Sail into Europe’s Holiday Markets, Festivities Aboard CroisiEurope Cruises

CroisiEurope, a leader in European cruising, is offering many different holiday itineraries; the cruise company is also taking bookings for 2020.

CroisiEurope Cruises, one of Europe’s largest cruise lines and a leader in affordable cruising, is offering a selection of holiday itineraries. Whether it’s a traditional European Christmas market or a Christmas or New Year’s Eve experience, CroisiEurope has plenty of options to choose from. Prices for these holiday cruises start at just $512 per person and vary depending on cruise length, destination, and cabin booked.

Highlights of CroisiEurope Cruises’ 2019 holiday season programs include:

Christmas Markets Cruises: 

• Christmas In Alsace and show at the Royal Palace: Explore Strasbourg, follow the Potters Trail, and enjoy all the Christmas markets the city has to offer. Prices for this 4-day trip begin at $644 per person.
• Taking in 3 countries: The Danube and its Traditions: Stroll through Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest while sipping on mulled wine and eating local cuisine. Prices for this 5-day trip begin at $1,170 per person.

Christmas Cruises:

• Christmas on the Elbe: Spend the holiday cruising along the Elbe while exploring beautiful cities like Berlin, Magdeburg, and Dresden. Prices for this 7-day trip begin at $2,360 per person.
• Rhineland Christmas: Discover new traditions through Strasbourg and Colmar, and attend a Christmas Eve mass in Breisach. Prices for this 3-day trip begin at $696 per person.

New Year’s Cruises:

• New Year’s in Venice: Ring in the New Year by exploring all that Venice has to offer. Travel by boat to surrounding islands like Burano and Murano for a deeper dive in Venetian history. Prices for this 5-day trip begin at $1,963 per person.
• New Year’s on the Wild Rhine: Cruise the Rhine and make unforgettable memories exploring the Romanesque and Gothic styles of Breisach and Strasbourg. Prices for this 3-day trip begin at $736 per person.

CroisiEurope’s 2020 catalog of European and global cruises are now available to book.

Among the highlights:

• *New* Canals of Venice to Renaissance infused Mantua
• The Glacier Express through France, Germany, and Switzerland
• River Sava and Tisza Cruise: Hungary, Serbia, and Croatia
• Paris and Normandy on the Seine

Travelers who make a new 2020 European cruise reservation before October 15, 2019 will receive a 10% price reduction.

Visit http://www.croisieuroperivercruises.com to browse all cruise itineraries, departure dates, and prices.

For more travel features, visit:

goingplacesfarandnear.com

goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com

moralcompasstravel.info

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

goingplacesfarandnear.tumblr.com/

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Unveils New ‘Poison, Murder & Mystery Cruise’ for Summer 2015

Oporto, Portugal, will be one of the stops on the Boudicca’s 16-night “Poison, Murder & Mystery Cruise” presented by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines © 2014 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Secrecy and suspense will be aboard 880-guest ship Boudicca for a 16-night “Poison, Murder & Mystery Cruise,” departing Rosyth (Edinburgh) July 10, 2015. The cruise, presented by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines links the Duchess of Northumberland’s ‘Poison Gardens’ at Alnwick Castle – which starred as ‘Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry’ in the Harry Potter films – and that of Mr. Fred. Olsen Senior in Guimar, Tenerife.

Fred. Olsen unveiled this participative ‘murder mystery’ cruise at an exclusive VIP launch at The Tower of London, hosted by The Duchess of Northumberland and Fred. Olsen Senior, on July 24, 2014.

Guests will get to take part in this great adventure as it unfolds on board, whilst Boudicca takes a leisurely cruise to Leixoes (for Oporto, Portugal), Funchal (Madeira), Santa Cruz (Tenerife), Las Palmas (Gran Canaria), Lisbon (Portugal) and Newcastle (UK) – famous as the ‘Agatha Christie Route’.

