Author: Rachel Harding
Source: articledashboard.com
Caribbean cruises are fast becoming the most popular of all cruise vacations anywhere and it is not surprising; this could be a vacation of a lifetime because it will be one you never forget. It should be on everyone's list of vacations with tropical Caribbean islands, clear, clean beaches and of course a fun filled time on board, advice starting a travel agency
, the cruise liner. How long you sail for really is up to your budget and what standard of cabin you want but these tours can be add-ons for other vacations or as long as fourteen, advice starting a travel agency
, or more days.
Sailing is an excellent way to enjoy yourself and this includes a person who just wants to send all day on board enjoying the entertainment to someone who can't wait to explore all the new sights. Never worry that there will not be enough to keep you occupied as cruise liners are past masters at ensuring their travelers have everything they need.
In any situation where you are spending a great deal of money, it is worth checking out a few details that should put you on the right track and you travel agency will be a good place to start. Caribbean cruises travel to most parts of the world, but with different price packages for each itinerary together with the duration and the number of places visited.
For those individuals and couples that enjoy parties and event filled vacations then choose a cruise vacation that perhaps is designed more for adults than families. Even though your tour operator should be able to provide information on the types of Caribbean cruise packages that are available, there will probably be more advice to be found on the web sites.
Besides the usual, you need to pack suitable attire for many occasions like formal evening wear as well as beach, deck and other casual wear. For formal evenings and events a gown is necessary for women and tuxedo for men so that you can be seen in your finest and something you need to be prepared for especially if you are invited to the Captains table.
Don't worry if you are uncertain about taking your children along on a cruise vacations because there will be plenty for them to do without you needing to be close at hand, watching over them. You can even take time off for a little quality adult time as there is fully trained staff to look after them.
But Caribbean cruises can be for adults to and there are those that do not have children on board. Other cruise liner packages are available and have been created for special occasions like weddings, honeymoons and anniversaries.
Your Caribbean cruise will be a vacation of a lifetime as you don't have to do anything but enjoy yourself as everything else is taken care of irrespective if you go on your own, a couple or part of a family group.
Tampilkan postingan dengan label cruises. Tampilkan semua postingan
Tampilkan postingan dengan label cruises. Tampilkan semua postingan
Minggu, 09 Februari 2020
Want To Know More About Cruises And Cruise Ships?
Author: Norm Goldman
Source: articleage.com
Today, Norm Goldman Editor of Sketchandtravel.com, is pleased to have as a guest of Sketchandtravel.com Douglas Ward, author of Ocean Cruising & Cruise Ships 2005, now into its twentieth year of publication, published by Berlitz Publishing.Thank you Douglas for accepting our invitation to be interviewed.Norm: Douglas could you tell us something about yourself and why did you want to write a book about cruising and cruise ships?Douglas: I had worked aboard passenger ships for 17 years before forming an association of cruise passengers, who were looking for more comparative information about cruise ships and cruising. So was born the idea for the book, which started with 120 ships and 256 pages. Today, after 20 years, the book has grown to include 256 ocean-going ships, 656 pages, and half a million words.Norm: I noticed your first book on cruises and cruise ships was published, advice alaska travel , twenty years ago, and you have been updating your book every year. How do you go about gathering material every year for these updates and how long does it take you to update your annual book?Douglas: First, it takes me a minimum of three hours a day, every single day of the year, just to keep the book refreshed, up-to-date, and accurate. I also travel extensively, as much as 250 days each year. So, of course, I write while I am traveling, visiting, and sailing aboard the world's cruise ships.Norm: What, advice alaska travel , makes cruises so appealing to honeymooners?Douglas: Cruises take the, advice alaska travel , hassle out of planning a honeymoon, particularly with regard to language, cuisine/meals, entertainment, and so many other things that go towards making a honeymoon a fine, affordable vacation, and a complete escape from the pressures of life ashore. Actually, it's also a good way to find out how a newlywed couple cope with living in a small space.Norm: Are you seeing more weddings performed on cruise ships lately? What should cruisers know about cruise ship weddings?Douglas: By nature of their (out of the ordinary) appeal, more weddings are being performed aboard cruise ships today, simply because there is so much help at hand. The larger cruise lines have personnel dedicated to handling weddings and honeymoons, and the instant support of other personnel in cruise line head offices to draw from. Weddings can, in other words, be tailored completely to the individuals concerned (and without the interference of well-meaning parents and other family members who can create stress and pressure on couples about to undergo, what is for many, the most important ceremony of their lives).Norm: With so many cruise possibilities, how does one go about choosing a cruise and what should people take into consideration before deciding on any one cruise?Douglas: Choosing a cruise successfully depends on one's personal requirements and expectations from a vacation. First-time cruise goers would be well advised to talk to an established cruise booking specialist, who will be able to help you to choose the right ship and cruise, for the right reasons, taking into account your personal tastes and socio-economic considerations. There are so many choices today that there should be a ship and cruise to suit even the most demanding and finicky of people. Perhaps the first decision, however, should be to establish how many days you can take for your vacation (including travel days to get to/from the ship), and then think about the area you would like to cruise in. The most popular regions include the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Norwegian fjords and Baltic ports, and southeast Asia/Australasia. Those with more time who want more involvement with nature should consider visiting Antarctica or the Arctic regions (you would ideally need about three weeks). Then there is perhaps the ultimate in long distance cruising an around the world cruise, which typically would take three to four months (most ships offering complete around the world cruises there are about 15 in 2005 sail between January and April away from winter).Norm: Have you had any bad experiences on a cruise, and if so, please