Top 10 Reasons to Choose Paul Gauguin Cruises

More to Explore: Stunning Canadian West

Renowned for their scenic grandeur, the Canadian Rockies possess exceptional natural beauty with rugged mountain peaks, glaciers, waterfalls and more.
This summer, guests have an exclusive opportunity to experience the best of the Canadian West during the Canadian Rockies by Rocky Mountaineer pre-cruise or post-cruise land program. See much of it from the comfort of the Gold Leaf Service Car on the Rocky Mountaineer, an award-winning train that presents an ever-changing landscape of beautiful mountains, rivers and forests.
Below is an overview of the Canadian Rockies by Rocky Mountaineer pre-cruise program:

Day 1

After arriving in Calgary, enjoy a comfortable transfer to the beautiful Rimrock Resort Hotel (or similar) in Banff, Alberta.  You’ll be staying in a premium room with stunning views across the valley.  Spend an evening in or take a complimentary shuttle into the town of Banff where you will find an array of restaurants and unique shopping opportunities.

Day 2

Following a delicious breakfast at the hotel, embark on a half-day tour of Banff with a dedicated guide.  Highlights include Bow Falls, Surprise Corner and the Hoodoos.

Day 3

Following an early morning transfer to Banff Station, board the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train. Enjoy gourmet breakfast onboard shortly after departure. The Rocky Mountaineer will head west through the majestic Canadian Rockies to your overnight destination of Kamloops.   Highlights include passing by Craigellachie – where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven in 1885, the climb over Rogers Pass, the Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels – a true engineering feat, and the glaciers and snowcapped peaks of the Canadian Rockies.

Day 4

 Board the Rocky Mountaineer once again and continue west along the banks of the Fraser River as it winds to the Pacific Ocean and the coastal city of Vancouver.   On today’s journey, see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the BC Interior, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains  and into the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley.  Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. At Vancouver’s Rocky Mountaineer Station, board a shared motor coach and transfer to the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver for the evening.

  

Day 5 

Following breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a tour across Lions Gate Bridge and into North Vancouver. Highlights include the Grouse Mountain Cable Car, stunning views of downtown Vancouver, Mount Baker and the Coast Mountains. A number of activities take place here, including a Grizzly Bear enclosure, a lumberjack show and a birds of prey demonstration.

Day 6

 Following breakfast and check out from the hotel, you will be transferred to the port for embarkation aboard Seven Seas Mariner^®.
 by Regent Seven Seas Cruises Travel Blog

Chartreuse: A Parisian Experience at Sea

 A team of world-renowned executive culinary chefs, 14 meticulously crafted gourmet dishes and an appetite for tantalizing Parisian fare – all ingredients for a perfect afternoon tasting.

With just under six months until Seven Seas Explorer^® embarks on her inaugural voyage, Regent Seven Seas Cruises executives gathered for a preview tasting of Chartreuse, an exquisite new gourmet French specialty restaurant making its debut this summer on the world’s most luxurious ship.
Frank Del Rio, chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Jason Montague, president and chief operating officer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Randall Soy, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Regent Seven Seas Cruises were among the guests indulging in an afternoon of great company and sumptuous cuisine.

From duck pâté with green peppercorn, Armagnac and foie gras to the smoked and cured Atlantic salmon, a total of fourteen incredible appetizers, soups and entrees were served one by one.

Each dish was presented impeccably on exclusive Bernardaud china, a family-owned company steeped in the great French porcelain tradition. Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Senior Director of Culinary Bernard Klotz revered Bernardaud’s passion for innovation and timeless elegance, a seamless choice for Seven Seas Explorer’s Parisian fine dining establishment.

Just outside of the tasting area, Aurelien Dumeylet, principal executive chef and Jérôme Toumelin, executive chef, watched in anticipation as their culinary art was consumed.
“I was elated to work on the Chartreuse menu because I believe fantastic French food can turn strangers into family,” Dumeylet said. “The art of cuisine has always been my passion and I take pride in every creation.”