This intriguing ‘Poison, Murder & Mystery Cruise’ is a first for any cruise line, and is the result of a creative collaboration between Mr. Fred. Olsen Senior and Her Grace, the Duchess of Northumberland. Fred. Olsen is delighted that, as well as hosting the largest participative ‘murder mystery’ event ever held on a cruise ship – which will be officially witnessed on board by ‘Guinness World Records’ – the Duchess will be joining the ship for part of the voyage, along with Mr. Fred. Olsen Senior, it is hoped.

“In Fred. Olsen, I was excited to meet someone with a fellow passion for poison plants, and together we have sown a seed that has flourished into this fascinating cruise experience for Fred. Olsen’s guests next year, linking our two unique gardens,” Her Grace, The Duchess of Northumberland, said.

“I wanted to create a ‘theatre of poisons and poisoning’, and working with Fred. has allowed me to bring this desire to life aboard a cruise ship, where guests can sample something new, something different and something very special indeed!”

“It seemed to me the most natural thing to undertake such a cruise, with so few ‘Poison Gardens’ in Europe,” said Fred. Olsen Senior, Chairman of the Fred. Olsen group of companies. “For me, it is very special to be able to link these gardens with a unique cruise itinerary, and we know that many of our guests share an enthusiasm for gardening. We also know, from previous experiences such as our Titanic Centenary cruise in April 2012, that they enjoy dressing up and taking part in murder mystery-themed events.”

Highlights of this cruise include:

– Visit to The Alnwick Garden and Alnwick Castle – the grand and magnificent home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. Here, guests will not only see the Gardens – which have been transformed by Her Grace with an investment of over £40 million – but also visit the only ‘Poison Garden’ in Britain.

– In Tenerife, discover the mythical ‘Pyramids of Guimar’ and their own ‘Poison Garden’.

– Throughout the cruise, the subject of poison and mystery will be everywhere, with plays, talks and special tours – and a murder mystery starting as soon as guests get on board, which will run through to a ‘Grand Finale’ at Alnwick Castle.

– Felix Francis, younger son of thriller-writing legend, Dick Francis, will be penning a short crime story on board as the intrigue around this cruise unravels.

Guest speakers on this cruise include:

– Peter Dean, Her Majesty’s Coroner for Essex and a former Forensic Medical Examiner with the Metropolitan Police, with some fascinating and gruesome insights into his varied and often ‘dark’ career.

– Doctor Dan Jones, eminent poison Historian and Archaeologist, who gives a closer look into Rasputin and the Borgias family’s darkest secrets!

– Doctor Mark Siddall, curator of ‘The Power of Poison’ exhibition at The American Museum of Natural History, will be cooking up all manner of potions and poisons in a hands-on, interactive demonstration.

The Duchess of Northumberland is the visionary behind The Alnwick Garden, the largest visitor attraction in the North East. It is a registered charity, which aims to raise aspirations and run charitable programmes for the education and well-being of the local community. It offers local people access to projects, events, services and opportunities and it aims to promote a healthy, fulfilled quality of life. Alnwick Castle and The Alnwick Garden welcome over 800,000 visitors each year. She has travelled worldwide and around the UK, giving over 400 lectures about The Alnwick Garden and its charitable ethos.

She is particularly interested in natural poisons and aphrodisiacs and has built one of the only ‘Poison Gardens’ in the world, in which every plant is a killer. She had a trilogy of books published called ‘The Poison Diaries’ and recently a ‘Little Book of Poisons, Potions and Aphrodisiacs’ and one of ‘Jams, Jellies and Preserves’, with her own range of marmalades being commercially made from the oldest known recipe in the world.  The latest book, ‘The Little Book of Cocktails, Cordials and Elixirs’ – just recently launched – features some of the oldest recipes for cocktails and cordials ever recorded.

The cruise returns to Edinburgh on the morning of July 26, 2015, after two weeks of mystery, poison and murder at sea.

