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