describe them.Douglas: I have had many bad experiences, but most of them cannot be written about, and most have been aboard ships and cruise lines that no longer exist, or have changed their names. However, there have been a few nasty transatlantic crossings (I have done 152 of them), when the weather can throw some unexpected wrenches into what otherwise is perhaps a wonderful, serene, advice alaska travel , way of traveling between the Old and New Worlds.Norm: After deciding on a particular cruise, how do you plan for the cruise and what important elements should, advice alaska travel , you keep in mind?Douglas: Make sure you choose the right size ship for your needs. Do you want to be with 100, 500, 1000, or 3000 other passengers? Do you want to experience cruising under sail; cruising with specialist lecturers; be aboard a ship with spa facilities, large-scale production shows (a la Las Vegas), lots of gaming, or shopping opportunities? Whichever cruise you choose, try to make the travel arrangements as simple as possible. Sometimes, the mere act of getting to and from your chosen cruise ship (or embarkation point) can prove frustrating. If you are a first-time cruise goer, try not to do everything on your first cruise it could end up being more like, advice alaska travel , an endurance test.Norm: Can you tell our readers something about the different cabins that are available on cruises and what to look out for?Douglas: First-timers would be best advised to book an outside cabin (a cabin with an outside view) rather than an interior (no view) cabin. So, when you wake up, you wont be disoriented, and youll be able to see what the weather is like, which helps you decide what to wear each day. Typically, the more space you want, the higher the cost. Large suites with private balconies cost the most (some can measure up to 3000 square feet), while interior cabins that measure as little as 70 square feet will, of course, feel incredibly small. Typically, you get what you pay for. The average cabin size aboard today's larger cruise ships (they are really floating resorts) would be approximately, advice alaska travel , 180-200 square feet, advice alaska travel , .Norm: What type of clothing should I bring aboard?Douglas: Take clothing suited to the area you will be cruising in. Remember that ships are air-conditioned, so clothing that is layered works well. If you choose to cruise in cold weather regions, take suitable outer clothing, particularly for excursions ashore (Alaska is an example). If you take a Caribbean cruise, you really could pack light (cottons and natural fibers being the best, as many Caribbean islands have a high humidity factor for much of the year). Most of the (large) resort ships have a very casual dress code, while others (particularly ships that offer cruises longer than seven days the industry standard) feature more formal dress codes. Tuxes are only really needed aboard Queen Mary 2 when doing a transatlantic crossing; otherwise, you can dress down and comfortable.Norm: Is there always a doctor and clinic aboard the cruise ships?Douglas: Almost all cruise ships carrying more than 50 passengers have a fully qualified medical doctor and nursing assistants, which also take care of the crew. Some of the larger ships have several doctors, surgical specialists, small operating rooms, full x-ray facilities, as well as extensive pharmacies. In other words, today's cruise ships would be able to cope with most medical emergencies. However, if you take medication, remember to take an adequate supply (and if you have to fly to get to/from your cruise ship, take medication in your carry-on luggage just in case your checked-in luggage doesn't quite make it on the same day, or to the same port you're flying to).Norm: Can I make telephone calls from the cruise ship?Douglas: Almost all cruise ships are equipped with direct-dial satellite-linked, advice alaska travel , telephone systems (and Internet connectivity). A few ships even have special aerials that let you use your mobile phone, although most ships lose mobile connectivity when more than a mile offshore. The cost of a direct-dial satellite call varies between about $4 and $10 per minute, so don't use the telephone unless you have to-the charges can add up quickly.Norm: What is the usual check-in schedule before the cruise takes off?Douglas: Most cruise ships start embarkation about four hours prior to sailing. You would normally complete all paperwork, advice alaska travel , and go through passport and security checks in a passenger terminal before being allowed to board your cruise ship. Today's check-in procedure is relatively painless, although it can take some time if you are cruising aboard one of the larger ships, when there will be 3000 other passengers to check in (in other words, there will be lines just like at the post office).Norm: What happens if someone has special dietary requests?Douglas: Most cruise ships can handle special dietary requests, but do give advanced notice so that chefs can order and prepare any food items not normally carried. Its too late once the ship has sailed, so make your needs and requirements known at the time you book (this is when it's better to book through an accredited cruise travel specialist rather than picking something off the Internet which doesn't answer questions well).Norm: How do you make payments on board?Douglas: An onboard credit account will typically be established when you check in prior to embarkation. When you purchase things aboard ship (drinks or wine, for example), these items are added to your account, and charged to your credit card at the end of the cruise.Norm: Should you tip while on aboard the ship?Douglas: Some ships include tips, while others automatically add a tip to your daily onboard account (particularly the major cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International). However, on average you should plan on about $10 per day per person. Aboard the ships of some of the more upscale cruise lines, such as Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, SeaDream Yacht Club, Seabourn Cruise Lines, and Silversea Cruises, tips are included in the fare.Norm: How safe are cruise ships and how can I find out more about a particular company's record pertaining to its safety and cleanliness?Douglas: Today's cruise ships are extremely safe (nobody wants to work aboard an unsafe ship), and most are clean. However, of late, I have noticed that standards of cleanliness in cabins and public areas aboard some of the very large ships leave much to be desired (this is the effect of discounting, when lines cut personnel to keep prices artificially low). In general, if the same standards of food storage, handling, and hygiene that are practiced aboard today's ships were to be applied to hotels and restaurants in the United States, most would fail consistently! In other words, ships are clean very clean.Norm: If you had any important advice to offer our readers that has not been covered, what would it be?Douglas: Do read the book Berlitz Publishing's Ocean Cruising & Cruise Ships 2005, and you'll be more educated than most travel agents. Bon Voyage, I wish you all a wonderful