Prices start from $4125 per person, based on two adults sharing a twin-bedded, Inside cabin, and include accommodation, all meals and entertainment, plus port fees. If guests book by August 31 2014, they can take advantage of free door-to-door travel for guests who live within 250 mainland miles of Rosyth or up to $250 per person free onboard spending credit.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit the website at www.bortonoverseas.com.

 

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

moralcompasstravel.info

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

RCL’s Allure of the Seas to Inaugurate First Full Oasis-Class Europe Season in 2015; Allure of Seas to Homeport in Barcelona

For nearly five years, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, sister ships that share the title of the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ships, have captured vacationers’ imagination and taken more than two million guests to unforgettable Caribbean destinations. Royal Caribbean International have announced that, for the first time since the ship was delivered in Turku, Finland, in late 2010, Allure of the Seas will return to Europe in summer 2015 and homeport at Barcelona, Spain, and take vacationers to new, fascinating Mediterranean destinations for the first, full Oasis-class Europe season. Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program members have the exclusive privilege to book Allure of the Seas’ Europe season one week earlier on Feb. 12, 2014.

Additionally, Rhapsody of the Seas will offer three 10- and 11-night Black Sea itineraries from Istanbul, Turkey, and then sail a variety of seven- to 11-night Greek and Turkey itineraries from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. For its part, Splendour of the Seas will offer seven-night Greek Isle and Turkey itineraries from Venice, Italy. Allure of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas’ summer 2015 season will be open to the general public on February 18, 2014.

“Royal Caribbean will be taking vacationers to spectacular Europe destinations and delivering the WOW aboard the world’s most innovative ships in 2015,” said Carol Schuster, senior vice president of Marketing for Royal Caribbean International. “Each Royal Caribbean ship sailing in Europe has already undergone extensive enhancements as part of our fleetwide revitalization program to deliver some of the most popular concepts that debuted on the unmatched Allure of the Seas.  No matter which Royal Caribbean ship you choose, every member of our friendly and engaging staff and crew will deliver our signature Gold Anchor Service on an unforgettable Europe vacation.”

Starting May 24, 2015, Allure of the Seas will sail every Sunday from Barcelona and sail a seven-night itinerary, calling at Palma De Mallorca, Spain; Provence (Marseilles), France; and Florence/Pisa (La Spezia), Rome (Civitavecchia), and Naples/Capri in Italy. Vacationers can also choose to embark Allure of the Seas for a seven-night sailing, roundtrip from Rome (Civitavecchia).

On board, Allure of the Seas’ guests will enjoy the most innovative and extensive array of onboard amenities contained in seven themed neighborhoods, such as an 82 foot-long zip line, a handcrafted carousel, the Rising Tide elevating bar, a fully-licensed Broadway musical, the high-diving Aquatheater, and Central Park with more than 12,000 live trees and plants, and many more. Allure of the Seas also offers amenities that can only be found on Royal Caribbean, such as twin FlowRider surf simulators, cantilevered whirlpools, an ice-skating rink, the H20 Zone kids aquapark, and the Royal Promenade, an interior boulevard that stretches nearly the length of the ship and flanked by restaurants, lounges and boutiques, among many others.

Guests also will enjoy the DreamWorks Experience, an exclusive integrated entertainment program developed with the world-class animated film studio powerhouse DreamWorks Animation. The DreamWorks Experience was first launched aboard Allure of the Seas in November 2010, with beloved character Princess Fiona of the “Shrek” franchise inaugurating the ship as godmother (http://youtu.be/_aKDTH1qEiw), and continues to impress guests and receive accolades. Guest can join in parades, themed activities and themed events based on DreamWorks Animation’s popular feature-film characters, including Po of “Kung Fu Panda;” Shrek, Fiona and Puss In Boots of “Shrek;” and Alex the Lion, Gloria, and the Penguins from “Madagascar.” Allure of the Seas also is equipped with a 3-D movie theater playing the latest DreamWorks Animation films, as well as a dedicated RCTV channel, featuring a variety of the film studio’s popular movies.