Adding to the excitement of fine dining, each presentation was an immaculate culinary chef d’oeuvre, and each dish savored in its texture, vivacity and zest. Perhaps bold to say when previewing alluring French cuisine, it was not impossible to narrow down a few highlights.
“The burgundy red wine marinated and braised beef, roots vegetables ragout and pommes dauphine was incredible,” Montague said. “The salad of braised baby beetroots, organic goat cheese and winter truffle vinaigrette was also fantastic and I’m not a huge fan of beets. In addition to the incredible flavors, each dish had a phenomenal presentation all around.”
“Hand-cut beef tenderloin tartar, topped with perlita caviar from Aquitaine and the scallops and corsican chorizo, watercress coulis, truffle potato croquettes were my two favorites,” Soy said.

A sampling of the Chartreuse Tasting Menu includes…

• Poached Brittany Lobster Medallions, Hake Mousseline, Almond Milk Broth
• Smoked and Cured Atlantic Salmon, Triology of Blinis, Normandy’s Triple Cream
• Cream of Artichokes, Foie Gras, Thyme Emulsion, Toasted Hazelnuts
• Roasted Barbarie Duck Magret with Griottes Cherries Mustard and Glazed Turnip

Chartreuse is one of three specialty restaurants aboard Seven Seas Explorer, including the Asian fusion specialty restaurant Pacific Rim and the fleet’s signature steakhouse Prime 7. Beginning in the spring of 2016, guests will be able to get a taste of this new delectable French menu, as the Chartreuse menu will extend to the rest of the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet with select dishes being offered at Compass Rose aboard Seven Seas Navigator^® and later in the fall of 2016 and spring of 2017 when Signatures on board Seven Seas Voyager^® and Seven Seas Mariner^® will be converted into Chartreuse.

Which new culinary creation are you looking forward to savoring in Chartreuse? Bon appétit!

by Regent Seven Seas Cruises Travel Blog

A Beer Lovers Guide to Craft Beers

Beer lovers all around can rejoice in the news: Norwegian Escape has a cold pour waiting for you at " The District Brew House." With more than 50 bottled beers and 24 draft beers on tap (including local beer from Miami's Wynwood Brewing Company), it's easy to catch up on the craft beer scene at sea. Whether you're a novice or an expert, knowing the beer you’re drinking and how it's made is part of the craft beer experience. So before you sip and sail on your next cruise vacation, discover everything you need to know about the basics of craft beer.

WHAT IS A CRAFT BEER
If you're wondering what sets craft beers apart from others, much larger breweries and their products, the distinction lies in three key factors: their annual production is less than 6 million barrels, less than 25% of the brewery is owned by a non-craft brewer, and more than half of their product comes from all-malt beer, which essentially means they use higher quality ingredients.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF CRAFT BEER
BLONDES: Ranging in color from straw to gold and with a light to medium hop profile, these ales will be most familiar to the traditional American lager drinker. Many breweries release their summer beers at the top of the season, many of which are blondes, because of their light body and appropriateness for warm-weather drinking. This is the kind of beer you can have poolside or at the beach for a refresher.

WHEAT ALES: If they aren’t blonde, then the rest of the summer beers rolling in are wheat beers. Often, these beers have a banana undertone to them with a hint of clove and vanilla taste.

PALE ALES & IPAS: These beers usually range from amber to copper in color with an emphasis on hops. This is the classic ale style. If you enjoy drinking brut champagne and dryer, crisper wines, this is likely the flavor for you. Included in this category are India Pale Ales, the most-entered category in the pinnacle of beer competitions, The Great America Beer Festival.

BELGIANS: While Belgian chocolates are iconic, it’s beer that puts Belgium on the map. Famed for the monasteries and Trappist style of beers, these guys make so much of it they get their own category. Of particular interest are the quintessential Delirium brand of beers and the fruity lambics. If you're a fan of fruity or mixed cocktails, then Belgians may have what you're looking for. For a beer twist on the classic, try a fruity Belgian brew with champagne as a Sunday brunch beverage.

