise travel franchise locations, combines tremendous industry buying power with a unique, customized experience that offers customers the ability to plan vacations online while enjoying the personalized touch of an experienced local cruise specialist.
CruiseOne is part of the World Travel Holdings (WTH) family, the largest seller of cruises in the nation. The company has relationships with every major cruise line and is consistently recognized for its efforts by key partners, including being named Royal Caribbean’s “Partner of the Year – 2007.”
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Carnival Cruise Line sails more often from Baltimore

2008-10-31T10:59:00.007-04:00

Pasted below is a copy of a press release I just received from The Maryland Port Administration that I believe will be good news for anyone who likes to cruise and is close to the port of Baltimore. For more information give us a call or visit our website http://www.cruisewithbud.com/ and let us assist you in planning your close to home cruise from Baltimore.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Richard Scher
October 27, 2008

J. B. Hanson
MPA Communications
(410) 385-4480

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES MOVES UP YEAR-ROUND CRUISES FROM BALTIMORE AND ADDS 19 SAILINGS; WILL NOW START IN APRIL 2009

Decision Made in Response to Current Market Conditions, Strong Baltimore Bookings

(BALTIMORE, MD) --- Carnival Cruise Lines today announced they will begin their year-round cruising program from the Port of Baltimore five months early and will also add 19 sailings to its Baltimore schedule. Carnival, the world’s largest cruise line, will now launch the Port of Baltimore’s first-ever, year-round cruises on April 27, 2009, instead of in September. The additional 19 sailings will give the Port of Baltimore a total of 79 cruises in 2009, up from 27 cruises this year. Of the 79 total cruises, 36 will be from Carnival, 23 will come from Royal Caribbean International, 15 will come from Norwegian Cruise Lines, and five are from Celebrity Cruises.

“We are very happy to accommodate Carnival Cruise Lines on this schedule change, and we eagerly anticipate their arrival next spring,” said Maryland Port Administration Executive Director James J. White. “This is the latest indication that the Port of Baltimore and state of Maryland have come a long way in promoting this area as a viable cruise market.”

The 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride will operate six, seven, and eight-day Caribbean cruises from Baltimore between April 27 and September 6, 2009. Beginning September 13, Carnival will continue its Baltimore schedule will two week long itineraries over the next two years. Seven-day eastern Caribbean departures will call at Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; the private Bahamian island of Half Moon Cay; and Freeport, The Bahamas. A seven-day Bahamas/Florida cruise will visit Port Canaveral, FL; Nassau and Freeport, The Bahamas. Each itinerary includes three days at sea. As a result of the new schedule, a six-day cruise scheduled to depart September 7 has been rescheduled to a September 6 departure.

“Based on current market conditions, continued economic uncertainty and high air costs to Europe, we are shifting our focus to an even greater extent toward our core, close-to-home cruise options which are clearly the preference of the vast majority of the mainstream vacation market right now,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival president and CEO. “We are excited that this change in deployment will also enable us to bring the Carnival Pride to Baltimore four months earlier than originally planned to start up that city’s first year-round cruise program, which is proving to be extremely popular based on advanced bookings so far,” he added.

In June, it was announced that Carnival would begin a two-year, year-round sailing schedule from Baltimore in 2009. The recent addition of Celebrity Cruises will give the Port of Baltimore service from four major cruise lines next year. As recently as last year, the Port’s only cruise customer was Royal Caribbean.

The economic impact of the 27 cruises from this year’s Port of Baltimore cruise season is estimated to be about $63 million. The Port of Baltimore is the closest East Coast drive-to port from Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Indianapolis and Chicago. Baltimore is also within a four-hour drive from the New York City metro area. The Cruise Maryland cruise terminal is only 2.5 miles from Baltimore’s world famous Inner Harbor, 10 miles from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, and little more than an hour from three other major airports.

Maryland’s median household income of $68,080 is the highest in the nation and 34 percent above the national median. Baltimore is also located within a four-hour drive of ten of the wealthiest counties in the U.S. The Baltimore-Washington DC-Northern Virginia region is recognized as one of the most affluent in the nation and ranks fourth nationally in retail sales and effective-buying income. The region is also the fourth most populated area in the U.S.

Flying with young babies

2008-10-22T11:29:00.003-04:00

Have you ever been on an airplane and had a screaming kid sitting next to you or very close to you? I have and it makes for a very long and unpleasant trip. Actually the discomfort the babies are experiencing may be even greater than what you experience because the tubes in their ears are smaller than ours. We all have these tubes because they help equalize the pressure on both sides of the eardrum. Adults know that they can chew some gum or just swallow which will causes the ears to pop and equalize the pressure. You also know that you can't give babies a piece of bubble gum to chew.

There are some tricks that the parents can use to try and elevate the discomfort their child is experiencing. Some pediatricians suggest feeding the baby during takeoff and landing. If your child is already sleeping, don't wake them us, but if they start to wake up, go ahead and start nursing them. If they child is older and no longer nursing feed them something, the chewing and swallowing will help pop the ears and relieve the pressure. Or, perhaps just splash some cold water in the babies face. This will surprise the baby and cause them to take a deep breath thus popping the ears. This last suggestion is perhaps a bit drastic and should be a last resort.

If the noise is the problem and not the pressure on the ears, try holding the child upright, rocking him or her and providing something fun to look at. Perhaps get up with the child and pace back and forth in the isle will solve the problem.

There isn't much you can do about the parents who fail to take some action to silence their screaming babies. No doubt those are the same ones who let their kids scream and run free in the mall.

CruiseOne Press Release

2008-10-15T14:48:00.007-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

TOWSON-BASED CRUISE SPECIALIST’S ATTEND
ANNUAL CRUISEONE NATIONAL CONFERENCE

BUD & KEVIN THOMAS JOINED MAJOR TRAVEL INDUSTRY PLAYERS, INCLUDING NUMEROUS CRUISE LINE REPRESENTATIVES, ABOARD CELEBRITY MERCURY

TOWSON, MD – Bud & Kevin Thomas, cruise specialists based in Towson, joined top travel industry executives on an 8-night sail from Vancouver to Alaska as part of the 13th annual CruiseOne National Conference. Celebrity Cruises hosted Bud & Kevin Thomas and their families and more than 300 other travel agents aboard the Celebrity Mercury for this unforgettable experience.

The Celebrity Mercury sailed September 14, 2008 to Ketchikan, Alaska; Juneau, Alaska; Hubbard Glacier; Sitka, Alaska; Victoria, British Columbia and Seattle, Washington. The conference, themed “Xperts in Cruising,” offered extensive training opportunities to Bud and Kevin and other attendees. The trip also included a check presentation and $6,000 donation to the Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka, Alaska, courtesy of CruiseOne and Celebrity Cruises. Executives from all major cruise lines, as well as destination convention and visitor bureaus and tour operators, attended this highly regarded event. Additionally, Bud and Kevin attended extensive training sessions, becoming expert in Alaska travel, luxury cruising, group cruising and more.

“We always look forward to attending the CruiseOne conference because of the knowledge we gain, industry players we meet, and chances we have to build value for our clients,” said Bud and Kevin. “Cruising is one of the most popular ways to vacation. Each year, the CruiseOne conference unveils new trends, innovations and opportunities for us to keep travelers ahead of the curve with deals, incentives and service they won’t find anywhere else.”

For more information about a cruise vacation visit http://www.cruisewithbud.com/ and sign up for the weekly eNewsletter or call Bud or Kevin, your Independent CruiseOne Cruise Specialists, at (410) 296-2093 or toll free (888) 296-2096

About CruiseOne:

With more than 500 locations coast to coast, CruiseOne prides itself on providing attention to detail and expert advice to every customer. Each independently owned and operated business combines the latest technology with old-fashioned, personalized customer service. The automated best fare search program enables cruise specialists to identify excellent values on all major cruise lines. CruiseOne offers innovative and exclusive programs including Honeymoon Cruise Registry, Company and Member Cruises and much more. CruiseOne is part of World Travel Holdings, the world’s largest cruise retailer.

Six Cruise Lines eliminates fuel surcharge

2008-10-13T10:51:00.006-04:00

On October 10, 2008 Carnival Cruise Lines, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and The Yachts of Seabourn announced that effective October 31, 2008 that they will be eliminating the charge on all new bookings with 2010 departure dates. At the same time they announced price increases on 2010 departures will become effective.

Additionally, the company has established specific guidelines under which the current fuel supplement may be reimbursed to consumers for 2008 and 2009 sailings. For 2008 and 2009 departures, if the price of light sweet crude oil according to the NYMEX (New York Mercantile Exchange Index) is $70 per barrel or less at the 2:30 p.m. close of business as reported by Reuters on each of the 25 consecutive trading days ending five trading days prior to the guest's cruise departure date, the fuel supplement will be refunded in the form of a shipboard credit.

