Palace Resorts

Cruisenet recently had a client stay at the Vallarta Palace Resort in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico who sent us this wonderful review of their holiday. Palace Resorts are celebrating their 25th Anniversary from June 1, 2010 to December 23, 2011 and are offering vacation dollars to all bookings during this time period! Call us to find out more.

"When we arrived at the Vallarta Palace we were greeted with a scented white facecloth and I was given a carnation (which lasted for 10 days!). Upon arrival in our room there was a bottle of wine, coffee maker, fridge(stocked daily), and a wall unit with bottles of liquor as well as a King size bed and a double Jacuzzi.

On Sunday we had 2 messages in our room to go the lobby to see a Customer Service Rep., which we did. The Rep. informed us the Resort was celebrating their 25th Anniversary that there was a credit on our room of 1,500 vacation dollars which we could spend on tours, photos, spa, golf, and romantic dinners on the beach with a bottle of Champagne. Persons who had booked for 5 days or more got 1,500 vacation dollars and those who booked for 3 days plus got 750 vacation dollars!

The staff were very well trained. There wasn't a thing that they wouldn't get for us. All personnel said it was a pleasure to serve us.
It was a great holiday and we would highly recommend the Vallarta Palace to anyone." - MLG


If you are thinking about a resort holiday this winter give us a call and we'll help you find the right location with all the right amenities.

For more information on the Palace Resorts check out their site at www.vallartapalace.com

Top 10 Luxury Travel Trends

While on a hunt for a blog topic for this week a business companion suggested I read the latest article from Luxury Travel Magazine www.luxurytravelmagazine.com entitled the Top 10 Luxury Travel Trends for 2011.

Some of the trends listed really popped out at me as our agency has begun to notice them too. For example;

1. The Revival of Group Tours- we have a number of hosted groups departing next year and requests for more coming in. The article offers -the reasoning for this trend is due to the economic situation - many travelers are looking for the same exotic travel experiences at a lower price point. To see the groups with added amenities that we have available to you please visit www.cruisenet.ca where you can download our brochures. One of our current groups is supporting the fund-raising initiatives of the Orchestras Mississauga with a tour from Budapest to Passau onboard the River Beatrice - April 24, 2011.

2. Not Just Seeing But Learning - many of our most popular products are offering more in-depth experiences in port or during tours with professional lecturers and hosts. Specialty tours are on the rise with cooking schools gaining popularity (thanks, in part to the Food Networks lineup of reality cooking shows?) as well as photography tours with professional photographers to teach the ins and outs of photography and even offering our guests the trial use of specialty equipment. Luxury Travel Mag suggests 'people want to come away with a strong emotional connection with a destination and bring back more than just memories, but a skill they can actually use from a vacation.' To find out more about the specialty tours/cruises we offer please contact one of our Travel Consultants by emailing sales@cruisenet.ca.

3. Bucket List Experiences - Luxury Travel Mag says "2011 will see an increase in extremely unique, 'bucket-list' experiences in far-flung destinations. Travelers are looking to tick those must-see travel experiences off their lists and are now seeking the experiences that will allow them to return home with bragging rights among their friends." In 2010 Cruisenet offered trips to one of the biggest 'bucket-list' items we can think of - Oberammergau and The Passion Play. Many of you may not know about this event but for those that do it is truly a one-in-a-lifetime experience in that it is held once every 10 years! Due to the experience of our Travel Consultants, the unrivaled attention to detail, vast knowledge and high level of customer service - we are the experts when it comes to planning your 'bucket-list' experiences. Everyone wants their trip of a lifetime to be just that; no surprises (at least not the bad kind!) and plenty of things to brag about, so be sure to call Cruisenet Tours & Travel and we'll help you check those items off your Bucket List.

To read more about the Luxury Travel Trends for 2011 you can find the article in full online at www.luxurytravelmagazine.com

Did you see us?

We've just started our new advertising campaign in the Globe & Mail. We've partnered with Exclusive Tours yet again after a successful campaign last year. Plus the Globe has a whole new format - earlier this month The Globe and Mail unveiled what Editor-in-Chief John Stackhouse called "the most significant redesign in The Globe's history". The paper has a bolder, more visual presentation that features 100% full-colour pages, more graphics, slightly glossy paper stock and emphasis on lifestyle and similar sections. The Travel section has been moved to Thursdays and we're really excited to be back in the Globe with our Exclusive partner, not to mention in FULL COLOUR!

Our first ad ran last weekend for Star Clippers and Le Ponant. You can see the ads for yourself on our website as well find a detailed information page for each in our Small Ship pages.