PORTERS AND STOUTS: Don’t be afraid of the dark. These beers have great taste, with coffee and chocolate commonly present in the blend. Some are lighter on the body, but with an emphasis on hops. Others have more body, richer flavor, and higher alcohol content.
This covers the basics to begin your sampling with most craft beer varieties. And, as with most food and beverage ventures, sampling is key. Try ordering a beer flight next time you're on board the Norwegian Escape and see which flavor fits you best. With the variety of unique flavors being developed in both local and national micro-breweries, there's bound to be a perfect fit for everyone. Cheers!
 │by NCL Travel Blog
 

The Ultimate Beverage Package

Enjoy a wide selection of soft drinks, beers, spirits, cocktails and wines by the glass during
your entire cruise for only $69 per day.*

 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Q. HOW CAN I PURCHASE THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE?
A. You may purchase it onboard on the first or second day of your cruise. For more information, visit any of our bars or look for a table setup promoting the package once you board. This package may also be pre-purchased by visiting the “Gifts and More” section of NCL.com or through any Norwegian reservation agent.
Q. CAN I PURCHASE THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE FOR SELECTED DAYS?
A. No. The package must be purchased by all stateroom guests, 21 years of age or older, for the entire cruise length.
Q. WHAT IF MY TRAVELING COMPANION DOESN’T DRINK, DO THEY STILL HAVE TO PURCHASE AN ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE?
A. Yes, if they are in the same stateroom. The Ultimate Beverage Package must be purchased by all stateroom guests, 21 years of age or older, for the entire cruise length. Guests 20 and under will have to purchase the soda package. Guests with special circumstances and/or medical conditions should speak with Guest Services onboard.
Q. IN WHICH VENUES WILL THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE BE HONORED?
A. The Ultimate Beverage Package is honored at any of our bars or lounges, Garden Cafe, Main Dining Room, specialty restaurants and our private island during normal business hours. Room service and minibar are not included.
Q. WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE?
A. Your package includes a variety of spirits, cocktails, draft beers, bottled beers, glasses of wine up to $15, unlimited fountain soda and juices at all bars, lounges, restaurants and Great Stirrup Cay. Also, receive a 20% discount on any bottles of wine purchased on board.
Q. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PREMIUM SPIRITS AVAILABLE WITH THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE?
A. Premium Spirits include Bacardi Superior rum, Captain Morgan Spiced rum, Kettle One vodka, Tanqueray gin, Bombay Sapphire gin, Jose Cuervo tequila, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey, Chivas Regal 12yr scotch, Crown Royal Canadian whiskey, Johnny Walker Black scotch, Grey Goose vodka, Courvoisier VSOP and many more.
Q. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE COCKTAILS AVAILABLE WITH THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE?
A. Classic Martinis, classic cocktails such as Margarita, Piña Colada, Long Island Ice Tea, Bahama Mama, Mojito and many more.
Q. ARE GRATUITIES INCLUDED IN THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE PURCHASE PRICE?
A. A gratuity and beverage service charge of 18% will be added to the purchase price. You will not have to pay additional gratuities unless you desire to do so.
Q. CAN I ORDER MULTIPLE DRINKS AT A TIME WITH THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE?
A. No. As this is a personal package, only one beverage per guest will be served.
Q. CAN I BUY A DRINK FOR MY FRIEND WITH THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE?
A. The Ultimate Beverage Package is for personal consumption. All additional drinks ordered will be charged at current bar prices.
Q. HOW WILL THE BAR STAFF KNOW I HAVE PURCHASED THE ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE?
A. Your FREESTYLE CARD™ will identify that you have this package. A pre-printed note or sticker will be placed on your card. The bar staff will request to see your FREESTYLE CARD™ for verification prior to service, so keep it handy.
Q. ARE THERE OTHER ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE PACKAGES AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE?
A. Yes, guests 21 years of age or older may purchase the Corks & Caps beverage package and enjoy a wide selection of beers, wines by the glass and soft drinks.

