Travel and Vacation

By Roy Witman

Stately palms sway gently over acres of stunning white beach, freshly raked and waiting for your arrival. Waverunners stand ready to whisk you along the shore at exhilarating speeds, while in a secluded cove, beach mats float drowsily in the warm turquoise water. Welcome to your very own private island paradise, courtesy of your cruise line.

Located primarily in the Bahamas, these privately owned islands offer a variety of attractions not available on board ship, while maintaining an exclusive, pampered feel. Disney, Norwegian, Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean are among the cruise lines that offer guests a day-pass to a private paradise.

Just because they’re private doesn’t mean they’re uninhabited, though. With their own power grids, water treatment facilities, and full-time, live-in staff, you can be sure you’ll find all the amenities you’ve come to expect from world-class cruise lines. Restaurants, cocktail lounges, and even shopping and museums can all be found on these exclusive properties. The only thing missing are the long lines and impossible-to-get reservations typical of public destinations.

Peace and Tranquility in the Tropics

Cruises are a whirlwind of activity, from dining and dancing to live shows to on-board amusement park rides. After all that fun, spending the day relaxing on shore can offer a much-needed break from the action. With exclusive access and a limit of one ship in port per day, these private islands are just the place to sprawl under a beach umbrella, far away from the crowds and the noise of other ports of call.

For an even more pampered feel, rent a seaside cabana for the day and take advantage of food and beverage services, spa offerings like yoga classes or open-air massage, private showers, and even hot tubs. Many cabana rentals include priority tender services as well – a nice perk when you’re on ship with 3,000 other passengers.

Don’t overlook the potential for true privacy these islands offer, though. With the majority of cruise passengers disembarking for the day, consider staying aboard ship, where you’ll have the pool all to yourself. The others can have their private island. You’ll have your own private yacht.

Unforgettable Adventures

Of course, if your tastes lean more toward action than a lazy swing in a seaside hammock, these private islands are up to the challenge. Parasailing, snorkeling, and kayaking top the list of adult activities. Younger children will enjoy age-appropriate activities like digging for whale “bones” or climbing about on a wooden pirate ship. The older kids will love staging water-cannon fights or slipping along the slides at one of many water parks.

You’ll also find one-of-a-kind adventure as well. Royal Caribbean’s Labadee features the world’s longest zip line over water. Stunning views and a heart-pounding speed make this one thrill-ride you don’t want to miss.

Whether you choose sunbathing on a secluded beach, dancing in the surf aboard a Waverunner, or exploring the famous Flying Dutchman of Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean, your day in paradise will be as relaxing – or as thrilling – as you desire.

By Roy Witman

When you’re looking for a cruise experience that can be described as “excellent,” “exceptional” and “luxurious” Holland America can certainly provide. Since 1872, this premium cruise line has offered distinctive tours to some of the most unique cities in the world while always stretching to bring more to its passengers.

With its newest class of vessels – Signature Class – Holland America has launched over 80 passenger ships including the Eurodam. This vessel is impressive in size, stature and amenities, and is just what fans of Holland America expect from this award-winning cruise line.

Unique Features of Eurodam

Offering the first 144-seat topside Pan-Asian restaurant in the fleet, Eurodam’s guests will delight in the cuisine as well as the scenery. The restaurant and 50-seat lounge offer panoramic views overlooking the ocean and the pool on the Lido deck.

In addition, a specialty restaurant serving the finest and most authentic Italian cuisine, a new atrium bar, and a new photographic and imaging center will be included on Eurodam.

One of the most exciting additions is an extra deck of 63 new staterooms, 10 of which will have ceiling-to-floor and wall-to-wall panoramic windows for exciting and breathtaking views.

Old Favorites Remain

However, many of the previous passengers’ favorites will also be found on Eurodam. Explorations Cafe (powered by The New York Times) will continue to provide specialty coffees, Internet connections and music-listening stations.

The ever-popular Culinary Arts Center (presented by Food & Wine Magazine) will still offer cooking demonstrations and intimate cooking classes. The Greenhouse Spa and Salon will provide thermal suites, a hydro-pool and the largest gym ever built for Holland America.

Exciting Voyages

Where in the world would you like to go? Chances are Eurodam can take you there. Tour the balmy islands of the Eastern Caribbean visiting the ports of Grand Turk, San Juan, St. Thomas and other popular destinations. Perhaps the history and majesty of Western Europe is more your style. In that case, visit the regal coastal cities of Italy, France, Belgium and others. If glamour is what you seek, a Mediterranean whirlwind adventure through Barcelona, Monte Carlo and other hotspots will thrill you.