cruise vacation.Thanks Douglas for your time.For over thirty- five years,, advice alaska travel , Norm Goldman practiced as a Title Attorney and Civil Law Notary in Montreal, Canada. After his retirement from the legal profession, Norm pursued two of, advice alaska travel , his passions, advice alaska travel , - book reviewing and travel writing, implementing many of his research skills he had been practicing for 35 years.Norm and his wife Lily are a unique husband and wife team, writer and water colorist, who write and paint about romantic destinations and wedding destinations.Basically, they meld art and words in order to create an unusual travel story, which generates interest, particularly because of the fact that each painting appears to have been 'custom-made' for the story-original story and original art. Combining the watercolors with travel writing provides a softer, more romantic, advice alaska travel , look at the places they visit.As they specialize in web-based content, their articles and water- colors are featured on their own site, Sketchandtravel.Com, as well as several, advice alaska travel , other sites.To learn more about Norm and Lily you can visit their site:http://www.sketchandtravel.com
Source: articleage.com
Today, Norm Goldman Editor of Sketchandtravel.com, is pleased to have as a guest of Sketchandtravel.com Douglas Ward, author of Ocean Cruising & Cruise Ships 2005, now into its twentieth year of publication, published by Berlitz Publishing.Thank you Douglas for accepting our invitation to be interviewed.Norm: Douglas could you tell us something about yourself and why did you want to write a book about cruising and cruise ships?Douglas: I had worked aboard passenger ships for 17 years before forming an association of cruise passengers, who were looking for more comparative information about cruise ships and cruising. So was born the idea for the book, which started with 120 ships and 256 pages. Today, after 20 years, the book has grown to include 256 ocean-going ships, 656 pages, and half a million words.Norm: I noticed your first book on cruises and cruise ships was published, advice alaska travel , twenty years ago, and you have been updating your book every year. How do you go about gathering material every year for these updates and how long does it take you to update your annual book?Douglas: First, it takes me a minimum of three hours a day, every single day of the year, just to keep the book refreshed, up-to-date, and accurate. I also travel extensively, as much as 250 days each year. So, of course, I write while I am traveling, visiting, and sailing aboard the world's cruise ships.Norm: What, advice alaska travel , makes cruises so appealing to honeymooners?Douglas: Cruises take the, advice alaska travel , hassle out of planning a honeymoon, particularly with regard to language, cuisine/meals, entertainment, and so many other things that go towards making a honeymoon a fine, affordable vacation, and a complete escape from the pressures of life ashore. Actually, it's also a good way to find out how a newlywed couple cope with living in a small space.Norm: Are you seeing more weddings performed on cruise ships lately? What should cruisers know about cruise ship weddings?Douglas: By nature of their (out of the ordinary) appeal, more weddings are being performed aboard cruise ships today, simply because there is so much help at hand. The larger cruise lines have personnel dedicated to handling weddings and honeymoons, and the instant support of other personnel in cruise line head offices to draw from. Weddings can, in other words, be tailored completely to the individuals concerned (and without the interference of well-meaning parents and other family members who can create stress and pressure on couples about to undergo, what is for many, the most important ceremony of their lives).Norm: With so many cruise possibilities, how does one go about choosing a cruise and what should people take into consideration before deciding on any one cruise?Douglas: Choosing a cruise successfully depends on one's personal requirements and expectations from a vacation. First-time cruise goers would be well advised to talk to an established cruise booking specialist, who will be able to help you to choose the right ship and cruise, for the right reasons, taking into account your personal tastes and socio-economic considerations. There are so many choices today that there should be a ship and cruise to suit even the most demanding and finicky of people. Perhaps the first decision, however, should be to establish how many days you can take for your vacation (including travel days to get to/from the ship), and then think about the area you would like to cruise in. The most popular regions include the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Norwegian fjords and Baltic ports, and southeast Asia/Australasia. Those with more time who want more involvement with nature should consider visiting Antarctica or the Arctic regions (you would ideally need about three weeks). Then there is perhaps the ultimate in long distance cruising an around the world cruise, which typically would take three to four months (most ships offering complete around the world cruises there are about 15 in 2005 sail between January and April away from winter).Norm: Have you had any bad experiences on a cruise, and if so, please describe them.Douglas: I have had many bad experiences, but most of them cannot be written about, and most have been aboard ships and cruise lines that no longer exist, or have changed their names. However, there have been a few nasty transatlantic crossings (I have done 152 of them), when the weather can throw some unexpected wrenches into what otherwise is perhaps a wonderful, serene, advice alaska travel , way of traveling between the Old and New Worlds.Norm: After deciding on a particular cruise, how do you plan for the cruise and what important elements should, advice alaska travel , you keep in mind?Douglas: Make sure you choose the right size ship for your needs. Do you want to be with 100, 500, 1000, or 3000 other passengers? Do you want to experience cruising under sail; cruising with specialist lecturers; be aboard a ship with spa facilities, large-scale production shows (a la Las Vegas), lots of gaming, or shopping opportunities? Whichever cruise you choose, try to make the travel arrangements as simple as possible. Sometimes, the mere act of getting to and from your chosen cruise ship (or embarkation point) can prove frustrating. If you are a first-time cruise goer, try not to do everything on your first cruise it could end up being more like, advice alaska travel , an endurance test.Norm: Can you tell our readers something about the different cabins that are available on cruises and what to look out for?Douglas: First-timers would be best advised to book an outside cabin (a cabin with an outside view) rather than an interior (no view) cabin. So, when you wake up, you wont be disoriented, and youll be able to see what the weather is like, which helps you decide what to wear each day. Typically, the more space you want, the higher the cost. Large suites with private balconies cost