Island Hopping: 6 Things to Do in Molokai, by Norwegian Cruise Line

Sometimes the most enticing qualities of a vacation lie within its simplicity and detachment from the bustle of everyday life. Molokai is one of those spots. Known to be proudly "Hawaiian by nature," Molokai boasts nature unspoiled by modern life. You won't find traffic or street lights on this island. Instead, a surefooted-mule can be your transportation along cliffs and rolling hills. You'll find miles of sandy beach replacing long asphalt roads for a welcome change of scenery. Truly, the classics are classics for a reason: because they stand the test of time. Quiet your mind and allow the beauty of Molokai to restore and replenish with its classic Hawaiian lifestyle. Here are some local places and activities to consider during your vacation to Molokai.

 
1. PAPOHAKU BEACH:

Known as "Three Mile Beach" Papohaku is one of Hawaii's largest white sand beaches. If you're searching for a quintessential island experience, stop in, stretch out, and simply relax shore side. This is also a great spot to get a view of Oahu.


2. KALAUPAPA NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK:
Mount a mule for a quiet three-mile ride to the Kalaupapa Peninsula, where steep cliffs (the tallest in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records) overlook the Pacific. The remote area that makes up the historic national park is only accessible by mule but is one of the most scenic and historic in all of Hawaii.


3. KAUNAKAKAI:
The central town of Kaunakakai is Molokai's main harbor where some locals still fish for their meals. Here, you'll find the state's longest pier with views of local boats coming and going. This charming area also houses quaint shops, boutiques, and bakeries.


4. HALAWA VALLEY:
On the east end of Molokai, you'll find the Halawa Valley, a historic site where it is believed that Polynesians settled as early as 650 AD. Hidden within its lush landscape are various places of worship, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking island views, making this the perfect location for a relaxing hike.


5. GOLFING ON MOLOKAI:

If you're searching for a place where you can practice your swing with a view, this is it. The nine-hole course on Ironwood Hills has views of Lanai due to its steep elevation and its relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to de-stress with your favorite nine iron.

6. OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Of course, the rugged nature of the island offers much opportunity for adventure. Take a helicopter ride for a bird's eye view of the nature that rules the island, or simply ride a bicycle through it. Or, if you'd like to try your hand at interacting with the local fish, try sport fishing for Pacific Blue Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, and Mahi Mahi.
However you choose to spend your time in Molokai, just be sure to embrace the tried and true island culture: simpler is sometimes better.

Costa Cruises Takes Part in the International Day of Italian Cuisine

www.destinationtravel-cruises.com

12 Costa ships worldwide will offer guests the chance to taste one of the most famous dishes of traditional Italian cuisine, 'Costoletta di Vitello' alla Milanese made to the original recipe

 

GENOA, Italy (Jan. 15, 2016) -- On January 17, to mark the ninth International Day of Italian Cuisine, Costa Cruises will be presenting the costoletta di vitello alla milanese, or Milanese-style veal chop, a tasty dish that is part of traditional Italian cuisine, onboard 12 of its ships sailing in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Oman, South America, India, Madagascar and on the Costa Luminosa Around-the-World cruise.

 

Costa ships involved in the initiative will offer cooking demonstrations in the pool area, showing guests how authentic costoletta di vitello alla milanese is prepared, with tastings and distribution of the original recipe. The dish, made according to tradition using 100 percent Italian meat, will be served at dinner in the main restaurants on the Costa ships, as it already happens during each cruise.

"Our ships are true ambassadors of Italy's finest throughout the world, which includes our excellent culinary tradition," said Stefano Fontanesi, Costa Cruises' corporate executive chef. "We want our guests who come from over 200 different countries to get to know traditional Italian dishes that are all prepared using traditional recipes. We are therefore very pleased to be taking part for the fourth year running in the International Day of Italian Cuisine."