Eurodam also offers voyages to the Baltic regions. Here you can explore ancient lands of Vikings, royalty and the legends of the sea found in Russia, Finland, Sweden and others.

Whether it’s the glitz of the Rivera or the legacy of Portugal’s vineyards that calls to you, Eurodam ushers you to new worlds and adventures you won’t soon forget.

You may wonder why cruises in Greece are so famous. One of the main reasons is that these cruises in Greece can give you a few unseen magical sights of the nature. A cruise here will explore the coastlines, natural geographical beauties, Rocky Mountains, bubbly rivers and all of those that have given this place a unique appearance.

If you count the mountain peaks, you will reach somewhere near 300. Mt. Olympus is the highest one among all these. You can not afford to miss your camera on this trip as you will not get many chances to see such natural beauty in your lifetime.

You can explore coastlines of both Aegean and Ionian Sea while roaming with the cruises in Greece. That’s truly amazing. You can spend a lazy afternoon on the sparkling golden beaches here. Lacs of visitors from around the world visit Greek island every year and all of them love the cruises in Greece, the specialty of this special tourist spot. It is so popular that a single ship don’t go unoccupied a single day of the year. They are always booked and in advance. However, tourists don’t need to worry as there are plenty of ships available at all the Greek ports. Just they need to be booked well in advance. You may be disappointed only if you decide to book them at the nick moment.

Many cruise packages are available and they are all flexible to match your needs. When you contact any of the Greek travel agents they will note down your vacation plan and accordingly will suggest you a suitable cruise package. There are luxury cruises as well as economy cruises and you have to choose one depending on your requirement. They have kept the price range so wide that tourists of any level can afford the cruises here.

The amenities provided on the cruise ships are really lucrative. You will be served with local mouth watering dishes on board along with local wine. In between sailing from one port to another you can even choose to stay at any hotels on the beachside if you want to get more comfortable.

If you love luxury then save money for a luxury cruise trip here and I bet you will have your best moments spent on board. The luxury amenities have just no limit. You will have spa, casino, movie theatre, swimming pool, luxury suites, personal bathing suite, mini bar and what not.

Halong Bay is undoubtedly Asia’s most enchanting destination, defined by a myriad of limestone island formations rising out of the emerald waters.

Pairing elegant ambience with the charm of Vietnamese hospitality, our traditional wooden junks are committed to offer luxuries of the highest standard in a relaxing atmosphere. Offering a first class fit for this breathtaking seascape, Paradise Cruises redefine the luxury cruising concept in the legendary Halong Bay.

Leave the reality behind – Explore a new world – Cruise at Paradise.

Facilities

- Restaurants and Bar
– Kayaking Service (Optional)
– A/C cabins with en-suite bathrooms
– First Aid Kits
– Doctor o­n-call
– Luggage Storages
– Emergency Tender boat
– Major credit cards accepted

- Dial-up Internet Access at The Reception
– Conference and Meeting Equipment
– Safety box at the reception
– IDD at the reception
– Boutique
– Library (Rental and Exchange o­nly)
– 24/7 Security

Paradise I

6 Superior (16.2m²)
9 Deluxe (18.2m²)
2 Suites (19.2m²)

Paradise II

6 Superior (16.2m²)
7 Deluxe (18.2m²)
2 Suites (23.2m²)
2 Suites (26.2m²)

uperior cabins:16.2 sqm on the 1st deck, featuring:

• Panoramic windows
• Air – conditioner
• In house phone
• Deluxe amenities
• Hair dryer
• Linen bedding
• Glass standing shower
• Wardrobe
• Life jackets

Deluxe cabins: 18.2 sqm on upper deck with glass windows, private balcony offering breathtaking views of the bay.

• Private balcony
• Air – conditioner
• In house phone
• Deluxe amenities
• Hair dryer
• Linen bedding
• Glass standing shower
• Wardrobe
• Cotton bath robe
• Life jackets

Paradise Suites: 20 sqm on the 1st deck with Jacuzzi, double queen size bed and panoramic windows.

• Panoramic windows
• Minibar
• Air – conditioner
• In house phone
• Deluxe amenities
• LCD TV + DVD player
• Linen bedding
• Jacuzzi
• Wardrobe
• Cotton bath robe
• Hair dryer
• Life jackets

Terrace Suites: 23 sqm on upper deck with spacious terrace for your great panoramic view of Halong Bay. Meticulous attention to detail is reflected in a heavenly-soft bed and Italian marble bathroom.