Royal Caribbean’s award-winning family programming also will help ensure that guests of every generation can share in an unforgettable Europe family vacation aboard Allure of the Seas. The cruise line’s complimentary Adventure Ocean kids program offers ongoing educational and entertaining sessions for three age groups from three- to 11-year-olds, led by college-accredited counselors from 9:00 to 2:00 a.m.  Two curricula for teens age 12 to 17 years offer more organic programming to offer them the flexibility to help shape their day with peers, as well as teen-only sessions on the FlowRider, Rock Wall and Sports Court. Furthermore, Allure of the Seas’ Royal Babies & Tots Nursery will cater to Royal Caribbean’s youngest guests, age six to 36 months old.

Royal Caribbean International is an award-winning global cruise brand with a 45-year legacy of innovation and introducing industry “firsts” never before seen at sea.  The cruise line features an expansive and unmatched array of features and amenities only found on Royal Caribbean including, jaw-dropping, Broadway-style entertainment and industry-acclaimed programming that appeals to families and adventurous vacationers alike.

Owned by Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE/OSE: RCL), the cruise line sails 21 of the world’s most innovative cruise ships to the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, South America, the Far East, and Australia and New Zealand. World renowned for its friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service, delivered by every staff and crew member, Royal Caribbean has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 11 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards.

For additional information or to make reservations, vacationers should call their travel agent; visit RoyalCaribbean.com; or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN. Follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/RoyalCaribbean or on Twitter @RoyalCaribbean.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Cunard Offers Free Balcony Upgrades for Booking Select European Voyages by July 17

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth 2

European cruises are now available in Cunard Line’s Big Balcony Event. Passengers who book select Cunard Line European voyages between July10-17 will receive free Balcony upgrades.  The promotion is available on select European voyages sailing from Southampton, Venice, Athens and Rome on board Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria.

In addition, special Single Occupancy fares from $1,349 are available on 12-day Mediterranean cruises aboard Queen Elizabeth.

Sample Itineraries for the Big Balcony Event European voyages include:

• Greek Isles & Ancient Wonders, 12 days, 4 October 2013:
  This Mediterranean exploration aboard Queen Elizabeth sails from Athens and includes nine ports of call on an expansive itinerary throughout Italy, Turkey and Greece, including Mykonos, Santorini, Corfu and Naples.  Balcony fares start from $1,499.
• Mediterranean Adventures, 12 days, 24 October 2013:
  This Queen Victoria voyage, roundtrip from Southampton, circles Spain and Portugal, arriving at such historic ports of call as Lisbon, Cartagena, Barcelona and Gibraltar, before returning to the U.K.  Balcony fares start from $1,899.
• Mediterranean Odyssey, 12 days, 21 November 2013:
  Roundtrip from Rome, Queen Elizabeth travels an international itinerary, visiting five Greek ports of call, including Athens and Mykonos, plus Messina, Sicily and Naples, before returning to Rome.  Balcony fares start from $1,499.
• Mediterranean Gems, 10 days, 3 December 2013:
  Passengers aboard Queen Elizabeth will sail from Rome to Southampton, visiting such heralded ports of call as Livorno (for Florence/Pisa), Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Gibraltar and Lisbon.  Balcony fares start from $999.

  All voyage fares are per person, based on double occupancy, and exclude government fees and taxes.  Fares for other dates will vary.  Reference promo code R7F.

For more information about Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth or to book a voyage, contact your Travel Agent, or call Cunard toll-free 1-800-728-6273 or visit www.cunard.com.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Princess Cruises’ Sale through April 19 Offers “Sky High Savings” on Alaska and Europe Cruise Vacations

Princess Cruises is offering a way for passengers to ease the cost of getting to their dream Europe or Alaska cruise with a special “Sky High Savings” sale that offers airfare savings of up to $1,000 for two. Running through April 19, the promotion also offers up to $2,000 off the cruise fare per stateroom, as well as up to $100 in free onboard spending money per stateroom.