Guest who book a 2010 cruise prior to Oct. 31, 2008, will still be charged the current fuel supplement but will also be eligible for a refund of the fuel supplement in accordance with the same fuel price conditions that are being implemented for current 2008 and 2009 departures.

These initiatives are being implemented due to recent trends in declining fuel prices in an effort to migrate away from charging a separate fuel supplement. If fuel prices stabilize below $70 a barrel, they will be able to effectively eliminate fuel supplements. However, if prices move higher again they will have to maintain or reinstate the fuel supplement. It is there sincere hope that once the charges have been eliminated that it will not become necessary to reinstate them.

Carnival is the first cruise line to announce a change in the fuel surcharge policy that resulted from the drastic increase in the price of fuel all over the world. No doubt the other cruise lines will follow suit very shortly.

Cruise to Alaska

2008-10-06T11:03:00.031-04:00

Cruising to Alaska

We recently returned from an 8-Night cruise to Alaska which was also a business conference for CruiseOne and Cruises Inc which we are proud to be affiliated with. Because of the destination we were pleased to also have a number of our family and friends join us this year. I can say, without fear, that all of us had a wonderful time.

We started out early on a Saturday morning and flew to Seattle Washington. Upon arriving in Seattle we had arranged for a chauffeur driven van to take us to Vancouver Canada where the cruise originated from. We chose this option because the cost of the van, including all additional charges, what less expensive than flying directly into Vancouver. Besides, it gave us an opportunity to check out the local countryside. It truly added to our total experience on the trip. The van trip wasn't without some concerns when we reached the Canadian border. A Canadian border guard, for some reason, decided to delay us all and check into all of our backgrounds. He questioned a couple of us because of some OLD driving violations that were twenty plus years old. But, eventually he "gave us the benefit of the doubt" and allowed us all to proceed. We have had a laughed or two about the incident since. The delay at the border did cause us to get into Vancouver much later than we had hoped for, but arrive we did. We checked into our hotel and immediately looked for a nice place to have dinner. The hotel clerk recommended a wonderful place about two blocks away. After we finished dinner all of us decided to take a walk around the area just to check out some of the city. Since our hotel was close to the waterfront we of course all wanted to check it out. It also gave us an opportunity to walk off a wonderful and filling dinner.

The next day after breakfast some of us walked down to the Vancouver Pinnacle Marriott hotel where CruiseOne/Cruises Inc headquarters and conference registration was set up. There was a welcome and general session as well as a Mini-Trade Show at this hotel prior to being transferred over to the pier to board our cruise ship. But before we transferred over to the ship we took the opportunity to also do a personal walking tour of the Vancouver harbor. From all we saw I was very impressed with the city of Vancouver and recommend that anyone who has the opportunity to visit there, I am sure you will feel the same.

Our cruise and conference was aboard the Celebrity Mercury, one of Celebrity Cruise Lines Century Class ships. The Mercury will accommodate up to 1,870 guest in a number of well appointed staterooms. Once we cleared the boarding process and arrived on-board The Mercury we were greeted by a staff member who presented us with a complimentary glass of champagne and would have been personally escorted to our stateroom but the rooms weren't ready yet. We were directed to the Resort Deck and the Palm Springs Cafe' where we could all have a relaxing lunch until our rooms were ready and before we set sail. We proceeded to the Resort Deck and gathered together. Many of us went on a personal exploration of the ship just to get our bearings of where everything was. Then around 5:00 PM we set sail. After a brief time of hanging around the rail as we started on our 8-Night adventure we proceeded to our respective staterooms and got ready for dinner.

We were a party of eleven people and had made arrangements for a table where all of us could eat together every evening. Although all of us didn't eat there every evening most did. Our dining was made all the more enjoyable by our head waiter, Adrian, and his assistant, Azem. Both were extremely attentive to all of our wants and needs. Both interacted with each and everyone at the table and made dining so much more enjoyable. But, that is what Celebrity is best known for, their personalized service.

Monday was a day at sea as we proceeded to our first port-of-call Ketchikan. Being at sea for a day, most of which was sailing the Inside Passage, permitted time to have a variety of training and educational sessions on-board for the CruiseOne/Cruises Inc people. We took advantage of this opportunity and participated in several of the available sessions. There were sessions that focused on specific cruise lines as well as destination specific. Since we were headed to Alaska the afternoon session were focused on that destination. We learned a lot about Alaska and that there are opportunities to sell other than cruises, like taking dog sled tours of the Iditarod Trail, named for the infamous race of the same name and much much more.

On Tuesday we arrived in Ketchikan around 7:00 AM. There were no educational sessions planned for today because we were in port. Some of our party had made arrangements for excursions and others just wanted to walk around the town. Since my wife and I had been here before and took the sightseeing tour and Totem Pole Park we opted to just walk around town. Ketchikan is a small town which can be easily seen on foot. If you ever go there you can't miss the opportunity to visit Creek Street. It will show you what it was like during the gold rush years in the early 20th century and late 19th century. This time we had a bit of an extra bonus when we walked over to Creek Street as the Salmon were running and swimming up the creek. This attracted seals and eagles to the area for the pickings. When we were there several other cruise ships in at the same time. In this part of Alaska the businesses open and close based on the arrival and departure of the cruise ships. If the ships come in at 7:00 AM the shops open at that time, as do the restaurants.

Something everyone needs to be aware of if they are planning to take a cruise to Alaska is that in the late summer and fall it rains a lot. Southeast Alaska is in a rain forest and can get as much as 150+ inches of rain a year and most comes in the fall. It rained every day we were in Alaska, but not enough to deter our visits to the various locations. Just be aware of it and be prepared with water repellent or resistant clothing.

Probably the single most interesting draw of people to travel to Alaska is the opportunity to see wildlife. I can assure you that if that is one of the reasons you want to travel there, you won't be disappointed. While walking around just about any town in S.E. Alaska you are likely to see at the very least, Bald Eagles. There are a number of organizations up there that are dedicated to the preservation of various species of animals. The photo below is an example of one such organization. In this photo is an in mature Bald Eagle (doesn't have the white head) and a Red Tailed Hawk. Both birds had been injured and taken to this organization to re-debilitate and perhaps return them to the wild.

Unfortunately, neither one of these birds will be able to be returned to the wild.

Since the ship was scheduled to sail at 1:00 PM we had to get back on board because we had a long distance to go to our next destination, Hubbard Glacier.

Since we were not scheduled to arrive at Hubbard Glacier until 12:30 PM on Wednesday we had the opportunity to participate in some more educational programs on-board. We attended sessions on using CruiseOne's new on-line system in putting promotional material together known as Cruise Create. There were additional sessions on how to check your pulse, cruise line presentations and port promotions. Upon arrival at the Yakutat Bay where the Hubbard Glacier is we hurried to eat our lunch and get out on deck to view this beautiful wonder. Hubbard Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in Alaska and believe it or not is actually advancing and not receding like so many today. Again, it was raining, but it did not deter anyone from going out on deck. Some stayed on their balconies or on lower decks so they wouldn't get cold or wet, but most were hearty individuals and were up on deck. Now, again if you plan to visit Alaska and a glacier is one of your stops, dress in layers as it will be cold!! In our case it was both cold and rainy

The photo to the right is one of the Hubbard Glacier and yes it is actually that blue. We were at the glacier at the same time a Royal Caribbean ship was and we were able to get very close to the ice so that we could get this kind of shot as well as be able to hear the sounds of it when pieces of ice fell off. Awesome!!!

We left Yakutat Bay and headed south to our next port-of-call Juneau. We arrived in Juneau at approximately 8:00 AM and were scheduled to be in port until 6:00 PM that evening. This provided us with the opportunity to do something we had all wanted to do. We signed up for a whale watching excursion with the Orca Enterprise organization. We went out of Juneau on the aboard the Awesome Orch a small boat that held around 18 people. Our captain was Capt. Scotty and we had a Naturalist named Tony. They took us out into Icy Strait and around the northern end of Admiralty Island to see the Hump Back Whale and seeing whales is what we did. The picture below is an example of some of what we saw. In addition to whales we saw some Stellar Seals and eagles. Upon return to Juneau we all met at the Red Dog Saloon, one of the local spots that is reported to be left over from the gold rush days. They even have a pistol on the wall behind the bar that is reported to be owned by Wyatt Earp. This is a place I recommend everyone stops in to see. The burgers are out of this world and the atmosphere is one you must experience. From the two inch thick sawdust on the floor to the memorability on the walls, It is not to be missed. After eating at the Red Dog we walked around town a bit before boarding the Mt. Roberts Tramway to the top of Mt. Roberts. From the tram as well as the platform at the top you have an excellent view of Juneau and the Gastineau Channel. As with the other ports, there were a number of other cruise ships in port on the day we were there. Juneau is the Capital of Alaska and you might be interested to know that you can not drive to this capitol city. The only way is via airplane or boat. Once we decended down from Mt. Roberts we went back on board The Mercury to prepare for dinner.