the most (some can measure up to 3000 square feet), while interior cabins that measure as little as 70 square feet will, of course, feel incredibly small. Typically, you get what you pay for. The average cabin size aboard today's larger cruise ships (they are really floating resorts) would be approximately, advice alaska travel , 180-200 square feet, advice alaska travel , .Norm: What type of clothing should I bring aboard?Douglas: Take clothing suited to the area you will be cruising in. Remember that ships are air-conditioned, so clothing that is layered works well. If you choose to cruise in cold weather regions, take suitable outer clothing, particularly for excursions ashore (Alaska is an example). If you take a Caribbean cruise, you really could pack light (cottons and natural fibers being the best, as many Caribbean islands have a high humidity factor for much of the year). Most of the (large) resort ships have a very casual dress code, while others (particularly ships that offer cruises longer than seven days the industry standard) feature more formal dress codes. Tuxes are only really needed aboard Queen Mary 2 when doing a transatlantic crossing; otherwise, you can dress down and comfortable.Norm: Is there always a doctor and clinic aboard the cruise ships?Douglas: Almost all cruise ships carrying more than 50 passengers have a fully qualified medical doctor and nursing assistants, which also take care of the crew. Some of the larger ships have several doctors, surgical specialists, small operating rooms, full x-ray facilities, as well as extensive pharmacies. In other words, today's cruise ships would be able to cope with most medical emergencies. However, if you take medication, remember to take an adequate supply (and if you have to fly to get to/from your cruise ship, take medication in your carry-on luggage just in case your checked-in luggage doesn't quite make it on the same day, or to the same port you're flying to).Norm: Can I make telephone calls from the cruise ship?Douglas: Almost all cruise ships are equipped with direct-dial satellite-linked, advice alaska travel , telephone systems (and Internet connectivity). A few ships even have special aerials that let you use your mobile phone, although most ships lose mobile connectivity when more than a mile offshore. The cost of a direct-dial satellite call varies between about $4 and $10 per minute, so don't use the telephone unless you have to-the charges can add up quickly.Norm: What is the usual check-in schedule before the cruise takes off?Douglas: Most cruise ships start embarkation about four hours prior to sailing. You would normally complete all paperwork, advice alaska travel , and go through passport and security checks in a passenger terminal before being allowed to board your cruise ship. Today's check-in procedure is relatively painless, although it can take some time if you are cruising aboard one of the larger ships, when there will be 3000 other passengers to check in (in other words, there will be lines just like at the post office).Norm: What happens if someone has special dietary requests?Douglas: Most cruise ships can handle special dietary requests, but do give advanced notice so that chefs can order and prepare any food items not normally carried. Its too late once the ship has sailed, so make your needs and requirements known at the time you book (this is when it's better to book through an accredited cruise travel specialist rather than picking something off the Internet which doesn't answer questions well).Norm: How do you make payments on board?Douglas: An onboard credit account will typically be established when you check in prior to embarkation. When you purchase things aboard ship (drinks or wine, for example), these items are added to your account, and charged to your credit card at the end of the cruise.Norm: Should you tip while on aboard the ship?Douglas: Some ships include tips, while others automatically add a tip to your daily onboard account (particularly the major cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International). However, on average you should plan on about $10 per day per person. Aboard the ships of some of the more upscale cruise lines, such as Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, SeaDream Yacht Club, Seabourn Cruise Lines, and Silversea Cruises, tips are included in the fare.Norm: How safe are cruise ships and how can I find out more about a particular company's record pertaining to its safety and cleanliness?Douglas: Today's cruise ships are extremely safe (nobody wants to work aboard an unsafe ship), and most are clean. However, of late, I have noticed that standards of cleanliness in cabins and public areas aboard some of the very large ships leave much to be desired (this is the effect of discounting, when lines cut personnel to keep prices artificially low). In general, if the same standards of food storage, handling, and hygiene that are practiced aboard today's ships were to be applied to hotels and restaurants in the United States, most would fail consistently! In other words, ships are clean very clean.Norm: If you had any important advice to offer our readers that has not been covered, what would it be?Douglas: Do read the book Berlitz Publishing's Ocean Cruising & Cruise Ships 2005, and you'll be more educated than most travel agents. Bon Voyage, I wish you all a wonderful cruise vacation.Thanks Douglas for your time.For over thirty- five years,, advice alaska travel , Norm Goldman practiced as a Title Attorney and Civil Law Notary in Montreal, Canada. After his retirement from the legal profession, Norm pursued two of, advice alaska travel , his passions, advice alaska travel , - book reviewing and travel writing, implementing many of his research skills he had been practicing for 35 years.Norm and his wife Lily are a unique husband and wife team, writer and water colorist, who write and paint about romantic destinations and wedding destinations.Basically, they meld art and words in order to create an unusual travel story, which generates interest, particularly because of the fact that each painting appears to have been 'custom-made' for the story-original story and original art. Combining the watercolors with travel writing provides a softer, more romantic, advice alaska travel , look at the places they visit.As they specialize in web-based content, their articles and water- colors are featured on their own site, Sketchandtravel.Com, as well as several, advice alaska travel , other sites.To learn more about Norm and Lily you can visit their site:http://www.sketchandtravel.com
Crystal Cruises: An Air Of Elegance, Presence Of Beauty, And Incredible Spirit Of Adventure
Author: William Lezubski
Source: articleage.com
On a Crystal cruise it is not difficult to find what you seek. In fact, your search for a place beyond ordinary is over. "Splendidly Uncommon"! Ablaze with intoxicating color and high style, Crystal Cruises' Harmony, Symphony and Serenity are ships of superlatives that capture the aura of extravagant parties, big, snazzy cars and high, international travel advice , tea in the Palm Court while Porter, Gershwin, Mozart and Bach float on the air.