The “Sky High Savings” sale offers deals on cruises throughout Europe, including sailings to the Greek Isles, British Isles and Scandinavia & Russia. Travelers will also save on cruises and cruisetours to the natural wonders of Alaska, where they can explore the best of the state by land and sea.

In addition to special fares, passengers booking balcony staterooms or above will receive an onboard credit of $100 (for sailings 10 days or longer) or $50 (cruises up to nine days), and those booking interior or oceanview staterooms can get credits of $50 (cruises 10 days or longer) to $25 (cruises up to nine days).

More information about the cruise sale and pricing can be found at www.princess.com/sale.

Samples of the available Sky High Savings cruise deals include:

• Greek Isles cruise – 12 days: $1,779 interior (was $2,379); $2,379 balcony (was $3,379). Air savings: $500
• British Isles cruise – 12 days: $1,839 interior (was $2,439); $2,539 balcony (was $3,439). Air savings: $400
• Scandinavia & Russia cruise – 11 days: $1.869 interior (was $2,369); $2,669 balcony (was $3,369). Air savings: $400
• Gulf of Alaska cruise – 7 days: $899 interior (was $1,259); $1,559 balcony (was $2,159). Air savings: $250
• Alaska cruisetour – Denali Explorer – 10 nights: $1,476 interior (was $1,730); $1,976 balcony (was $2,340). Air savings: $150

Air savings available to passengers booking Princess eZAir flights in conjunction with the cruise. Princess eZAir gives passengers easy and full control of their flights and the ability to seamlessly coordinate them with their cruise itinerary. Featuring real-time pricing and flight availability, immediate flight confirmation, competitive airfares, and next port protection in the event of flight delays, the innovative program provides passengers and their travel agents the ease of a single booking source for both air and cruise reservations. Travelers using Princess eZAir can choose air carriers and flights, as well as select their preferred cabin level and seating, all with no extra customization fee.

All cruise and air prices are per person, based on double occupancy and include government fees and taxes. The “Sky High Savings” sale runs through April 19, 2013, and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company’s website at www.princess.com.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Kids Sail Free on 17 Additional Crystal Cruises in Europe this Year

Crystal Cruises had added 17 European cruises where kids 17 and under can sail for free sharing parents’ stateroom.

Due to popular demand, Crystal Cruises is adding17 voyages to the ultra-luxe line’s “Kids Sail Free” program. With the promotion, kids age 17 and under can sail for free when sharing a third berth stateroom with two adults.

Previously offered on just four luxury European cruises during June and July, families can now choose from seven- to 15-day voyages in the Mediterranean, Western Europe, North Cape, Baltic, British Isles, Canary Islands, and across the Atlantic from May-December aboard Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony.

New Magic Castle at Sea “junior cruisers” shows and classes will be offered on board during summer cruises, in addition to all-ages shows on every cruise.

“While summer break is a key time for a ‘whole family’ vacation, many families enjoy sharing the history, beauty, and educational journey of Europe at non-break times like autumn, when airfares may be more attractive,” says Jack Anderson, Crystal’s senior vice-president of marketing and sales. “With visits to some of Europe’s most storied and breathtaking locales, such as Monte Carlo, Casablanca, Venice, Dubrovnik, Mykonos, Stockholm, and Edinburgh, the additional savings make these voyages an incredible value, sure to create lifelong memories.”

In addition to the new Magic Castle at Sea enrichment, every Crystal cruise offers family-friendly learning and entertainment, from iPad Digital Filmmaking classes (in association with USC’s School of Cinematic Arts) to dedicated on-board kids and teens spaces — a rarity among luxury cruise lines. During school vacation times, junior activities directors host complimentary supervised activities on board, ranging from behind-the scenes tours to cooking classes and scavenger hunts. Every cruise also has babysitting services, “finicky eater” foods, movies, library books, family-friendly excursions, and more available.

All-inclusive, “Book Now” fares for “Kids Sail Free” applicable voyages begin at $2,495/person if booked by April 30. The “Crystal Family Memories” program also offers additional free berths and perks for groups of six or more.