We arrived in Sitka on Friday at approximately 8:00 AM. In this case we had to tender from the ship to the city dock because the harbor isn't deep enought to accommodate a cruise ship of the size of The Mercury. Sitka has a lot of Russian history associated with it. Alaska was once a territory owned by Russia and was purchased by the United States in the mid 1800's. Unfortunately, on this day we experienced the hardest rain we had the entire trip. It poured! But, it did not deter us from seeing as much of this very interesting destination. Again, like with the other ports we elected to do a self guided tour of the town. One of the highlights of the town is St. Michaels Russian Orthodox church, pictured here. There is a lot of history in this town and we were fortunate enough to be able to see a lot of it. After walking all around the town we started out to visit the Alaska Raptor Center. CruiseOne/Cruises In and Celebrity Cruise line made a significant donation to this wonderful facility.

This facility does a lot to help all types of birds of prey and have a number of eagles, hawks and other species on premises. If you are ever in Sitka I highly recommend visiting this facility. After visiting the raptor center we took a taxi back to town to catch a tender back to the ship. In this case we had to go back to get some dry cloths on and warm up a bit before going to dinner.

On Saturday we had a day at sea. Like with the other days at sea we had a number of on board educational sessions to attend. There were cruise line specific sessions as well as ones dealing with groups and how to best manage your office.

On Sunday we arrived in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada around 10:00 AM, so we had time in the morning to have some additional educational sessions before we could get off the ship. This was the first day we experienced sun shine. Some of our party signed up for excursions where as my wife and I just did the self guided tour. I can say that I was very impressed with Victoria. It is extremely clean and beautiful. The city has parks all over the place and beautiful flowers hanging from every light post. The driver of our bus that took us into town told us that the Canadian Snow Birds (precision flying team) were scheduled to perform over Beacon Hill Park. We walked over to the park to view the performance. If you ever have the opportunity to visit this wonderful city, do it, you won't be sorry. We

walked all over the city and wished we had more time to see even more.

We set sail from Victoria on our way to Seattle Washington which was our final destination. We arrived in Seattle arround 7:00 AM and began our disembarkation process, which went very smoothly. We had early afternoon flights out of Seattle so we could take our time to get there.

I hope anyone who reads this will be inspired to take a cruise to Alaska.

Crazy Questions from Cruise Travelers

2008-10-01T14:02:00.003-04:00

Here are a few funny questions posed to some travel agents from cruise travelers:

1. Is there fresh or salt water in the toilets?

2. Do we share bathrooms with other passengers?

3. If my luggage is taken the night before what will I wear the next day?

4. Which side of the ship has the best ocean view cabins?

5. How many days is a 5-Night Bermuda cruise?

6. Can I bring my fishing rod and fish off the back of the boat?

7. Do the crew members sleep on board too?

8. What time does the midnight buffet start?

9. Can I see fish through the window on the lower decks?

10. Are the balconies above water?

11. What religion are those passengers who wear a patch behind their ear?

These are just some of the questions travel agents get about cruising. I offer these at the courtesy of Royal Caribbean International.

What is a "Guaranteed" cabin on a cruise ship?

2008-10-01T12:00:00.004-04:00

A guaranteed cabin could be the best cruise deal out there! Depending on the destination I probably would jump on the opportunity of a "guaranteed" cabin.

When a cruise line offers you a "guaranteed" cabin it guarantees you will be in the category cabin you pay for, but may upgrade you at no additional cost to the best available cabin on that sailing and ship.

An example of what could happen would be, say you buy a inside cabin (often the lowest priced category of cabins) with two beds on the guaranteed basis. The cruise line will place you in that cabin at minimum, you could be upgraded to a better category of an inside cabin or even get a windowed ocean view cabin or even a balcony stateroom or suite.

Yes, it is a gamble that you will get upgraded, but in some cases it is worth the chance. If you have any questions feel free to give us a call.

New Cruise Line sailing from Baltimore

2008-09-24T17:09:00.007-04:00

Celebrity Cruise Line has announced that starting on November 9, 2009 their ship the Mercury will begin 9 and 12 night cruises to the Caribbean. They will continue to sail through February 1, 2010. The destinations included the Eastern Caribbean and the Bahamas. The Mercury will visit a number of very interesting ports-of-call.

Caribbean Out of Baltimore

12-Night Eastern Caribbean

November 9, 30; December 21, 2009; January 11; February 1, 2010

Baltimore, Maryland; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; Basseterre, St. Kitts; St. Johns, Antigua; Philipsburg, St. Marrten; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Baltimore, Maryland

9-Night Bahamas

November 21; December 12, 2009; January 2, 23, 2010

Baltimore, Maryland; Charleston, South Carolina; Key West, Florida; Cococay, Bahamas; Nassau, Bahamas; Baltimore, Maryland

This is a response to an ongoing request from passengers to bring ships closer to home and offer more domestic departures. The Mercury has been deployed to the Alaska market from Vancouver, British Columbia for several years. Actually we just returned from a cruise to Alaska aboard the Mercury. (Look for more on our cruise in future postings)

The Mercury went into service in 1997 and went through a refurbishing in 2007. She carries 1870 total passengers and a crew of 845, for a ratio of 2.21 passengers per crew member.

Give us a call or go to the website and book your Caribbean cruise aboard the Mercury now.

Avoiding Motion or Sea Sickness

2008-09-08T16:40:00.004-04:00

Often times first time cruisers are afraid that they will get sea sick if they take a cruise. That is understandable and until many actually take a cruise they will never know for sure if they will experience it. Taking a cruise is not the same as being in a small boat and getting sick from the motion you experience. If you can ride in the back seat of a car on windy roads with out getting car sick it is unlikely that you will get sick on a cruise ship.

Today's modern cruise ships are designed to provide the cruiser with the most comfortable ride possible. All ships are equipped with stabilizers which are sophisticated foils, wing like projections, that come out from the hull of the ship and are designed to minimize the amount of motion you experience while on a cruise.

If you are scheduled to take a cruise and a hurricane or other severe weather is forecast the captain of the ship will steer the around the weather or alter or change the itinerary so the passengers will not be inconvenienced or frightened in any way. Now, that may mean that instead of visiting a Caribbean Island your cruise is re-routed to New England or the Canadian Maritime. This often times will result in some passengers becoming upset, but the cruise ticket contract clearly spells this possibility out.

Another way to reduce the possibility of getting sea sick is to see your doctor and get them to prescribe some medication to use some of the over the counter motion sickness medications like Dramamine. Begin taking the medication a day or two prior to traveling and your experience should be better. If you still experience sysptoms after taking some medication you can always go to the ships doctor and they will be happy to help you out by perhaps giving you an injection of some kind. All ships have fully equiped hospital suites on-board with doctors and nurses to help you.

Passport cards are here!

2008-08-29T14:31:00.004-04:00

The U.S. State Department has begun production of the passport card, a wallet-sized document to be used for re-entry into the United States at land border crossings and sea ports of entry when arriving from Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and Bermuda.

The passport card exist as a cheaper alternative to the passport. The passport card cost $45 for adults and $35 for applicants under the age of 16.

Passport cards contain an electronic chip via which customs and border officials can access photo and other biographical information. The State Department says the technology will expedite legitimate cross-border travel.

As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, travelers will be required to present a single document denoting both citizenship and identity when entering the United States through land or sea borders. This requirement will go into effect on June 1, 2009. Please note that the new card does not cover border crossing by air, only land and sea crossings.

For more information on the passport card go to, www.travel.state.gov

8-Tips for Packing and Traveling Lite

2008-06-16T14:05:00.002-04:00

Here is another article I found that is particularly interesting in light of what the airlines have been doing with regard to your baggage.

8-Tips for Packing and Traveling LiteBy: Sudhir.K.Sharma

How-to Pack and Travel Lite
In this day and age of traveling echolalia, there are a few packing tactics to employ. To cut out an extra thirty to forty minutes at the arriving airport, start with packing small luggage. Since carry-ones can not exceed a linear dimension of 45 inches, you can escape the fiasco of the baggage terminal by simply packing and traveling light. To learn how to pack all your needs into one suitcase, read more.

Use the following pithy packing tips to make your travel light:

Make a list. Compose a pack list. Be sure to coordinate shirts and blouses with bottoms. To maximize your traveling wardrobe fashion savoir faire, stick with solids and versatile basics. Rule-out any clothes that do not match other items.

Roll ‘me up please. The best way to fit all your clothes is by rolling pants and shirts. First fold each item in half. Then simply roll. To try to maintain any creases, start on the bulkiest end of the article of clothing.

Gear up. How to make an awe-inspiring impression out of a basic or mundane outfit? For the most glam appeal, accessorize with a vibrant tie (for him) or a florid scarf (for her). Multihued accessories can liven up just about any attire.

Minimize bulk. After you check for space, edit outfits – ruthlessly. Try to pack micro fibers with wrinkle and stain free comfort. With most of your attire, stay in the same color scheme – in case you have to layer up for warmth.