We'll be posting all the ads to our website in tandem with the print ads so keep checking back for updates.
http://cruisenet.ca/Exclusivepromos.html

November Newsletter

Our November Newsletter should be hitting our subscriber's inboxes momentarily. There are lots of changes for the upcoming cruise seasons. New pricing structures, new ships, new itineraries and new amenities. If you don't already receive our Enewsletter you can head over to our website and follow the link to subscribe.
www.cruisenet.ca

New Princess Itineraries

Years ago when I started in the travel industry the first job I was given was sorting a mammoth pile of brochures. Dull job you might think but to me it was the most exciting introduction to travel.

I was able to feast my eyes on exotic destinations from all over the world! Drool over pictures of pristine beaches, dream of romantic over-the-water bungalows, view magnificent vistas from all parts of the world. I knew then that this business was for me!

Even now several times a year we are sent exotic and enticing brochures from cruise lines, tour operators, airlines, hotel chains and tourist boards to name a few. All vying for my attention and that of my clients. This year is no exception. Princess Cruises has just delivered their 2011-2012 Exotics brochure – Wow!

Princess cruises to every corner of the world while providing their Warm, Welcoming service combined with C.R.U.I.S.E. – Courtesy, Respect, Unfailing In Service Excellence which is not just their motto but their culture. No where will you see such astounding architecture than throughout their ships – with three story atriums and panoramic elevators combined with millions of dollars of art – each ship is a destination on its own. See www.princess.com for some excellent videos.

The 2600 passenger ship the Diamond Princess is offering 16 – 39 day cruises visiting China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand and Singapore before sailing on down to Australia’s east coast and the Great Barrier Reef. At the conclusion of your cruise you can extend your stay in Australia by adding one of Princess’s overland tours such as the Australian Outback Adventure that takes you to Ayers Rock, Alice Springs and Cairns.

The Ocean Princess, their exquisite small 680 passenger ship, offers a variety of South Pacific cruises that will take you to the edges of paradise! Visit Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahiti and other tranquil islands on a ten day sojourn or fly to Papeete and embark on a 16 day voyage cruising through American Samoa before reaching New Zealand with stops in Auckland and Tauranga before sailing on to Sydney, Australia. Having spent three weeks in the South Pacific myself I can vouch for the crystal clear waters, idyllic islands and wonderfully friendly people. There is no better escape than to take a cruise throughout the South Pacific during our cold winter months.

The Dawn, Sea and Sun Princesses are being moved to Australia in 2012 and are offering 12 – 35 day cruises from Sydney and Brisbane to the Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia, and Fiji! Other exotic destinations such as South America and Africa are not forgotten.

In April 2010 the Ocean Princess sails from the Orient to Cape Town South Africa and then continues up the West Coast of Africa visiting Luderitz, Walvis Bay, Cotonou, Terma, Dakar, Sao Vicente in the Cape Verde Islands before stopping in the Canary Islands, Casablanca, Cadiz, Lisbon, Le Havre and finally Dover England on a 58 day grand voyage!

Princess is one of the few suppliers that still prints brochures and if you would like a copy just call our office or visit their web site for full details. As special agents to Princess we have lots of sailings with enhanced savings so why not escape to an exotic destination and fulfill a lifelong dream! Give us a call and we'll get you started planning your next dream holiday!

Cunard's Queen Elizabeth

On October 11th Her Majesty The Queen officially named the newest Cunarder in a glittering ceremony featuring performances by Lesley Garrett, the band and pipers of the Coldstream Guards and the Scots Guards, plus the Bournemouth Symphony Chorus and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra conducted by Anthony Inglis. The naming was a milestone in British maritime history and a major event of worldwide interest. Following the spectacular naming ceremony in Southampton, Queen Elizabeth embarked on her Maiden Voyage.

Queen Elizabeth is the second largest Cunarder ever built and joins her sister ship Queen Victoria and the flagship, Queen Mary 2. Cunard is celebrating 170 years of famous ocean liner traditions and now operates the youngest fleet at sea.

Queen Elizabeth's public venues honour the original Queen Elizabeth in her interior grandeur, decor and style, but with modern flair. The Verandah, a new dining alternative, offers guests an experience reminiscent of dining at the original Verandah Grills onboard Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth, with menus created by Exceutive Chef Jean-Marie Zimmermann, winner of a coveted Michelin star. The stunning Royal Court Theatre, with private boxes, will feature an imaginative repertoire of musical productions and Shakespeare classics. The Yacht Club, which is named after the lively entertainment space found aft on QE2, offers guests the perfect venue for activities and gatherings during the day or dancing at night, with views from its 270 degrees of windows. The Garden Lounge covered by a vaulted glass ceiling inspired by the glass houses of Kew Gardens, will host occasional evening 'Supper Clubs' with live musical entertainment.