• Panoramic windows
• Minibar
• Air – conditioner
• In house phone
• Deluxe amenities
• Hair dryer
• Linen bedding
• Bathtub
• Wardrobe
• Cotton bath robe
• Terrace with sun chair

Driving towards Southampton docks, cruisers always feel a massive feeling of excitement when turning the corner and there’s the ship, in all its glory waiting for new adventures.

Epic, Norwegian Cruise Line’s latest vessel launched earlier this year, and, thanks to the glorious weather, my two days onboard felt like a mini break in the Caribbean. It was my first experience of an NCL ship, and my expectation was that she would be garish

Having only ever cruised with more ‘traditional’ dining cruise holidays, I hadn’t experienced Freestyle Dining. I loved the concept, but personally missed the grandeur of walking into a beautiful dining room. The choice of food options was quite outstanding though, the specialist venues do carry a small cover charge of around $25pp, but there were plenty of free options and the cuisine was mouthwatering in the restaurants I did have chance to try on such a brief trip. Night one was spent in the Manhattan Room, an elegant supper club complete with music, dancing and entertainment. The food and service was pretty good, and the ambience was superb. My second night I dined in Moderno Churrascaria – inspired by Argentina’s famous restaurants where tableside passadors served the most delicious selection of meats from large skewers – accompanied by a lavish salad bar. I did sneak in a plate of sushi and was most impressed – as good as London’s top Japanese restaurants.

Other options include:

O’Sheehan’s Neighbourhood Bar & Grill – for all American favourites and comfort food 24 hours a day with 10-pin bowling lanes, sports TV and pool tables adding to the fun atmosphere.

Spice H2O – just for adults, serving up a contemporary take on Latin and Asian-influenced cuisine.

Taste – located in the ship’s atrium, offering an exciting menu of traditional and contemporary cuisine in a retro-chic setting.

Shanghai’s – for chinese dishes and noodle bar.

In brief, there are options on Epic from all over the world, France, Italy, Spain, Mexico, the Orient, Japan and the USA – my advice would be, bring your appetite and make use of the superb fitness centre onboard to keep the pounds off!

During the day, there are endless entertainment and activity options, plenty of classes and a whole host of fun features including a rock climbing and abseiling wall, ten pin bowling and mind-blowing water slide park (you must try The NCL’s Epic Plunge, the only bowl slide at sea with a drop through a 200-foot-long tube!). We were onboard for the final England first round World Cup match and were lucky enough to enjoy watching it on the top deck massive screen in the sunshine!

My only criticism would be the lack of sunbeds, and I do think on busy sailings, it could feel a little jampacked out on deck at times.

Mandara Spa, the largest spa at sea is luxury and pampering personified. There’s some fabulous shops, new types of classes like tequila tasting or improv comedy, and one of the best kid’s and teens’s activity programmes at sea.

The staterooms are contemporary, although maybe a little unsual, with ‘open plan’ bathrooms (sink in the stateroom and toilet and shower behind sliding frosted glass doors). All were superbly appointed although if you suffer from claustrophobia I wouldn’t recommend the single traveller cabins, a great concept but definitely wouldn’t suit everyone.

I was seriously impressed by the evening entertainment options. Blue Man Group have been brought onboard with their one-of-a-kind theatrical performance, it was extremely talented and most definitely a must see if you take a cruise onboard Epic. Cirque Dreams & Dinner is held in the Spiegel Tent, just like inside a Big Top where you can dine and watch Broadway, eccentricity and acrobatics come to life. Other highlights include:

The Second City – comedy and live improvisation show

Legends in Concert – top celebrity impersonators appealing to music fans of all ages

Howl at the Moon – high energy rock ‘n’ roll duelling piano show

Fat Cats – live blues and mellow jazz venue

Murder Mystery – ‘Who Dunnit?’ show, where you in the audience become part of the action

There are 20 bars and lounges onboard Epic, including the first genuine Ice Bar at sea – a bit of a novelty, and with a cover charge to enter, worth the experience if ywith a ou haven’t trialled London’s version. My personal feeling at times was that some of the bars seemed a little like being in a hotel ‘lobby’, and the layout of one leading into the next didn’t always make sense. But plenty of choice and some lovely ideas and decor meant that you would never be bored!!!

Norwegian Epic will be sailing Europe in 2011, cruising from Barcelona and taking in Palma, Livorno, Civatavecchia and Naples.