Employ shoe smarts. For men, any leather rubber-soled shoes can make the day and night transition, easy. For woman, a pair of flip-flops, satrapy sandals and comfy wedges can serve all casual – chic dressing needs.

Put under garments on the top. To reduce the embarrassment of under garments becoming the side show attraction of the open luggage scan, place all panties in a plastic bag free of any clippers, lighters or other questionable paraphernalia. For expedient security review, place the transparent bag on top of your other items so security can access the bag without ruining your efficient packing method.

Lose Extra Baggage. Leave the heavy travel guide at home. Duplicate important resources to keep your luggage free of extra pounds. Since most hotels and resorts provide irons and blow-dryers --leave yours at home for light travel.

Leave restricted items at home. If you want to make it through security extra fast, avoid any firearms, weapons, box-cutters, scissors, razors, lighters and any other item that may be used in a terrorist situation.

Article Source: http://www.go-see.info

25 Ways to Save money When you Book a Cruise

2008-06-16T13:34:00.005-04:00

From time to time I will post articles I have found in my quest to be as informed as I can be on the cruise business and how I can be of service to you. Below is an article I found this week and thought it of interest and believe you would do so as well.

25 Ways to Save money When you Book a CruiseBy: Gerda Lingrett

Ready to sign up for a cruise? Before you get out your credit card, check these tricks of the trade.

BOOK EARLY
Booking three to six months in advance will often save you money, and also give the best choice of cabins. The earlier you book, the bigger the discount.

PAY EARLY
Several cruise lines give an extra discount if you pay in full at least six months in advance of your cruise date, sometimes as much as 15 percent.

BOOK LATE
Last minute bookings can also result in savings -- no ship wants to leave with empty cabins. However the downside is that cabin choice may be limited, or the ship may have no cabins left at all.

CONSIDER OFF-SEASON
Cruises are usually most expensive in high season, so if you go earlier or later you can get a cheaper fare. Examples: Alaska cruises are cheaper in April, May and September; Mediterranean cruises in September and October; Caribbean cruises in early fall or in January and February. However, check that the weather is still pleasant or the wildlife is at the stage you want to see. Sometimes a fare will be less just before or after a holiday.

CONSIDER A REPOSITIONING CRUISE
Typical repositioning cruises go between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, or from Alaska in the fall to the California coast or to Baja for the winter. Repositioning cruises are sometimes half the cost of the same number of days when they get to their destination, but they have more days at sea and fewer ports of call.

DO A NEW ITINERARY OR AN INAUGURAL CRUISE
These cruises often have special introductory rates. However, if you take an inaugural cruise on a new ship, don't expect everything to be perfect. Some problems are inevitable as the kinks are worked out.

PUT TOGETHER A GROUP
Groups that travel together save together. If you put together a group from your church or club or school or even a family reunion, we can get you a group fare. Usually if there are 15 or more, you can get a free extra ticket.

CONSIDER AN INSIDE STATEROOM
To some people, a view is important. But to others the cabin is only a place for sleeping and changing clothes, and they would rather give up the window and keep the money. If you like to sleep late, having an inside cabin will prevent early morning sunshine from waking you. But you won't have a view or know what the weather is.

HAVE THREE OR FOUR IN A CABIN
Third or fourth persons (or children) go at a substantial discount, sometimes free. Then everyone shares the cost, and the savings. Make sure you get along -- it can be excruciatingly crowded.

BE FLEXIBLE – TAKE A ‘GUARANTEE’
If the ship is sold out of the cabin category that you want, you can confirm your booking and the cruise line gives you a guarantee to provide a cabin in that category or one higher, but you don't know where the cabin will be.

GO STANDBY
With a standby reservation, you are called at the last minute if there is a cancellation. But be careful of expensive last-minute air fare. Standby bookings work well when you live near a city where cruises originate, then you can make fast plans and not have to deal with air.

BECOME A REPEAT PASSENGER
Cruise lines usually give a special discount to past passengers. Or they may give upgrades in cabin category. If you've sailed on a cruise line previously, always tell that when you ask for a quote or make a reservation.

CHECK FOR SPECIAL PROMOTION
Watch ads and newsletters for promotional specials on both small ships and big ships. There may be a two-for-one offer, kids free, or 50 percent off for the second passenger.

SPECIAL OCCASION
Tell when you book if you are celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary or a family reunion on the cruise, and you it can sometimes get you an extra discount.

ADDED VALUE
Sometimes instead of offering a cheaper fare, a cruise line will offer free days at a hotel at a port before or after a cruise, or will offer additional days of cruising for a discounted rate. Example: "Book three months early and get a free hotel room in Vancouver." Sometimes a cruise line will offer credits you can use in shipboard shops or casinos.

CABIN UPGRADES FOR SPECIAL REASONS
Some lines offer an upgrade in cabin category if you are a repeat passenger, on a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, are retiring, recovering from an illness, or you brought other passengers on board. When you book tell if you have a special circumstance and try to get you an upgrade.FREQUENT-FLIER MILES Sometimes cruise lines offer frequent-flier miles on some of their voyages.

BOOK BACK-TO-BACK
If you arrange to stay on the ship for a second cruise, on many ships we can get you the second week at a greatly reduced rate.

FLAT-RATE SPECIALS
The way that this works is that you tell the cruise line the cabin category of your choice, but you won't get a specific stateroom designation until a week or so before sailing. You get the best available cabin at that time. This is also called "tba" (to be assigned).

SENIOR CITIZEN SPECIALS
Some cruise lines have discounts for persons over age 55 or 65. Sometimes if a senior citizen is traveling with a younger person, a discount will apply to both fares. If you are a senior, be sure to mention it when you ask about a price.

WATCH AIR FARES
There are ways to save on air fare too. Sometimes the cruise/air package is cheaper; sometimes booking air separately is cheaper. If you don't need air because your departure port is nearby, you can get a credit on the airfare if it is built into a package price. Plan as far ahead as possible to get the lowest-priced tickets. You might be eligible for a senior discount, or if going with a companion, you can buy a four-coupon packet with many airlines.

HOTELS AND CAR RENTALS
Cruise lines often have pre or post-cruise packages that are reasonably priced that can be arranged for at the same time you book your cruise. As you plan your total vacation and what you will do at the beginning and end of the cruise, tell the agent your plans and they can check what the cruise line has to offer compared to what they can get for you directly with a hotel at their promotional rate.

COMPARE CRUISE LINES
Different ships often go to the same destinations. Investigate about the ships and cruises that go to that destination. Compare itineraries, accommodations, educational programs, shore excursions and fares. Some cruise lines have cabins for singles with no single supplement. By comparing, you may find a cruise that offers all you want and has a wonderfully cheaper fare. (Be sure when you compare fares that you know whether shore excursions and port charges are included or not.) Check with an agent because cruise lines send notices to agencies when there are special deals and make sure your agent always checks for any new special offerings.

CHECK NEWSLETTERS AND WEBSITES
At smallshipcruises.com, for example, we have a front-page column that will give you latest discounts and special offerings on ships.

LET PEOPLE KNOW WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
If you tell your agent the ships and the destinations you are most interested in, and when in the future you might want to book, they will tell you when any discounts become available. You can also subscribe to cruise newsletters from website informatin centers, agencies, and cruiselines themselvles to get cruise news and specials.

They will never charge a fee for getting a quote for you or booking your cruise and they may know of a special offering that you would not otherwise know about. But remember, the most important thing of all is to not book a cruise just because of its price, but to find a cruise that best fits your needs and desires
Article Source: http://www.go-see.info/

Carnival Cruise Lines to Introduce Baltimore’s First Year-Round Cruise Program in September 2009

2008-06-05T13:54:00.002-04:00

Carnival Cruise Lines announced today that it will be sending one of it's fleet to be the first year-round cruise ship to leave from Baltimore!!

In September of 2009, the Carnival Pride will start cruising two, unique 7-night itineraries. The Ports of call on these routes will include places like Grand Turk; Turks & Caicos; Nassau, Bahamas; Freeport, Bahamas; Port Canaveral, Florida; and Carnival's private island, Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. Having the largest cruise line in the world making Baltimore one of it's home ports will certainly give a huge boost to cruising from the Mid-Atlantic.

Click the following link to read the whole story on the Carnival website: Carnival Cruise Lines to Introduce Baltimore’s First Year-Round Cruise Program in September 2009

Airlines charging for luggage

2008-05-27T16:48:00.006-04:00

No doubt you have seen the reports on TV as well as in the papers that American Airlines will begin charging you $15 for the first checked bag and $25 for the second one. Actually, they have been charging for the second bag for some time now. They feel that by charging for the luggage that you will pack better and lighter so they can conserve on fuel. They boast that they haven't increased their airfares at the same time....well what is the fee for baggage if not a off-hand increase in the fare to travel! What they may not of considered is the impact it is expect to have on the number of passengers who will attempt to carry their luggage on-board instead of checking it. This will no doubt place an increased demand for the space in the overhead bins. Perhaps even causing conflicts between passengers. No doubt it will have an impact on the TSA agents who are trying to process people through security, more bags having to be screened or opened for inspection, efforts to get prohibited items through security that would be OK if checked and not carried on. Then you have the increased lines of passengers who will be even more agitated over the length of time it takes to clear security.