Queen Elizabeth will be based in Southampton during her maiden 2011 season, offering roundtrip voyages to the Mediterranean, Baltic and Northern Europe in true elegance.

Learn about all of the celebration and latest happenings surrounding QUEEN ELIZABETH
by visiting queenelizabeth.cunard.com.

Highlights of the naming ceremony, including a new three minute video and blog post from President and Managing Director, Peter Shanks, can be found by clicking here.

Keep up to date with the latest news from the ship via the blog at WeAreCunard.com.

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"The World"

I mentioned in my last post that we'd seen The World cruise ship docked in Montreal. I'd never heard of The World before - my specialty being Marketing and IT and not the cruise industry, but Muriel knew what it was straight away. Having peaked my curiosity, I decided to do a little research on the cruise ship upon my return home to Oakville. It's quite amazing and even a little 'out of this' world.

"The World", upon first glance is a small cruise ship. But, it is in fact, the only private residential community-at-sea where its Residents may travel the globe without ever leaving home.

Since we can't offer to book your next cruise on The World I thought I'd just tell you all about it for fun!

Since it first set sail in 2002, The World has visited over 800 ports in approximately 140 countries. With a continuous worldwide itinerary that enables the vessel to span the globe every two-to-three years, the ship is a complete floating city, equipped with high-end facilities and luxurious amenities that create an intimate, refined atmosphere for Resident owners. The strikingly beautiful ship promises gracious and personal service in a warm, inviting ambiance much like that of a private yacht, well-staffed private home or exclusive country club.

The lifestyle aboard The World allows Residents to explore the planet’s most breathtaking destinations with like-minded adventure seekers from the comfort of their own private Residence. The World’s Captains and Residents collectively determine the ship’s yearly itinerary, based on the best sea routes and Resident’s personal interests. Continuous worldwide journeys with a focus on extended stays of an average 2.5 days in port ensure that Residents and Guests have sufficient time to explore their favorite destinations. This exclusive community offers the ultimate combination of luxury travel with world-class dining, custom tours and enriching cultural events like renowned guest speakers, local dancers or art exhibitions. A myriad of exceptional onboard amenities include a gourmet deli, Banyan Tree Spa, Graff jewelers, library, cinema and a sports center offering golf excursions to the world’s top-ranked courses. The onboard lifestyle fosters a warm, welcoming ambiance and encourages the formation of lasting friendships.

The staff consists of an international complement of long-standing crew, including approximately 250 experienced seafarers and hospitality staff from 40 countries. With an average occupancy of 150-200 Residents and Guests onboard you can see that no one is ever left wanting.

There are 165 Residences aboard The World ranging from studios to expansive three-bedroom units and a palatial penthouse which boasts accommodations for up to 12 people. Residences range in approximate price from $825,000 to $7.7 million USD. All of the homes aboard the vessel have been sold although there are a select number of Residences currently available for resale. Annual maintenance fees are additional and are based on square footage.

The spacious and private Residences aboard The World include 106 two-and three-bedroom apartments, 19 one-and two-bedroom studio apartments and 40 studios.The apartments and studios boast (depending on size) fully-equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, bathrooms, living and dining room areas and verandas with optional jet pools, advanced audio and video equipment/entertainment centers, two spacious marble bathrooms, private verandas and the interiors of the two- and three-bedroom apartments are customized based on Residents’ tastes and feature everything from contemporary to transitional to traditional.

Onboard the vessel features a gourmet grocery store and delicatessen, which is stocked with fresh local produce and specialty items from different ports; gift boutiques including the only Graff Jewelers at sea; a chapel for worship or small religious ceremonies; and a library with an extensive collection of books and daily newspapers, current videos and DVD and the 7,000 square foot Banyan Tree’s first spa at sea. The World also offers superior business and meeting facilities, enabling travellers to keep abreast of the workplace while sailing to exotic countries. A sophisticated business and conference center provides Residents and Guests with modern communications facilities, office machines and secretarial services; a selection of private boardrooms can be used for onboard meetings; and fax and high-speed Internet access is available in each Residence. For those who like to be active The World offers two swimming pools; a full-size tennis court; a paddle tennis court; golf facilities with a golf simulator, enabling golfers to virtually play famous courses around the world while onboard, driving ranges and putting greens; a jogging track and a retractable marina for water sports. The vessel also offers a full-service fitness center with exercise classes, personal trainers, training equipment, saunas and a beauty salon.