The Experience:
Six-star elegance and style personified! Accommodations include ocean-view staterooms and suites, which many are with, international travel advice , private verandahs (Crystal Harmony, international travel advice , offers a small number of inside staterooms as well). Full 360-degree teak promenade deck, In-stateroom Internet access, and Butler Service in categories (PH, PS and CP). Choice of classic, main, or late seating in the Crystal Dining Room. Several alternatives to dining venues, 24-hour room service, and wine cellar with over 20,000 bottles (200 vintages and a special Reserve Wine List).
Nights are full of life! Award-winning production shows and a host of other evening performances await where the spotlight shines on Tonyฎ award-winners, Julliard grads, Broadway and West End performers as well as the Crystal Ensemble of singers and Dancers. Showrooms were custom-designed to offer perfect views from each seat and offer superior sound and lighting systems. Costumes are hand made and staging is skillfully crafted to bring every vibrant moment to life. Each cruise also has a variety of cabaret-style entertainment including vocalists, comedians, ventriloquists, instrumentalists and classical artists (you may find yourself serenaded with classical melodies during afternoon tea or whispering special requests to the trio which strolls through the Crystal Dining Room in the evening).
The Crystal Spa is, international travel advice , the first at sea to use the principles of Feng Shui. Your journey begins with cultural therapies from around the world all enjoyed amid beautiful Asian artifacts in a restoring, peaceful atmosphere.
Crystal Cruises excels with there quite remarkable Creative Learning Institute and Crystal Visionsฎ Enrichment Program. You can enjoy classes and workshops in the fields of Arts & Entertainment, Business & Technology,, international travel advice , Lifestyle, Wellness, Wine & Food, attend courses as diverse as successful grand-parenting and sajian planning, experience lectures on the latest advances in medicine and alternative medicine; take piano classes from Yamaha or language lessons with Berlitz. There's a Computer University at sea, fitness centre, golf driving ranges and putting greens (PGA golf instructors are on select sailing's), large lap pools, full size paddle tennis courts, and escorted and private Crystal Adventures (shore excursions).
All Crystal Cruises ships feature the Caesars Palace at Seaฎ Casino, which is run by the world famous Las Vegas operation (the expert on board staff is employed by Caesars Palace). The facility houses blackjack tables, as well as mini-baccarat, craps, roulette and more than 85 slot machines.
Accommodations:
It is in your private quarters where Crystal has lavished special attention. All the essentials and, international travel advice , an abundance of extravagances turn every accommodation style into a decidedly personal retreat. Soft lighting, Aveda bath products and 100% Egyptian cotton bath towels in your marble bathroom. Scandinavian down duvets, 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and feather and down king-size pillows on your bed. Ship to shore phones and personal voice mail.
In every stateroom a plush Frette bathrobe awaits a cool evening or barefoot breakfast on your private verandah. Penthouse accommodation delivers the highest level of comfort and can range from 360 to 1345 square feet dependent upon the ship you select. Some are equipped with personal gyms, quite a number offer a separate living room, dining area and bedroom, master bath with a jacuzzi, complimentary beverage bars, flat-screen TV's, CD players, and DVD players.
All, of course, have private verandahs with the services of a butler. Planning to entertain a few friends at a small party?He'll arrange it beautifully. Prefer the appetizers, entr้es, or desserts from a variety of select specialty restaurants? He'll bring them to you, along with the movie you, international travel advice , want from the library.
Dining:
The restaurants on board Crystal Cruises' ships are indeed worth mentioning. All the ships offer: two seatings in the main restaurant (Crystal, international travel advice , Dining Room), where international and regionally inspired dishes are prepared in the time-honored European tradition, and are unveiled (including "Lighter Fare" choices such as low carb, low sodium, low cholesterol and vegetarian). All ships have an excellent selection of alternative dining venues. Prego, for example, which features traditional Italian specialties plus the signature fare of Piero Selvaggio of Valentino Restaurant fame (Valentino is considered by culinary critics to be the best Italian Restaurant outside of Italy) is on all ships.
Crystal Harmony's Kyoto features, international travel advice , inventive Japanese cuisine, while on Crystal Symphony, the Jade Garden is a culinary crossroads of Asia with menus inspired by exotic traditions and ingredients of the Orient and specialty dishes from Wolfgang Puck's famed Chinois restaurant. On Crystal Serenity, the eclectic cuisine of Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa (right, that Nobu) is highlighted in two restaurants, Silk Road and The Sushi Bar. In Crystal Symphony's and Crystal Serenity's Vintage Room, custom meals are paired with wine selections such as limited bottling of California's Harlan Estate and Screaming Eagle, dream vintages of great Bordeaux or masterpieces from the fleetwide Reserve Wine List which reveals 20 rare wines.