Did you also hear that it is the airlines intentions to fly slower as well, thus conserving fuel? Some airlines are canceling flights and consolidating passengers on other flights to the same destination. American also plans on taking some of their older MD 80's out of service. Aren't they the same planes that were recently taken out of service for mandatory service to make them safer? If they are safe now, why not leave them on line? Some intend to take seats out of planes to lighten the load and conserv fuel.

Here is a list of what the largest airlines operating out of BWI are charging you for your checked bags:

Southwest Airlines: $25 for third bag.

AirTran Airways: $10 for second bag, $50 for the third bag.

Delta: $25 for second bag, $80 for the third.

US Airways: $25 for second bag, $100 for the third bag.

United: $25 for second bag, $100 for the third.

American: $15 for the first bag (starting June 15th), $25 for the second bag, and $100 for the third.

Credit for some of the information contained in this blog has to be given to the Baltimore Sun, Saturday 5, 2008.

All You Need to Know About Cruising During Hurricane Season

2008-05-27T16:09:00.007-04:00

Well, it's that time of year again when we all start talking about hurricane season. Will it be an uneventful season? Will it be bad or calm? Who knows!

2005 was a devastating hurricane season while 2006 and 2007 were both mild with hardly a single hurricane striking the US!

The thing with hurricane season is, you cannot stop your life for it. As discount seekers know, some of the best cruise fares to the Caribbean can be found during hurricane season, especially during he peak period which runs from mid-July through early-October. But do you take a gamble and plan a Caribbean cruise vacation during that time? The answer is Yes! For starters, the chances of your particular voyage being affected by a hurricane are very slim, but it is a possibility, so you need to be prepared.

There is always the potential that your cruise itinerary may be impacted by a storm, but there is not much of a chance you'll be put in harm's way. Today's modern ships come equipped with state of the art satellite equipment to follow the paths of storms and head away from the storm track. Of course do keep in mind, hurricane season is not the time of year to plan a wedding on a particular island or any event for that matter that must take place in a particular scheduled port. Itineraries can be disrupted by even the mere threat of a storm.

The most important precaution you can take when considering a cruise during hurricane season is to buy insurance, but make sure the policy covers disruption in case of weather related events. Insurance is your protection so you don't loose the money you invested in your cruise, and it is worth the nominal amount it costs.

CruiseOne offers a variety of insurance plans to accommodate all of your needs plus we offer most major cruise line, the very best direct prices along with excellent personal service. Contact Bud and Kevin, your Local Independent Cruise Specialists at (410)296-2093 or toll free at (888)296-2096, or via the web at http://www.cruisewithbud.com/ for more information.

Kids Sail Free on NCL

2008-05-09T16:36:00.003-04:00

NCL's Pride of Aloha to Return to Miami as Norwegian Sky

NCL Corp. will reflag and rename the Pride of Aloha and launch it as Norwegian Sky, offering three- and four-day Bahamas cruises from Miami starting this summer. The 2,002-passenger ship, built in 1999, will return to the NCL international fleet and will be outfitted with Freestyle 2.0 enhancements. The vessel will be the youngest sailing short cruises to the Bahamas from Miami. The new program begins July 14 and is open for bookings.

To welcome the ship to Miami, NCL is offering a "Kids Sail Free Summer Vacation" promotion for reservations on Norwegian Sky made from May 6 to May 31 for sailings taking place July 14 to September 26, 2008. Children ages six months to 17 years are eligible to sail free, although government taxes and fees and fuel supplement charges apply. Norwegian Sky four-day cruises will depart Miami on Mondays and make full-day stops at Grand Bahama Island, Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's private island. On Fridays, the ship will sail a three-day itinerary, departing Miami at 5 p.m. with all-day stops in Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, returning to Miami at 7 a.m. Monday. These sailings are scheduled through April 17, 2009.

Norwegian Sky will enter a wet dock in Miami during which a casino will be added. In addition, the ship will receive the significant product and hardware upgrades that are part of the company's major fleetwide initiative, Freestyle 2.0. These enhancements include a major investment in the total dining experience such as all new menus and Lobster Galore, upgrading the stateroom experience, new onboard activities, and additional recognition, service and amenities for balcony and suite guests.

Royal Caribbean 1-Day Sale - May 13, 2008

2008-05-09T15:57:00.002-04:00

If you reserve and make a deposit on May 13, 2008, your deposit will be reduced by half, and you'll receive up to $200 in onboard credits to use at the spa, at the casino, or whatever you please to make your cruise more exhilarating. CALL FOR DETAILS!

Bookings made on the web site will not show reduced deposit amount. Deposit amount will be manually adjusted and difference will be refunded.The One Day WOW Sale Onboard Credit and 50% Reduced Deposit Offer (the "Offer") is applicable to all Royal Caribbean International® cruises that sail September 1, 2008 through April 30, 2010. Offer applies to new individual bookings with deposit only. All bookings must be made and the required deposit must be paid on May 13, 2008 by 11:59 p.m. Local Time to qualify for the promotion. Bookings made on May 13, 2008 without deposit will not qualify for this Offer. Offer is not combinable with any other Offer or promotion, including, but not limited to, Crown & Anchor, Shareholder Benefits, Future or NextCruise Offers. Not valid for group bookings or Cruisetour packages. In the event that a guest has more than one applicable Offer for the same sailing, guest can choose the Offer he or she wishes to apply. Any existing booking that is cancelled between May 8 -13, 2008 and is rebooked for the same sailing on May 13, 2008 will not be eligible to receive the Offer. Any eligible reservation that is cancelled after May 13, 2008 and is reinstated will not be eligible to receive the Offer. Onboard credit is in US dollars and will be applied to qualified booking by Royal Caribbean International. Offer is applicable to online bookings; however, the online booking confirmation will not reflect this reduced deposit or onboard credit. Offer is good until May 13, 2008, 11:59 pm, Local Time, based on availability and is subject to change without notice. Government taxes and fees are additional. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. ©2008 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships registered in the Bahamas. Brilliance of the Seas is operated by RCL (UK) Ltd., a subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Offer is available to residents of: United States of America, Canada, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Venezuela, Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Guatemala, El Salvador, Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Thailand.

Cruise bookings improve!

2008-05-06T16:18:00.004-04:00

According to an article in the Florida Today the economy has not slowed down cruise travel. Many North America travel agents report sales are equal or improved from bookings last year at the same time.

A survey by Vacation.com, found that 76 % of member agencies had equal or better sales. The survey indicated that the highest demand for cruises was in those between four and seven nights long. Caribbean cruises continue to be the most popular during the months of January, February and March.

Travel consumers have gotten a lot more savvy in getting the best deals available. Americans are better known for the shorter cruises of from 4 to 5 nights.

The survey went on to indicate that 42% of members said bookings were better and 40% said it was about the same. Only 18% said they saw a decline.

Exclusive Royal Caribbean Sale - 3 Day Sale

2008-05-06T16:06:00.003-04:00

We are thrilled to extend to you an exclusive sale opportunity from Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. This sale is exclusive to CruiseOne and our sister companies at World Travel Holding from May 6-8, 2008 and will provide you a great incentive to book during the sale. We can extend to you, depending on the ship and sailing date from $50 to $200 off the stateroom price. This offer is not available to any other outlet or directly from the cruise line. For specific details give us a call or use the search on the right to begin process of planning your dream vacation and earn huge discounts.

Gift Idea For High School or College Graduate!

2008-05-04T20:24:00.006-04:00

We recently heard of a wonderful gift idea for either the high school or college graduates in your family. Why not give them the world by presenting them with a passport! We think it is a wonderful and unique gift and one that will last for 10 years. Not to mention that every time they travel they will think of you.

Go to www.state.gov/passport and download a passport application for your graduate, or go to your local post office and pick up one. You can give them a gift card to get the passport photos done as well. Make the package complete by wrapping up the present in a really attractive passport holder and your graduate will soon be traveling.

FINAL Passport Rules Issued for Land and Sea Borders 3.27.08

2008-04-10T15:17:00.002-04:00

The Department of Homeland Security and the State Department has issued a final ruling on passports for land and sea border crossings under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.

U.S. Citizens on cruise voyages that begin and end at the same U.S. port (closed-loop itineraries) must show proof of citizenship* and government-issued photo ID (such as a drivers license). A passport will not be required for passengers that fall into this category. (NOTE: it is still strongly urged for travelers to hold a current/valid passport in case of emergency situation that might make it necessary to debark in a foreign port).

*Documents include: Original or Certified copy of a birth certificate; Naturalization papers; Consular Report of birth abroad issued by Department of State.