 

The costoletta di vitello alla milanese is the official dish for the 9th International Day of Italian Cuisine. The event, which every year pays tribute to a traditional Italian dish, was conceived by the Virtual Group of Italian Chefs, a network of over 2,200 Italian chefs and restaurateurs who work in 70 different countries throughout the world, whose aim is to promote authentic quality Italian cuisine worldwide.

 

The ninth International Day of Italian Cuisine will also be an opportunity to learn interesting facts about authentic costoletta di vitello alla Milanese and its history, the origins of which date back to December, 17, 1134, when it first appeared at a nine-course banquet offered to the high clergy of the city of Milan by the abbot of the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio, as recounted by Pietro Verri in his History of Milan. The recipe for the Milanese-style veal chop was published for the first time in 1855 in a book entitled "Gastronomia Moderna" (Mordern Gastronomy) written by Giuseppe Sorbiatti who suggested serving the dish with the same butter that the chops were cooked in accompanied by slices of lemon.

Costa Cruises' involvement in this important event confirms once again the Italian cruise company's commitment to offering its guests only the best of Italian traditional cuisine. Beginning this month, Costa ships will be offering an amazing new gala menu created by the Michelin-star chef Bruno Barbieri a journey offering genuine taste and flavor and a skillful combination of creativity and authenticity that presents Italy to the rest of the world.

Costa gourmet cuisine is also based on the great Italian regional culinary tradition, with over 400 dishes representing 16 regions in Italy and symbolizing the identity and pride of Italian cuisine. The new Pummid'Oro pizzerias serve pizzas with dough made from 100 percent natural yeast thanks to a special collaboration between the Italian company and the University of Gastronomic Science in Pollenzo. Costa Cruises also offers complete menus that cater to vegetarians and vegans with speciality dishes that embody Italian excellence.

Marriage License Overview

Destination Weddings by Cruise Planners (www.destinationtravel-cruises.com) can assist in obtaining a marriage license in most destinations for an additional processing fee. Once the wedding has been reserved,  Destination Weddings by Cruise Planners will send the bridal couple detailed marriage license requirements. Bridal couples booked for a legal wedding are responsible for fulfilling the marriage license requirements for their desired wedding destination. All applications and appropriate documents should be received sixty (60) days prior to the vacation date to avoid late fees. Please note that in some destinations, the courts are closed on weekends as well as local and national holidays. Some may charge additional weekend or holiday fees. Couples providing their own marriage license must present it to the marriage officiant prior to the ceremony.
Certified Copies

A certified copy has a raised seal or stamp. It must be the original certified copy. Certified copies of birth/death certificates may usually be obtained from the Department of Vital Statistics in the state where the birth/death occurred. A certified divorce decree may usually be obtained from the courthouse that presided over the divorce. All documentation in another language other than English, must be legally translated and notarized.

Apostille

A seal that authenticates the document for use abroad.

Wedding couples that reside in Europe who will have their wedding performed in the United States or St. Thomas may need to acquire an apostille for an additional fee. The apostille is verification from the United States Government that the marriage license is a true and legal document. All couples should check with their local marriage bureau to see if this document is necessary for them to register the marriage in their country of residence.

Note: Prior to the wedding, couples are encourage to contact their nearest agency to verify if additional documentation is required to register their marriage in their country of residence.  