Consider a Crystal Wine & Food Festival sailing where guest chefs supervise the preparation of a special five-course dinner to be matched with wine pairings selected by a participating wine expert. Each chef presents cooking techniques, offers tips and shares their favorite recipes at special demonstrations.
Afternoon tea presents a selection of savories and sweets served in the sunlit charm of the Palm Court, for lovers of fresh scones, clotted cream and finger sandwiches. An English Colonial Tea offers a British tradition and for a special treat, join the Mozart Tea, a visit to 18th century Vienna where you're greeted by staff in velvets and brocades offering the finest cakes and most delicious, international travel advice , pastries that Austria has ever created.
Crystal Society:
Once guests complete their first Crystal cruise, they'll be automatically enrolled in the Crystal Society. Guests will be entitled to special savings, events and amenities every time they sail with Crystal Cruises. With every cruise guests take, the rewards become more impressive (stateroom upgrades, credit toward air travel, on board spending credits and much more).
Crystal Visionsฎ Enrichment Program:
Popular Crystal Visionsฎ Enrichment Program is offered on every cruise and, depending on the sailing, features a range of noted destination, cultural, historical and artistic speakers. In addition, all guests can expand, international travel advice , horizons with the Crystal Cruises Creative Learning Instituteฎ, an innovative series of interactive classes created to enhance guests' quality of life in the areas of Arts & Entertainment, Business & Technology (including our popular Computer University@Sea), Lifestyle, Wellness, international travel advice , and Wine & Food. ACBL experts offer instruction in most levels of Bridge, professional ballroom dancers share their tips on improving dance steps and on most sailings a qualified PGA pro leads a series of golf classes.
Computer University@Sea Program:
Popular Computer University@Seaฎ jadwal is offered on all cruises. CU@Sea provides e-mail services, Internet access, group and individual instruction on use of a PC and extensive complimentary enrichment course offerings. Each ship has at least 25 state-of-the-art PC workstations. Complimentary lectures or classes are offered on each cruise. Details of these are listed in the daily newsletter Reflections. There is a nominal set-up fee when guests begin to use any CU@Sea services involving off-ship communication.
Extended Land, international travel advice , Programs:
Either at the beginning or at the end of each cruise, guests can take two to six-night trips to some of the most remarkable cities and inland destinations. Local travel experts who deliver the highest level of service have created these programs.
Hotel Programs:
Many of Crystal's, international travel advice , selected, international travel advice , hotels are recognized by noted publications such as Cond้ Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure as some of the finest hotels in the world.
Crystal "Classic", international travel advice , Hotel Program Includes:
Luxurious Hotel Accommodation, Meet & Assist arrangements at the airport, Group transfer by motor coach between airport and hotel, or hotel and airport, Specially designed sightseeing transfer by motor coach between hotel and ship or, vice versa, Hotel tax and porterage, Hospitality Desk offering local advice and optional sightseeing opportunities.
Crystal "Classic-Plus" Hotel Program Include:
Upgraded Hotel Accommodation, Breakfast daily, Personal Meet & Assist arrangements at, the airport, Private car transfer between airport and hotel, or hotel and airport, Specially designed sightseeing transfer by motor coach between hotel and ship or vice versa, Hotel tax and porterage, Hospitality Desk offering local advice and optional sightseeing opportunities.
Junior Activities Program:
Crystal Cruises' commitment to excellence and quality of experience does not end with grown-up cruisers. Kids have a variety of great activities to choose from on every Crystal cruise! Offered are children's, international travel advice , playroom, international travel advice , and babysitting services on all cruises. During holiday cruises and selected sailing's, additional children's activities are offered under the supervision of experienced Junior Activities Directors.
Junior Activities Programme is Three-Tiered: 3-7 year olds, 8-12 year olds, 13-17 year olds, Children under six months are not permitted on board without a signed waiver by parent(s).
Activities: age and the number of children on board determine Activities, international travel advice , . On those sailings with Junior Activities Directors, a detailed schedule of events is created at the beginning of each cruise. Once on board, you'll receive Surf Runner, or Teen Scene, the teenagers guide to special activities, our daily newsletter for kids with details for the following day's schedule and other pertinent information.
Facilities: Fantasia, children's playroom, offers tables and chairs for arts and crafts, popular Sony PlayStationฎ game titles, a large screen television set and board games. Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity also feature a teenager's video arcade, Waves. The Library offers children's books and children's videos or DVDs for enjoyment in staterooms.
Crystal's Fleet: Crystal Harmony, Crystal Symphony, and Crystal Serenity.
During some point you might catch a certain sight or have a distinct feeling that causes you to suddenly realize - I am someplace special. It might be a sense of your own elegance as you enter the Crystal Dining Room, or perhaps the feeling of serenity, international travel, international travel advice , advice , that envelopes you as you sink slowly into the Cleopatra Tub in The Crystal Spa. Or perchance it will be recognition that you are part of an exclusive group who travels the world in style, searching for its very best experiences.