Vacation ideas are many and one can also use it in their plan. Some people are travel lovers so for them travelling to certain destination is easy but those who are not that travel lovers for them it is very necessary to make a proper planning. When it comes to select a destination it is very difficult because on this earth there are various places preserved which one can go for adventurous, family or on romantic vacations. Before travelling to a particular place you should know what are the famous attractions or site for the tourist. In your vacation ideas make sure you include that how affordable it would be if one goes for it. There are certain holiday destinations which are too expensive for a middle class person but this affordance can be done by making a proper planning. With the help of a travel guide this planning can be successful and your vacation will be worth. In a particular place you should know the facilities which are to be provided in it from accommodation to cuisine, nightlife, beaches or any other sites. This should be added in the list of vacation ideas.

Romantic vacations can be done only if you travel down to romantic places. Around the globe there are various romantic places which are been preserved and one can go for it. Such places are Hawaii, Mexico, Bahamas, Italy, Rome and lot more. These are the places where you can spend a quality time with your partner. Most of the tourists who go for romantic vacations are the couples and honeymooners. Some of the destinations which are meant as a romantic one are expensive like the Maldives. Once you travel down to these places then you can get various options of facilities like accommodation, restaurant, sites and lot more. In Mexico, Hawaii, Costa Rica, California and many more you can get into the famous beaches. Make the worth of your romantic vacations by strolling with your partner hand in hand and watching the beautiful sunset. Beaches are known to be the romantic places or even islands where you can spend the best time with your partner. Explore in the beaches and participate in the adventurous activities held here. Have a romantic candle light dinner in best restaurant tasting the best sea foods. Accommodate in resort and experience the beach massages in spa’s and gets the best of the romantic vacations. Make your spouse happy by taking him or her to best romantic destination.

Travelling is very difficult and some time it is also boring but experience a unique way is in the cruise vacations. It is not a boat or a ship but it is a cruise where you can spend the best time of yours. It is a sea transport which will take you to your selective destination like island or beaches. Many people travel from it to experience a change in life. To get into this cruise vacations it is very easy because there are many ports available in particular countries which will make you travel. There are many spots preserved in this cruises for the tourist. in this cruises you can find water park, shopping centre, clubs, pubs, bar, restaurant, fitness centre, spa, entertainment zone and lot more. You don’t have to travel to particular place just get into cruise vacations and make it the most remarkable vacation in your life.

Luxury cruising in Dubai is a unique opportunity to explore the city from an altogether different perspective. One can relish picturesque scenes along Dubai Creek from a most famous dhow dinner cruises in Dubai. It allows you to experience a living relic of Dubai’s transition from a sleepy town of yore to a bustling world-city of present.

After more than five years of cruising along Dubai Creek, Bateaux Dubai has established itself as a most luxurious dining destination for local residents and a must-do excursion for all visitors to Dubai Holidays . Created by Seine Design, France, Bateaux Dubai seamlessly combines cutting-edge technology and optimal comfort. It is 56-metre long and 13-metre wide and is enclosed with an anti-reflective glasses. This glass enclosure allows guests to have a panoramic view of the bustling Dubai city offshore. Besides, its hi-tech air-conditioning system ensures maximum comfort and a top-end sound system delivers a superb acoustic experience. The cruise can hold 200 guests if you host a sit-down dinner. However, for standing cocktails or parties, 300 guests can come on board. The food is freshly prepared on board wherein flavors of the East and the West are beautifully combined in a delectable 4-course gourmet dinner. When it comes to beverages, one can opt for the finest wines, cocktails and a range of non-alcoholic drinks along with alcoholic beverages. The smoothness of this luxurious floating restaurant allows you to freely move around and enjoy your time on board.

Luxury cruising in Dubai is a unique opportunity to explore the city from an altogether different perspective. One can relish picturesque scenes along Dubai Creek from a most famous Dubai dinner cruises in Dubai. Bateaux Dubai has established itself as a most luxurious dining destination for local residents and a must-do excursion for all visitors to Dubai. One World Travels which is a reputed travel company in Dubai arranges for the best Bateaux Cruises at attractive prices.

One World Travels , a famed travel company in Dubai arranges for the best Bateaux Cruises at attractive prices. You can discover the breathtaking sights along Dubai Creek and enjoy the luscious dinner in just AED 280/adult and AED 200/child. This 2 hours Dubai boat tour will leave you with an unforgettable experience.