All other passengers and/or itineraries (such as cruises which begin in one U.S. port and return to a different U.S. port or any cruise that begins or ends in a foreign port) will require a passport or other recognized document. For a list of accepted documents, see www.travel.state.gov.

The good news for a majority of cruise passengers and American citizens that leave and return on their cruise from the same U.S. port is that the travel document requirements will remain largely unchanged from how the industry is operating today.

CLIA continues to encourage travelers to obtain passports to allow the broadest travel opportunities. You can visit www.travel.state.gov to obtain information on how to apply at more than 9,000 passport acceptance facilities in the United States.

Port of Baltimore wins International Customer Satisfaction Award from Royal Caribbean!!!

2008-03-26T08:00:00.004-04:00

Way to go Baltimore!!! Below is the press release listed on the Port of Baltimore website. Good news for people wishing to cruise out of Baltimore. (link to press release)

Best First-Turn Recognizes Customer’s Pre-Board Experience

(BALTIMORE, MD) --- Governor Martin O’Malley announced today that Royal Caribbean International (RCI) has presented the Port of Baltimore with its worldwide “Best First-Turn” award for customer satisfaction. Baltimore topped all international cruise ports served by Royal Caribbean to win the honor. The award recognizes a passenger’s pre-board experience at a cruise port. Pre-board includes cruise terminal location and accessibility, parking, security, baggage handling, and the ease of boarding the cruise ship.

“Royal Caribbean has been an outstanding partner for the Port of Baltimore and we are very proud of this international recognition,” said Governor O’Malley. “We are committed to providing all of our customers with a first-class cruise experience from the moment they reach our terminal. This international award demonstrates that labor and staff at the Port of Baltimore are delivering on that commitment. This intense focus on customer service will continue in the days ahead.”

Royal Caribbean’s 2008 cruise season from Baltimore starts April 26 as the Grandeur of the Seas returns for the first of 16 cruises from Baltimore to Bermuda, the Caribbean and New England/Canada.

“The Port of Baltimore has been a great partner with both RCI and its many service providers,” said Juan Trescastro, vice president of land operations, worldwide port operations and guest port services for RCI. “Baltimore has been instrumental in providing our guests an outstanding first and last impression during their cruise vacation experience. To win Best First Turn worldwide for the RCI brand shows the port’s dedication to its partners and local community and is a great asset to the city of Baltimore."

"This award represents the hard work, pride and dedication of every person involved in the Royal Caribbean experience in Baltimore,” stated Cindi Schuman, pier manager for Destination Florida-New England, the ground operator who handles guest check-in for cruises from the Port of Baltimore. “Our guests benefit from the convenience of a wonderful cruise terminal adjacent to Interstate 95 and are only mere moments away from Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Whether arriving by plane or simply driving from their homes, the guest's pre-cruise experience is unparalleled in the industry."

“We are very pleased that RCI has awarded the Port of Baltimore with its “Best First-Turn” Award,” commented Doug Wolfe, port manager for Ceres Marine Terminals, Inc. Baltimore. “This is a reflection of a cumulative effort made by Ceres, labor and the Port of Baltimore. We are happy to know that RCI is satisfied with the high quality standards that Ceres provides and look forward to continuing a longstanding, award-winning relationship in the future.”

The Port of Baltimore’s Cruise Maryland terminal in South Locust Point opened in 2006. The terminal offers onsite parking near the pier and is uniquely positioned less than 200 yards off Interstate 95. The cruise terminal is located only about 10 miles from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, while three other major airports are little more than an hour away. The 60,000 square foot facility also includes seating for more than 750 people and has 36 mobile check-in stations.

Things you should know before you go!

2008-03-03T07:27:00.006-05:00

PLANNING

The first thing to consider is booking your airfares, then your hotels. Perhaps it would be best to have a travel agent check for fares. If you plan on making your own arrangement’s there are a few things you should keep in mind. If you are planning on attending a major event like the Mardi Gras or World Series or Super Bowl it will be difficult to find an affordable accommodation unless you literally make your plans years in advance and even then the price is not likely to be a bargain.

There are a lot of sources of information available to you that are FREE for the taking. You can go online to check out places to go, things to do and where to stay. Tourist boards and bureaus are the most reliable sources for you. They will be happy to send you lots of information.

CRUISING

The best way to be sure you are getting a bargain on your cruise is to use the services of a travel agent. A travel agent often will have access to discounts and special deals that you will not be able to access by going it alone or using the Internet. A travel agent that specializes in cruises is your best bet because they will be able to match a specific cruise to your taste. Planning a cruise well in advance will help you find the best deals. Depending on your desired destination you should begin your planning as much as a year in advance.

On a cruise nearly everything is included in the price. Exceptions to this are your drinks including sodas (except coffee, tea, juice and in some cases wine that is part of a dinner), your casino charges, gift and other shops on board ship; special services like massage treatments. Included are all your meals, use of health club; all on board entertainment such as Las Vegas or Broadway shows; 24 hr room service and much more.

Tipping is anticipated for your crew members like your cabin steward, head waiter; assistant waiter; bus boy and a few more. Cruise lines of late are offering you the option of pre-paying gratuities which eliminates the problem of how much to tip each person. However, there is no obligation to leave anything but it is customary to tip enough to show your appreciation for the excellent service they provide you.

While you are on board a cruise ship you must set up a “Shipboard Account”. Usually this is setting up an account secured by a credit card. You normally will not have to carry a lot of cash with you, in fact it is discouraged. We recommend not putting a cruise on a credit card that you will be paying off over time.

It is recommended that you arrive at your point of embarkation well enough in advance to assure that you can get to the pier in time to board the ship. Because of recent U.S. Government requirements cruise lines have to notify the Dept. of Homeland Security the names of everyone who has boarded the ship. As such you must be on board at least one hour prior to the ships scheduled sailing time. You may want to consider arriving a day early to assure you don’t miss the ship and it will give the airline time to get your luggage to you should it be delayed for some reason.

Currently you are not required to have a passport if you are sailing from a U.S. port and returning to one. If your cruise ends in a foreign country i.e. Canada and you must fly home from there, you will need a passport though. Also, you have to think about potential problems that could arise that requires you to fly home early. In those cases you will need a passport. So we highly recommend getting a passport if you don’t already have one.

AIR TRAVEL

It is best to make your flight arrangements early. By doing so you are better able to secure the best rates to the destination of your choice. Airlines have to be very watchful of who is traveling and what they are taking with them. Obviously you can’t carry guns or explosives on a plane either in your checked luggage or carry-on’s. There are different rules that apply to what you can check and carry-on. For a complete list you should go to the Transportation Security Administration’s Web site (tsa.gov) and check out “SimpliFLY.” Another suggestion is do not wrap any gifts you are taking with you for family or friends. The TSA WILL unwrap them to inspect the contents.

As of Jan 1, 2008 it is no longer permissible to carry loose lithium batteries in your checked baggage unless they are installed in electronic equipment such as cameras. You can carry them on board provided they are still in their original package or are in plastic bags. For details you can go to http://www.vel.dot.gov/ for additional information.
Liquids are allowed in your checked luggage but are limited in your carry-ons. You can have liquids and gels in 3-ounce or smaller bottles provided they fit inside a quart-size clear plastic, zip-top bag. Medications, baby formula and food, breast milk and juice can be brought aboard in reasonable quantities. These rules vary from country to country so it is best to check with your airline before you go.

The amount of luggage per person also varies by country and airline but the usual is two bags checked and one bag and a personal item (purse, briefcase or camera case). Also, if any particular bag weighs more than 50 lbs you are liable to pay an excess baggage fee. In Britain you are limited to only one carry-on per person. For updates it is always best to contact your airline.

When traveling it is best to be as comfortable as possible, avoid laced boots or footwear. This is because your feet will probably swell a bit during flight and for your own comfort you may want to kick off your shoes while flying. Also, it will help speed you through the checkpoints if you can slip off your shoes rather than untying them. You have to remove all coats, sweaters, and belts with large buckles and place them in the bins provided.

Airlines do their best to get as many people in a plane that they can so the seats are not like your Lazy-Boy at home. The most elbow room is in the window and isle seats so if you get the opportunity to select you seats keep this in mind. In addition the seats over the winds are reported to be the best due in part because that is where many of the emergency exits are as well.

Here are a few websites to try when looking for the best price on your airfares:

There are literally dozens of such sites to search. These are the better known sites that are out there.

LUGGAGE

It may be hard to believe but it is highly unlikely that your bags will be lost. Only 5.3 in 1000 passengers report their luggage being lost. We suggest tying a bright colored ribbon on the handle of each piece or buy one of those day-glow straps to wrap around your bag. Do something that will differentiate yours from everyone else. We also suggest not puttying your home address and phone number on your luggage tags that are attached to the outside of your bags. This is an excellent way for someone to know where you live and they know your will be away for awhile. We personally use a business card and if the bags are lost or stolen they will be returned to our office our homes. Another suggestion is to put your name and just your cell-phone number on the luggage tag. Place a copy of your travel itinerary inside your luggage, on top. This will help someone locate you should you bags be lost and they can be forwarded on to catch up with you. Also, remove all old airline tags from your luggage. If you have connecting flights it is best to plan on enough time between flight to help assure that your bags are transferred to your next flight and will arrive with you.