The World offers a vast array of Dining and Night Life options. Four major restaurants onboard are:

• East – eclectic Asian delights serving sushi, sashimi and a wide variety of Pan-Asian specialties. Select tables are fitted with removable turntables for family-style sharing of dishes.

• Portraits - features haute cuisine and a truly gastronomic experience in an elegant setting. Menus change to reflect the flavors of every major culinary port the vessel travels to. Open for dinner on limited occasions;

• The Marina – superb seafood, grilled fish, prime steaks and rotisserie specialties in a more traditional setting;

• Tides - Mediterranean cuisine with an ocean view and a Northern Italian flair; and

• Fredy’s Deli – café setting serving specialty coffee, tea and other beverages, gourmet sandwiches, salads and pastries. Also includes a gourmet market;

• Pool Grill – an outdoor venue offering poolside favorites and casual cuisine such as burgers, salads and light meals; and

  The Garden – a tea room and lounge.

All restaurants offer light options and cater to special requests including kosher, vegetarian and diabetic diets. Chefs are available to prepare meals in Residence kitchens, or Residents may cook for themselves in their apartments.

There is also a diverse selection of cocktail lounges and bars onboard, including:

• Cigar Club – designed as a traditional English-style smoking and cognac bar. Features a large humidor and cognac cabinet. Also offers vintage ports, calvados, Madeira’s, sherries and wines;

• Lobby Bar – serves wine and champagne, signature cocktails, bourbons, ports and more;

• Marina Bar – adjacent to the Marina restaurant, the Marina Bar provides breathtaking views. This full-service bar offers an extensive selection of wines and tropical drinks;

• Pool Bar – enjoy light and fresh lunch or dinner offerings followed by a variety of sweet temptations;

• Quantum Night Club – offers an international variety of selected liquors and alcoholic beverages; and

• Regatta Bar – spectacular view with the feel and service of a casual yacht club and sports bar.

For those Residents who travel as a family there is Camp Caravel, The World’s children’s program, is offered from June to August and includes three sessions, seven days a week supervised by a Youth Coordinator. At a nominal fee per day, supervised activities include: swimming, arts and crafts, games (board games, X-Box), educational projects, seasonal festivities, and a children’s library. “Dinner and a Movie” is offered in the evenings. Children may also explore their talents in Palette, an arts, crafts and hobby room. Babysitting services are available through advance arrangements.

Also available are movies, classical music performances and other special entertainment in the Colosseo. Sightseeing and shore excursions; classes in dance, navigation, language, cooking, arts and crafts, music, computers, and photography are also offered on occasion.

Services and amenities available include: housekeeping, catering, laundry and dry cleaning, concierge, florist, newspapers, shoeshine, photocopies, The World Boutique and 24-hour in-Residence dining service. A Medical Center with a doctor and nurse are on-call 24 hours a day; X-ray and emergency facilities are also available. 24-hour security staff.

Knut U. Kloster Jr., the visionary behind The World, grew up in a family that was passionate about life at sea. After many years of working and vacationing on the world’s best yachts and cruise ships, Kloster had a dream to create a way in which travelers never had to get off board. As such, in 1997 he gathered together a team of experienced professionals in shipping, design, and hospitality, finance, sales and marketing to begin working on the first vessel where sea enthusiasts could travel the globe without leaving home. This vessel and Kloster’s dream was realized in March 2002 when Kloster delivered The World. In October 2003, the Residents of the vessel purchased The World. ResidenSea remains the independent management company responsible for the sales, marketing, operations and administration of The World.

For those with environmental concerns, you can rest easy - The World is the first ship of its size burning marine diesel rather than heavy bunker fuel, making for a much more environmentally friendly ship and allowing The World to call in ports where ships burning heavy fuel are banned. The World is also the first ship to feature the unique Scanship wastewater cleaning system in which wastes are filtered by means of a flotation system. Solid waste is separated by flotation, then dried twice and incinerated. Waste water remaining after the flotation process is then ultraviolet filtered, and the remaining water is clean enough to be used as technical water.

If you'd like to learn more about The World and perhaps even purchase a residence you can check out more information at www.aboardtheworld.com.

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Silverseas Whisper

Last Saturday Muriel and I traveled with Porter Airlines(see last post) to Montreal to visit the Silversea Cruises Silver Whisper. It's not often that we get an opportunity to visit and inspect a cruise ship as our offices are based in the Toronto area(not exactly a coastal port). During the autumn many of the large cruise line's ships begin their Canada/New England itineraries and make a stop in Montreal allowing us the rare opportunity to see these wonderful ships for ourselves.