Destination	Cost	Witnesses	Requirements
Aruba	$400	2 witnesses ($75 each)	Couple provides original copies of birth certificate with apostille Couples must provide original single status reports Need to provide, where applicable, original divorce decrees or death certificates Photo copies of ID’s for couple as well as witnesses
Barbados	$300	2 witnesses (no charge)	Photo copies of ID’s for couple Photo copies of birth certificates for couple (must provide originals on day of wedding) Need to provide, where applicable, copies of divorce decrees or death certificates (must provide originals on day of wedding)
Bermuda	$466	2 witnesses (no charge)	Need to provide, where applicable, copies of divorce decrees or death certificates
Cozumel, Mexico	$640	4 witnesses ($55 each)	Photo copies of birth certificates for couple Need to provide, where applicable, copies of divorce decrees or death certificates Photo copies of ID’s for couple as well as witnesses Blood work required Visa required ($55 each)
Florida- Key West, Cape Canaveral, South Florida, Tampa	$220	None	Couple must complete online application and submit copy to their event manager Florida residents must obtain their own marriage license in Florida
Grand Cayman	$375	2 witnesses (no charge)	Photo copies of ID’s and birth certificates for couple (must provide originals on day of wedding) Need to provide, where applicable, copies of divorce decrees or death certificates (must provide originals on day of wedding)
Hawaii- Hilo, Honolulu, Kauai, Kona, Maui	$60	None	Couple must obtain their own marriage license in Hawaii.  Couple should check with the Hawaii State Department of Health website for more information. Your event manager can offer assistance.
Jamaica- Falmouth, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios	$320	2 witnesses ($60 each)	Photo copies of ID’s and birth certificates for couple (must provide originals on day of wedding) Need to provide, where applicable, copies of divorce decrees or death certificates (must provide originals on day of wedding)
Nassau, Bahamas	$465	None	Nassau has a 1 business day residency requirement Photo copies of passports and birth certificates for couple Need to provide, where applicable, copies of divorce decrees or death certificates Apostille, certified copy, certificate and notarization all included in cost of license
New Orleans, LA	$27.50	None	Couple must obtain their own marriage license in Louisiana.  Couple should check with the New Orleans Marriage Office for more information. Your event manager can offer assistance.
Puerto Rico	$285	None	Couple must arrive 2 business days prior to the wedding Photo copies of ID’s and birth certificates for couple (must provide originals on day of wedding) Need to provide, where applicable, copies of divorce decrees or death certificates (must provide originals on day of wedding) Blood work required
St. Lucia	$465	2 witnesses ($60 each)	Couple provides original copies of birth certificates Need to provide, when applicable, original divorce decrees or death certificates Apostille cost $175, Certified copy $50
St. Maarten	$685	6 witnesses ($75 each)	Couple provides original copies of birth certificate with apostille Need to provide, where applicable, single status report or original divorce decrees or death certificates with apostille Photo copies of passports for couple as well as witnesses
St. Thomas	$345	None	Need to provide, when applicable, original divorce decrees or death certificates

*Please consult your Cruise Planners travel advisor (www.destinationtravel-cruises.com) or event manager for a complete list and procedures of marriage license requirements. 

Note: Costs listed include processing fees, if applicable. All marriage license and holiday fees are non-refundable and are charged in US dollars. All prices are subject to change per government regulations, contact your event manager for a more complete list of pricing.

More Than Just Cruises

Using a travel agent to book your all-inclusive resort vacation is like using a travel matchmaker. Agents are experts at finding the perfect destination to meet travelers’ needs and can customize the perfect trip for everyone.

In today’s fast-paced world, families spend a lot of time apart in their daily routine, so it’s important to spend time together and create new memories on vacations while still having entertainment options for everyone. Below is a list of land-based travel options from Cruise Planners - Gabriela Ybarra (www.destinationtravel-cruises.com), a network of travel agents helping travelers plan more than just cruises.

Escorted Tours
Escorted tours include food, admission to parks/museum and all accommodations. Travelers can skip long lines, see more of the country side, towns and villages. Also, to experience the authentic local culture, travelers can interact with locals by visiting them in their daily routine or even their homes.

Plentiful Restaurant Options
Food in regions such as the Caribbean can get expensive, but when resorts are able to bundle it all together, it’s more reasonable for consumers. Cruise Planners suggests that travelers consider the number of restaurants available and find food that the whole family will enjoy. Some all-inclusive resorts offer gourmet steak houses, Asian grills, Italian cuisine, 24-hour pizza bars and more. When traveling abroad, travelers may also want to experience the local fare native to the region.

Location is Key
If traveling with a young family, it’s convenient to be close to the airport. Once flights arrive, it’s less stressful to stay at a resort within an hour of the airport. Many all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and various Caribbean isles have resorts that are easily accessible once travelers land.