If your baggage does not get to your destination an agent at the baggage office will try to track you down. You can assist in this search by taking photos of your luggage before your trip and give a copy to the lost luggage office. If your bags are lost your airline ticket contract provides for some reimbursement. You will be asked to complete a claim form by the airline, be sure to make a copy of the form for your records before turning it over to the airline. If it is determined that the luggage is lost you will need to provide a detailed list of items in the luggage, so make a list of what you pack including brand names and sizes.

The airline contract has a maximum limit per bag as well as for specific items. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance which includes lost luggage and personal items to insure that you have enough coverage.

If you find that your luggage has been opened check to see if anything is missing, if there is, file a claim with the airline and the TSA. If your luggage was opened by the TSA they will leave a note in your luggage, which is required by law.

TRAVEL SAFETY

Identity theft is one of the biggest concerns while traveling, to reduce the threat just put your name and cell phone number on your luggage tags. Also, do not leave your airline tickets lying around; the stub can be an excellent source of information for a thief.

If you are a victim of a crime while abroad be sure to contact the local police and the Bureau of Consular Affairs, Overseas Citizens Services at the nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy.

Kidnapping has become a more frequent concern in recent years. The State Department recommends that you make as much noise as possible to draw attention to yourself. If forced into a vehicle try to make note of the route or landmarks during your abduction. And, try to remain calm and do not antagonize your abductors.

Try to avoid staying in rooms in hotels that are on the ground floor or that open to pool areas or beach with sliding-glass doors or windows.

When checking into a hotel ask the bellman to open your room and check it out to ensure that it is vacant and ready for your use. Also have him check the door locks to make sure they are working properly.

Before you leave home make a copy of your passport as well as your travel itinerary and leave them with a friend or relative. It would be a good idea to carry a copy of your passport with you and keep it in a safe place. If you lose your passport, contact the Bureau of Consular Affairs at the nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy.

Carry a list with your blood type, allergies, medical conditions and any special requirements or wear a medical alert bracelet.

The safest way to get from a hotel to the airport is to use a hotel shuttle. They tend to be the safest and less expensive than taking a local taxi.

In many countries, pickpockets are common. They like to target people who use public telephones, waiting in lines or hanging around inside bars and restaurants. Always be aware of people around you and keep your valuables in your grasp.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN

Children traveling domestically do not require any special documents, however when traveling outside the country they will need to have the proper travel documents. Depending on where they are going and how, in most cases children will be required to have a valid passport just like an adult.

If a single parent is traveling with their children they can expect to be questioned by authorities. There is a higher level of scrutiny related to concerns over custody cases. This concern varies by country so it may be best to checks a destination’s requirements under “International Travel” at www.travel.state.gov/passport. Parental authorization can be verified with “travel consent forms” signed by each parent and notarized.

The FAA requires child/infant seats for children weighing less than 40 pounds. Consider getting a bulkhead seat if you are traveling with infants, especially for those diaper changes at 30,000 feet. And there is nothing wrong with children flying in their pajamas. You should try to avoid the Red Eye flights, when everyone else is trying to get a little sleep.

When sightseeing, be sure to hold hands with your children when walking through crowds. Also tell your kids where they should go if they get lost or separated from you. And do not forget to repeat the warning not to talk to strangers, other than police and authorities.

On long plane or car rides with young children, surprise them with new toys and games. Parcel them out as you go, rather than giving them the items all at once. Make sure iPods are full and everyone takes their own chargers. Portable DVD players are a great way to keep the kids occupied. Another suggestion would be to give each child a map at the start of the trip. Include landmarks and possible stops along the way. This lets them keep track of your progress and provides a sneaky geography lesson as well.

If your children are prone to motion sickness be sure to consult your pediatrician before you leave. There are some very good over the counter aids and prescription medicines available to help with this problem.

______________________________________________________________

THIS REPORT WAS COMPILED FROM INFORMATION TAKEN FROM VARIOUS TRAVEL INDUSTRY PUBLICATIONS, THE BALTIMORE SUN NEWS PAPER (TRAVEL SECTION) AND PERSONAL EXPERIENCES. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO BE THE ANSWER TO ALL POSSIBLE PROBLEMS OR CONCERNS THAT MAY COME UP. IT IS INTENDED TO BE AN INFORMATIONAL RESOURCE ONLY.

Bud & Kevin Thomas
(410) 296-2093 – (888) 296-2096
http://www.cruisewithbud.com/

Your travel dollar can still go the distance!

2008-01-31T14:28:00.000-05:00

There are a lot of reports going about that the value of the U.S. Dollar doesn't buy you much when you travel. In some instances that may be true, but there are a lot of opportunities to travel and get an excellent value for that dollar. Recently I read an article in the Baltimore Sun Travel Section. In the article Jason La points out any number of out-of-country excursion where your dollar still goes a long way. The article can be read in it's entireity by clicking on the link. But, in summary Mr La highlights destinations such as Morocco in North Africa, Bolivia in South America, Cambodia in the far east, Nicaragua in Central America, Albania in southeastern Europe and even Vietnam. So don't let the fears being promoted on your TV's, newspapers and radios deter you from taking a cruise that has the adventure of new and interesting destinations and an excellent value for the dollar.

The link to the article is:
http://www.baltimoresun.com/travel/bal-tr.dollar23dec23,0,1953400.story

http://www.cruisewithbud.com/

email: dorrett99@yahoo.com

DO YOU HAVE YOUR PASSPORT?

2008-01-17T11:46:00.000-05:00

The latest from the U.S. State Department's website states that by June 1, 2009 a passport (or other acceptable documents*) will be required for sea travel within the Western Hemisphere. Keep in mind however, that the Department of State and Homeland Security can accelerate this date upon certifying a plan that meets certain standards for the new identification cards to make them easy to use, affordable, and that they ensure privacy.

Information is changing frequently. For the most up-to-date information log onto the State Department's website at www.travel.state.gov/passport.

Currently the State Department advises that they are processing passport applications in four to six weeks of receipt. Expedited requests are processed within three weeks.

* Sea and land travelers will also be eligible for the PASScard, a less expensive alternative document.

http://cruisewithbud.com

email: dorrett99@yahoo.com

Cruising with your kids - toddlers to teens

2008-01-11T10:53:00.000-05:00

In a recent article on CNN.com Luisa Frey Gaynor wrote something that all parents who plan on taking a trip with their kids should read. I have posted a link to the article for your convenience and will not duplicate the entire article here. Basically she breaks out the review by age groups for the kids: Infants and Toddlers; Ages 3 - 7; Ages 8 - 11; Teenagers Ages 12 to 17. I will however list the top cruise lines in each age category with some added comments of mine.

Infants and Toddlers

1. Disney Cruise Line - This should not come as any great surprise to anyone. They offer services, particularly for the infants, that no other cruise line does. Children have to be at least 12 weeks old but not older than 3. Their children's pools are equipped with filtration systems that allows diapered tots to swim.

2. Carnival Cruise Line - This line has a spectacular program for infants and toddlers but the kids must be 2 yrs. old where as many require kids to be at least 3 to participate. Carnivals youth counselors will change diapers if necessary as well. How great is that?

3. Holland American Line - Here your child must be at least 3 to participate but there are other benefits to consider. Like Disney they offer private babysitting services for a fee of course. You can prearrange baby food, diapers and wipes through the cruise line, just tell you agent and they will get the necessary forms to complete.

Children Ages 3 to 7

1. Disney - Again this should not come as any surprise to anyone. It is a more intimate setting than one of the theme parks for the kids as well. Have lunch with Wendy (from Peter Pan), Capt. Hook or any number of other Disney characters.

2. Carnival - How about a family welcome aboard party? This is just one of the many options available when you board a Carnival ship with your kids. Group babysitting is available between 10 PM and 3 AM for a fee of course.

3. Royal Caribbean - This cruise lines program is known as Adventure Ocean that offers many age-appropriate, hands-on activities for the kids.

Children Ages 8 to 11

1. Royal Caribbean - Miniature golf, ice skating and rock climbing. Kids must be at least 6 in order to rock climb and they are supervised by trained staff and are harnessed at all times and the ropes are held by the staff at all times. Of course parents must sign a waiver before the kids can climb the wall.

2. Princess Cruises - Here the kids get the opportunity to participate in a hands-on science program run with the help of the California Science Center. There are plenty of other group games and crafts that aren't tied to science for the kids as well.

3. Disney - How cool would it be for the kids to take control of the ship? Well, not exactly, but on the Magic there is the Ocean Quest that has a bridge simulator where the kids can pretend they are the captain. There is much, much more as well.