The Silversea Cruise company is independently owned by an Italian family - the Lefebvres of Rome. There is a genuine pride of ownership and a true Italian passion for embracing the best of life. Each of their ships is considered 'small' - holding no more than 540 passengers on their largest ship, the Silver Spirit and only 296 on the Silver Wind and Silver Cloud. Silversea continues to sail against the trends, with intimate ships that offer not only a richly abundant and highly personalized experience aboard, but a stimulating and authentic travel experience that is far more meaningful and life-enriching for their guests.

The Silver Whisper was just recently refurbished making the interior of the ship feel almost brand new. Throughout the ship you get the feeling of refined taste and an understated, mature design style. Nothing garish or sparkling about it. Tasteful art and sculptures decorate every hallway focusing on many different themes. If only we hadn't been in such a rush to see every corner of the ship we could have spent more time viewing all the magnificent masterpieces. Clearly the passengers are being wowed by the whole experience and not flashy decor.

Each of the common areas we were shown had passengers indulging themselves - reading books, playing on their iPads, enjoying a cup of coffee - everyone looked very relaxed and comfortable.

Silversea is one of the few ALL-INCLUSIVE cruise lines who really mean all-inclusive. Some of the included amenities are butler service, complimentary beverages served throughout the ship including fine wines, champagne, spirits, and specialty coffees, gratuities, 24 hour room service, fitness classes, and on-board entertainment. This years brochure rates even include FREE AIR and TRANSFERS from select departure gates and are 60% OFF!

Silversea also offers it's guest a complimentary shore-side 'Experience', for example on their Inaugural World Cruise in 2011 aboard the Silver Spirit you can experience "Tea with Picasso" in Barcelona at the Picasso Museum located along the narrow winding streets of the marvelously restored Gothic Quarter. The Museum houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century artist, including his blue period paintings and his cubist Las Meninas series. This is one of the most visited museums in Barcelona and Silversea guests are offered a private opening and tour, followed by tea service in the courtyard. They also offer "Night of 1001 Delights" in Dubai where you'll watch the sun set over the high golden dunes as you enter an elaborate torch-lit Arabian campsite. Try sand-boarding in the desert dunes. Get beautiful henna designs on your hands or try out traditional Arabic dresses. Then relax on majlis (low cushions) in a tent, smoking a shisha (water pipe) and watching belly dancers perform. And for an authentic taste of Arabia, dine on delicious Arabian barbecue beside a blazing bonfire with traditional cups of coffee and dates. An experience right out of Tales of the Arabian Nights... exclusively for Silversea guests and offered on select sailings.

Silversea Cruises is also renowned for their customization. If you prefer a certain drink or menu item, the staff will do their best to accommodate your wishes. Their menus also offer a selection of fresh, locally grown produce and seafood directly from the ports they visit. The 'Le Champagne' restaurant offers a six-course epicurean experience of rare wines and regionally inspired cuisine to a maximum of 16 guests in their own 'private' dining room. The Black Rock Dining option seemed to be a big hit with the guests too - offered poolside in The Grill, it's an interactive dining venue where fresh seafood and prime meats are grilled table-side on a heated volcanic rock plate! And of course, we can't forget to mention the 24 hour room service or in-suite dining from The Restaurant during dinner hours. If a culinary experience is what you are looking for Silversea offers Culinary Arts Voyages and Wine Series Voyages with world-renowned guests, lectures, tastings, demonstrations and optional private tours.

The cabins are all ocean-view suites featuring butler service, champagne upon arrival, fresh fruit and flowers, refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences, European bath amenities, down duvets, fine bed linens, a choice of 9 pillow types, plush robes and slippers, personalized stationery, binoculars, and umbrella. For those guest wishing to upgrade to the Medallion, Silver, Royal, Grand or Owner's Suite - they can expect added amenities of laundry service throughout their voyage, afternoon canapes, Nespresso coffee machine and dinner at Officer's table to just name a few.

We left the Silver Whisper after a delicious lunch with complimentary wines definitely wishing we were one of the lucky passengers heading off to New England later that evening.

Next September we hope to be able to visit the Silversea Prince Albert II ("The World's Most Luxurious Expedition Ship") when it makes a stop in the Port of Toronto on it's way to Bermuda. Perhaps I'll do a little research on the Silversea Expeditions for my next blog entry. Oh, and The World was docked right behind the Silver Whisper. This is one ship I intend to learn more about. Rumor has it that it's just unbelievable!

If you'd like more information on a Silversea Cruise please don't hesitate to contact Muriel for all the latest offers, itineraries, cabin availability and up to date pricing.

Here's some snapshots I took while touring the ship.