Deals for Kids
Many resorts are offering kids-stay-free promotions and other incentives for travelers. It’s important to work with a travel agent to match up the best promotions for families. Parents should look for properties that have strong children’s programs, multi-generational activities to keep everyone entertained and a variety of restaurants with different food and drink options.

Children’s Passports
Passports are necessary to leave the country, and both parents need to be part of the process for children. Find out more here: http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/passports/apply.html. Note, children’s passports need to be renewed every five years, unlike adults’ passports, which are every 10 years.

Travel Safety
Most tourist destinations offer security, and locals in these areas understand how vital tourism is to the local economy. As always, no matter where people travel, it’s important to be aware of their surroundings, secure travel documents in the in-room safe, and use reputable transportation and tour operators.

Add-ons and Excursions
Book excursions and events beforehand to get the best seats and value to be sure they are not sold out. Add-ons may include golf tee times, spa treatments, island tours, adventure excursions, romantic trips and more. Cruise Planners travel agents now offer tickets for sports, concert and theater events worldwide, so travelers can always guarantee their vacation includes everything they want, all in one place.

Themed Travel
It’s easy to get excited about a sports team, and loyal fans will pay a premium to see their team win while on the road. For those who want to experience the World Cup, Super Bowl, or even a local baseball game, they can cheer their team on by securing advanced purchase college and professional sports game tickets.

Travel Advisor Benefits
Using a travel agent offers the best value, added convenience and less stress when planning. Travelers can still be part of the planning process and enjoy a customized experience at no additional cost. Travelers do not pay travel agents, yet the agent is always working for the best interest of the travelers. Travel agents can secure added amenities, great prices and added values not readily available to consumers.Cruise Planners - Gabriela Ybarra (www.destinationtrael-cruises.com) plans memorable vacations with land-based properties, tickets to events worldwide, and all-inclusive packages in addition to cruises. Below are tips for families when booking all-inclusive vacations, escorted tours and other land trips.

Families are especially seeing the value in all-inclusive hotel vacations. At all-inclusive properties, travelers pay one price and don’t have to worry about a large bill at the end of the trip; instead it’s all paid up front, so there are no hidden costs.

Cruise Planners Mobile App

Cruise Planners MobileTM the facts

Download FREE on Android or iPhone

Instantly search, book, and access all your travel plans from the palm of your hand. Cruise Planners Mobile^TM allows you to stay in touch with your Cruise Planners travel advisor at all times wherever you are. Once you login, let the world of travel come to you!

“This is the first app that allows you to access all the details of your entire trip!”

Just go to www.destinationtravel-cruises.com - My Trips


No New Logins or Passwords Necessary
Simply use your current My Trips password or request one here http://www.destinationtravel-cruises.com/mytrips/login and off you go!

Features: My Trips – have access to your UPCOMING trips via the mobile app including:  a day-by-day itinerary with city details and Google map viewing.  a summary showing each component of your reservation.  the ability to share your trip via Facebook, Twitter, or email.  a checklist of things to do and essential items to bring before trip departure.

“Shop and mark whichever sailings you are interested in as ‘favorites’!” 

Find a Cruise – search itineraries by: Cruise Line  Ship  Destination  Travel Dates  Length  Price  Departure Ports

“Look at details about itineraries including the deck plans for each ship and even the weather at each port of call!”


But That’s Not AII!

• Online Booking – securely book a cruise directly from your smartphone 
• Messages – read/send messages to your travel advisor 
• Specials & Travel Deals – see all the latest offers available 
• My Account – view/edit general information, addresses, and loyalty programs

Packing Tips & Checklist

No matter where your travels take you, it’s important to be prepared. Use this checklist to help guide your packing. 

Important Documents: Be sure to pack and keep any or all of the below within reach at all times.