With sophisticated tours worldwide, enriching learning opportunities, international gourmet cuisine, complimentary voluntourism excursions, and a host of other activities for all ages, the Crystal experience gives families exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime access to creating intimate bonds, gleaning a global education, and building lifelong memories while sailing in elegance, making Crystal Cruises the leader in family-friendly luxury cruising.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Royal Caribbean’s March Europe Extravaganza Offers up to $400 Onboard Credit Aboard 9 Ships

Take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s March sale to book a cruise that immerses you in the splendor of Venice © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

From the Venetian canals to the Norwegian fjords, Royal Caribbean International is inviting vacationers to re-discover Europe this summer, offering up to $400 onboard spending credit in March with its Europe Extravaganza.

Through March 31, 2013, vacationers who make a new booking, six nights or longer, on one of nine ships plying European waters in 2013, also can enjoy an onboard credit to make their Europe cruise even more appealing. There’s no easier way to see the sites of the Old World, delve into its history, culture and cuisine than on a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation. Guests can share their favorite destinations with the whole family or explore a new region together, all while enjoying innovations such as Broadway entertainment, FlowRider surf simulators and rock climbing walls for an experience found only on Royal Caribbean. (For more information about the Europe Extravaganza visit, http://www.RoyalCaribbean.com/EuropeExtravaganza).

During the month-long sale, new individual bookings made with deposit will receive $50 onboard credit per inside stateroom; $100 per outside stateroom; $200 per balcony stateroom; and $400 per suite. Guests can apply their onboard credit toward an exciting shore excursion or rejuvenating spa session, or celebrate a special occasion during their cruise with a specialty dining experience. Guests taking advantage of this offer must mention appropriate offer code when booking. Offer codes may be found by visiting http://www.RoyalCaribbean.com/EuropeExtravaganza.

The onboard credit is applicable to all 2013 Royal Caribbean International Europe cruises six-nights or longer, including cruisetours. Offer is available only in the U.S. and Canada and applies to all categories available. All bookings must be made and the required deposit must be paid by March 31, 2013, by 11:59 p.m. local time to qualify for the promotion. Onboard credit is in U.S. dollars, has no cash value, is not redeemable for cash, is not transferable and will expire if not used by 10:00 pm on the last evening of the cruise. Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 22 innovative ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Dubai, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand. Royal Caribbean provides a world-class vacation experience with a wide range of signature onboard amenities, entertainment, and award-winning family programming.

The cruise line has a 40-year history of delivery to guests the Royal Advantage – the most innovative cruise ships, exciting itineraries to popular destinations, and world-renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service. Royal Caribbean has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 10 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards. For additional information or to make reservations, call your travel agent, visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN. Follow Royal Caribbean on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/RoyalCaribbean or on Twitter, @RoyalCaribbean. Travel professionals should visit www.CruisingPower.com or call (800) 327-2056.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Crystal Cruises Debuts New Exclusive ‘Boutique Adventures’ Shoreside Excursion Collection

Among the new “Boutique Adventures” shore experiences Crystal Cruises is debuting is opera up-close with a special operatic performance at the smallest historic public theater in the world.

Crystal Cruises, an ultra-luxury cruiseline, is launching a new, “uber-exclusive” collection of “Boutique Adventures” — shoreside experiences only available to Crystal travelers and not available with any other cruise lines.

Debuting this spring with its Mediterranean cruises, the intimate Boutique Adventures take guests inside private estates, art studios, museums, castles and well-known businesses for exclusive, insider meals, lessons, workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours with fascinating, eminent local experts.

Accommodating only 1-15 guests, the specially-designed outings provide cultural opportunities for deeper connections with local hosts and greater schedule flexibility “in-the-moment.”