Deck 8/Pool Deck and view of Dining area

Panorama Lounge/ Deck 8

The Bar /Deck 5

Upper Level of The Show Lounge/Deck 6

Le Champagne Private Dining Room/Deck 7

View of the Aida from the Observation Lounge

For more details on Silversea Cruises you can check out our website (www.cruisenet.ca/silversea.html) or the links below.

Silversea Cruises

Flying Refined with Porter

I finally had an opportunity to get Muriel on a Porter flight. We flew from Billy Bishop Toronto Island Airport to Montreal and back again on Saturday for a Silversea ship inspection (more on that in the next blog). I've felt that Porter was five star travel with discount rates and was thrilled to be able to finally show Muriel what I had experienced.

And she agreed.

It is such a breath of fresh air to travel with complimentary beverages (wine and beer too!) and some actual leg room! The lounge at the Toronto Island Airport is so tasteful and serene with an airline steward checking to see if you've got time for a coffee in their complimentary self-serve cafe.

We sat with amused pleasure watching first time Porter fliers reaching for their purses and wallets as they scanned the offerings (Iced Tea, bottled water, variety of juices, coffee, tea, cappuccino - to just name a few! Plus there were some handy snacks to take the edge off) only to then see the look of utter shock when they realized it was all FREE!

Then we sat at a comfy table with it's own lamp - yes an actual lamp resting on a side table, next to a sofa chair. No rows of uncomfortable chairs bolted together and to the floor! Kind of like sitting in your own living room.

Free wireless and free business center with a large number of Mac's standing ready - just waiting for a bored client to log on.

Once aboard our 1 hour flight we were pleasantly surprised by the amount of legroom. Muriel, having just returned from London with Air Transat noted with pleasure that she had more than twice the amount of room as on her transatlantic 8 hour flight! The plane interior felt new and clean and the stewards were lovely in their retro pill box hat and uniforms. Even though there's no inflight entertainment you don't miss it. You sort of realize that maybe all the other airlines' inflight entertainment is meant to distract passengers from the fact that they have to pay for every drink, blanket and pillow and that their knees have permanent etch marks from the seat in front!

The whole experience is so pleasant it's just not NORMAL! And yet, this is the way air travel used to be, should be, obviously can be.

And now for the kicker - what do you think we paid to be treated like paying customers rather than a herd of cattle? This may really shock you! LESS than WestJet - LESS than Air Canada, for the same flight and schedule. Hard to believe that an airline could offer such a high level of service and actually charge us LESS than the big airlines.

Well, suffice to say, we were both pleasantly surprised and impressed and will be recommending Porter Airlines to ALL our clients traveling to a Porter destination. It's absolutely worth every penny and then some!

You can check them out for yourselves at www.flyporter.com or find them on twitter and facebook.

Tour Escorts

We are ramping up our 2011 Cruise and Tour Season and are looking for people interested in becoming a "Tour Escort". It's really quite easy and the rewards are great. If the minimum required number of passengers book into your group you, as the escort, can earn a free cabin on a cruise for you and a companion. We'll do all the work, including a presentation to your 'group', prepare all the documents and answer all questions. If you think you'd like to become an Escort give our office a call and we'd be happy to sit down with you and go over the nitty gritty details.
You can check out the link http://cruisenet.ca/tour_escorts.html to get started.

ROMANCE IN PARADISE!
It is hard to believe that our Canadian summer is coming to a close and our days of lounging in the sun becoming fewer. For all of you who dream of an endless summer I have found the only place in the world to be! Paradise! Yes it is possible to experience this year round in the South Pacific. I found a cruise line - Paul Gauguin Cruises who offer most of the world's most exotic islands all year and currently they are at 45% off with FREE AIR from Los Angeles. Watch the video and see for yourselves!

Golfers Needed

Muriel's sending out a call for Golfers. Check out our website for more details. It's a worthy cause and any help is truly appreciated.
www.cruisenet.ca

This is simply the most incredible structure I have ever seen! Want me to tell state secrets just threaten to send me up the mountain and I will tell ALL! Not for me!

Uniworld's Exciting News

We've just been informed that Uniworld Boutique River Cruises will be taking bookings for 2011 in Canadian Dollars AT PAR for all Europe, Egypt and China! Also, Uniworld will be returning to Russia in 2011 and are now open for booking. Check out our website for details on the Russia Special Offers and Discounts!