The adventure of grand theatres, quiet corners, sophisticated lounges, lavish shows, and delectable cuisine has earned Crystal Cruises the "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" award. Awards come from Cond้ Nast Traveler magazine and Travel + Leisure a record eight years in a row from 1996 - 2003 (the only cruise line to be so honored). And no wonder! Gracious comforts and small pleasures come in large quantities, including the smiles accompanying the smallest gesture from staff imbued with the finest traditions of European service.
Source: articleage.com
On a Crystal cruise it is not difficult to find what you seek. In fact, your search for a place beyond ordinary is over. "Splendidly Uncommon"! Ablaze with intoxicating color and high style, Crystal Cruises' Harmony, Symphony and Serenity are ships of superlatives that capture the aura of extravagant parties, big, snazzy cars and high, international travel advice , tea in the Palm Court while Porter, Gershwin, Mozart and Bach float on the air.
The Experience:
Six-star elegance and style personified! Accommodations include ocean-view staterooms and suites, which many are with, international travel advice , private verandahs (Crystal Harmony, international travel advice , offers a small number of inside staterooms as well). Full 360-degree teak promenade deck, In-stateroom Internet access, and Butler Service in categories (PH, PS and CP). Choice of classic, main, or late seating in the Crystal Dining Room. Several alternatives to dining venues, 24-hour room service, and wine cellar with over 20,000 bottles (200 vintages and a special Reserve Wine List).
Nights are full of life! Award-winning production shows and a host of other evening performances await where the spotlight shines on Tonyฎ award-winners, Julliard grads, Broadway and West End performers as well as the Crystal Ensemble of singers and Dancers. Showrooms were custom-designed to offer perfect views from each seat and offer superior sound and lighting systems. Costumes are hand made and staging is skillfully crafted to bring every vibrant moment to life. Each cruise also has a variety of cabaret-style entertainment including vocalists, comedians, ventriloquists, instrumentalists and classical artists (you may find yourself serenaded with classical melodies during afternoon tea or whispering special requests to the trio which strolls through the Crystal Dining Room in the evening).
The Crystal Spa is, international travel advice , the first at sea to use the principles of Feng Shui. Your journey begins with cultural therapies from around the world all enjoyed amid beautiful Asian artifacts in a restoring, peaceful atmosphere.
Crystal Cruises excels with there quite remarkable Creative Learning Institute and Crystal Visionsฎ Enrichment Program. You can enjoy classes and workshops in the fields of Arts & Entertainment, Business & Technology,, international travel advice , Lifestyle, Wellness, Wine & Food, attend courses as diverse as successful grand-parenting and sajian planning, experience lectures on the latest advances in medicine and alternative medicine; take piano classes from Yamaha or language lessons with Berlitz. There's a Computer University at sea, fitness centre, golf driving ranges and putting greens (PGA golf instructors are on select sailing's), large lap pools, full size paddle tennis courts, and escorted and private Crystal Adventures (shore excursions).
All Crystal Cruises ships feature the Caesars Palace at Seaฎ Casino, which is run by the world famous Las Vegas operation (the expert on board staff is employed by Caesars Palace). The facility houses blackjack tables, as well as mini-baccarat, craps, roulette and more than 85 slot machines.
Accommodations:
It is in your private quarters where Crystal has lavished special attention. All the essentials and, international travel advice , an abundance of extravagances turn every accommodation style into a decidedly personal retreat. Soft lighting, Aveda bath products and 100% Egyptian cotton bath towels in your marble bathroom. Scandinavian down duvets, 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and feather and down king-size pillows on your bed. Ship to shore phones and personal voice mail.
In every stateroom a plush Frette bathrobe awaits a cool evening or barefoot breakfast on your private verandah. Penthouse accommodation delivers the highest level of comfort and can range from 360 to 1345 square feet dependent upon the ship you select. Some are equipped with personal gyms, quite a number offer a separate living room, dining area and bedroom, master bath with a jacuzzi, complimentary beverage bars, flat-screen TV's, CD players, and DVD players.
All, of course, have private verandahs with the services of a butler. Planning to entertain a few friends at a small party?He'll arrange it beautifully. Prefer the appetizers, entr้es, or desserts from a variety of select specialty restaurants? He'll bring them to you, along with the movie you, international travel advice , want from the library.
Dining:
The restaurants on board Crystal Cruises' ships are indeed worth mentioning. All the ships offer: two seatings in the main restaurant (Crystal, international travel advice , Dining Room), where international and regionally inspired dishes are prepared in the time-honored European tradition, and are unveiled (including "Lighter Fare" choices such as low carb, low sodium, low cholesterol and vegetarian). All ships have an excellent selection of alternative dining venues. Prego, for example, which features traditional Italian specialties plus the signature fare of Piero Selvaggio of Valentino Restaurant fame (Valentino is considered by culinary critics to be the best Italian Restaurant outside of Italy) is on all ships.
Crystal Harmony's Kyoto features, international travel advice , inventive Japanese cuisine, while on Crystal Symphony, the Jade Garden is a culinary crossroads of Asia with menus inspired by exotic traditions and ingredients of the Orient and specialty dishes from Wolfgang Puck's famed Chinois restaurant. On Crystal Serenity, the eclectic cuisine of Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa (right, that Nobu) is highlighted in two restaurants, Silk Road and The Sushi Bar. In Crystal Symphony's and Crystal Serenity's Vintage Room, custom meals are paired with wine selections such as limited bottling of California's Harlan Estate and Screaming Eagle, dream vintages of great Bordeaux or masterpieces from the fleetwide Reserve Wine List which reveals 20 rare wines.