• Driver’s license/ Other government photo ID
• Birth certificate
• Boarding pass
• Passport/Visas
• Travel Documents/reservation itinerary
• Credit or ATM Cards/Cash
• Immunization records

Carry-On: Pack your carry-on wisely with essential items for convenient outfit swaps or that “worst case scenario.” Keep in mind that you may want to hit the pool once you arrive, but you may not get your suitcase right away. Keep all of these in a daypack or bag, which can double for excursions or outings, keeping in mind there may be liquid volume restrictions depending on your travels

• Casual change of clothes
• Formal change of clothes
• Extra pair of shoes
• Toiletries and necessities
• Important medications
• Bathing suit and sunscreen
• Entertainment for kids or snacks
• Charging devices for electronics

Travel Basics: Pack these essentials along so you won’t get stuck paying inflated prices at ports of call, on board or at your destination. 

• Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, contact solution, etc.)
• Sunscreen and aloe
• Prescription/ Over-the-counter medications
• Cameras/Camcorders/memory cards 
• Batteries
• Cellphone/electronics chargers (Make sure you check your cell-phone’s roaming charges when leaving the U.S.) 
• Plastic storage bags 
• Alarm clock
• Electric converters/adapters or multiple plug outlet 
• First aid kit
• Hand sanitizer 
• Nail clipper

Dress for your destination: Keep in mind what activities you have planned, and the weather conditions during your travel. Some trips may take you through multiple climates, so bring a variety if needed.

• Check weather conditions prior to traveling
• Plan outfits for each activity or each day
• If cruising, plan for formal dinners and day outfits (check with your cruise line about formal or themed nights, which may impact your wardrobe choices) 
• Always pack some extras, you never know!
• Comfy shoes such as a pair of sneakers are a must have when sightseeing
• Don’t forget hats, socks, gloves and other accessories 
• It can get chilly once the sun goes down in some climates, pack accordingly

Extended Vacations: Here are some things you might consider to keep your vacation running smoothly and organized.

• Foldable shoe organizer for extra storage
• Clothes hampers/ bags
• Extra hangers
• Laundry detergent
• Foldable duffle bag/ pack souvenirs/pool bag or additional storage
• Laptop/tablet

Traveling with kids: Your little ones may need special attention or entertainment – be sure to pack those extras for them!

• Card games
• Portable gaming electronics
• Walkie Talkies
• Inflatable pool/beach toys
• Books/puzzle books
• To-go snacks and beverages
• Children’s medications
• Baby wipes

Visit Travel Resources and Trip Planner for more information on how to prepare for your next trip! Happy travels. 

Trip Planner

10 Weeks Prior Finalize vacation Buy travel insurance Book flights/airport transfers Confirm travel document requirements Determine any necessary vaccinations Get details information on vacation, dress code Get information on baggage allowance 6 Weeks Prior Complete pre-registration Reserve specialty dining Reserve excursions Reserve spa appointments Reserve onboard/land programs Reserve onboard/land childcare & activities Arrange house care and pet care Arrange childcare (if traveling without children) Arrange mail delivery 3 Weeks Prior Make appointment for personal care Review all travel documents Shop for travel necessities 1 Week Prior Make 2 copies of passport (leave one at home) Check airline policy Print/order luggage tags Buy extra media cards/batteries Get cash/travelers checks Leave trip information with family/friends Confirm house care Confirm at home childcare (if needed) Stop home deliveries Check phone carrier for international service Refill prescriptions 2 Days Before Review & confirm vacation information Review & confirm flight information Carry-on 3-1-1: 3.4 oz or less, 1 qt bag, pp Meet with house sitter & childcare provider Contact credit card company

Day Prior Drop off pet at pet care Clear refrigerator of perishables Take out trash Return any borrowed items with fees Pay last minute bills Set light timer Inform family/friends/neighbors Finalize packing Put on luggage tags Travel Essentials Airline tickets Cruise/land documents Travel Insurance information Passport/Visa Vaccination certificate (if required) Driver's license Auto insurance Health Insurance  Copy of medical insurance (if needed) Travel Guide Camera, media/memory card, charger Underwater camera Camcorder & charger Portable DVD Player & Charger iPod/MP3, Tablet & Charger Earphones Extra batteries Converter/adapter Prescription First aid kit