June

We've just sent out our lastest newsletter with some amazing offers for June. We've also spotlighted Quark Expeditions and their amazing itineraries to the Polar regions. If you've ever thought about a cruise to the Arctic or Antarctic you should really check out Quark Expeditions. Even if you aren't a big cruiser - they have some amazing photographs on their website. Their cruise to see the Emperor Penguins looks so amazing. It's so sad that this year will be their last trip to the Snow Hill Island Rookery. If I'd known about it sooner I would definitely have put it to the top of my list of places to see!
I'm also putting it out there to everyone to offer to send in their anecdotes or photos to help me out with keep this blog up to date. If anyone wants to send in a short note about an amazing holiday experience please send me an email to chelsea@cruisenet.ca
Our specials this month include up to 78% off Yachts of Seabourn cruises, Beverage and Gratuities package from Windstar Cruises, 2 for 1 Special from Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, Silverseas 60% Savings and our monthly Ezine from Ensemble with lots of unique offers.
You can check out all our newsletters on our website.

Oberammergau Passion Play has begun in Germany and many of our tours visit surrounding countries such as Switzerland - take a look at what you are missing!

BRUSSELS IN BLOOM

When I was little if one had a carpet from Brussels you were rich! Take a look at this "carpet" just one of the wonders you will see in Europe!

Windstar Europe

Windstar Cruises has just announced the most amazing deal on 3 of it's European Itineraries. Check out our website for all the details! www.cruisenet.ca

New Deals

Until I can convince Yolanda (meaning- she finds the time!) to write a little blog update on her Windstar Med cruise, I am just going to post about some of our amazing offers.

Right now Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering some great deals on their 2010 Europe itineraries. All-inclusive departures include Free shore excursions, Free Roundtrip Air and 2 for 1 Fares. Go to our website to download the printable flyer or call us for the latest pricing and availability.

Silversea Cruises is offering new 2010 Culinary & Wine Voyages with savings of up to 60% off plus Free Air. The printable flyer is also on our website or you can call our offices for details.

www.cruisenet.ca

Watch your Oakville Beaver next week for our Bon Vivant Flyer. Very exciting.

Our first Oberammergau clients departed this week. Fingers crossed that the Icelandic volcano keeps it's cool and lets everyone arrive in Europe on time.

Latest News

Bon Vivant Travel Exclusive

Cruisenet has recently partnered with the Ensemble Travel Group to bring you the Bon Vivant Adventures in Culinary Travel Exclusive! We are so pleased and excited to announce our premier culinary tour:

Flavours of Tuscany Tour - October 1 -11, 2010
For those with a passion for an intimate look into the culinary side of Tuscany.

Tour Highlights:
Explore San Lorenzo Market in Florence and enjoy lunch at Trattoria Garda
Hands on cooking classes at La Toscana Saporita in Viareggio and Dante Alighieri in Siena
Tour and tasting at the Giuseppe Giusti's Balsamic Vinegar Gran Deposito
Experience a day in the life of a Tuscan organic farm at La Petraia

The tour includes:
Tour escort
Roundtrip airfare from Toronto in Economy class onboard Air Transat
All roundtrip airport transfers
Ground transport on deluxe air-conditioned motorcoach
All hotel accomodations
All hotel taxes and service charges
Continental breakfast daily
5 lunches & Bon Vivant Welcome and Farewell Dinners
3 hands-on cooking classes
Mix & Mingle with authors/chefs Susan McKenna Grant and Sandra Lotti
City tour of Venice, Florence, Bologna and Siena
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Past the Halfway Point

Our arrival in Gustavia St. Barths was bright and early in the morning. We took the tender into shore after a relaxing breakfast. The first shop we saw was one of Glen's favorites, Quicksilver. And that says a lot, as Glen, like most men I know, is NOT a shopper. We headed straight over and Glen browsed for a new sunhat, flipflops, tshirts, everything. Eventually I grew bored with the fact that I was not doing the shopping and we moved on. Walking along the main street there were many souvenir shops of a much higher caliber than previously seen on the cruise. There were also LOTS of great looking restaurants and bars where we could sit on a patio and people watch. We walked the length of the port which is a large U shape and then back again. We picked out a nice restaurant to have lunch and sat and watched all the locals and tourists go by.

The first thing we noticed about St. Barths was that it was so clean and tidy. Clearly the french influence was a great benefit. Plus, ALL the people were saw were smiling from ear to ear. Whether they were locals or tourists it was very clear that everyone really liked being in St. Barths! We had to agree. It had a great feeling and was a little more upscale but not so much it felt snobby. It was very comfortable. We will definitely be making our way back to St. Barts in the future.

After a nice walk after lunch we headed back to the ship and hit the pool for a swim. It was so hot and sunny and the pool was the perfect refresher. Along with a nice cold beer and on to my second book of the trip.