Consider a Crystal Wine & Food Festival sailing where guest chefs supervise the preparation of a special five-course dinner to be matched with wine pairings selected by a participating wine expert. Each chef presents cooking techniques, offers tips and shares their favorite recipes at special demonstrations.
Afternoon tea presents a selection of savories and sweets served in the sunlit charm of the Palm Court, for lovers of fresh scones, clotted cream and finger sandwiches. An English Colonial Tea offers a British tradition and for a special treat, join the Mozart Tea, a visit to 18th century Vienna where you're greeted by staff in velvets and brocades offering the finest cakes and most delicious, international travel advice , pastries that Austria has ever created.
Crystal Society:
Once guests complete their first Crystal cruise, they'll be automatically enrolled in the Crystal Society. Guests will be entitled to special savings, events and amenities every time they sail with Crystal Cruises. With every cruise guests take, the rewards become more impressive (stateroom upgrades, credit toward air travel, on board spending credits and much more).
Crystal Visionsฎ Enrichment Program:
Popular Crystal Visionsฎ Enrichment Program is offered on every cruise and, depending on the sailing, features a range of noted destination, cultural, historical and artistic speakers. In addition, all guests can expand, international travel advice , horizons with the Crystal Cruises Creative Learning Instituteฎ, an innovative series of interactive classes created to enhance guests' quality of life in the areas of Arts & Entertainment, Business & Technology (including our popular Computer University@Sea), Lifestyle, Wellness, international travel advice , and Wine & Food. ACBL experts offer instruction in most levels of Bridge, professional ballroom dancers share their tips on improving dance steps and on most sailings a qualified PGA pro leads a series of golf classes.
Computer University@Sea Program:
Popular Computer University@Seaฎ jadwal is offered on all cruises. CU@Sea provides e-mail services, Internet access, group and individual instruction on use of a PC and extensive complimentary enrichment course offerings. Each ship has at least 25 state-of-the-art PC workstations. Complimentary lectures or classes are offered on each cruise. Details of these are listed in the daily newsletter Reflections. There is a nominal set-up fee when guests begin to use any CU@Sea services involving off-ship communication.
Extended Land, international travel advice , Programs:
Either at the beginning or at the end of each cruise, guests can take two to six-night trips to some of the most remarkable cities and inland destinations. Local travel experts who deliver the highest level of service have created these programs.
Hotel Programs:
Many of Crystal's, international travel advice , selected, international travel advice , hotels are recognized by noted publications such as Cond้ Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure as some of the finest hotels in the world.
Crystal "Classic", international travel advice , Hotel Program Includes:
Luxurious Hotel Accommodation, Meet & Assist arrangements at the airport, Group transfer by motor coach between airport and hotel, or hotel and airport, Specially designed sightseeing transfer by motor coach between hotel and ship or, vice versa, Hotel tax and porterage, Hospitality Desk offering local advice and optional sightseeing opportunities.
Crystal "Classic-Plus" Hotel Program Include:
Upgraded Hotel Accommodation, Breakfast daily, Personal Meet & Assist arrangements at, the airport, Private car transfer between airport and hotel, or hotel and airport, Specially designed sightseeing transfer by motor coach between hotel and ship or vice versa, Hotel tax and porterage, Hospitality Desk offering local advice and optional sightseeing opportunities.
Junior Activities Program:
Crystal Cruises' commitment to excellence and quality of experience does not end with grown-up cruisers. Kids have a variety of great activities to choose from on every Crystal cruise! Offered are children's, international travel advice , playroom, international travel advice , and babysitting services on all cruises. During holiday cruises and selected sailing's, additional children's activities are offered under the supervision of experienced Junior Activities Directors.
Junior Activities Programme is Three-Tiered: 3-7 year olds, 8-12 year olds, 13-17 year olds, Children under six months are not permitted on board without a signed waiver by parent(s).
Activities: age and the number of children on board determine Activities, international travel advice , . On those sailings with Junior Activities Directors, a detailed schedule of events is created at the beginning of each cruise. Once on board, you'll receive Surf Runner, or Teen Scene, the teenagers guide to special activities, our daily newsletter for kids with details for the following day's schedule and other pertinent information.
Facilities: Fantasia, children's playroom, offers tables and chairs for arts and crafts, popular Sony PlayStationฎ game titles, a large screen television set and board games. Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity also feature a teenager's video arcade, Waves. The Library offers children's books and children's videos or DVDs for enjoyment in staterooms.
Crystal's Fleet: Crystal Harmony, Crystal Symphony, and Crystal Serenity.
During some point you might catch a certain sight or have a distinct feeling that causes you to suddenly realize - I am someplace special. It might be a sense of your own elegance as you enter the Crystal Dining Room, or perhaps the feeling of serenity, international travel, international travel advice , advice , that envelopes you as you sink slowly into the Cleopatra Tub in The Crystal Spa. Or perchance it will be recognition that you are part of an exclusive group who travels the world in style, searching for its very best experiences.
The adventure of grand theatres, quiet corners, sophisticated lounges, lavish shows, and delectable cuisine has earned Crystal Cruises the "World's Best Large-Ship Cruise Line" award. Awards come from Cond้ Nast Traveler magazine and Travel + Leisure a record eight years in a row from 1996 - 2003 (the only cruise line to be so honored). And no wonder! Gracious comforts and small pleasures come in large quantities, including the smiles accompanying the smallest gesture from staff imbued with the finest traditions of European service.
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