Teenagers Ages 12 to 17

1. Royal Caribbean - Here the kids are split into age groups of 12 to 14 and 15 to 17. Each ship has their own dedicated teen room. How about a teen nightclub (no booze), dedicated sun deck and a living room just to hand out in. In addition there are many facilities specifically designed for teenagers. Let's not forget about the FlowRider (only on specific ships) you have seen advertised on the TV. How cool is it to be able to surf while right on a cruise ship?

2. Carnival - This cruise line has completely revamped their programs for the 15 to 17 year old. There is the Club 02 with high-tech sound and lighting that is just right for the teen in your family. Carnival is the only cruise line that let's some kids participate in shore excursions as separate groups. Of course they are properly supervised at all times with trained counselors.

3. Holland America - All of their ships except one has what is call The Loft, which is a dedicated area that resembles an artists' loft and features video games and karaoke machines. On some ships there is a special passageway that connects The Loft to the Oasis, an outdoor hangout for teens.

For the complete CNN article click on the link below and if for some reason you can not get it, send me an email and I will send it to you.

http://www.cnn.com/2007/TRAVEL/getaways/12/05/kids.cruise/index.html?iref=newssearch

http://cruisewithbud.com/

email: dorrett99@yahoo.com

Staying out of Harm's Way when you travel.

2007-12-26T11:22:00.000-05:00

There are more threats to you in your travels than just terrorists. There are issues such as crime and health as well. Did you know about the bird flu outbreak in Croatia and England? How about the kidnappings in Brazil and Mexico or hate crimes in Moscow or how about student protest in Caracas, Venezuela? These comments are from a recent issue in the Travel Section of the Baltimore Sun Paper. The truth is that Americans who travel internationally do face risks to their health and safety. Unfortunately, many of us ignore the threats or perhaps are not aware they even exist. The way to be more aware and prepared is to do your homework and research your destination before you go. There is a wealth of information on a number of web sites and Blogs on the net that can give you the latest of what to look for.

Be prepared before you go! Check out the dos and don't of your destination. Did you know that in Greece it is not appropriate to go into a cathedral if you're not in a knee-length skirt and have your shoulders covered? Leave your fancy jewelry and watches at home. Wearing such items makes you a target in some locations in the world. Another excellent idea is to make copies of your passport and other travel documents and keep them with you at all times just in case yours are lost or stolen. Many countries will not permit entry if your passport is due to expire within the next six months. If you are carrying a laptop computer it might be advisable to encrypt the sensitive contents you have stored on the hard drive.

When you plan on staying at a hotel in another country you might want to do some checking into where the hotel is located. Is it in an area that will present some safety concerns to you and your family. If you get there and still have some concerns perhaps varying your routine from day to day would be wise, take different routs when leaving the hotel. Also, it is suggested that you do check out the different exits you have in the event of a fire or other emergency. Many countries do not have the same safety standards as you may be use to in the good old U.S.A. An example may be that the hotel stores equipment in the exit stairs when not in use thus inhibiting your ability to get out. Another idea would be to not be in a room above the seventh floor of the hotel. Why, because many fire trucks hook and ladders can not reach above the seventh floor.

When you are out and about in your travels be aware of your surroundings. Tourist are frequent targets of pickpockets in a number of countries. Ladies, if you must carry your purse with you, make it one with a long strap and hang it across your torso not over your shoulder. Gentlemen, carry you valuables in a pouch hung, around you neck, and under your clothes.

To help you with your research before you take your trip you might want to investigate one or more of the following sites:

1. Overseas Advisory (osac.gov)
2. Internations SOS (internationalsos.com)
3. The Safe Traveler (safetraveler.com)
4. U.S. State Department (travel.state.gov)

I post this blog more to help than to frighten you. You should never permit a perceived fear to deter you from taking a trip you have longed for for a long time. That being said you still should do some research, as I mentioned earlier, and be prepared to have a wonderful time on your travels, where ever they may take you.

http://cruisewithbud.com/

email: dorrett99@yahoo.com

Cruise lines adding fuel charges

2007-12-14T15:26:00.000-05:00

It should come as no real surprise that many of the cruise lines are adding additional fees to your cruise price. Some have decided to do it only on bookings from a particular start date but some are also making them retroactive to an earlier date. Usually the fees are assessed against the first and second passenger in a cabin and range from $5 to $10 per person per day. Most have a maximum charge per cabin depending on the length of the cruise, i.e. 7-Day etc. As of this writing the following cruise lines have imposed these fees, Azamara; Carnival; Celebrity; Costa; Cruise West; Crystal; Cunard; Discovery World; Holland American; Hurtigruten; Majestic America Line; America West; MSC; NCL; Orient; Oceania; Princess; Regent Seven Seas; Royal Caribbean; Seabourn; Silverseas; Star Clippers; Uniworld; Viking River and Windstar. I am sure that many of those that are not currently listed will be joining the ranks very shortly. When more decide to follow suit with the pack I will keep you informed.

http://cruisewithbud.com/

email: dorrett99@yahoo.com

Western Caribbean Cruise

2007-11-12T10:45:00.000-05:00

We recently returned from a 5-Night Western Caribbean cruise where we visited Cozumel, Mexico and George Town, Grand Cayman. The weather was excellent and we all had a wonderful time. We sailed aboard the Norwegian Cruise Lines - Norwegian Pearl which is one of their newest and largest ships. She is a beautiful ship with lots of things to do and keep you busy. NCL has the "Freestyle Cruise" format which is not the traditional cruising you may be familiar with. In essence you can eat when ever and where ever you want on the ship. They have several speciality restaurants in addition to the regular ones. The specialty restaurants have a per person cover charge and it is well worth the experience. You are treated to a dinning experience above the normal high standard of dining you find on cruise ships today. I highly recommend when on board one of the NCL ships that you try out one of the speciality dining restaurants just so you can experience it. The cover charge varies from restaurant and perhaps even by ship but you can expect to pay from $15 - $20 per person cover, and it is worth it for the experience as I said earlier.

As for the ports-of-call there were only the two in the five nights we sailed, but we totally enjoyed both of them. In Cozumel we elected to take the excursion to Tulum which is a 7 Hr excursion which includes a 1 hr bus ride to the Mayan ruins, you have about 5 hrs to experience the ruins and take lots of pictures. There will be a guide that will give you the history of the people that once lived in this ancient city. There is also a beautiful beach for you to take advantage of so take your swim suit along with you. There will also be complimentary box lunch and drinks provided to you. Take some bananas with you to feed the Iguanas which are plentiful at the site. Some friends who accompanied us did some other things and had a wonderful time as well. Some did the Helmet Diver & Pearl Farm excursion and the ATV Jungle Adventure. One word of caution about the ATV Adventure is that you will get muddy so be aware. When in Grand Cayman we opted to take the Discover Cayman tour which was a guided bus tour of the island. We visited Seven Mile Beach, a huge attraction on the island; the Turtle Farm, a must see; and HELL! Yes, a small village named Hell. Make sure you purchase some post cards and send them to your family and friends right from Hell; and we visited the rum cake factory where you can sample and purchase some delicacies.

http://cruisewithbud.com/

email: dorrett99@yahoo.com

An introduction...

2007-10-23T14:37:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone, and welcome to our blog.

We have set up this blog page as a venue for us to talk to you about cruising and the cruising industry.

Our purpose is to discuss with you many issues relating to cruising, such as:

a.) Dispelling some of the myths and misconceptions about the cruise industry and cruise travel.
b.) Assist you with how to select a shore excursion, overcome concerns of specific locales, profile different destinations around the world, and highlight shopping opportunities at those destinations.
c.) Profile different cruise lines, make recommendations and address some misconceptions of some of them.
d.) Provide reasons why you should book your cruise through a cruise specialist rather than directly with a cruise line or through the Internet.
e.) Provide you with some of our personal experiences on cruises we have taken.
f.) Explain the different kinds of cruises and how there is virtually a cruise to meet just about anyone’s need.
g.) Plus, much, much more.

We sincerely hope you enjoy the entries from both of us as well as other contributors who visit the page.

Just to give you a little bit of background into who we are, we’ve written our own little biography below.

Bud Thomas: born and raised in Baltimore , Maryland . Graduate of City College High School, in Baltimore, and married to my high school sweetheart, Linda, for 40 years. Retired from the insurance business after 42 yrs and wanted to do something that included something that I enjoy. From the moment I set foot on my first cruise, I was hooked! And this is what prompted me to become a CruiseOne franchise owner. Kevin is my son. My hobbies and interests include traveling, of course, American History, photography, baseball and football, just to name a few.

Kevin Thomas: also, born and raised in the Baltimore area. Graduate of Loch Raven High School, in Towson, and married to my wife, Donna, for a little over two years. My first cruise was our honeymoon, and I loved it so much, that when my father asked if I wanted to go into business with him, I jumped at the chance. No children yet, but we do have a six year old Lhasa Apso named Webster. My hobbies and interests include online gaming, movies, graphic art, writing, football, and of course, cruising!