Kicking off the Mediterranean season aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity voyages are:
Florence: View the Uffizi Gallery’s private (normally closed to the public) Contini Bonacossi Collection, featuring Bernini sculpture, Bellini and Savoldo paintings, majolica, furniture, and more.
Funchal: Lunch with a local celebrity at the elegant Reid’s Palace or enjoy a private visit to a family-run Madeiran winery, followed by a leisurely, homemade lunch with the owners.
Rome: Create unique souvenir jewelry under the tutelage of a Valentino model-turned-museum jewelry designer, opening her workshop for the first time ever only for Crystal guests.
Corfu: Be one of just six guests per outing to receive a private painting lesson from the President of the Corfu Painters Society.
Vetriano (near Florence): Appreciate opera up-close with a special operatic performance at the smallest historic public theater in the world.
Sorrento and Taormina: Improve your international kitchen skills via hands-on cooking lessons and meals with local, Michelin-star chefs.
Taormina: Dine and listen to a private classical concert at an ancient Sicilian castle.

“Crystal’s luxury guests can savor the exquisite all-inclusive amenities and exceptional space of Crystal ships, yet, ashore, share intimate, immersive experiences with just a handful of other like-minded companions — particularly nice for more independent travelers,” says John Stoll, vice president of land and port operations. “Crystal’s reputation for excellence has persuaded people and places that are nowhere to be seen on the tourist map to open their doors for us in unique ways. These Adventures may be small in size, but they’re huge in rare experience and memory value.”

Prices range from $223 to more than $1000 per person, with exact excursion details and pre-booking available online at crystalcruises.com six months before each cruise. Participation is first come, first serve, so early booking is recommended. Plans include Boutique Adventures in Northern Europe, North America, and other destinations throughout the world.
Crystal’s passion for creating exclusive, eye-opening luxury shore-side experiences are cornerstones of its Crystal Adventures program, earning the line top ratings for two decades.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit http://www.crystalcruises.com.

For more travel features, visit:
http://www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin
http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin
travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate
‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures
Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Sail Europe in a Balcony Stateroom at Interior Rate on Select MSC Cruises Booked by Aug 31

The MSC Poesia, docked in New York City. MSC has been hailed as offering the Best Onboard International Experience.© 2012 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

With youngsters back in school and temperatures ideal for exploring the history, culture and nature of Europe, travellers can take advantage of special fall rates on balcony staterooms that begin at $669 on select MSC Cruises’ sailings that reflect the region and the line’s Mediterranean heritage.

Available only for bookings made by Aug. 31, 2012 on select sailings, guests can book a balcony stateroom at the early booking rate for an interior stateroom; rates begin at $669 (per person, double occupancy; government fees and taxes are additional) for select itineraries on MSC Cruises’ elegant fleet of ships – including the new MSC Divina.

While visiting some of Europe’s most beautiful and historic destinations in the Mediterranean, guests will also enjoy MSC Cruises’ rich Mediterranean heritage and international experience with world-class entertainment, the exotic MSC Aurea Spa and Mediterranean cuisine on the line’s elegant ships, including MSC Divina, which entered the fleet in May.

Like sister ships MSC FantasiaandMSC Splendida, MSC Divina features the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, 69 suites (71 on the sister ships) in a “ship-within-a-ship” oasis of tranquility where guests indulge in comfort and convenience, complete with 24/7 Butler and concierge services; complimentary wines and spirits; private restaurant, lounge, pool and relaxation area; private access to MSC Aurea Spa and more.

Among the roundtrip itineraries available this fall at limited-time-only rates are:

• MSC Divina’s 7-night “Divine Mediterranean” itineraries, sailing from Bari and calling at Venice, Katakolon, Izmir, Istanbul and Dubrovnik. Rates for balcony staterooms begin at $919.

• MSC Splendida’s 7-night “Splendid Mediterranean” cruises, sailing from Barcelona or Rome and calling at La Goulette, Valletta and Messina. Rates for balcony staterooms begin at $669.

• MSC Magnifica’s 7-night “Autumn Iberian Discovery,” sailing from Barcelona and calling at Genoa, Malaga, Lisbon and Casablanca. Rates for balcony staterooms begin at $819.