After enjoying a relaxing afternoon we prepared for our group dinner in The Restaurant. We got ready early as we had the privilege of touring some of the other cabin category's prior to meeting for dinner. We were able to view one of the larger cabins which is exactly like our cabin only doubled. During the Wind Surf's renovation they had knocked the wall down between two cabins and created a 'his and hers' bathroom and instead of two beds, the second bed area became a living area. We couldn't believe how big and spacious the cabins felt until we got to see a Bridge Suite. Wow! Huge! Luxurious! The bathroom with separate shower and jacuzzi bath was larger than my master bath at home! Large flat screen tv and surround sound had my husband hooked.

After our fantastic tour, we finished on the Bridge Deck right by the Bridge and decided to check out it the. We had been told it was quite amazing to see at night in the dark, with all the instrument panels glowing. The bridge office kindly explained all the equipment and gps system and even zoomed the gps in to the Toronto Harbour so we could see all the vessels currently docked in port. How amazing.

Off to our group dinner and by this time the ship was sailing quite quickly to Basse Terre, Guadeloupe and the wind had really picked up. The Restaurant is at the front of the ship where one feels the rocking and swaying of rough seas a lot more. Many of our fellow group members were looking a little green around the gills and it was quite the challenge to just walk across the dining room. It did make for fun dinner conversation as all the passengers appeared thoroughly inebriated as they tried to reach the exit without knocking over any waiters.

We decided to adjourn to the bar at the back of the ship where we wouldn't feel the swaying quite so much but we seemed to be the only ones trying to put a brave face on it. The bar was deserted as everyone was hiding in their cabins down below.


The next morning we arrived in Basse Terre and it was raining. Mind you, only a Caribbean rain shower which for the most part only lasts a few minutes and then the hot sun is back blaring again. Unfortunately for us, the showers came and went, numerous times. We had been told by the bridge officer the previous night that Basse Terre wasn't that great a port and we'd be better served to visit Ile des Saintes in the afternoon. The only difference was that Basse Terre was the only port of call where we didn't have to tender. But, we decided that our view from the deck was plenty and instead watched the rain showers moving over the island and out to sea from the comfort of our canopy covered deck chairs.


After lunch we arrived in Ile des Saintes which was, as promised, worth venturing out. The port was really tiny compared to some of the other ports we've visited but quaint. We decided we would rent scooters and go exploring... except that as we disembarked the tender, Glen realized he'd left behind his driver's license. So, we walked instead. We walked right across the island to a beach on the other side. it was a lovely walk especially as there are almost no cars on the island, only scooters. The streets are just wide enough for one car so scooters and pedestrians are easily accommodated.


After a swim and sunbathing at the beach we walked back to the port for a drink at one of the bars. We sat out on the patio and watched all the activity out in the harbour. It was such a beautiful day and everyone was clearly enjoying the water sports. Just as we were heading back to the tender the local school children got out of class. It was the same organized chaos as back at home, only here, the children were being met by their parents on scooters instead of minivans!

Back on board we decide to order dinner from room service. This was a bit of a challenge due to the fact that neither Glen or I could decide what restaurant we wanted to order from! Once we learned we could order from ANY of the dining menus or the room service menu it made things even worse. In the end I ordered an appetizer from The Restaurant, entree from the Degrees and Glen ordered from room service menu and The Restaurant. Then we ordered two bowls of popcorn and sat and watched a movie from the DVD library. Just like home!

The next morning was our next shore excursion at Pigeon Island, St. Lucia. We were going Deep Sea Fishing, something Glen and I had never done before. It was quite the experience as anticipated. The seas were very rough once we left the comfort of the shoreline. We were also bombarded by numerous storms with freezing cold rain and high winds. We had to hang on quite tightly as the ship was bouncing up and down with the waves. Sadly that was the most excitement we had... never did catch a fish, although we did get a few bites. Not what we'd hoped for but the experience was worthwhile nonetheless.

We returned to the pier to enjoy a bbq lunch on the island which had been canceled. Unfortunately the rain showers had been so continuous and long lasting the hot dogs and hamburgers were swimming in their buns and the staff had called it quits. We headed back to the ship for a delicious on board bbq lunch instead and no one seemed to miss the beach bbq at all.

We had our group cocktail reception this evening to say goodbye to our host and newly found friends. We watched the sunset as we sailed around the Pitons. It seemed the Captain was able to maneuver the ship very close to shore. We could actually see into peoples homes along the shoreline as they turned on their lights. We could even see people taking photos of the ship as we sailed past. It was really amazing to be so close to shore in such a large vessel.

Off to pack up our suitcases and early to bed as we had customs and immigration at dawn the next morning!