• MSC Musica’s 7-night “Greek Islands in the Sun,” sailing from Venice or Bari and calling at, Katakolon, Santorini, Mykonos, Piraeus, Corfu and Dubrovnik. Rates for balcony staterooms begin at $769.

• MSC Orchestra’s 11-night sailing from Rome or Genoa, calling at Heraklion, Piraeus, Istanbul, Messina and Valletta. Rates for balcony staterooms begin at $969.

Alternate departure ports and itineraries may be available. Prices may vary. Contact your local travel professional, as space is limited

On all 12 of MSC Cruises’ ships, guests will discover what earned the line Porthole Cruise Magazine’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Onboard International Experience.” Surrounded by elegance and white-gloved service, guests can be pampered with a Balinese massage in the MSC Aurea Spa, dine in the many restaurants featuring international cuisine, sunbathe poolside, gamble in the casino or enjoy the highly acclaimed entertainment in the lounges or the magnificent theater. For guests seeking more activity, there is miniature golf, swimming, tennis, basketball, volleyball, and shuffleboard as well as a wide variety of excursions sure to satisfy the interests of all guests.

For more information about MSC Cruises, visit us online at www.msccruisesusa.com, call 877-665-4655, or contact a local travel professional. Be certain to ask for Fall Promo for eligible fall dates and rates).

###

About MSC Cruises:

MSC Cruises is a privately-held, family-owned, Mediterranean cruise line with a fleet of 12 ships: MSC Magnifica, MSC Splendida, MSC Fantasia, MSC Poesia, MSC Orchestra, MSC Musica, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia, MSC Opera, MSC Lirica and MSC Melody. Its 12th ship, MSC Divina, a sister ship to MSC Fantasia and MSC Splendida, debuted in May 2012, with sister ship MSC Preziosa scheduled to join the fleet in March 2013. The fleet cruises year round in the Mediterranean and seasonally in Northern Europe, the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean, South America, the Indian Ocean, and South and West Africa.

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Princess Cruises Offers PreSeason Sale Oct 17-23 on Select 2012 Europe Cruises

Just in time for National Cruise Vacation Week, Princess Cruises is offering a special PreSeason Sale on a selection of 45 popular 2012 European vacations. The weeklong promotion, which runs from Monday, October 17 to Sunday, October 23, includes free balcony upgrades plus as much as $100 in onboard credit per stateroom.

Itineraries included in the sale will take passengers to some of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, including Mediterranean favorites such as Venice and the Greek Isles, as well as some of the splendors of Northern Europe, including St. Petersburg.

In addition to special fares, passengers booking interior or oceanview staterooms can receive an onboard credit of $25 (cruises up to nine days) to $50 (cruises 10 days or longer), and in balcony staterooms or above can get credits of $50 (cruises up to nine days) or $100 (for sailings 10 days or longer). All onboard credits are offered per stateroom.

“For anyone thinking about seeing the wonders of Europe next year, this is the perfect time to book,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises executive vice president. “This promotion offers a great selection of European itineraries, featuring many of the dream destinations that are on so many people’s bucket lists.”

Examples of savings on balcony staterooms include:

• 11-day Scandinavia & Russia – $2,490 (was $2,840)
• 12-day British Isles – $2,690 (was $3,040)
• 12-day Grand Mediterranean – $2,740 (was $2,990)
• 12-day Holy Land – $3,090 (was $3,640)

Sale fares are also available on fully-escorted land and sea cruisetours in Europe, beginning at $4,799 for a 17-night Classic Italy cruisetour.

All cruise prices are per person, and onboard credits are per stateroom. This promotion is not combinable with past-passenger offers.

The PreSeason Sale runs from 12:00 am PST on October 17 to 11:59 pm PST on October 23, and is available to residents of the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico. Deposits made during this promotion are non-refundable and non-transferable. The promotion is not combinable with past-passenger offers.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or by visiting the company’s website at www.princess.com.

For more travel features, visit:

www.travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin