All Dans on Deck - Luxury Cruise Deals & Specialist Advice

Dan has left Cruise.co.uk

2011-02-08T14:07:00.007Z

Lisa West at Cruise.co.uk is now looking after all of Dan's customers.

Please call 0800 408 6092 for any help or email lisaw@cruise.co.uk.

Lisa is the longest serving Sales Consultant with 15 years experience. Please visit her blog www.westyswaves.blogspot.com to find out more about her and see comments from her many satisfied customers under the "Rate My Service" section.

Cruise Factor.. Vote now!!!!

2011-02-02T10:43:00.000Z

We all have our favourite cruise lines.

Whilst some offer excellent value for money and others have wonderful entertainment. I thought it a good idea to find out who is the most popular cruise line.

So now All Dans on Deck brings you CRUISE FACTOR.....

What I want you all to do is vote for your favourite cruise line from the selection on the right hand side of this page.

The vote will be split into 3 rounds.

Rounds 1 and 2 - A selection of cruiselines will be on the list. The top 4 will go through to the final
Round 3 - The final.

Everyone who votes will receive a copy of the Cruise.Co.Uk Complete Cruise Brochure. A comprehensive guide to cruising with everything from smoking policies to drinks prices.

1 lucky voter will also receive a Fodors Guide to Cruising 2011. RRP £16.95.

Please pop on a comment with your email address or send me an email to let me know you have voted. danielt@cruise.co.uk

Should be interesting to see who you all vote for.

And now for something completely different....

2011-01-25T12:40:00.000Z

Are you looking for cruise ideas for 2011?

Have you done it all and got those cruise t-shirts?

Well here are a few ideas for 2011 you may not have considered.

Round Britian.
Long a favourite among American tourists, round-Britain cruises visiting England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland, and including Guernsey or Jersey, have become popular with the locals recently.

It's a lot to do with convenience, and with ever-increasing number of Britons avoiding airports (particularly after a year marked by strikes, snow, ash clouds and rising taxes). Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Holland America Line joining stalwarts such as Fred Olsen, P & O Cruises and Cunard.

Dubai
Dubai is the "cruise hub" of the Arabian Gulf as first Costa Cruises and then Royal Caribbean International launched winter cruises from here. MSC Cruises has become the first cruise line to base a ship in the city. The seven-night cruises, are great but do not allow enough time to see the main sights, so it will be worth adding extra days at the start or end.

Israel

After years of falling out of favour with the cruisers, Israel is back on the cruising map. You might expect smaller cruise lines with more adventurous passengers to go there, but big-ship companies have added it to their itineraries, too, calling at Haifa and/or Ashdod for excursions to Jerusalem, Nazareth and Tiberias. These include Celebrity's brand new ship the Celebrity Silhouette, Norwegian Cruise Line's winter Holy Land cruises from Civitavecchia and Costa Cruises's almost-weekly visits in 2011. The Luxury line Crystal Cruises has an eastern Mediterranean voyage too.

Australia
The Aussies have found cruising! – that's why the Ocean Village was closed and its two ships moved to P & O Cruises Australia. Princess Cruises is to divert a ship from the Caribbean to give it four vessels down under. Celebrity Cruises is back in Australia in October after a two-year break, while Silversea will be circumnavigating the continent for the first time later this month.

Silversea expeditions

2011-01-19T12:14:00.000Z

Prince Albert II - 6 star expeditions

Silversea’s Prince Albert II is a purpose built expedition ship for guests wanting to visit some of the worlds most remote destinations including Antarctica. A strengthened hull, allows the ship to push safely through ice flows and deliver passengers to the most off-beat locations. Named after Prince Albert II of Monaco, a name synonymous with exploration and the environment.

With a maximum guest capacity of only 132 and a staff level of 117, Silversea’s usual ratio of staff to guests is maintained. At only 6072 tonnes and 354ft long, she is a lovely ship allowing entry into any waters of the world.

Onboard

The Prince Albert has a casual dress code. The amount of equipment and clothing required for such voyages far exceeds the need for those tuxedos and dresses.
The all inclusive nature of Silversea remains part of the package.

Daytime

For those days when not adventuring, why not take in a lecture, relax in the spa or take in one of the daily workshops on such topics as photography, the environment or how to make the perfect Martini? There are 10 mini Zodiac boats onboard to whisk you off to the sights each day.

Evenings

Have a lovely meal with a nice bottle of wine, relax in a lounge with cocktail or go see the show in the theatre.

Essential Items to pack.

Trips of this nature require a lot of planning. Clothing and equipment is essential to the enjoyment of the cruise. Here are a few ideas to think about if this kind of trip is on your horizon.

Rain Jacket and Trousers – Both waterproof and breathable

Thermal clothing and underwear

Insulated hats, gloves and socks – 3 of each should do it

Heavy skiing type gloves

Heat treatment foot and hand warming devices

Waterproof knee high rubber boots (Wellingtons) with none slip soles.

Dress with many thin layers and this counteracts wind chill, make sure you try these layers on before the trip so you know what items go together.

Field Gear

Camera with film/memory cards. Always bring to many as you don’t want to run out.

Waterproof and sealable bags for equipment that may be damaged by the conditions.

Writing implements for adverse conditions

A good pair of Hiking boots

Energy snacks.

Binoculars

Equipment Check List

Ensure all equipment is in full working order and is clean

Ensure clothing has no dirt, seeds or insects in hoods and seams etc

Vacuum all equipment to reduce contamination of the environment you are travelling to.

Silversea have teamed up with a leading expedition retailer to offer a host of equipment and clothing for sale prior to the trip.

The Prince Albert offers trips to trips to the Antarctic from November to March each year and book up very quickly with people from all over the world. With all the excursions and sightseeing included ith in the price, the Prince Albert is definitely leading the way.

Have you done an expedition? Any other items you would recommend people take along?

MSC Yacht Club.... A world of Difference

2011-01-17T11:24:00.000Z

MSC Yacht Club... A World of Difference.

When it comes to MSC you know what your going to get. Excellent value cruises with a cosmopolitan flavour. Some people love them, some people don't.

I've been on the MSC Magnifica and it was an excellent, fun filled break.

People often say that MSC offer great itineraries but would like a higher quality product. Well... Let me introduce you to the MSC Yacht Club.

Two of MSC's ships currently offer Yacht Club, The Fantasia and Splendida. Sailing out of Genoa throughout 2011 with various 7 night Med cruises. This is a totally different cruise experience to the standard MSC offering. The ratings of Yacht Club compare with grill experience on Cunard, but retain the excellent value for money MSC is known for.

So what do you get included at no extra cost?

All Suite accomodation with balconies.

24 hour Butler service and private reception

Exclusive lounge and pool area

Gournet dining with exclusive restaurant

Drinks including wines and beers

Spa area with Sauna and Steam Facilities and Turkish Baths

Priority check in and check out

All of your luggage unpacked and packed

Shoecare

Newspapers

Exclusive excursions

Internet and Wii Consoles within the suite

And much much more

So next time your looking for a luxury break in the Med, don't forget MSC Yacht club. 5 star cruising and 3 star prices!

Prices start from only £1199pp for 7 nights.

Galápagos - A Theory of Natural Selection.

2011-01-10T17:55:00.000Z

The Galápagos archipelago is world-renowned for its unique and fearless wildlife- much of which was inspiration for Charles Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection. The islands are therefore very popular amongst natural historians, both professional and amateur. Giant tortoises, sea lions, penguins, marine iguanas and different bird species can all be seen and approached. The landscape of the islands is relatively barren and volcanic, but beautiful nonetheless.

The Galápagos Islands are a small archipelago of islands belonging to Ecuador in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The islands are quite remote and isolated, lying some 1000 km (620 miles) west of the South American continent. The Galapagos archipelago consists of 13 main islands and 6 smaller isles, which together embrace some 50,000 sq km.

Visitors to the Islands are strctly controlled to ensure the preservation of this natural wonder.

Celebrity Cruises are one of the very few cruise lines to offer the chance of exploring the islands. The Celebrity Xpedition ship offers just 92 passengers the quality and luxury of 5 star cruising around the fantastic waters of the Galápagos.

Here is a cruise and stay package one of my customers has enjoyed booking today.
Day 1 - Fly London Heathrow to Madrid, Madrid to Guaya Quil in the Galápagos.

Day 2 - Private transfer to the Celebrity Xpedition, board the Xpedition for 7 night and 14 ports around the Islands.

Day 9 - Private transfer to Airport for flight to Quito, transfer to Radisson Hotel for 7 nights B&B

Day 16- Private transfer back to Airport, fly to Madrid

Day 17-Arrive Madrid for connecting flight to Heathrow.

The cruise is very intensive and a stay either end of it is recommended. Sometimes you will visit 3 ports in one day and all by tender, so good shoes and reasonable fitness is required.

If you have been to the Galápagos and have any travel tips to share please let us know.

__________________

A New Year Guide to 2011 Cruise Deals

2011-01-06T14:38:00.000Z

A New Year Guide to 2011 Cruise Deals.

So the resolutions have been made…. Waistbands are slightly larger …. and now we enter the busiest time of year for cruise holiday bookings. Let’s just hope I have time for the gym.

I thought a guide to what’s on offer in 2011, would be a good idea for those of you thinking of booking a cruise. So whether you’re new to cruising or have nothing but cruise membership cards in your wallet, have a quick look at what’s on offer in 2011.

As the cruise lines clamber for your business here’s some of the offer around right now.

New Year Deals Guide.

Royal Caribbean - Look out for on board credit on some sailings

Celebrity – Up to $200 on board credit. Free Car Parking and free upgrades from outsides to balcony. Plus save up to £500 per stateroom on selected sailings.

P&O – Double on board credit. Double brochure discounts. 5% early payment discount. Up to £2500 per person savings on world cruises with up to £740 on board credit.

Princess – All European prices reduced. Free upgrades from outside to balcony and upgrade to suites from £149pp

Cunard - Double on board credit. Double brochure discounts. 5% early payment discount. Up to £2500 per person savings on world cruises with up to £740 on board credit.

Fred Olsen – Up to £200 on board credit and Free car parking/coach travel. Additional 5% discount for Previous Fred Olsen Passengers on selected sailings.

MSC – Free parking on Southampton sailings. Over 55’s to get up to £150 on board credit. Free Shore excursions and free upgrades.

Luxury Lines – Silversea are offering up to $1000 on board spend with free flights.

So now is the time to grab a new year bargain and have a wonderful cruise to look forward to.

Las Vegas Trip Report - Part 3

2010-12-14T15:43:00.001Z

The alarm is ringing at 4am.. I wake and jump right out of bed... I'm in Vegas!!

A quick shower and I'm ready to begin my adventures. Now I’m due at the “Golden Orb” for 10am, this gives me 5 hours of alone time.

Caffeine is the immediate need and off I go looking for a coffee shop. I must have had that lost tourist look about me.. A nice young lady comes over and asks if I’m lost. I reply “I’m looking for a coffee shop.. Do you know of any around here?” What she said next to me woke me up faster than a double espresso.. “We can always go make coffee in your room”!!!... I guess this is the kind of Vegas hospitality I’d been warned about.. So making my excuses “Sorry.. my suite doesn’t have any coffee making facilities”.. I headed off to the poker room.

Arriving at the Venetian poker room at 5am was an interesting sight. The crowd of young, well dressed people playing was most unexpected. I changed some cash for chips and begin a 4 hour session of No Limit Texas Hold Em. I have played this game for a few years now and consider myself to be an above average player. But this is Vegas.. the home of Poker… So I start out very cautiously. It soon became apparent the rest of the players were very drunk. Now I understood… They had been partying at Tao, one of the top nightclubs in Vegas, based right here in the Venetian… I soon began to take advantage and increase my chip stack. So if you like a game of poker, I can recommend playing at this time of the morning.

Bellagio

Our tour of the Bellagio, begin with a visit to the breakfast buffet. This was a buffet like I’d never seen before. A host of different serving stations, with the most weird and wonderful selections. You could have everything from a fry up to sushi and some customers were having it all! A great guy called Marcus showed us around the property and it is truly a spectacular hotel. The public areas have a fun but elegant style with a host of fine dining restaurants. The suites are stylish and offer excellent views of the mountains or strip. I was hoping to see the lobby area made famous by the Ocean’s 11 film, but this area has been renovated and is no longer there. The conservatory area is great and the decorations are based on the seasons. We had fall/autumn design with lovely water features and strange tree characters. As it was morning the famous fountain show was not operating, but the shear size of the lake in front of the hotel is something to behold.

In summary, you have to see the Bellagio, there’s so much to see and do. I would possibly stay here but think the Venetian offers larger rooms and better in hotel shopping for a lesser price.

Wynn/Encore

Our next tour was of the Wynn/Encore property and proved to be something completely different. Rather than a themed hotel like the Venetian and Bellagio, they offer a more contemporary style aimed at a younger “in” crowd. The lunch buffet was better than the Bellagio breakfast experience. The sea food selection was amazing.. Giant crabs legs, sushi, lobster and much more. Although I was “comped” the price of $25 was more than reasonable. They had other areas all with top quality product. These included an Italian, Mexican, hot grill and the open dessert station showing the pastry chefs making the delicate puddings in front of you. The Hotel rooms were large and of a modern design. The spa area was incredible and the selection of nightclubs was very telling… more on this later.

Overall the Wynn properties are recommended for the younger crowd. If you’re looking for a good party and want to enjoy the Vegas nightlife then this is the place to stay. The next time I go to Vegas I’ll probably be looking to stay here.

Other places of note today.

Caesars Palace – Enormous!.... No really it is Enormous! The casino floor is ridiculous, it took an hour to walk around it. The forum shops are attached and yes there enormous! I would love to see this place on a big fight weekend.

Fashion Show Mall - You can’t really miss this place. Opposite the Wynn, you see a large silver disc rising above the desert floor. This is the Fashion show mall. 3 levels of shopping heaven. All the department stores like Macys, Sax, Bloomingdales and Barneys are surrounded by stores of every description. Lucky ol me happened to be here for “Black Friday” the biggest sale day of the year. Macy’s sale was incredible.. 70% off most items. Shopaholics, this is the place for you!

Treasure Island – Opposite the Venetian and one of the older hotels on the strip. This features a pirate ship display each evening that is well worth a look. Gilleys Bar is a Texan, line dancing bar with saddles for seats and leather clad waitresses. Try the rodeo bull inside for a laugh and the food looked real good too. I’ve seen really reasonable rates for this place and would consider staying here as the location is great.

Mirage Volcano – Watch from the strip as the volcano erupts every half hour in a display of fire and music. It was a really cold night and the fire could be felt from quite a distance away. Well worth a look if around the area.

Riviera – Now this place is old. My walking adventure was becoming tiring and this was my last stop. As soon as you walk in you know it’s different. Worn carpets and drab wallpaper are really showing the signs. The sight of the Queen Vic pub had me smiling and a nice pint was very welcome. Avoid staying here, the location isn’t great and it really is run down.

It was now 11pm, so I hopped a cab back to the Wynn to meet up with some of the others. We had been given VIP entry into Blush, one of the hottest clubs on the strip. I’d been awake since 4am but was still running on adrenaline. The next episode of this review may be a little blurry, I didn’t get to bed until lunchtime the following day!

See you all soon.

Las Vegas Trip Report - Part 2

2010-12-09T10:55:00.001Z

So, now I'm unpacked and dancing around my suite in the Venetian.... (Sorry, there's no video footage)

(My Room)

The group have arranged to meet in the lobby at 5pm to do some exploring, but it’s only 3.30pm right now.. What can I possibly do for the next hour?.. That’s right go hit the tables!

Now I should explain that I do like a flutter, however I’m on a strict budget for the trip. To ensure my funds last out, I followed a suggestion to split my money into envelopes for each day. (This worked out very well.)

One game I had always wanted to try was Craps. It looks great fun and the “house edge” is fairly small. Kindly, my boss had lent me a book called “How to win at Craps” and armed with this knowledge I was ready… Nervously, I found a busy table and got some chips. Reading a book is a lot different to being in a live situation, but the whole table was real friendly and having a laugh at my inexperience. As I put my first bet down, the dice were given to a new “shooter”. He then proceeded to roll and roll without hitting a 7. This went on for over 30 minutes and I kept seeing my chips grow. The noise and excitement had drawn quite a crowd and even the eye of the pit boss. Finally the chap threw that 7 and the roll came to an end. Counting up the huge pile of chips in front of me was amazing… I thought this is easy.. I found a game where you can’t lose ..lol. Thank you Vegas, I’ve been in town for less than an hour and I’ve doubled my budget for the week!

Meeting up with the others with a huge smile on my face did arouse some suspicion. I told the tale and of course the drinks had to be on me…

(Inside ??)

Obviously, The Venetian theme is based on Venice. I have had the pleasure in seeing the real thing but was soon to be blown away by the shopping area, within the Hotel. You walk through the famous canals, littered with hundreds of fantastic shops either side. The shear scale of this indoor area is unbelievable. Incredibly you are indoors but the ceiling is designed to be the sky. It is so clever.. You actually know you are inside but it tricks you into thinking you’re outside. The canals lead you to an enormous square based on St Marks Square, that has a host of cafés and eateries for that Al Fresco dining. Anyone going to Vegas for the first time has to experience this wonder.

(Grand Lux)

Dinner that evening was taken at Grand Lux Café in the Venetian. The portion size was truly American, although the food scored as average. As it was 10pm (6am GMT) people were talking of going to sleep. Adrenaline and the oxygen pumped around by the casino were still charging through my system.. Sleep is not an option.

Mentioning that I would love to go see downtown Vegas was met with approval by Darren, Jo and Mike. So off we went in a taxi to see the real Vegas. . . For those who have never been, downtown Vegas is garish, tacky, rundown and brilliant! There is the Freemont Experience, a 1500ft canopy over the street that has a 6 minute light show to music. The Casinos are old and attract the seedier element of society. The prices are really cheap, a round of 4 cocktails came to around $10. The merchandise is so tacky but great fun. People watching here is a laugh a minute. We saw black elvis performing his routine and a very drunk guy from Canada tried to join us. We kept calling him “John Denver” as he has a slight resemblance, but this seemed to go right over his head… He was in a right state…

After numerous drinks and so much laughter, we headed back to sleep. Setting my alarm for 4am would give me 3 hours sleep. I judged this to be enough to recharge and get back out on my adventures.

Next...Part 3 – Poker, Bellagio, Wynn and a night to remember.

Las Vegas Trip Report - Part 1

2010-12-05T12:33:00.000Z

Tuesday 23rd November 2010.

(The Gang)

It's 4am and the alarm is ringing, sleep has been limited. The impending excitement of the trip ahead had me drinking a couple of glasses of red wine to aid sleep, but now I’m wide awake. The packing has all been done and I’m waiting for my best pal to come give me lift to Gatwick. He arrives on time and I’m off on my dream trip to Las Vegas.

Arriving at Gatwick for 7.45am, feeling that nervous excitement we have all felt before a holiday. This trip is a work trip to broaden my knowledge Las Vegas hotels and facilities. My intention is to pack in as much as physically possible. I will be travelling with a group of 10 people I’ve never met before and have no idea how this is going to go.

At 9am the group begin to converge at the huge Christmas tree in Gatwick South terminal. Introductions are made and let the small talk begin. The group is comprised of the following people.

Jane Ninnim of Virgin Atlantic -
Leanne Kirkwood of JTA Travel
Daniel Tracey of cruise.co.uk
Tony Lawrence
Darren Phillips
Peaches Murray
Jo Rix of Travel Weekly
Emma-Louise Willis
Neil Goodwin
Mike Moran

The trip is jointly hosted by Virgin Atlantic and JTA Travel and Jane and Leanne have organized the trip to allow us guided tours of some of the best hotels in Vegas.

We are flying on the VS43, just after 11am direct to Vegas. Jane takes us all to the check in desk and we are informed that we are upgraded to Premium Economy! Excellent news, this is easily the longest flight I have ever been on, so the more room the better. We are all given express check in and access to the VIP lounge at Gatwick. This was also a real treat, the tranquility and service provided within this area really makes the wait at airports something to enjoy. The facilities on offer were excellent. Ordering a lovely breakfast of poached eggs and ham, washed down with Champagne of course, really had me looking forward to the flight! Some member of the party had complimentary shoe shines and there was even a spa area for massages. Darren Phillips mentioned that Virgin had installed a McDonalds on some of their planes.. Something I’d never heard of.. Yes I was that gullible and asked if that was right?? Much to the amusement of the rest of the group.

(Upper Class Seats)

Our flight was called so we all proceeded off to the gate. As the first to arrive I proceeded to go through the final boarding area. Interestingly the Virgin crew took my boarding card off me and replaced it with another saying seat 11a? Yes… I had been upgraded to upper class!
The flight was simply excellent. The staff and facilities on board were something to behold. Almost all of the group had the upper class area… Thanks Jane!

I had my own separate area with a lounger chair that converted to a bed. There was even a bar in the centre that had lovely stools for those feeling a little more social. A special mention to Suzi, the lady who looked after our group on board, she was great fun and performed her role with professionalism and personality.

(Suzi and the bar)

Sooner than expected we were greeted with the announcement that landing would soon commence. Seeing the Las Vegas strip appearing over the horizon as we descended into McCarren Airport only heightened the anticipation. The much maligned US immigration was a breeze and within 30 minutes I was officially in Vegas!

Jane and Leanne has arranged a limo to meet us and we all felt like high rollers off to earn our fortune. The airport in Vegas is literally on the side of the strip, so within minutes we were at our accommodation for the next 4 days.. The Venetian Hotel.

The Venetian is a sight to behold for anyone visiting for the first time. The Valet are outside is adorned with Frescos on the ceiling and wonderful sculptures. Upon entering the lobby area you are greeted by a huge gold fountain (We named it the golden orb??), and an impressive recreation of the Sistine chapel on the ceiling. A speedy check in had me strolling through the casino to find my suite. The shear scale of the Venetian was now beginning to take hold. It is enormous! The walk to my hotel room took a good 10 minutes. The size of the casino floor is unbelievable with so many sights and sounds, I was already in sensory overload.

My suite was also very impressive in size and quality. The bathroom alone was the size of most hotel rooms I’ve previously stayed in. I had a two level suite with separate living and bedding zones. I was literally jumping around with glee and as I unpacked thought could this trip get any better? Well the answer would be an emphatic YES!!.. Read the next installment for my stories on Vegas hotels, nightlife, gambling and a whole lot more.

See you next week.

2010-11-22T12:06:00.000Z

Dear All,

As most of you are aware, I fly off to a very cold Las Vegas tonight. Forcasts are showing a high of 9 degrees.... It's supposed to be in the middle of a desert?????

I return to work on Tuesday 30th November.

Please e-mail me any questions or requests to danielt@cruise.co.uk or leave a message on 08004086127.

If it can't wait until I return please call the main office number 0800 408 6200.

Look out for my Vegas trip report when I return.

Take Care

Dan

A dream come true.. I'm Going to Las Vegas!

2010-11-15T13:43:00.001Z

Las Vegas is sort of like how God would do it if he had money - Steve Wynn

Well it finally had to happen!
For many a year now I've had a mild obsession with all things Las Vegas. I read the books, watch the movies and read a lot of trip reports online. Well.... Now I’m going!

Cruise.Co.Uk have recently introduced a Tailor Made cruise option that encompasses an array of pre cruise and post cruise stays. Las Vegas has been the most popular choice of my clients, so it will be great to discuss Vegas with first hand knowledge.

So, what do I have to look forward to?
5 days of fabulous Las Vegas.
Flights direct with Virgin
Limo transfers
Suite at the Venetian
A Helicopter ride over the Strip and Grand Canyon.

This is a really special trip for me and feel very fortunate to be going. As a Vegas 1st timer I am open to suggestions from all of you out there.

Can anyone recommend the best places to eat? I have been told I need to visit a place called “Fatburger”. They are supposed to have the best burgers anywhere.

As someone who enjoys a hand or two of poker, I’m definitely in the right place. The pictures of the Venetian Poker Room look beautiful. If anyone knows of where the nicest poker rooms are, let me know.

Are there any other attractions you would have on a “not to be missed list”?

Vegas Facts.

Number of slot machines in the city 197,144
Annual visitors to Las Vegas, in millions 36.7
Percentage of visitors who say they come to Vegas mainly to gamble 5
Percent of visitors who end up gambling during their stay 87
Price for a prime acre of land on the Strip, in millions of dollars 11
Average number of Vegas weddings per day 315
Cost of Nevada marriage license, in dollars 35
Average cost of filing for divorce in Nevada, in dollars 450

Oriana - No Kids Allowed

2010-11-14T11:40:00.001Z

As we all know the P&O Artemis is retiring from service next year. Artemis has always been a popular ship for P&O as it was one of the two adult only vessels. It has now been announced that the Oriana will be replacing Artemis as an adult only ship from November 2011. The additional bonus is that Oriana is completing a multi million pound refit just in time for this adult only launch.

(Artemis)

P&O will now offer adult only sailings on Arcadia, Oriana and new addition Adonia. Kids free sailing have always been popular and P&O are obviously thinking this selling point is worth expanding.

The newest addition to the fleet Azura is providing the additional family space that Oriana will vacate.

There are 5 cruises from November next year that have already been on sale for guests that this news will affect. Notifications should be recieved shortly by all guest booked on these cruises.

Guests that have booked with children will not be able to travel. P&O will offer a full refund for all passengers or find alternative holidays.

(No Kids Allowed)

You would of thought they had thought of this plan prior to booking people on those sailings.

Personally I think it is a good idea to offer more adult only sailings as the market is definately there.

What do you all think about more adult only sailings?

Tailor Made Cruises.. Anytime, Anywhere, Anyplace

2010-11-08T13:42:00.000Z

Following the successful launch of the Cruise.Co.Uk Tailor Made cruise holiday packages, I thought it would be good idea to let people know we can do even more.

Many clients have been calling up, having seen holiday ideas from the Tailor Made marketing pieces, requesting changes. Clients are asking us to change the dates of the package, the amount of pre and post night stay and even the tours.

Well, we can do anything you desire!

The Tailor Made products we are marketing are suggested itineraries that we think fit nicely around cruises. You may want to visit friends, fly out early to really see a country or even cut short one of our ideas.

You may have a that once in a lifetime trip in your mind and would like someone to do all the hard work for you. . . . Well that’s where I come in!

I’m able to book any flights, accommodation, transfers, tours, car hire and even attraction tickets. I have even sent people on the Orient Express to a cruise in the past.

So next time you think about doing something a bit different give me a call and let me see what I can do!

Silversea Silver Sprirt Food Review Part 2 - La Terrazza

2010-11-03T11:56:00.000Z

Sometimes the best meals come as a real surprise.

I'm a real fan of Italian cooking and eat at a number of very fine restaurants serving real authentic Italian cuisine. La Terrazza on Silver Spirit is the beautiful dining area at the rear of deck seven. Buffet breakfast and lunch are served here daily but during the evening the ambiance really changes. Of all the onboard restaurants this was the last place booked, as I thought it would be nice but nothing special… How wrong could I be….

As a warm evening, I decided to leave my jacket in the cabin. This was my first mistake, as the maitre de kindly asked me to wear a jacket for entry. A quick dash down stairs to get properly attired and finally we were seated outside with a lovely view of Cadiz.

Water was served within seconds and the sommelier quickly invited us to have wines paired for each course. We gladly accepted this as it had worked well all week.

A lovely array of breads, olives and roasted garlic was brought to the table accompanied by Silversea’s very own brand of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Antipasti
The menu offered a selection of nine different antipasti dishes that all looked excellent. Our waiter then pointed out option ten. A taster plate of all nine antipasti on the menu! Well this was just too good to be true and everyone ordered this.

The nine items were as follows

Vintage Parmesan Cheese
Marinated Olives
Rocket and Parmesan Salad
Veal Tartar
Mozzarella and Tomato Salad
Italian Salami
Spicy Goats Cheese
Sundried Tomato
Warm Risotto Ball with crispy onions

The wine served was a lovely Chardonnay. Needless to say it was enormous but sensational. I could of devoured it all over again.

Pasta
A selection of four Corta (Short) and three Lunga (Long) pasta dishes were available and after a long internal debate, I went for the duck ragu with Tagliatelle. Like all good pasta dishes, it was very rich but still light. The pasta itself was of the highest order. Served with a strong Italian red that accompanied the dish well. This wine was my favorite house wine served during the trip. I have looked into buying some and it goes for about £35 a bottle.

Entrée

The main courses was an easy choice, although if I’d have known just how large the portion was going to be I may have reconsidered.
The veal chop served with seasonal vegetables was cooked to perfection. Veal is often overcooked but this was done just right. The chop was covered in a layer of cheese. This was rather tasteless and didn’t really add anything to the dish. The sheer size of the chop had me loosening my belt buckle and breathing rather heavily. I managed to get through most of it but for the first time on the trip I was defeated.

We then asked for a break, feeling very satisfied but filled up to the brim. We were surprised how quiet La Terazza was this evening. This allowed us to get up from the table and have a few minutes watching the hustle and bustle of Cadiz. It made us really appreciate how lucky we were to be on a wonderful cruise.

Dessert

Well it had to be Tiramisu didn’t it? Served with a lovely dessert wine, it was as light as a feather. The pastry chef had added some nice touches with sugar and chocolate work.

We also asked for an espresso macchiato just to help settle everything down.

In summary, it was quite an exceptional meal. The quality of all the dishes was as good as anything I’ve ever had. In my younger days I spent many months in Italy and I can assure everyone the standard of La Terrazza would meet the expectations of any Italian chef.

Happy Sailings

Silversea Silver Spirit Food Review Part 1 - Seishin

2010-10-26T13:15:00.001+01:00

Food, Glorious Food.

We all become Michelin food critics the second we board a cruise ship and quite rightly so, as it is one of the most important parts of any cruise holiday. Silversea have a huge reputation as gastro elites within the cruise world, so here's my guide to the food onboard Silver Spirit.

Seishin Oriental Restaurant

Seishin is one of the two supplemental dining options on board Silver Spirit. They have a number of menu options depending on your mood. This is a very small dining area and only seats 24 guests, so booking as soon as you get on board is advisable (Get your butler to do this). The layout is octagonal with a tables positioned around the outside, with the sushi/sushimi station located in the centre. Get the seat looking towards the chef in the centre, the speed and knife skills are something else. The complementary drinks you get everywhere on board are not served here. So if you want a drink with your food you will pay for it. A visit to the bar before you go in allows you to take a large drink to your table.

Option 1 - 4 course menu served with water $30pp (Option to buy a bottle of wine or Saki)

Option 2 - 4 course menu served with beer and house wine $40pp

Option 3 - 8 course degustation menu with Water $50pp (Option to buy a bottle of wine or Saki)

Option 4 - 8 course degustation menu with Saki $80pp (Pairs Saki with all 8 courses)

Option 5 - 8 course degustation menu with vintage wine $200pp (Pairs Wines with each course)

We plumped for the 8 course degustation menu with Saki. My only experience of Japanese food has been in Yo Sushi, so expectations were high. They have a changing menu each day as only the freshest fish available is used.

Course 1 - Appetizer
A nice little champagne and caviar sorbet with cucumber was the perfect palate cleanser. Small and delicate, just right for an eight course menu.

Course 2 - Sushi A beautiful array of sushi was presented that included eel, salmon, caviar and shrimp. This was complimented with pickled ginger, marinated vegetables and wasabi. My first mouthful really awoke my taste buds --Warning-- the wasabi is very very hot. Do not put a normally decent blob on anything.. it will get your eyes streaming. Overall the portion was large considering there were six more to come, but it was excellent. The Saki was pleasant and served cold. Fortunately we had a table of Japanese guests next to ours, they checked out the Saki and said it was very good quality.

Course 3 - Sashimi
Again this looked very impressive and was probably my favorite course. Octopus, Squid, salmon and the large amount of caviar were truly a delight. But again the size of the portion was huge..surely not five more of these?

Course 4 - Soft Shelled Crab
This was the one course I was unsure about. They take a whole crab and deep fry it in tempura batter. Sounds nice huh? Well it was a little weird. Eating the shell, claws and who knows what else tasted a little different. My fellow guests seemed to enjoy theirs, so maybe I was thinking to much about it. Still it was another good sized portion.. feeling full already.

Course 5 - Sea Bass Filet
Excellently cooked fish that had a pumpkin mash on top. Very light and very good. The Saki was beginning to take hold a little too.

Course 6 - Spider Crab Legs
This course had something that we described as a masterstroke. Three large spider crab legs prepared ready to dig into the lovely flesh, were accompanied with a amazing mango compote. Upon eating, it was very very sweet and fruity, but then over the next twenty seconds it slowly built up a ferocious heat that was truly brilliant. We wanted the recipe.

We had to tell them to slow down at this point. The one little complaint I would make is that the attentive staff are over efficient. As soon as one course is finished then next one is out. Fine if you have the smaller menu but this was eight courses! Please give me room to breath.

Course 7 - Wagyu Beef
This was something I had been wanting to try for a very long time. Renowned for being the most expensive beef in the word, it was something a carnivore like myself had to have. I wasn't to be disappointed..
The best way to describe it is like someone took some great beef and added the intensity of an oxo cube to it. A really strong beef flavor, but all natural rather than those little cubes of beefiness.

Course 8 - Dessert
The meal was ended with pineapple and coconut ice cream. Not really my thing so, although I tried it, I was pleased to have left most of it alone. We had a dessert Saki with this course that was sweet and very unusual.

My Thoughts
This was a fantastic dining experience and would recommend everyone to try at least once. The Saki option is a little intensive and the portion size is a little too big. We found out later they do have a lunchtime buffet some days that are complimentary, so well worth a look too. If you have any more questions or comments please let me know.

Regards

D

Silversea Tales Volume #1

2010-10-25T13:39:00.000+01:00

What a week!

The Silversea Silver Spirit has provided me with a whole new insight into cruising. Having experienced a six star cruise for the first time, I can definitely see the attraction.

(Dan Bond, complete with Vodka Martini)

Here's the basics.

The quality of everything on board was a real eye opener. The staff, services, food and ship were all of the highest standard.
Majority of guests were American even though it was a Mediterranean cruise.
Average age of passengers was a lot lower than expected.
The amount of space available on board is quite unbelievable.
I didn’t get one hangover.
Cadiz was an unexpected port highlight.
Flights just don't ever seem to be on time.
The 6 star "experience" really does set itself apart from other cruises.

A comprehensive trip report and pictures will be posted here over this week detailing all of my adventures.

Overall it was a really special trip and one that will always be remembered.

Thank you Silversea.

(Cheesy Balcony Pic)

Bon Voyage..

2010-10-12T15:13:00.002+01:00

Greetings all,

I'm off on my Silversea cruise on Saturday and can hardly contain the excitement. If anyone needs anything doing or has questions for me then give me a call before Friday this week.

If you do have any questions while I'm away please e-mail contactus@cruise.co.uk or call 08004086200.

My Ports of call are:

16 Oct 2010 Sat Barcelona, Spain.

We are getting in to Barcelona at 9.30am so have a bit of time for some sightseeing. I love this city and will have a nice stroll upto La sagrada familia.. It's about time they finished it!

17 Oct 2010 Sun Palma De Mallorca, Spain

The Caves of Drach look quite interesting, We have 8am unitl 11pm so lets hope there's some sun. If anyone has been here let me know if it's worth going?

18 Oct 2010 Mon Ibiza, Spain

Another full day so Ibiza old town is always worth a visit. It seems like most things on the island will have shut down? If you've been here around this time of year can you let me know if it's going to be dead?
19 Oct 2010 Tue Day at Sea

Time to take advantage of the Silversea hospitality. The Sheishin sushi looks good.

20 Oct 2010 Wed Malaga, Spain

Not much here of interest, might be a day on board with my books.

21 Oct 2010 Thu Cadiz, Spain

This place looks beautiful, never been therre before but should be interesting

22 Oct 2010 Fri Portimao, Portugal Again another place that looks really nice.

23 Oct 2010 Sat Lisbon, Portugal

Well all I'm going top see here is the port and airport. We get land at 7am and we fly home at 10.30am so not alot of time.

Should be a lovely week and really need the rest.

Speak when I get back

So how is the cruise industry doing?

2010-10-06T13:04:00.000+01:00

As we all know, the last few years have been very challenging. However it seems the cruise industry has the inertia of a giant superliner and cannot be stopped.

This is a story of impressive growth - 118 new ships since 2000, and, since 1980, average annual growth in passengers of 7.4 percent, despite numerous economic downturns and other obstacles.

NCL EPIC

In the last few years, the cruise industry was impacted by many of the issues facing us all. Rising oil prices, bird flu, the stock market crash, ash clouds, the housing crisis and very fragile consumer confidence have affected every part of our daily lives. Unlike many other sectors, cruising has always been strong and fairly recession proof. The main reason it has done so well is flexibility. The cruising sector has the ability to quickly adapt to market changes. Ships can be redeployed to achieve better financial management and above all it has a product with amazing value for money.

ALLURE OF THE SEAS

The introduction of new ships has been fantastic for all cruiselines. The excitement of a new ship helps drive the news and marketing for the whole of the cruising world. Combining this with wonderful promotional offers and travel agent support, cruiselines were able to increase demand and operate near capacity even at the height of the financial meltdown.

CELEBRITY ECLIPSE

Last year an amazing 13.445 million passengers will have cruised worldwide.

Forecasts show 14.3 million passengers for 2010.

$4.7 billion spent on new ships in 2009
$6.5 billion to be spent in 2010

Here's some of the new arrivals for 2010
• Royal Caribbean International: Allure of the Seas (5,400 passengers)
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Epic (4,200 passengers)
• Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Eclipse (2,850 passengers)
• MSC: MSC Magnifica (2,550 passengers)
• Costa Cruises: Deliziosa (2,260 passengers)
• Holland America Line: Nieuw Amsterdam (2,100 passengers)
• Cunard Line: Queen Elizabeth (2,092 passengers)
• Seabourn Cruise Line: Seabourn Sojourn (450 passengers)

MSC MAGNIFICA

So what does all this mean? Well personally I think it shows that cruising is the number one growth area within the holiday sector. All of these passengers can't be wrong, proving the outstanding value and service you get with a cruise holiday. It also look as if I’m going to a very busy man over the next few years. If cruising is this strong in this economic down turn.. how will it be when things really improve?

HOLLAND AMERICA NIEUW AMSTERDAM

Cunard World Cruise 2012 Exclusive

2010-09-30T16:22:00.002+01:00

Ok.. now for something a little bit special.

Cruise.Co.Uk have now had agreement from Cunard for a world cruise spectacular for 2012. If you've been thinking about that trip of a life time or are considering a 2012 world cruise you may want to have a look at this exclusive new option. Instead of 1 ship, why not do the world cruise on the 2 queens of Cunard?

That's right the QM2 and the all new Queen Elizabeth.

Are you sitting comfortably.. as this is some itinerary.

9th January 2012 Pick up from your home and enjoy chauffeur transfer to DeVere Hotel in Southampton for 1 night with a transfer to the ship next morning.
10th Jan Embark Queen Elizabeth and depart Southampton
17 Jan New York, USA (overnight)
18 Jan New York, USA
21 Jan Fort Lauderdale, USA
23 Jan Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
25 Jan Transit Panama Canal
27 Jan Puntarenas, Costa Rica
30 Jan Acapulco, Mexico
1 February 2012 Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
4 Feb San Francisco, USA
9 Feb Honolulu, USA
14 Feb Pago Pago, American Samoa
15 Feb Cross International Date Line
17 Feb Port Denarau, Fiji
20 Feb Auckland, New Zealand
21 Feb Napier, New Zealand
22 Feb Wellington, New Zealand
26 Feb Melbourne, Australia
28 Feb Sydney, Australia (overnight)
29 Feb Disembark and transfer to 5* Four Seasons hotel for 7 nights
1 March 2012 Day at leisure in Sydney
2 Mar Sydney City tour with Opera House tour

City tour with Opera House

Get to know Sydney as you go around the beautiful city and then the Sydney Opera House tour will introduce you to the innovation, creativity and controversy that forged this remarkable building. Travelling by coach, expect to see spectacular Darling Harbour, The Rock's - Sydney's birthplace, Sydney Opera House, Parliament House, Royal Australian Naval Base at Garden Island, Kings Cross - Sydney's 'hot spot', The Gap for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Heads and Bondi Beach plus much more.

3 Mar Day at leisure
4 Mar Sydney Harbour lunch cruise
5 Mar Day at leisure
6 Mar Blue Mountains tour

Blue Mountains Wildlife Day Tour

You will be picked up from your Sydney hotel and transported to the heart of the enchanting Blue Mountains. This exciting adventure includes your entrance into Featherdale Wildlife park for up-close encounters with kangaroos and koalas. You can then unwind on a relaxing river cruise from Olympic Park all the way back into Sydney Harbour., or return by coach if you prefer.

7 Mar Transfer to port to board Queen Mary 2 and depart
12 Mar Rabaul, Papua New Guinea
15 Mar Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands
18 Mar Osaka, Japan
20 Mar Hiroshima, Japan
21 Mar Nagasaki, Japan
23 Mar Shanghai, China
25 Mar Hong Kong, China (overnight)
26 Mar Hong Kong, China
29 Mar Phu My, Vietnam
31 Mar Laem Chabang (for Bangkok), Thailand
2 April 2012 Singapore
4 April Phuket, Thailand
7 Apr Cochin, India
11 Apr Dubai, UAE (overnight)
12 Apr Duabi, UAE
13 Apr Muscat, Oman
18 Apr Sokhna, Egypt
19 Apr Transit Suez Canal
21 Apr Piraeus (for Athens), Greece
25 Apr Lisbon, Portugal
27 Apr Arrive Southampton and enjoy chauffeur transfer from the port to your home.

So now you want to know prices? Well everything above including the transfers, hotel and tours are within the price.

Inside cabins are available for only £10999pp
Oceanview cabins start from £13499pp
Watch the world go by in a Balcony for only £15639pp
Have that Deluxe Balcony starting at £16350pp
Treat yourself to a Princess Grills for £31499pp
Blow the kids inheritance with a Queens Grills £39189pp

We can also help with the spending money. Our exclusive deal also includes up to $3000 on board credit per cabin!

This real one off 108 night trip of incomparable luxury is starting at just £10999pp (that’s just over £100 per night) and we can throw in spending money too!

What do Silversea have for me?

2010-09-29T13:44:00.007+01:00

I'm counting the days to a cruise on the wondeful Silversea Silver Spirit. Now if you have ever thought of a 6 star cruise and wondered what they offer above everyone else? Well here's just a small breakdown of what makes them so special.

Silversea Silver Spirit (Crew: 376, Guests: 540, Tonnage: 36,000 )

Well for starters let talk about the staff onboard.

They will be waiting for you when you board with a chilled glass of champagne and this is just the beginning of your experience in a world where your every wish is anticipated and fulfilled. No detail is too small. No request insignificant. Hmm... I'm sure they get some requests!

All of the staff are trained by the leading hotel schools of the world and give only the best level of service. Importantly they maintain this level of service with nearly a 1 to 1 ratio of staff to passengers. Does that mean I get someone following me around 24hours a day?

Now for the accomodation.

Silversea only have suites, that means every cabin is large and spacious. Nearly all of them offer a verandah and are decorated to highest degree of quality.

(Midship Verandah Suite 376 square ft plus 65sq ft verandah)

Every suite also has the following

Butler service
Champagne upon arrival and replenished as you desire
Fresh fruit and flowers
Down duvets, fine bed linens, and plush mattresses
Spa robe and slippers
Spacious walk-in wardrobe and full-length mirror
Italian marble bathroom featuring full-sized bath, large separate shower1 and double vanity2
Flat-screen TVs with complimentary movie channels and film library
Daily suite service with nightly turndown
Bvlgari or Ferragamo bath soaps
Aromatherapy room scents by renowned Italian perfumer Laura Tonatto
Beverages for your in-suite bar and refrigerator
Nine pillow types
Writing desk with personalised stationary

What about the extras?

Dining – All meals are included. Well as I'm a big lad already I expect to come back a even bigger. Have been hitting the gym for the last two weeks in preperation!

Beverages – Truly complimentary. An extensive selection of fine wines, spirits, champagne, soft drinks, juice, specialty coffees and bottled water are all mine to enjoy. I think my boss is a little worried about this. I'm sure he thinks I'm going to be acting like the village idiot onboard. (See left <-----)

Entertainment – No reservations. No cover charge. No bar tab. The Show Lounge presents cabaret-style shows, variety acts, special performances and feature films. Enrichment lecturers host discussions of specialised topics related to the voyage destination. There’s live music and dancing. Casino games and top deck celebrations under the stars. In your suite, films are always complimentary. This all sounds very nice but as I'm only 35 I have some reservations. Will I be the youngest onboard by about 30 years?

Gratuities – Already included. Never expected. Suits me fine!

My wife has been very kind to allow me to go on this cruise, whilst she stays at home and looks after the kids. Although she is hinting for a very nice prezzie. It should be a fantastic week and I will pop a full trip report and pictures on here upon my return.

Wish Me luck!

Dan

Last Minute Cruise Deal - P&O Ventura

2010-09-27T17:53:00.000+01:00

P&O Ventura 22nd October 2010

14nights cruise

Southampton to the Caribbean
Via
Tenerife

Tortola

St Maarten

St Lucia

St Vincent

Barbados 5th November 2010

Fly Back to Doncaster

CA or CB Superior deluxe Balcony

Here's it gets even better... Its the same price for 2, 3 or 4 passengers in the same cabin!

This is half term too!

Transportation to and from Doncaster also available upon request.

So yes that's right you can have a cabin for 4 adults for £2389.

Only 6 cabins left! I have them here so get on the phone.

Why not combine with a stay in Barbados? Please ask for details and prices.

20 nights on Eclipse 2011 Deal

2010-09-22T18:34:00.002+01:00

Now this is impressive!

Ok here's a quality deal.

Celebrity Eclipse

Departing Southampton 30th October 2011

20 nights cruise

Le Havre
Cherbourg
Vigo
Azores
Miami
San Juan
St Thomas
St Maarten
Miami

Transfers and direct flight home on the 19th November 2011.

Based on 2 sharing

Inside cabins £1519 pp
Outside cabins £1629 pp
Balcony cabins £1689 pp
Concierge Balcony £1869 pp

Most regional flights back to the UK available at no cost! Have just booked Edinburgh for no supplement.

Additional nights in Miami available. Please call for prices

http://www.cruise.co.uk/cruise-lines/celebrity-cruises/

Coming Soon: A cruise diary from 6 stars to 4.

2010-09-19T17:49:00.000+01:00

Lucky ol me is going on 3 cruises in the next 2 months. Thought it would be a nice idea to run a diary of events that can be used to distinguish between the levels of quality and service.

So what trips am I on?

I begin right at the top with the all new Silversea Silver Spirit. So... are the 6 star cruises worth it? What extras do you get? Is the quality noticably better? Are the people on board different??? Well all and more will be answered from the 16th October.

So... who's next on the hitlist??

Well I'm off on the Queen Mary II. Is the Cunard "White Star" service still as good as it was?? Do the grill passengers think the rest are "Oinks"? How does Cunard seem after getting off Silversea? Well on the 8th of November we find out.

Third and by no means least will be the mighty P&O Aurora. Having had so many people say they really love Aurora it will be great to see her. But... Will she look like a 2nd hand cargo ship after the other two? Will I have turned into the ultimate cruise snob? Will I be fed up of cruising and be booking caravan holidays from now on?

So what questions do you all want answered? If you want me to turn detective and find something out .. Well I'm open to suggestions.So subscribe to my blog and you will get all of the details of Dans cruise adventures.

It's going to be a fantastic end of the year.

Gardeners World 20th Anniversary Cruise with Alan Titchmarsh

2010-09-12T17:50:00.000+01:00

Gardeners’ World Magazine are celebrating their 20th Anniversary with a cruise. This will include Alan Titchmarsh for ‘one night only’ – the first night, when he will host a 20th Anniversary Get-together and talk. Plus there will be photo opportunities.

Adam Pasco – the editor of the magazine will be on the cruise for the full duration plus 2 x other celebrity experts from the magazine - tba

As some of you will be aware the demand for this cruise will be enormous and early booking is very advisable.
• £75 on board spend per cabin applies
• 1 x free tour from Dublin – Mount Usher Gardens
• Plus optional garden visits for them to book at other ports of call

Prices are as follows.

Inside cabins from £999pp
Outside cabins from £1209pp
Balcony cabins from £1799pp
Suites from £2149pp

Printed from Amadeus Cruise on 12 Sep 2010 17:43 Local time

FRED. OLSEN BALMORAL
Date : Mon 08 Aug 2011
Cruise Length : 10 Nights

Mon 08 Aug SOUTHAMPTON 16:30
Tue 09 Aug ST. PETER PORT, GUERNSEY
Wed 10 Aug CRUISING
Thu 11 Aug HOLYHEAD
Fri 12 Aug DUBLIN
Sat 13 Aug GREENOCK
Sun 14 Aug TOBERMORY
Mon 15 Aug SCRABSTER
Tue 16 Aug CRUISING
Wed 17 Aug HARWICH
Thu 18 Aug SOUTHAMPTON

P&O Pacific Sun - Mark II

2010-09-09T16:40:00.000+01:00

Some more footage here of the P&O Australia Pacific Sun

P&O Pacific Sun Wave - Check this out

2010-09-09T16:29:00.001+01:00

Hi,

Back in July 2008 the P&O Australian Pacific Sun ran into a huge storm. Pictures have been released and are on some of the news channels. It sure looks nasty.

25ft Swells, 50 knot winds and 7 meter waves... Nice huh.

The ship, with 1,732 passengers and 671 crew, was returning to Auckland from the islands of Vanuatu at the end of an eight-night cruise. The incident occurred just after dark, as many of the passengers were sitting down to dinner when huge waves caught the ship side-on as it manoeuvred, causing it to pitch violently.

Have heard of a few weather issues on cruises but think this is just one of those freak events. If this is your kind of holiday then please have a look at a range of P&O cruises.

Caribbean Cruise Emerald Princess

2010-09-02T10:31:00.001+01:00

Just had a family return from the Emerald Princess sailing in the Caribbean and had the most fantastic time.

Here is a link to some of the pictures from the holiday.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNmJiQ6AajE

Think these pictures give an excellent idea of what a cruise is all about.

A big thanks to the customers for letting me use them.

Shame about them being Chelsea supporters though.

Kulula Air South Africa - A different kind of airline

2010-08-31T15:52:00.000+01:00

Kulula is a low-cost South-African airline that doesn't take itself too seriously.

Check out their new livery!

WHAT A PITY KULULA DOESN'T FLY INTERNATIONALLY - WE SHOULD SUPPORT THEM IF ONLY FOR THEIR HUMOUR - SO TYPICALLY SOUTH AFRICAN.

Kulula is an Airline with head office situated in Johannesburg . Kulula airline attendants make an effort to make the in-flight "safety lecture" and announcements a bit more entertaining. Here are some real examples that have been heard or reported:

On a Kulula flight, (there is no assigned seating, you just sit where you want) passengers were apparently having a hard time choosing, when a flight attendant announced, "People, people we're not picking out furniture here, find a seat and get in it!"

---o0o---

On another flight with a very "senior" flight attendant crew, the pilot said, "Ladies and gentlemen, we've reached cruising altitude and will be turning down the cabin lights. This is for your comfort and to enhance the appearance of your flight attendants."

---o0o---

On landing, the stewardess said, "Please be sure to take all of your belongings.. If you're going to leave anything, please make sure it's something we'd like to have."

----o0o---

"There may be 50 ways to leave your lover, but there are only 4 ways out of this airplane."

---o0o---

"Thank you for flying Kulula. We hope you enjoyed giving us the business as much as we enjoyed taking you for a ride."

---o0o---

As the plane landed and was coming to a stop at Durban Airport , a lone voice came over the loudspeaker: "Whoa, big fella. WHOA!"

---o0o---

After a particularly rough landing during thunderstorms in the Karoo , a flight attendant on a flight announced, "Please take care when opening the overhead compartments because, after a landing like that, sure as hell everything has shifted."

---o0o---

From a Kulula employee: " Welcome aboard Kulula 271 to Port Elizabeth . To operate your seat belt, insert the metal tab into the buckle, and pull tight. It works just like every other seat belt; and, if you don't know how to operate one, you probably shouldn't be out in public unsupervised."

---o0o---

"In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, masks will descend from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask, and pull it over your face. If you have a small child travelling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If you are travelling with more than one small child, pick your favourite."

---o0o---

Weather at our destination is 50 degrees with some broken clouds, but we'll try to have them fixed before we arrive. Thank you, and remember, nobody loves you, or your money, more than Kulula Airlines."

----o0o---

"Your seats cushions can be used for flotation; and in the event of an emergency water landing, please paddle to shore and take them with our compliments."

---o0o---

"As you exit the plane, make sure to gather all of your belongings. Anything left behind will be distributed evenly among the flight attendants. Please do not leave children or spouses.."

---o0o---

And from the pilot during his welcome message: "Kulula Airlines is pleased to announce that we have some of the best flight attendants in the industry. Unfortunately, none of them are on this flight!"

---o0o---

Heard on Kulula 255 just after a very hard landing in Cape Town : The flight attendant came on the intercom and said, "That was quite a bump and I know what y'all are thinking. I'm here to tell you it wasn't the airline's fault, it wasn't the pilot's fault, it wasn't the flight attendant's fault, it was the asphalt."

---o0o---

Overheard on a Kulula flight into Cape Town , on a particularly windy and bumpy day: During the final approach, the Captain really had to fight it. After an extremely hard landing, the Flight Attendant said, "Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to The Mother City. Please remain in your seats with your seat belts fastened while the Captain taxis what's left of our airplane to the gate!"

---o0o---

Another flight attendant's comment on a less than perfect landing:
"We ask you to please remain seated as Captain Kangaroo bounces us to the terminal."

---o0o---

An airline pilot wrote that on this particular flight he had hammered his ship into the runway really hard. The airline had a policy which required the first officer to stand at the door while the passengers exited, smile, and give them a "Thanks for flying our airline. He said that, in light of his bad landing, he had a hard time looking the passengers in the eye, thinking that someone would have a smart comment.

Finally everyone had gotten off except for a little old lady walking with a cane. She said, "Sir, do you mind if I ask you a question?"
"Why, no Ma'am," said the pilot. "What is it?" The little old lady said,
"Did we land, or were we shot down?"

---o0o---

After a real crusher of a landing in Johannesburg , the attendant came on with, "Ladies and Gentlemen, please remain in your seats until Captain Crash and the Crew have brought the aircraft to a screeching halt against the gate. And, once the tire smoke has cleared and the warning bells are silenced, we will open the door and you can pick your way through the wreckage to the terminal.."

---o0o---

Part of a flight attendant's arrival announcement: "We'd like to thank you folks for flying with us today.. And, the next time you get the insane urge to go blasting through the skies in a pressurized metal tube, we hope you'll think of Kulula Airways."

---o0o---

Heard on a Kulula flight. "Ladies and gentlemen, if you wish to smoke, the smoking section on this airplane is on the wing.. If you can light 'em, you can smoke 'em."

---o0o---

A plane was taking off from Durban Airport . After it reached a comfortable cruising altitude, the captain made an announcement over the intercom, "Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. Welcome to Flight Number 293, non-stop from Durban to Cape Town , The weather ahead is good and, therefore, we should have a smooth and uneventful flight.. Now sit back and relax... OH, MY GOODNESS!" Silence followed, and after a few minutes, the captain came back on the intercom and said, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I am so sorry if I scared you earlier. While I was talking to you, the flight attendant accidentally spilled a cup of hot coffee in my lap. You should see the front of my pants!" A passenger then yelled, "That's nothing. You should see the back of mine!"

The inaugural Cruise.co.uk poker night

2010-08-31T12:13:00.000+01:00

There has been alot of talk around the office about arraging a poker night. So when Kris kindly decided on hosting the event last Thursday, we had a decent responce. 6 players formed the first ever cruise.co.uk poker night.

The players were as follows.

Kris "Hairum Scarum" Hester.

Dan "Slippery Otter" Tracey

Graeme "Springbok" Promnitz

Richard "Whisky" Smith

Drew "Never Folds" Wheddon

Nick "The Rock" Watts

The Rules were no limit Texas Holdem, sit and go tournament. So everyone paid in a stake and winner took the whole pot.

The first game started off cautiously, with every getting the feel for the game. But as the blinds increased more action was to be seen. Drew was eliminated early on. His inability to grasp the word "fold" was his main downfall. Thinking he could make the most outrageous of hands even though no cards in the deck could help him. Our South African friend was next out. Maybe they play with different rules down there? Any pair was good enough to see him throw chips away. The rock then followed them out of the door. Nick knows how to play this game but waiting for a Royal Flush before getting your chips in might not work too well. Richard “Whisky” Smith was next to be eliminated. His wild playing style had up to now been effective. Calling with nothing but hitting cards on the river was his particular specialty, much to the annoyance of me! That left me and the host to fight out the first game. Having a large chip lead, I bullied my way to victory in no time.

The decision was made for another game and unfortunately for those guys it resulted in the same winner. With Kris’s pair of queens running into my pair of aces early on. This was bad news for everyone. Huge chip lead and raising every hand caused a quick and decisive victory.

Thanks lads, I look forward to the next event.

World Travel Awards 2010

2010-08-24T13:19:00.002+01:00

It that time of year when the World Travel Awards are handed out. This is especially exciting for Cruise.co.uk as we are looking to defend out title for the 3rd successive year. We have won the European number one cruise agent for the last 2 years, winning the worldwide award for 2009. This was especially well received as the company was celebrating its 25th Anniversary.

World Travel Awards serves to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

No doubt our chairman will be dusting down his tux for the array of glittering events put on by these prestigious awards.

The European awards are to be hosted in Antalya, Turkey on the 1st October 2010. The winners are then sent to the grand finale on the 7th November in London. Cruise.co.uk are again delighted to be just one of five nominations for these awards.

If you have had a fantastic holiday and service from Cruise.co.uk then please submit a vote for us at the following. http://www.worldtravelawards.com/

Last years award was presented by Miss World.

I will be sure to let you all know the results and fingers crossed we will be winning again.

Travel company protection advice

2010-08-19T10:08:00.001+01:00

The Kiss Travel collapse this week has caused thousands more British holiday makers to lose or have their holiday severely distrupted. This follows four other companies in the last 12 months.

16 December 2009 Scottish tour operator Globespan and its linked airline FlyGlobespan went into administration after public warnings about its financial state. About 4,000 holidaymakers were abroad, mainly in Spain, Portugal, Cyprus and Egypt.

16 July 2010 Goldtrail Travel, specialists in Turkey and Greece, ceased trading in what the Civil Aviation Authority called "a highly unusual failure". It is rare for an operator to go out of business in the height of summer. Over 20,000 people had to be repatriated from holidays while another 110,000 are thought to have had bookings.

12 August 2010 Birmingham-based Sun4U, which sold packages to Spain and other Mediterranean destinations went into administration. About 10,000 people were affected.

17 August 2010 The CAA was informed about the demise of Flight Options shortly before it was formally announced. It estimates 13,000 people are currently overseas.

So what can you do about this? Well, the best course of action is at the time of booking.

You need to check the company you want to book with has protection incase of the very worst happening.

The following are the government recommendations for travel companies within the UK.

• ATOL protects you from losing your money or being stranded abroad. It does this by carrying out checks on the tour operators and travel organizers it licenses, and requiring them to take part in a financial guarantee scheme managed by the Air Travel Trust (ATT) which provides the funds to protect customers should a firm fail. In some cases a license holder will also provide a bond, which is lodged with the ATT and provides additional funds.

If a tour operator goes out of business, the CAA will ensure you do not lose the money you paid over, or if you're abroad, we'll arrange for you to finish your holiday and fly home.

If in any doubt get the company to give the ATOL number and you can check out the company at http://www.caa.co.uk/application.aspx?catid=490&pagetype=65&appid=2

If you book a flight directly with the airline, you will not be covered by ATOL if the airline fails when you are abroad. However, if you wish you can protect yourself when booking by:

Booking through an agent that offers protection under ATOL or another scheme – check what cover the agent offers. Paying by credit card (for sums over £100) or Visa debit card – check what cover your card issuer offers.

• ABTA - The Travel Association - now represents over 5,000 travel agencies and more than 900 tour operations, throughout the British Isles. Our Members range from small, specialist tour operators and independent travel agencies through to publicly-listed companies and household names; from call centres to internet booking services to high street shops. All of them carry the ABTA logo, which means choice, value, and high levels of service.

From the moment you book with an ABTA Member they’re there to give you advice and assistance. They can also explain how to protect your travel arrangements, so you don’t lose out if your service provider fails financially, and they can help in the unlikely event that things go wrong.

To double check a companies ABTA number http://www.abta.com/home

Cruise.co.uk are protected by both of the above. ABTA number 78024 and ATOL 3385. Other association memberships include IATA (International Air Transport Association) and ACE (association of cruise experts). As well as trading for over 25years Cruise.co.uk have been named European and world’s leading cruise agent by the World Travel Awards.

So next time you see that deal on the internet make sure you have the piece of mind by booking with a company that will always look after you, no matter what situation arises.

Happy holidays

Phew.... The man from BAA says yes.

2010-08-17T17:31:00.000+01:00

Good news.

We have had ash clouds and BA on strike this year. Last week it was announced that BAA the people who run the airports were considering strike action.

It has been announced that this strike is now not proceeding.

The Unite union has agreed the new pay deal offered by BAA and will now cancel the strike action.

It amazes me that in times of such fincancial troubles people are willing to risk there jobs. Surely people should be happy they have a job right now.

Dan

European Cruises are Booming... but is it all good news?

2010-08-10T12:26:00.001+01:00

Europe is booming! Europe-based cruise lines are growing their passenger numbers introducing new ships and U.S.-based cruise lines are also sourcing more guests in Europe by dedicating ships to European markets.

Both Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International are deploying ships year-round in Europe.

(Cruise Operator)

This might sound like good news but it does have it's downsides too. With the major players in the market dominating the ports and itineraries, it is putting more and more pressure on the smaller operators. Typical of modern economics where the bigger companies get bigger and smaller companies finding it harder and harder to operate. What I don't want to see is a few companies monopolizing the industry. This will really impact the niche markets and force everyone to go on the same cruise. The amount of choice and competition forces the quality of all brands to achieve the best can. What we don’t want is a supermarket scenario of a few options but all offering the same product.

One major benefit is the range of ports and itineraries increasing. This offers passengers year round options of wonderfully different cruises.

2010 had 116 different ships in Europe! With another 11 being built purely for Europe. Again almost all of these are for the main operators.

Please let me know what you think of all of this. Where do you see the industry going over the next 5 years? How can the smaller operators protect themselves against the giants within the Industry?

Regards

Dan

Fred Olsen Classical Music Cruises.

2010-08-03T10:02:00.002+01:00

So.. has the wife gone Chopin? She Bach in a minuet?... (Sorry, but there's more like this on the way)

Fred Olsen have a number of Classical Music themed cruises for 2011 in conjunction with their always popular Arts Club.

The Arts Club cruises are exception quality. They include experts with both the passion and knowledge to ensure you have a fantastic experience. Travelling with like minded guests in a luxury environment is key to the success of these events

Discuss subjects like “Why couldn’t Mozart find his piano teacher?.. Because he’s Haydn… and the shock news that Arnold Schwarzenegger recently turned down the chance to play Beethoven in a film about his life… he replied “I’ll be Bach”

10th June 2011 Balmoral 14 nights around the Norwegian Fjords

Available with free transport options or £140 on board credit from only £1299per person

28 July 2011 Boudicca 16 nights to Greenland and Iceland
Available from only £1769pp

31 Aug 2011 Black Watch 12 nights to Iceland and Norway
Available from only £1209pp

29 Sept 2011 Braemar 13 nights to the Canary Islands
Available with transport options and £130 on board credit. This can also be combined with a BBC Gardeners World theme to keep you really busy from only £1059pp

All of the The Arts Club events are included within the price of the cruise, ensuring exceptional value for money.

Fred Olsen have been on the seas for over 150 years and in that time they have learnt what makes cruising special. From the moment you step on board you are made to feel like one of the family.

Fair Dinkum Celebrity. Ripper Itineraries!

2010-08-02T12:19:00.002+01:00

Looking to cruise Australia and New Zealand? Well those wanting Celebrity style can make their plans now, as bookings opened today for Celebrity Cruises’ new lineup of exotic voyages in the land Down Under.

Gents get your Stubby, Thongs and Daks ready and don't be a Flaming Galah! Get your self booked up for 2012 now.

Back of Bourke

Celebrity are also offering a host of land packages to combine with your cruise. This will allow cruisers to see both the wonderful history and culture of this beautiful land.

Celebrity have not offered itineraries around Australia and New Zealand for the last 2 years – This announcement is offering the chance to visit 36 ports in six countries: Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, French Polynesia, the U.S. and Mexico.

Celebrity launch offer has special savings for back 2 back sailings and even on board spend with some departures.

Land Packages

Celebrity’s new Land packages can be taken either before or after a cruise. I personally would take the tour before a cruise. Land Tours are amazing, but are generally very intensive. So take in all of the history and culture, then relax in luxury on your cruise. These tours are usually for 4 or 5 nights and are specially designed to incorporate each areas best locations. The most commonly visitied tourist favourites are the Great Barrier Reef and Ayers Rock.

So after a long flight you get straight into the tour. They are usually two full days and nights to explore Sydney. The laid-back outdoor lifestyle and physical allure make it one of the world’s easiest and most pleasant cities to visit.

Ayers Rock. Rising from seemingly nowhere in the deep centre of Australia, Uluru/Ayers Rock is one of the world's great natural wonders. A trip to Uluru is also about experiencing and understanding its cultural & spiritual significance. Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta have great cultural significance for the Anangu traditional landowners

Great Barrier Reef. One of Australia's most remarkable natural gifts, the Great Barrier Reef is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world's largest coral reef. The reef contains an abundance of marine life and comprises of over 3000 individual reef systems and coral cays and literally hundreds of picturesque tropical islands with some of the worlds most beautiful sun-soaked, golden beaches. I love scuba diving and would love to get under the water here...

All of these tours are completely arranged and ran by Celebrity. This offers customers piece of mind in the knowledge that the service and quality on offer is second to none. A tour director is on hand to escort every tour with knowledge and assistance to ensure you have the very best of time. Everything is taken care of from hotel check in, arranging of transportation and full information on the history and background of all the locations you travel to.

Although very intensive and involve a lot of travelling, the tours will offer some down time. This allows guest to relax in the luxury accommodation or have some time for further exploration.. even if it's just the shops.

Would love to hear from anyone who has done a land tour with a cruiseline and find out how well it went.

Take care

(Typical Local)

Titanic Adventure 2012.

2010-07-26T15:25:00.002+01:00

Are you a fan of the Titanic story? Would you like to see the history of where Titantic was built and the fantastic story of the amazing vessel. Well in 2012 Fred Olsen offer a cruise that encorporates the home ports of Titanic.

3rd April 2012 - Sail from Southampton (Titanic set sail from here)
4th April 2012 - Iceberg free sailing
5th April 2012 - Liverpool (Port of registry)
6th April 2012 - Belfast (Port of build)
7th April 2012 - Iceberg free sailing
8th April 2012 - Southampton

Prices are available from only £449 per person. This includes all food and entertainment on board.

Guest speakers and lectures regarding the Titanic story on board included.

Titanic Facts

Harland and Wolff, located in Belfast, Ireland, built the Titanic.
It took approximately three years to build.
14,000 workers were used to construct it.
Two dogs were among the Titanic survivors
The Titanic used 14,000 gallons of drinking water every 24 hours

Cruise prices could rise under new emission rules.

2010-07-21T09:06:00.000+01:00

It may well be worth getting that cruise booking in early. It looks like prices are due to rise with these additional fuel supplements. 2012 prices are now available and booking quickly.

The extra cost of fuel for low-sulphur zones may be passed on to cruise passengers.

New environmental regulations designed to reduce harmful emissions from ships could significantly raise the cost of cruising, it emerged this week.

The new rulings, which have been approved by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), will force cruise lines to cut the level of sulphur in their fuel when they are within 200 miles of shore – from the up to 4.5 per cent currently permitted to 1 per cent in 2012 and to 0.1 per cent in 2015. The low-sulphur zones, known as Emission Control Areas, came into force in the Baltic and North Sea this month. By 2012 they will be introduced in North America, where the impact on cruising is expected to be greatest.

It has been estimated that using low-sulphur fuels could cost some vessels an extra £10,000 a day. Cruise ships travelling along the east and west coasts of the United States would normally be within the controlled zones for the duration of their sailings.

Most cruise ships have the capability to store two or more fuels. However, to meet the requirements set for 2015, some vessels may need to be modified to add storage capacity.

A spokesman for Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has said the new regulations could put the line off running cruises in North America.

The US Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the improved air quality resulting from the new regulations could save as many as 14,000 lives a year.

“All the shipping industry has to pay a price to protect human health and the marine environment,” said a spokeswoman for the IMO. “Very often such regulations will result in extra costs and these will be passed on to passengers. But what proportion remains to be seen.”

The Passenger Shipping Association, which represents cruise and ferry operators in the UK, says the regulations will not slow down the growth of cruising – the number of British cruisers annually has doubled since the year 2000 to 1.65 million.

“Our members will be considering the financial implications – it will be down to the individual if they choose to pass on those costs,” said a spokeswoman. She declined to put a figure on what the likely price increase for passengers would be.

She added that although all its members support measures to protect the marine environment in which they operate, many had reservations about the environmental implications of what happens to the sulphur taken out of fuel.

The spokeswoman for the IMO said that alternatives to using low-sulphur fuel included equipping vessels with exhaust gas scrubbers which would absorb and remove sulphur from the exhaust.

The Baltic Ports Organization has said the implementation of the new fuel regulations would put Baltic ports and shipping lines “in a disadvantageous position”.

What not to pack.

2010-07-15T10:19:00.001+01:00

The goal is simple: to visit your cruise without a suitcase so stuffed that you emit strange animal sounds trying to heave it into the cabin -- and with plenty of clean socks and underwear. But if only it were that easy! If you've struggled over which clothes to bring or wondered how many guidebooks is too many, you're certainly not alone. Packing for a cruise is often a struggle to distinguish what we want to bring from what we need to bring.

When we're forced to choose between our favorite things, we're sometimes tempted to just bring it all and to hell with it -- but overpacking can cost more than just extra suitcase space and a free hand. Checking more than one bag, exceeding your airline's weight limit or even checking a bag at all can cost you.

Everyone's packing style is different and we all have our own travel needs, so before you get upset at the idea of leaving behind your beloved toothbrush sanitizer, remember that these are only suggestions. Leave out a few of the following items on your next trip -- you'll enjoy traveling with a lighter load, and I promise you won't miss a thing!

Don't Pack Your Entire Beauty Routine

If you use eight different products to tame your wild curls or have an elaborate face-washing regimen down to a science, let loose a bit when you travel instead of carrying an army of beauty products with you across the globe. Trust us -- you won't look like a cave woman in your vacation pictures if you use a shampoo/conditioner combo for a few nights. If you're adventurous enough to leave home and explore an exotic destination, we bet you can also handle leaving behind a few hair products.

Top Tips:

All cruise lines will offer complimentary toiletries -- use them! Don't bring your own 24-ounce shampoo and conditioner bottles to the ship and then stuff the ship ones in your suitcase to take home. If you don't use them on the road, you'll probably never use them at home. Cruise Lines such as P&O cruises offer very good quality product in all bathrooms.

There are lots of products that have multiple uses. Opt for a shampoo/conditioner combo. Bring a tinted moisturizer with SPF. Let your moisturizing body wash double as a shaving cream. Share your shampoo, soap or toothpaste with your traveling partner. Buy a make-up compact that contains more than one color, such as an eyeshadow quad.

Lose the bulky containers. Instead, try zip-top bags. We stuff and pour everything we can into them, including hair products, lotions, cotton balls and even sunscreen. To prevent spills, put all of your liquid-filled baggies in a larger plastic grocery bag -- and be sure not to pack it next to any fishing rods or freshly sharpened pencils.

Don't Pack Your Jewelry and Valuables

Rule of thumb -- if you can't imagine living without your grandmother's wedding ring or your expensive Movado watch, it's best not to cart it overseas, where tourists are common targets for thieves and luggage often gets lost in transit. You may think you look like an icon of style, but to criminals and con-artists you appear as an icon of opportunity. It's also wise not to look like a million pounds if you're trying to bargain with the locals, and sparkly jewelry may set you apart from the natives when you're trying to fit in.

Top Tips:

If you must bring your jewelry, keep it in the cabin safe except for special occasions such as a formal dinner, and be sure it's covered by appropriate insurance. Most homeowners' policies will not cover jewelry if it's lost or stolen while traveling, so you may need to purchase a separate policy.

Pack any valuables you buy while on your trip (and any of your own that you decide to bring) in your carry-on. As we all know, checked bags sometimes disappear into the mysterious black hole of lost airline luggage

Don't Pack More Than One Guidebook

Some of us are practically addicted to these little gems of information. Then again, a stack of books can be quite heavy. One good, comprehensive guidebook should do the trick.

Top Tips:

If you are convinced that each of your 11 guidebooks offers unique and vital information about your destination, cart them to your office or the library and photocopy your favorite sections.

Lonely Planet offers mix-and-match guidebook chapters that can be downloaded a la carte on its Web site. This allows travelers to purchase (and pack!) only the sections they need.

Research the location of an Internet cafe or two at your destination before you leave. If you are afraid of not having access to travel information during your trip, you can always find it on the Web.

Don't Pack More Clothes Than You Need

Clothes tend to make up the bulk of most travelers' suitcases, and reducing the number of outfits you pack can lighten your load significantly. No one wants to run out of clean underwear in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, but it's possible to find a comfortable balance between wearing the same stinky jeans and T-shirt the whole trip and changing your outfit three times each day like a celebrity.

Top Tips:

If you're going on, say, a seven-day cruise, spend a week before you leave keeping track of everything you wear. Make a list, or, if you learn better with visual aids, keep these items together in a laundry basket. Then figure out which items you can do without.

Bring clothes in neutral colors that you can mix and match, and only pack shoes that can be worn with multiple outfits.

Check the weather at your destination before you leave, and pack accordingly. If the weather deviates significantly from the forecast, you can always buy a sweater or rain poncho and keep it as a souvenir.

Many travel cruise companies sell small packets of laundry detergent (you can also find these at a laundromat). It only takes a few minutes to wash your clothes in your laundry and hang them on a hanger to dry. When you wake up the next morning ... hello freshly washed clothes!

Don't Pack Unnecessary Gadgets

This section applies to you if you have ever packed items such as nightlights, shoe horns, portable DVD players, book lights, coffee makers, fire-safety smoke hoods, hotel-door alarm systems, toothbrush sanitizers or electronic language translators, never to actually use them on your cruise. The definition of "necessary" varies from one traveler to the next, so it's important to ask yourself if you will really need your ocean-sound machine to get to sleep each night before you stuff it in your bursting suitcase.

Top Tips:

If you are a travel gadget addict, rotate your collection. Pick one or two that you just have to have and save the others for a future trip.

Keep in mind that some gadgets may call for more room in your luggage than you'd expect; to keep them running, you may need to pack things like spare batteries, chargers, or electrical adapters and converters (for overseas travel).

Don't Pack Things You Can Buy

Yes, things you can buy at home are often more expensive overseas. This is especially true away from Europe, so a traveler who's flying across the pond may want to pack extra everything in the interest of saving money. But again -- think of the luggage weight fees. Simple items that you may need but can probably live without, like aspirin, nail polish remover, extra razors or reading material, can usually be purchased at convenience stores in many destinations.

Top Tips:

Remember that if you decide to buy a lot of your items abroad, you will have to create room in your suitcase to cart them back home. Buy sample-sized items if you can to save space and money.

Instead of bringing a virtual library of reading material with you, buy magazines and newspapers. Picking out what you want to read will give you something to do as you wait, and you can recycle the items (or give them to a fellow traveler) so you don't have to lug them back with you.

If anyone else has any top tips please post them here.

The Oceania Way

2010-07-15T09:12:00.000+01:00

Not all cruises are holidays; some can be a penance, with their balloon-bursting competitions, their theme-nights with the idiosyncratic baked Alaska parade, their double sittings for dinner and their nightclubs dizzy with strobe lighting.

Fortunately for more fastidious voyagers, Oceania Cruises defy the theme park at sea image. They resent the anonymity, uniformity and insensitivity of modern mass cruising and exude an ambiance of a seagoing country club; a status that cruise ships conveying more than a thousand souls can never hope to attain.

Oceania Cruises offer a destination-intensive, floating hotel experience with top-notch food and superior service.

The three 30,277-ton, 684-passenger vessels - Insignia, Nautica, and Regatta - reflect a triumph of good manners and style over modernist brusqueness. Décor is a reaction against anonymous aesthetic; everywhere is ambient and intimate; the atmosphere is luxurious, sassy and grown-up.

Sailing on board an Oceania ship is unlike any other cruise experience; think Ritz-Carlton at sea and you're getting close. The Grand Dining Room is no fallacy; Martinis Bar is as refined as any land-based clone; and the staterooms are so different from any cabin you might find on similar vessels that here the much-misused term 'room' for shipboard accommodation is not inappropriate.

For cruisers for whom the most important part of the day is when the sun has disappeared over the yardarm and thoughts turn to dinner, Oceania Cruises are definitely in the spotlight, rather than the twilight. Night after night, meal after meal, the culinary experience never disappoints – not surprising when you consider Oceania prides itself on spending 25 per cent more on food than most cruise lines. Even the china is Versace!

Chef Pépin also sails on each ship at least once a year offering cooking demonstrations as well as devising 'signature dishes.'

The Polo Grill offers a menu boasting a multitude of cuts of beef in gargantuan proportions. Toscana is not only staffed by Italians, the chefs hail from that culinary colossus, and the food is divine. Tapas on the Terrace is also a popular option. Here, the relaxed ambiance, incredibly fresh food, and guitar trio are a magical combination. By day, the Terrace Café and the poolside Waves Grill offer alfresco lunches.

'Night after night, meal after meal, the culinary experience never disappionts'

The dress code every night is described as 'Country Club Casual.' Whilst open to interpretation, passengers should think elegant casual, with most gentlemen preferring to combine a jacket with open-neck shirt. Tuxedos are noticeably absent.

Accomplished classical musicians are a feature of the nightly entertainment with perhaps a string quartet playing in the Upper Hall and an affable virtuoso entertaining in the piano bar. Deck parties are also popular, as is the small Casino; movies are screened in the show-lounge, and there are also the most attractive libraries at sea.

The delightful Mandara Spa offers a selection of La Therapie treatments as well as exotic Elemis rituals. Internet classes are surprisingly popular, none more so than the Adobe Photoshop seminars. As you would expect from this port-intensive company, excursions are multi-faceted and varied but somewhat expensive. There's also an Executive Collection of bespoke tours that appeal to passengers who prefer to take control of their own arrangements.

Ships in the Oceania fleet are almost exclusively non-smoking.

There are 10 grades of suites and staterooms, ranging from compact, 160sq ft inside cabins to vast Owner's and Vista Suites measuring nearly 1,000sq ft. The Penthouse Suites come complete with butlers who will serve breakfast or dinner in the privacy of your large balcony. All come with incredibly comfortable Tranquillity beds and the softest Frette linens.

With a crew-to-passenger ratio of 1.7, a guest service orientation that's reminiscent of the ultra-deluxe boutique ships and a continual evolution of improvements to the on-board experience, this is a cruise company not to be dismissed lightly.

OK who's going to Brazil 2014?

2010-07-12T19:30:00.002+01:00

So another dissapointing world cup passes us by...

The Brazilians are already starting to plan the next one and have annouced a marketing plan to substantially increase tourism. Brazil and Amazon cruises are becoming more and more popular and the Brazilian tourist board hope to encourage more of this over the next few years.

Fred Olsen, P&O, Princess all offer great sailing to Brazil in 2011.

Brazil has embarked on a campaign to attract tourists to the country in advance of the 2014 World Cup, following the handover from South Africa last night.

It is hoped the promotion will reach 100 countries and 400 million people worldwide.

President Lula and the tourism minister launched the Brazil is Calling You! campaign on Friday in Johannesburg.

The international tourism promotion consists of videos, graphic novels and social media activities.

The objective is to invite the world to visit the country, taking advantage of the exposure Brazil will have as the host nation of the top sporting events.

The campaign was prepared by the Brazilian Tourism Ministry through Embratur (Brazilian Tourist Board) and will be exhibited from July 12 on TV and Youtube.

The Ministry of Tourism hope to increase international tourism in the country by 300% during the next decade, by doubling the number of foreign visitors.

Some $30 million will be invested into the campaign by the end of 2010, through advertising, public relations activities, distribution of promotional material in the 12 host cities of the 2014 World Cup, and mobile phone applications and promotional events in around 30 countries.

The Roman Navigator

2010-07-05T13:57:00.002+01:00

Friends... Romans...Countrymen... Lend me your ears. (Well, Eyes really)

I stand before you with a tale of adventure and delight. Even Jupiter himself would marvel at wonders of the “Navigator of the Seas”. A vessel used to carry our men and woman of all ages into relaxation and amazement.

In the week commencing Augustus 8th MMX you can be in awe of Messina, Kusadasi, Piraeus and Iraklion. Departing and Returning to the fair city of Rome. This is followed by another voyage of 7 nights to Genoa, Villefranche, Barcelona, Palma and Cagliari.

Each of these voyages can be enjoyed for the same price or for those adventurers with sprit only seen with the gladiators in the colloseum, we can combine them together.

These 7 night voyages are only costing £849 gold pieces per person. This acquires you private lodgings on board the ship, with a private balcony to admire the beauty of the ocean. For those more affluent citizens you have the option to have a suite even Julius Caesar himself would desire. This would be at a cost of £1019 gold pieces per person.

The information I have told you today does include the payment of the service people on board who are there to grant your every desire (with some limitations).

For those who are required to fly with god like power to the great city of Rome, we have the capability to grant this at an additional cost.

Regent Seven Seas: $40M Makeover

2010-07-05T09:40:00.002+01:00

Regent Seven Seas already offer amazing quality and luxury, well I've heard today they are going to spend another $40 Million on just two of their ships.

This will all be appearing on the Regent Mariner and Voyager.

Among the additions are Prime 7, a fine steakhouse grill restaurant that replaces the former Latitudes (which served Indochine cuisine), along with a new galley to service the additional dining option.

With no additional surcharge, Prime 7 uses only the finest beef, from Midwest Black Angus cattle that is dry-aged for a minimum of 28 days.... Sounds like my kind of place, here's a menu insert.

PRIME DINING

Prime 7 features an array of avant-garde appetisers such as a trio of steak tartares and foie gras sliders with rhubarb chutney along with traditional favorites that include oysters Rockefeller and jumbo lump crab cake.

The stars of the evening, however, are the main courses with eight Prime, dry-aged steaks to choose from, plus an enticing selection of lamb, pork, poultry and seafood specialties. Mouthwatering choices include:

A 32oz Porterhouse, carved tableside

18oz 'Cote de Boeuf' bone-in rib steak

12oz New York strip, slow-roasted prime rib

6 and 10oz Filet Mignon

Signature Surf & Turf - 6oz filet mignon with Canadian cold water lobster or Alaskan king crab legs.

A glamorous, contemporary interpretation of a classic steakhouse, Prime 7 features a fresh, distinctive décor and an innovative menu. Rivaling the most elegant of restaurants ashore, a rich palette of green and golden hues creates an ambiance of luxury and intimacy. Supple leather furniture, polished granite and burnished woods set an impressive culinary stage that is accented by a stunning table setting of custom china, gleaming silver and shimmering crystal.

Another major upgrade on both ships sees more spacious Penthouse suites, with an entire wall of window and the balcony beyond, while bathrooms now feature a glass-enclosed shower with marble seat instead of a bathtub.

Regent are already 6 star luxury, but this sounds like a real improvement to me.

P&O Launches biggest ever world cruise program 2011/12

2010-06-26T12:50:00.007+01:00

P&O have gone world cruise crazy!

Five ships will take in 177 ports in 55 countries, with 95 separate holidays to choose from, the new P&O Cruises’ 2011/12 world cruise program is its most expansive ever.
The line is offering five world cruises, 18 line voyages and 72 shorter cruise holidays, departing in 2011 and 2012.

The 2011/12 world cruise brochure will be on sale beginning Thursday, July 15.

* Arcadia, 72-night Grand Alaska Adventure departs Tuesday, April 12, 2011
* Adonia, 87-night South America Grand Adventure departs Friday, January 13, 2012
* Arcadia, 109-night Grand Odyssey departs Monday, January 9, 2012
* Aurora, 98-night westabout full world circumnavigation departs Wednesday, January 4, 2012
* Oriana, 97-night eastabout full world circumnavigation departs Thursday, January 5, 2012

Adonia, the newest and smallest ship in the fleet, will embark on an 87-night adventure with a full circumnavigation of South America via the Caribbean and returning via the Panama Canal. Adonia will visit 37 ports in 17 countries, including three new destinations Georgetown, Guyana; Salaverry, Peru and Chacabuco, Chile.

Highlights include:

* Overnight stays in Manaus, Brazil; Buenos Aires; and New Orleans
* Scenic cruising in the Amazon, Cape Horn, Beagle Channel, Amalia, Glacier, PIO X Glacier and through the Panama Canal.
* 17 shorter cruises including a 17-night cruise holiday from New Orleans to Southampton, England. Six ports of call including Key West and Port Everglades in Florida and Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas

Cruise Ship Picture Quiz

2010-06-21T12:58:00.004+01:00

Hi,

So you think you know your cruise ships. Well here is 10 pictures of cruise ships... Enter your answers below. A Berlitz Guide to cruising to the first person to get them all.

and finally 10.

Good luck, will be interesting to see your answers!

Cruise bookings surge due to air strikes and ash cloud.

2010-06-14T19:01:00.001+01:00

Although the air strikes and ash cloud have caused no end of problems for people all over the world. The cruise industry is now revelling in a huge surge of bookings and interest in sailings from the UK. Here is a copy of a recent article published by the Telegraph. It includes Cruise.Co.Uk and Sukie Rapal, head of marketing.

The UK's cruise operators have reported a surge in bookings, up by 50 per cent in some cases, following the recent wave of flight cancellations and airport closures.
And they predict that the popularity of cruises will continue growing this summer when many British holidaymakers choose to steer clear of airports as they head overseas.

Latest figures from the Passenger Shipping Association forecast that, despite the recent recession, 1.65 million Britons will book a cruise this year - more than ever before - representing a seven per cent increase on last year.

Among those holidaymakers opting to cruise rather than fly are the newly-named social group known by the acronym "Vavs", standing for Volcanic Ash Victims, air travellers whose travel plans have been disrupted by Iceland's eruptions.

One cruise line currently experiencing "unprecedented demand", including bookings from "Vavs", is Cruise and Maritime Voyages, based in Dartford, Kent, that sails from eight British ports including Tilbury, the London cruise terminal.
Mike Hall, the company's marketing manager, said yesterday: "The ash cloud situation and BA strikes have affected, and will continue to affect, many people’s travel plans. We have seen an unprecedented demand for last-minute availability on our no-fly cruises.
"One couple who had their holiday cancelled due to the ash cloud, booked one of our cruises to the Norwegian Fjords and became cruise converts. At the end of their cruise, they submitted a customer feed-back form.
"It read: 'Because of the volcano our travel plans were disrupted. We booked for a holiday at the last minute that did not involve flying and booked this cruise – wonderful! Every ash cloud has a silver lining. It’s been a treat.’ "

Britain's largest online cruise specialist, wwww.cruise.co.uk, reported "a significant increase" in cruise bookings since the BA strikes and volcanic eruptions began. One member of staff said: "The phones have gone ballistic."
Sukie Rapal, the company's head of marketing, said: “Since early April, we have seen a significant increase in the number of phone inquiries and bookings regarding operators who sail from UK ports.
"The current situation with BA and the second volcano incident has resulted in even more interest for our agents. While we also offer international fly-cruises, we expect to see a continued interest from customers who simply don’t want to risk flying, even to mainland Europe."
Cruises leaving main UK ports, such as Southampton, Dover, Portsmouth, Newcastle and Liverpool, for destinations including the Mediterranean, the Norwegian Fjords and the Baltic, are especially popular.
There are now 19 cruise lines sailing direct from British ports this summer, allowing holidaymakers anxious about disruption to avoid airports altogether.

Shearings Holidays, one of the UK and Europe's leading tour operators, based in Wigan, Lancashire, offers a range of cruises departing from Harwich to destinations including northern Europe, Scandinavia, Iceland and Greenland.
Caroline Brown, their commercial director, said: "Bookings for Shearings’ ex-UK cruises have increased by as much as 50 per cent over the last month as customers take advantage of the chance to experience a cruising holiday with out having to fly. People are uncertain about the ash cloud and air travel in general at the moment."

Virgin Holidays Cruises’ commercial director, Ashley Royston, added: “In the month following the disruption caused by the volcanic ash, Virgin Holidays Cruises has seen a 50 per cent increase in bookings for cruise holidays sailing from the UK."

And MSC Cruises, one of the world's fastest-growing cruise lines with a fleet of 10 ships, also reported an increase in bookings for cruises leaving UK ports, attributing this current trend to "passengers showing a lack of confidence in flying".
A spokesman said: "MSC Cruises has seen an increase in bookings for its ex-UK cruises during the volcanic ash crisis at a time when passengers are wishing to continue to book a summer holiday but do not want to risk flying."

Reader Offers Limited, one of the largest and fastest-growing independent retailers of cruises in the UK, also reported a boom in bookings of up to 15 per cent.
Lisa Tanwiar, the company's head of product and marketing, said: "We have noticed a significant increase in the popularity of no-fly cruises following recent events such as the ash cloud disruption and planned BA strikes.
"Many holidaymakers who have never experienced the wonders of no-fly cruising now see this as the perfect holiday idea, as it gives them the opportunity to visit a variety of appealing destinations within their cruise holiday, starting the moment they step on board a beautiful cruise ship which departs conveniently from a UK port.”

Among the most popular types cruises being booked at the moment are ultra luxury cruises to northern Europe favoured by couples and "multi-generational" family cruises, mainly to the Mediterranean.
Many holidaymakers are also booking river cruises in mainland Europe, taking Eurostar to the main departure ports on European rivers such as the Rhine.

Newspaper Deals? Not quite what they seem.

2010-06-02T14:31:00.001+01:00

I'm aware a lot of you are well educated in finding the right cruise at the right price. For those of you who don't have the means or time to search out the best deals please beware. I have been monitoring the full page spread advertisements taken out recently and the prices that are offered as "exclusive" by certain companies are laughable.

Although they look very pretty and seem like they are throwing all sorts of goodies in with the deal, they are not at all competitive.

The latest appeared in last Saturdays Times (29th May 2010).

THE 2010 ORIANA NO FLY WORLD CRUISE

An Amazing 84 nights - 28 ports from only £7299pp

Exclusive up to £1000 on board spend

Complimentary Upgrades

Complimentary Chauffeur Transfers

Sounds good? Well no it isnt.... Here are the prices offered.

Inside OD grade £7299pp + £500 OBC

Inside OC with free upgrade to NB £7699pp + £500 OBC

Inside OB with free upgrade to NA £7899pp + £500 OBC

Outside LC £8959pp + £500 OBC

Outside KC £9399pp + £500 OBC

Deluxe Outside EA £12,699pp + £500 OBC

Deluxe Balcony DB £17,659pp + £750 OBC

Mini Suite BA £26,359pp + £1000 OBC

This all comes with Chauffeur from home up to maximum of 200 miles each way.

Well for all this with either the transfer or free car parking and the on board credit I can offer the following.

Inside OD grade £6799pp + £500 OBC

Inside OC with free upgrade to NB £7199pp + £500 OBC

Inside OB with free upgrade to NA £7399pp + £500 OBC

Outside LC £8359pp + £500 OBC

Outside KC Sold Out

Deluxe Outside EA £11,799pp + £500 OBC

Deluxe Balcony DB £16,459pp + £750 OBC

Mini Suite BA £24,559pp + £1000 OBC

If you do see something in the newspapers that takes your fancy, make sure you call your trusty cruise specialist and see if they can beat the offer.

New Cruise.Co.Uk Garden Cruise Program Announced

2010-06-01T12:44:00.003+01:00

Over the last two years the popularity of the Cruise.Co.Uk Garden cruise program has gone from strength to strength. Thousands of avid gardeners have enjoyed wonderful itineraries and tours all over the world. Combining the pleasure of a luxury cruise along with like minded fellow passengers, all ran with the professionalism of the BBC Gardeners World team has never been so popular.

With names like Alan Titchmarsh, Tony Russell and Pippa Greenwood looking after our passengers, the feedback has been overwhelming. Many passengers return time and time again to experience the fantastic holidays at amazing prices. Many of the cruises have free car parking, free excursions, private talks and cocktail parties as well as some on board credit throw in. These packages are often cheaper than taking the cruise at the usual discounted rates too!

I have just been informed that the next run of these cruises are about to be announced and I can get you an exclusive sneak preview at what will be offered. These offers will be appearing in the BBC Gardeners World magazine but as places are limited I suggest you get in early.

Fred Olsen Braemar – Amazon - 3 February – 14 Nights – TONY RUSSELL

Fred Olsen Braemar – Classic Caribbean - 3 March – 14 Nights – Host TBA

Fred Olsen Boudicca – Dublin and Daffodils - 7 April – 3 Nights – Host TBA

Fred Oslen Black Watch – Canary Islands - 15 April – 12 Nights – PIPPA GREENWOOD

Fred Olsen Balmoral – Norway - 3 May – 10 Nights – Host TBA

Fred Olsen Balmoral – Baltic - 24 June – 14 Nights – Host TBA

Fred Olsen Balmoral – Italy - 16 July – 16 Nights – TONY RUSSELL

Fred Olsen Braemar – Canary Islands - 29 September – 13 Nights – Host TBA

Prices and further information will be out within the next 2 weeks and I will update you all on here.

New to Cruising.. Here's what you need to know

2010-05-25T16:02:00.001+01:00

COOPED up on a ship, with nowhere to go and nothing to do apart from feeling seasick as you try to sleep in a poky, airless cabin which moves with every wave...
That’s what people who HAVEN’T been on a cruise might think.

But once you’ve been on one cruise, chances are you’ll book another – 80 per cent of first-timers do – and all those worries will have floated away.

There has never been such an exciting choice of ships and itineraries.

There are cruises for families, couples, singles and oldies. Party ships where the action never stops, and relaxing ones where you can spend your days doing nothing. Superliners so big you need a map to find your way around, and small ships which feel more like a private club.

On your cruise you can visit the scorching beaches of the Caribbean, the splendour of Europe’s cities or the breathtaking scenery of Alaska or the Norwegian Fjords.

And of course, there’s an endless supply of food, whether it’s a snack from the 24-hour buffet, a fun dinner in a speciality restaurant or an elegant five-course feast in a formal dining room.

The price is right...
THE most expensive cruises aren’t always the best, and the cheapest aren’t bound to be rubbish. So there’s no need to push the boat out.
Divide the cost by the number of days and you’ll get the price per night. That is usually a pretty good way of seeing what you can expect.
And remember that your fare will cover your accommodation, meals, entertainment – and the cost of getting you from place to beautiful place.

Home suite home...
CABINS are often called “staterooms” these days. All have en-suite facilities and are serviced daily.
Inside cabins are the cheapest and, usually, the smallest. Carefully-placed pictures and curtains conceal the fact that there’s no window – so no view.
Outside cabins will have either a porthole or a window. Best of all, if you can afford it, is to have a balcony where you can sit and watch the world sail past.
The more expensive cabins are usually higher up the ship, nearer to the open decks and the facilities.

And the best are called suites – bigger, nicer, and you might even get your own butler. You’ll pay for the privilege of feeling privileged, though!

If you're really worried about feeling seasick, try for a mid-ship cabin as low down as possible. You feel more pitching movement if you're at either end of the ship, and more rolling if you're high up.

Jolly sailors...
PARTY animals can find bars, karaoke nights, discos and comedians.
Mini-golf, rock-climbing walls, bowling alleys, ice rinks and surf simulators are the latest attractions – along with self-levelling snooker tables.
Shows can vary from “sequins and feathers” dancers to big-name entertainers and, if they're not available, tribute acts.

Quieter ships have quizzes, guest lecturers, dance classes and afternoon teas.

Most ships have a selection of shops – usually selling cruise line logo clothing, tax-free jewellery and duty frees.

Time to get packing...
THERE is no limit to the amount of luggage you can take onto a cruise ship – which is great if there’s no flying involved.
But if you're flying to your holiday don’t over-pack, and leave room for souvenirs. Some airlines will turn a blind eye if your bags are overweight on the way out ... but they will clobber you with excess baggage charges on the way back.
If your ship has formal nights, it doesn’t mean you have to bring a different outfit for each of them. There are no rules about wearing the same dress twice – and these days formal doesn’t mean ball gowns!
It might be several hours before your cases are delivered to your cabin – so pack your cozzie in your hand luggage and relax on deck.

Smokers beware – although you can now take your lighter on planes out of Britain, if you’re flying back from Barbados there are no lighters or matches allowed on the aircraft – and all cases are X-rayed to be certain. So don’t take your best Zippo!

...and think about parking
THERE is plenty of parking at the major UK ports of Southampton, Dover and Harwich, and your cruise line will tell you the options. It’s a short walk from car park to check-in.
If you're flying, book your parking well in advance to get the cheapest rates – and do check which terminal your plane returns to!

A floating hotel ... not yet!
WHEN your cruise begins in a faraway place like Miami, you will usually fly out a day early and have a night in a hotel. That’s just in case your flight is delayed – ships can’t wait.
There will be a shuttle bus from the hotel to the port – don’t miss it, or you will have to find your own way there!

Checking in

YOU will need your cruise documents, your passport and your credit card.
First of all, though, is a form to sign – you declare that you haven’t had any tummy trouble in the last couple of weeks. That’s to keep illness off the ship.
At the desk you’ll be issued with your Ship ID card – you will need it to get on and off the ship, and to charge your onboard purchases to your room – money is hardly used on board.
Most of the time this can be done online before you arrive.

And now it’s time to walk up the gangway. Your cases will arrive later after they have been security scanned.

All aboard
WHENEVER you enter or leave the ship, your ID card goes into a machine and the security officer sees your mugshot. In addition to confirming it’s you, it also keeps count of who is onboard.
Your cabin might not be ready yet – the stewards have only a couple of hours to spruce it up after the last people – but the buffet will be open and it’s a good time to explore the ship.
It’s also the best time to book any hair appointments, spa treatments or other extras that you fancy, like the speciality restaurants.

Women and children first!
EVERYONE has to attend the emergency drill – there are no excuses.
When the alarm sounds – seven short and one long blast on the whistle – get your lifejacket from your cabin and go to the “muster station” indicated on your cabin door.
That’s where you would go in a real emergency. Some cruise lines do the drill out by the lifeboats, others hold it in inside rooms.

And yes, there are more than enough lifeboats for everyone!

Bleugh ... the motion of the ocean
ALL cruise ships have stabilisers – like underwater wings, which reduce side-to-side rolling, but there’s always a chance that you will feel a bit of movement.
Special wristbands and bracelets might help, and apparently sucking a bit of ginger can do the trick. The reception desk may have some free pills to hand out.
But if you’re feeling really rough, the ship’s doctor (every cruise ship has one, by law) will give you a quick jab which will cure you.

It’s all about the food!
MOST ships have a main restaurant with two fixed dining times – early and late sittings. Tables-for-two are rare – you're more likely to be steered towards a table for six or even eight.
If you don’t like your tablemates, don’t be embarrassed to find the restaurant manager – known as the maitre d’ – and see if you can change tables.
But there is a growing trend towards open dining, where you can turn up when you like and you're not forced to sit with strangers. At busy times this might mean having to wait.

Most of your food is included in the fare, although many ships now have speciality restaurants – often designed by celebrity chefs – where you have to pay a bit extra.

Land ho!
SHORE excursions – tours organised by the ship – are often the best way to see the ports of call, but you don’t have to go on them. For one thing, they can be quite expensive.
The big advantages of using a “shorex” are that you get a tour guide, all the transport is laid on, and if you’re late back to the ship it’s not a problem.
Go ashore on your own and it’s up to you to be back on time. If you're late, the ship won't wait and you will have to find your way to the next port – even if it is in a different country!
It’s worth doing a bit of research before your cruise – for instance, a shorex from Villefranche to Monte Carlo can cost upwards of €75. The train is only three or four Euros.

In some ports, if you're not on a tour then it’s hardly worth going ashore. Tunis, for example, is quite scary.
And at some destinations, the port is a fair way from the main attractions – your ship might be parked in an industrial dock.

Here’s a tip ... about tipping
Arguments about the rights and wrongs of tipping have raged for years, and I’m not going back into them here.
Some ships will say your tips are included in the fare. Others charge you a compulsory “service fee”. But some still expect you to pop a bit of cash in an envelope on the last night and hand it to your cabin steward and restaurant waiter (which is why the buffet’s closed on the last night).

Your cruise line will tell you the drill, and how much is expected, when they send your tickets.

They think it’s all over...
UNLESS you're carrying your cases off by yourself, you will have to put them out for collection on the last night of your cruise – next time you see them will be ashore.
And that means thinking ahead – make sure you leave yourself something to wear the next morning.
They will also want you out of your cabin early – long before you disembark – so the stewards can get it ready, just as they did for you at the start of your cruise.

You will be given a colour-coded and numbered ticket. Wait in one of the lounges, or on deck, until you're called.
Getting hundreds – thousands, these days – of people off a ship in a short time is a masterly piece of organisation.

Patience is definitely required!

So who goes on what cruise?

2010-05-25T12:53:00.003+01:00

Thinking of taking a cruise? There are so many different cruise companies to choose from. How do you know where to start. Well here is my light hearted guide to which cruise is right for you.

Are you?

Wayne and Waynetta.

Then Island Cruises could be just the thing you are looking for.

Are you?

Gallaghers

Then an all-inclusive Thomson cruise is right for you.

Are you?

Corry

Then Fred Olsen will look after you like no other.

Are you?

European

Costa and MSC will offer all that continental Flair

Are you?

Barrs

Then the food on a Royal Caribbean cruise should cater for your needs.

Are You?

Bucket

Then a lovely cruise to the Baltics with Cunard could be the envy of all your friends

Are You?

Oh yes Maureen... We are considerably richer than yoooow.

Meet like minded people on any of Regent, Silversea or Seabourne.

I hope this guide has been useful and helped you decide which cruise line is right for you.

Oasis and Epic theatre booking systems

2010-05-23T12:05:00.006+01:00

It was pretty much inevitable that when ships went from just plain mega-sized to super-super-megasized, some things would get a little more complicated. Entertainment, for instance. Last year, Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas debuted with a system for pre-booking tickets to the vessel's more high-profile entertainments, and now NCL has announced that the same will be true aboard its new, 4,200-passenger Norwegian Epic, which debuts in July. Sure, it's less spontaneous than just wandering in after dinner, but as I have learned, spontaneous doesn't count for much if you get there and there aren't any seats left.

Pre-booking will be available for headline performances by the Blue Man Group, Legends in Concert, and the Second City Comedy Troupe, and for the shows Cirque Dreams & Dinner, Nickelodeon Slime Time Live!, Breakfast with Nickelodeon, and the Murder Mystery "Presumed Murdered." Guests will be able to pre-book online up to 45 days before their cruise (or once aboard, via the vessel's interactive TV system), and they have until 10 minutes before show time to, uh, show, otherwise the ticket will be made available to walk-in guests.

Guests are limited to one reservation per show, per cruise. Otherwise we could end up with ticket touts on board. I can just imagine some people with a North West accent asking if you need tickets as you walk to towards the theatre.

Passengers on "Chavtura"

No doubt about it, Epic is set to offer some of the best (and most) entertainment of any ship at sea today. Blue Man Group will perform eight shows per sailing; Legends in Concert (a celebrity impersonator revue) will play six; Legends Unplugged, three; Nickelodeon SlimeTime Live, three; Cirque Dreams & Dinner,12 shows per cruise; Second City, 14; Howl at the Moon (a dueling pianos act), four; and the kid-oriented Breakfast with Nickelodeon will be available three mornings per sailing. A big-top entertainment tent, the Spiegel Tent, will be the venue for both Cirque Dreams & Dinner and the "Presumed Murdered" mystery show, which will run once per cruise.

It's all a far, far cry from the usual song-and-dance revues we've come to expect aboard cruise ships over the past couple decades -- and thank god for that.

1.65m Brits to cruise in 2010

2010-05-19T14:08:00.010+01:00

Queue for new 2011/12 brochures

Latest figures show the number of cruises taken by Brits has doubled since 2000, while ultra luxury cruises are up 50 per cent in 12 months…. And there’s a recession on! What will happen once we get an upturn in the economy?
Figures released yesterday show that 1.65 million Britons are expected to take a cruise in 2010 – more than a seven percent increase on 2009 and more than double the figure recorded in 2000. Surely this shows the cruise lines, ships and service are all improving. Gone are the days when cruising was tagged as the blue rinse brigade holiday.

Fourteen ships are launching this year and passenger numbers are on course to rise further still to two million by 2014.

Celebrity Eclipse launched April 2010.

One in ten package holidays booked is now a cruise, compared with one in nearly 30 in 1997. The sheer diversity of the cruise market means there is a holiday for everyone, whether it’s a cruise departing from the UK, an ultra-luxury experience in the Caribbean, a cultural river cruise or a photographic expedition to the Fjords, many more people are getting onboard to discover a world of cruising. I think the family market especially has grown tremendously with the introduction of ships like the Independence of the Seas offering endless amount of fun for younger passengers..

Flo Rider on Independence of the Seas

Cruise customers are loyal. Figures from The Cruise Review show that 60 percent of passengers take more than one cruise a year. Passengers are also cruising for longer, with the average length of a cruise increasing year on year from 10 nights to 11 nights. The quality of service, value, high standards of facilities and huge variety of activities mean that passengers keep returning to cruising. Just take a look at the reviews section on www.cruise.co.uk to see how high the customer satisfaction ratings are.

Northern Europe is proving particularly popular with a 20 percent increase in the number of Brits visiting this region, with Baltic and Norwegian Fjord itineraries top of the list. St Petersburg has been the “in” destination this year. I have been amazed at the amount of interest shown in Baltic cruises that have 2 full days in this beautiful city.

The figures also reveal that ultra luxury cruises are up 50 per cent in 2009 compared with the previous year. Thirty one thousand people paid more than £5,000 each for their cruise with another 200,000 spending between £2,500 and £5,000. The general trend is for people to start at the 4* level of ships and then climb up the luxury ladder once they know what they like.

The success of UK cruising, during one of the toughest economic periods the world has seen, can be attributed to the value and high standards of a cruise holiday. The all-inclusive nature of cruising and exceptional standards of quality and service are the key to our continued growth, along with the huge choice of worldwide destinations and the wide range in styles of cruising.

So if you see a cruise you like the look of for 2011, I suggest you get in early as late deals seem to be a thing of the past.

Carnival tells passengers they are "Completely Ridiculous"

2010-05-18T16:29:00.006+01:00

Over the past week, I’ve heard some passengers from the Carnival Ecstasy who were shocked and injured when the cruise violently turned to avoid - what Carnival alleges was - a renegade buoy in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico.

The passengers who contacted me were very upset about the incident and felt that Carnival was not telling the truth. Like the majority of people who cruise, the last thing that anyone wants to do is have to contact a lawyer after a holiday.
Carnival are quoted in an e-mail: "We have sophisticated navigational equipment on board and sail the same routes every week. The notion we were about to hit an island, reef, sandbar, etc. is completely ridiculous.
The ship listed 12 degrees. This is confirmed and factual . . . the list was the result of an abrupt, sharp turn which was taken to avoid a large, mostly submerged buoy that was adrift and was not the result of any equipment malfunction."

Nowhere in the PR statement was there any hint of an apology by Carnival about what happened. The passengers on the cruise ship were elderly retired couples, children, babies, disabled passengers in wheelchairs - all of whom have described compelling stories of the total fear of the ship tipping over and their families being lost at sea. These passengers have also complained that Carnival would not tell them the truth about what happened. Other than a letter filled with erroneous information and full of excuses signed by the Captain which was slipped under the passengers' doors, no one on the cruise ship took the time to explain what happened.

To rub-salt-into-the-wound, we now have the crisis manager of Carnival's PR department mocking these passengers - telling a reporter in Miami that the complaints of these passengers are "completely ridiculous."

If the cruise line really has "sophisticated navigational equipment," why didn't the vessel's radar pick up the buoy? Why didn't the navigational officers spot the hazard? Is Carnival's PR person denying that there are islands in the Gulf? Why not take the time to apologize to the families terrorized by the event caused by Carnival's negligence?

Nice to see Carnival take complaints seriously.

P&O Cruises unveils new speaker programme

2010-05-11T12:02:00.013+01:00

P&O Cruises has announced a new line up of celebrity guest speakers who will be entertaining passengers on board this summer. Some of them seem alot better than others but each to their own.

P&O Cruises managing director, Carol Marlow, said: “We have a varied array of guest speakers from the worlds of sport, music, stage, screen, broadcasting and much more.

“We will, of course, be welcoming back some of our passenger’s favourites, but as many of our passengers travel with us regularly we will be offering new guests across the fleet.”

Passenger favourites on board include:

John Challis and Sue Holderness aka Only fools and horses, ‘Boycie & Marlene’;
Awwwwwright Marrrleeeene. (Accents are hard to do on here)

British actor, Sir Donald Sinden. I'm not to familiar with this guy. I think he's a famous Shakespearian actor.. anyone got any further info?

Legendary jockey, Bob Champion.

World cup winning footballer, Jack Charlton. I've seen him do an after dinner speech before and he is a really entertaining.

New talent who will be sharing their stories and experiences include:

TV presenter, Nick Owen; Currently chairman of Luton Town Football Club. I find this one a bit of a random choice. Is he that popular?

Ex Bath & England rugby union star, Gareth Chilcott; I’m not a fan of Egg Chasing.. Any help regarding this guy would be appreciated.

Actress, Shirley Anne Field. This should be a great story. Having been brought up in a children’s home she went on to be one of the most glamorous stars of the screen.

Boxing legend, Our Enry. For me the number one choice. I'd consider booking a cruise just to hear the guy. Above is his famous picture when he put Ali on his backside.

Once I get some more information as to what cruises these people are on i will let you all know. If anyone got any comments regarding these people let me know.

Dan

NCL.... No Cruise Like it

2010-05-06T12:00:00.016+01:00

Norwegian Cruise Lines have always been pioneers within the cruise industry. Since their early days of operating as Norwegian Caribbean Line, the company has always approached cruise holidays in a totally unique way. Started in 1966 by Knut Kloster and Ted Arison (Later the founder of Carnival Cruise Lines) with just one small car ferry, they soon grew the fleet to operate cruise holidays around the Caribbean. These car ferries were adapted to include a theatre and casino. This was just the beginning of the cruise holiday revolution that NCL are famous for.

In the 70’s NCL bought a ship called France which was later renamed Norway. (Why the name change? anyone know?) The conversion cost more than $100 million USD. For the 1970’s that was seen as a ridiculous amount of money. The Norway was significantly larger than any other existing cruise ship, and exploited the extra space available by adding a greater aray of onboard entertainment and activities.

Since that time the company steadily grew to offer holidays all over the world including Alaska, South America, Europe, Bermuda and Hawaii.

NCL now offers the youngest fleet in the whole cruising industry. Here is a list of the current fleet.

Norwegian Sky 77,000 GT
Operated as Pride of Aloha (2004–2008) Under US Flag and Norwegian Sky (1999–2004)

Norwegian Sun 78,309 GT

Norwegian Star 91,740 GT
Ordered as SuperStar Libra for Star Cruises

Norwegian Dawn 92,250 GT
Ordered as SuperStar Scorpio for Star Cruises

Norwegian Spirit 76,583 GT
ex-SuperStar Leo transferred from Star Cruises (1998–2004)

Norwegian Jewel 93,000 GT

Norwegian Pearl 93,500 GT

Norwegian Gem 93,500 GT

Norwegian Jade 93,500 GT
Originally Pride of Hawaii (2006–2008) Under US Flag

EPIC
Nowegian Epic, also known as project F3(Sounds very Sci-Fi), is launching on its maiden voyage on 17th July 2010. Under construction at STX Europe, Chantiers de L’Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France. This is the first of two ships in this class, with an option for a third.
The F3 class will surpass the Jewel Class as NCL’s largest Vessel by over 50,000 gross tonnes. This “third generation” of Freestyle cruising vessels and its size allows NCL to have a ship that is in the “Mega-Class” of their main competitors.
Offering the next level of Freestyle cruising the NCL Epic is the latest ground breaking ship to enter the world of luxury holidays.

Dining
With 21 different dining options to choose from and cuisines from around the world, Norwegian Epic will take cruise ship dining to an entirely new level....and waistband. One of the most exciting specialty restaurants will be the Manhattan Room, reminiscent of a New York supper club. This sophisticated, Art Deco-inspired supper club is located in a soaring atrium with panoramic ocean views from two deck-high, floor-to-ceiling windows and a live band playing for your dancing and dining pleasure. Enjoy an eclectic menu and sip a Manhattan prepared tableside – you’ll feel just like you’re out in the big city. Guests can dine at no extra cost and menu highlights include Roast Rack of Lamb and Grilled New York Steak. Three nights a week, celebrity tribute artists from Legends in Concert will perform. While the Manhattan Room seats up to 600 people, the design will make you feel like you’re in a very intimate setting. The Manhattan Room is also open for breakfast and lunch.

Spa
The largest spa at sea will feature 24 treatment rooms, two private couple’s villas, two exotic steam Rasul rooms, a DIY Scrub Experience, Hydrotherapy Courtyard & Thermal Suite, full-service salon, fitness centre and barber shop. Now how is that for full-service relaxation! The spa will offer more than 50 treatments for men and women. One of the most unique is the signature Epic 24 Karat Gold Facial. It includes a blend of medicinal plants, rose quartz and a pure 24 karat gold leaf mask that brings about miraculous results speeding up cell renewal while evoking a brighter and more clarified skin texture and complexion.

Entertainment
Blue Man Group goes Freestyle. There’s never been anything like them, at least on this planet. Think vibrating techno music, light shows, comedy, lots of paint and outrageously talented Blue Men creating a wildly fun party atmosphere...Has anyone seen them in Vegas? Would love to know a bit more about them.

Be ready to live out your inner rock star at The World’s Greatest Rock N’ Roll Dueling Piano Bar! Howl at the Moon has been rocking cities from Hollywood to Chicago for years and they now bring their world famous entertainment to Norwegian Epic’s star-studded nightclub, Headliners...

Ice Bar - The ultimate chill.
Now this truly is as cool as it gets. Inspired by the original ice hotels in Scandinavia, The Ice Bar is one of only 14 in the world and the only true ice bar at sea. Enter a glistening, frozen, fantasyland where the bar, the walls, the tables, the stools, even the life-size sculptures are made out of ice. Let us help you slip into a faux fur coat and boots to keep you warm in the chilly 17 degrees. Of course, the vodka helps, too. If i'm on board you will find me in here. Can you stay as long as you like or is there a time limit due to the temprature?

Epic Casino
Choose from poker, black jack, roulette, craps and hundreds of more-exciting-than-ever slot machines. And with the most rewarding Players Club Program at sea, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a first-timer or a Vegas regular.

For the kids

Suit up and splash down at the first ever Aqua Park. Choose from three multi-story water slides of varying thrill factors. The first one is specifically designed for the not-so-adventurous and zips straight through the rock-climbing wall. The second slide is for the slightly more adventurous, because it twists and turns down three stories. Then there’s The Epic Plunge, the only tube slide at sea that puts the blast of inner-tubing into the core of a bowl slide, with a thrilling drop through a 200-foot long tube. The Aqua Park also includes two main pools with arching water effects that illuminate at night, five hot tubs, a wading pool and a kid’s pool that features whimsical sculptures, water sprays and a slide. The pictures look amazing already, should be a real show piece.

Guaranteed to attract all teens, Entourage is designed like an adult lounge minus the adults. Filled with all things important to the 13- to 17-year-old crowd including self-serve food and drink stations. During the day, it’s all play with PlayStation®3, air hockey, pinball, foosball, a video jukebox and nine large flat-screen televisions. In the evening, Entourage turns into a teens-only nightclub with a space for dancing to a video jukebox and trendy seating arrangements for just hanging out...

Other Facts
It takes approximately 6,000 liters or 1,585 gallons of water to make the ice bar
It takes 8 weeks to train as a “Blue Man”
There are 3 large woks in the galley at Shanghais restaurant and 3 at the noodle bar
There are 32 spa therapists at the spa
There are 756 total feet of water slides on Epic
The port side (green slide) is approximately 225 feet
The starboard side (purple slide) is approximately 295 feet
The Epic Plunge is approximately 236 feet leading in to the bowl ride
It took approximately 160 hours to paint the hull art

M S C all the World Cup.

2010-05-05T14:05:00.004+01:00

MSC Cruises has become the latest major cruise line to acquire the rights to broadcast the 2010 FIFA World Cup games on all of its 11 ships.

Says MSC Cruises' CEO Pierfrancesco Vago: "As a fervent football supporter the least I could do was offer fellow fans the opportunity to follow the 2010 FIFA World Cup while cruising aboard our ships. From June 11 and for an entire month until July 11 our guests will be able to experience the thrill of the event and enjoy football fever as if they were in South Africa."

The games will be broadcast in the public areas; some bars, and particularly those ships with sports bars, will be specially branded for the games and will welcome supporters passionately following their own favourite teams.

Dedicated areas will be decorated with football pennants, balloons and paper decorations with the teams’ colours, and activities such as sports-related trivia challenges will be organised to boost adrenaline and friendly rivalry among fans.

Special cocktails for each nation will be served at the bars such as the England cocktail with Pimm’s and Ginger ale and the Italy cocktail with Campari, Martini Rosso and soda water. Hamburgers, hot dogs, crisps and beers will be available at the restaurants to create a typical stadium atmosphere.

And to ensure passengers get totally involved in the competition, the on board shopping galleries will stock a wide variety of themed items including the Havaianas® flip-flops, bearing the colours of the different participating countries.

Cruise Ships and the Casino

2010-04-29T12:54:00.005+01:00

There is One Absolutely Certain Bet in a Casino...

...and that bet is that if you play long enough you will definitely wind up on the losing side of the equation. (Unless, of course, you win one of those huge slot jackpots, one so huge that the universe is likely to end before you run out of money.)

The best choices for casino wagering are not necessarily those closest to even money vs. long shots; what matters is the difference between the actual odds and the odds the casino pays to winners. This differential is called the "house edge," and is expressed as a percentage. For example, if a particular game has a house edge of 2.5 percent that means for every £100 wagered the player's average loss will be £2.50. I will list popular cruise casino games sorted by house edge.

All casinos may not have the exact same house rules, and this can inject a variation in the house percentages listed below. For example, in blackjack, some casinos require the house to stand on any 17, while others require the dealer to hit a "soft" 17. The following examples are based on standard American casino rules.

Blackjack (House edge: 0.20 - 0.63 percent). The variation in percentages is due to the range of number of decks in play. The smallest edge relates to single deck blackjack (now all but extinct on cruise ships); the largest is for a game dealt out of an eight-deck shoe. But even at the worst end of the spectrum, players following the proper "hit/stand" strategy still get the best odds in the casino.

In addition, blackjack is one of those games where the odds are variable; as cards are dealt out, the makeup of the deck(s) change(s), altering the ratio of big cards (9,10, jack, queen, king, ace) to small cards (2, 3, 4, 5, 6) -- and when that ratio is high, the odds are actually in favor of the player. This discovery is generally credited to mathematician Edward O. Thorp, who expanded it into the system known as card counting. Thorp's book "Beat the Dealer," published in 1966, is still the seminal work on the topic, and its publication sounded the death knell for single-deck blackjack. Casinos consider card counting to be dishonest -- or, put another way, they consider playing intelligently tantamount to cheating -- so we would never recommend following any card counting system. But Thorp's book, still in print, is a great resource for the casino gamer whose game of choice is blackjack, providing an excellent understanding of the dynamics and strategy of the game, and a complete statistically valid hit/stand/split/double-down strategy.

Craps (House edge: 1.41 percent). This percentage refers to Pass and Come bets. It can be improved significantly by betting the Pass Line and taking "Odds." This means placing an additional wager behind a Pass Line bet. In a casino that offers "Full Odds," this means that you are paid the exact same odds on the Odds bet as the actual odds. Put another way, there is no house edge on the Odds bet. That reduces the house edge on the combined wagers to 0.85 percent. Some casinos allow Odds wagers larger than the original bet. If you can put twice your original bet behind the line (2X Odds) the house edge drops to 0.61 percent; for 10X Odds it's a low 0.18percent.

Three Card Poker (House edge: 1.46 - 2.32 percent), depending on form of the game played).

Caribbean Stud Poker 9House edge: 5.22 percent). This percentage is exclusive of the optional $1 progressive jackpot bet, which most experts agree drastically inflate the house edge.

Roulette (House edge: 5.26 percent). This edge is for the typical American Roulette wheel (one with a double zero). If you can find a European wheel -- which has a single zero -- the house edge drops to 2.70 percent.

Slot Machines (House edge: 5.50 - 15.20 percent). The variation is due both to machine settings and cost of play. The worst odds listed are for nickel slots; the best are for five dollar machines

Funny Boating Clips

2010-04-29T12:49:00.003+01:00

A customer has just sent this through. Some are quite funny, in that "you've been framed" kind of humour.

Funny Complaint Letter to Virgin

2010-04-24T16:32:00.003+01:00

REF: Mumbai to Heathrow 7th December 2008

I love the Virgin brand, I really do which is why I continue to use it despite a series of unfortunate incidents over the last few years. This latest incident takes the biscuit.

Ironically, by the end of the flight I would have gladly paid over a thousand rupees for a single biscuit following the culinary journey of hell I was subjected to at thehands of your corporation.

Look at this Richard. Just look at it: [see image 1, above].

I imagine the same questions are racing through your brilliant mind as were racing through mine on that fateful day. What is this? Why have I been given it? What have I done to deserve this? And, which one is the starter, which one is the desert?

You don’t get to a position like yours Richard with anything less than a generous sprinkling of observational power so I KNOW you will have spotted the tomato next to the two yellow shafts of sponge on the left. Yes, it’s next to the sponge shaft without the green paste. That’s got to be the clue hasn’t it. No sane person would serve a desert with a tomato would they. Well answer me this Richard, what sort of animal would serve a desert with peas in: [see image 2, above].

I know it looks like a baaji but it’s in custard Richard, custard. It must be the pudding. Well you’ll be fascinated to hear that it wasn't custard. It was a sour gel with a clear oil on top. It’s only redeeming feature was that it managed to be so alien to my palette that it took away the taste of the curry emanating from our miscellaneous central cuboid of beige matter. Perhaps the meal on the left might be the desert after all.

Anyway, this is all irrelevant at the moment. I was raised strictly but neatly by my parents and if they knew I had started desert before the main course, a sponge shaft would be the least of my worries. So lets peel back the tin-foil on the main dish and see what’s on offer.

I’ll try and explain how this felt. Imagine being a twelve year old boy Richard. Now imagine it’s Christmas morning and you’re sat their with your final present to open. It’s a big one, and you know what it is. It’s that Goodmans stereo you picked out the catalogue and wrote to Santa about.

Only you open the present and it’s not in there. It’s your hamster Richard. It’s your hamster in the box and it’s not breathing. That’s how I felt when I peeled back the foil and saw this: [see image 3, above].

Now I know what you’re thinking. You’re thinking it’s more of that Baaji custard. I admit I thought the same too, but no. It’s mustard Richard. MUSTARD. More mustard than any man could consume in a month. On the left we have a piece of broccoli and some peppers in a brown glue-like oil and on the right the chef had prepared some mashed potato. The potato masher had obviously broken and so it was decided the next best thing would be to pass the potatoes through the digestive tract of a bird.

Once it was regurgitated it was clearly then blended and mixed with a bit of mustard. Everybody likes a bit of mustard Richard.

By now I was actually starting to feel a little hypoglycaemic. I needed a sugar hit. Luckily there was a small cookie provided. It had caught my eye earlier due to it’s baffling presentation: [see image 4, above].

It appears to be in an evidence bag from the scene of a crime. A CRIME AGAINST BLOODY COOKING. Either that or some sort of back-street underground cookie, purchased off a gun-toting maniac high on his own supply of yeast. You certainly wouldn’t want to be caught carrying one of these through customs. Imagine biting into a piece of brass Richard. That would be softer on the teeth than the specimen above.

I was exhausted. All I wanted to do was relax but obviously I had to sit with that mess in front of me for half an hour. I swear the sponge shafts moved at one point.

Once cleared, I decided to relax with a bit of your world-famous onboard entertainment. I switched it on: [see image 5, above].

I apologise for the quality of the photo, it’s just it was incredibly hard to capture Boris Johnson’s face through the flickering white lines running up and down the screen. Perhaps it would be better on another channel: [see image 6, above].

Is that Ray Liotta? A question I found myself asking over and over again throughout the gruelling half-hour I attempted to watch the film like this. After that I switched off. I’d had enough. I was the hungriest I’d been in my adult life and I had a splitting headache from squinting at a crackling screen.

My only option was to simply stare at the seat in front and wait for either food, or sleep. Neither came for an incredibly long time. But when it did it surpassed my wildest expectations: [see image 7, above].

Yes! It’s another crime-scene cookie. Only this time you dunk it in the white stuff.

Richard…. What is that white stuff? It looked like it was going to be yoghurt. It finally dawned on me what it was after staring at it. It was a mixture between the Baaji custard and the Mustard sauce. It reminded me of my first week at university. I had overheard that you could make a drink by mixing vodka and refreshers. I lied to my new friends and told them I’d done it loads of times. When I attempted to make the drink in a big bowl it formed a cheese Richard, a cheese. That cheese looked a lot like your baaji-mustard.

So that was that Richard. I didn’t eat a bloody thing. My only question is: How can you live like this? I can’t imagine what dinner round your house is like, it must be like something out of a nature documentary.

As I said at the start I love your brand, I really do. It’s just a shame such a simple thing could bring it crashing to it’s knees and begging for sustenance.

Yours Sincererly

Fred Olsen and the Iceland Volcano.. Go See It!!

2010-04-21T11:49:00.014+01:00

For the last week we have all been watching in amazement at the stories of the volcanic eruption in Iceland. Thankfully things seem to be improving and we all hope things will return to normal by the end of the week.

The pictures on the news have also shown what a unique and beautiful part of the world Iceland is. So if you’re the type of person who likes a bit of adventure with a touch of style and quality, I have a just the holiday for you.

Fred Olsen Cruises have an itinerary that encompasses Greenland and Iceland allowing you to learn all about this wonderful part of the world.

Fred Olsen have been on the seas for over 150 years and in that time they have learnt what makes cruising special. From the moment you step on board you are made to feel like one of the family. The Black Watch emerged in 2009 as a sleek and elegant ship offering intimacy and sophistication. Carrying only 750 passengers she is the perfect size for visiting the smaller ports that are unique to this sailing. The Observatory Bar is the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink taking in the phenomenon of the Northern lights. Dinner in the Glentanar Restaurant is a magnificent event each evening offering a wide choice of quality foods for all diets.

Sailing from Southampton the full Itinerary is as follows:

Sat 07 Aug SOUTHAMPTON
Sun 08 Aug CRUISING
Mon 09 Aug CRUISING
Tue 10 Aug CRUISING
Wed 11 Aug CRUISING
Thu 12 Aug QAQORTOQ, GREENLAND
Fri 13 Aug NARSARSUAQ, GREENLAND
Sat 14 Aug NANORTALIK, GREENLAND
Sat 14 Aug CRUISE CAPE FAREWELL, GREENLAND
Sun 15 Aug CRUISING
Mon 16 Aug ISAFJORDUR, ICELAND
Tue 17 Aug REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Wed 18 Aug REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Thu 19 Aug CRUISING
Fri 20 Aug CRUISING
Sat 21 Aug CRUISING
Sun 22 Aug SOUTHAMPTON

Greenland
See the rich heritage and culture of this unspoilt region with a vast array of excursions designed to educate even the most worldly of travellers.

Learn about the diverse nature and climate of this spectacular area.
Ports included in Greenland

Qaqortoq.
From Qaqortoq you can visit various settlements by boat, including Eqalugaarsuit or the Norse Episcopal residence at Igaliku. A few hours sailing time northeast of the town is Greenland’s best-preserved Norse ruin, Hvalsey Church, and further south you will find the hot springs on the island of Uunartoq.

Narsaruaq
Narsarsuaq is situated in the middle of South Greenland’s splendid scenery and is the gateway for those looking for experiences of nature and an exciting insight into the Viking period in Greenland. For anglers and hikers, Narsarsuaq also makes up the ideal point of departure.

Ice sheet – on foot and by water
Narsarsuaq is one of the few places in Greenland where the Ice Sheet is within walking distance. The hike requires you to be physically fit, but your efforts will be rewarded after a couple of hours of walking and climbing. The view of the ice cap and the chance to touch the Ice Sheet make it all worthwhile. Alternatively, you can take a boat to the Qooroq glacier and admire the skipper’s ability to manoeuvre between the numerous icebergs. And remember that no two icebergs are alike.

Historical sites, Qassiarsuk and Igaliku
After just 20 minutes by boat you will arrive in Qassiarsuk, at the exact spot where Erik the Red went ashore more than 1000 years ago and established his seat of power at Brattahlid. Why he chose to call the country “Greenland” will become immediately apparent when you are here, and there are reconstructions of his farm and the first Christian church. After another hour’s sailing and an hour’s walking you will arrive at the Igaliku settlement, where the Norse settlers established their Episcopal residence and cathedral. The ruins are exposed and provide a good picture of what the bishop’s palace and stable buildings would have looked like.

Nanortalik
Nanortalik is the southernmost town in Greenland, and the area is the centre for a number of natural and cultural attractions, particularly during the summer months.
Fishing camp in Tasermiut Fjord
There are many good trout waters around Nanortalik, and one of them is in the long Tasermiut Fjord, just a few hours by boat from Nanortalik. You will stay overnight in tents, and equipment includes rubber dinghies and kayaks. The trip includes excursions to Norse ruins and the glacier at the base of the fjord. It is a total experience with good fishing and plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.
A world-famous climbing region
The Tasermiut Fjord contains some of the world's most challenging rock walls for very experienced climbers. Each year sees many international climbers and expeditions arriving in the area in order to take up the challenge, which includes the world's longest vertical rock face of 1000 metres. The mountains in the unspoilt region of Cape Farewell also offer unique climbing challenges.

Iceland
Think of Iceland and there are several familiar associations: hip Reykjavík, the beautiful therapeutic Blue Lagoon. But this land of boiling mud pools, spurting geysers, glaciers and waterfalls is also an adventure playground. Its breathtaking landscape is an inspiration to artists and photographers. Iceland is the least densely populated country in Europe, with a pure, unpolluted and truly magical landscape. Iceland’s summers are surprisingly warm, lush and green, with days lengthening until midsummer, when the sun dips down to the horizon but never sets. During winter you can marvel at the amazing, undulating green, blue, yellow and pink lights of the aurora in the night sky, and the winters are not as cold as you might imagine. Regardless of when you visit, you can be assured of the warmth of the Icelanders’ welcome and their desire to share their culture and make every effort to ensure that your stay is a pleasant one.

ISAFJORDUR
Isafjordur is a small town and most attractions are within a short walking distance. Here are some suggestions to places that can be reached by foot.
Isafjordur was settled some 1.100 years ago. For centuries, the only houses on the spit where Isafjordur now stands were those that belonged to the church. However, with its excellent natural harbour, Isafjordur little by little became an important site for merchants who did their trade with the farmers and fishermen in the area.
Isafjordur was granted municipal status in 1786, after the King of Denmark (who then ruled Iceland) had abolished the Danish monopoly of trade in Iceland. Soon things were booming in Isafjordur. Production and export of saltfish was the key to the growth of the town, and its status as one of Iceland’s main trading posts until the early 20th century.

Reykjavik
The vast, beautiful landscape around Reykjavik lends itself to innumerable outdoor activities. Visitors to Reykjavik will be impressed by the city’s proximity to nature and struck by the cleanliness of the city itself. There are plenty of possibilities when planning outdoor activities and excursions during your stay in the capital.

Visitors to Reykjavik experience easily the pure energy at the heart of Iceland's capital city - whether from the boiling thermal energy underground, the natural green energy within the city and around it, or the lively culture and fun-filled nightlife.

Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. It has the features of a modern, forward-looking society which are complemented by a close connection to beautiful nature right on the city's doorstep.

Reykjavik is a great place to visit, whether for some cultural nourishment, a spot of unbridled fun or to recharge your batteries.
The cruise offers 2 days in Reykjavik allowing plenty of time to explore the whole of Iceland including a visit to the wonderful Volanic region.

All of this can be offered for just £1729pp (based on 2 sharing)and that includes free car parking too!

For newspaper readers..Offers on cruises can be beaten!

2010-04-15T09:47:00.010+01:00

Royal Caribbean Rhapsody of the Seas

Would you like an Australian Adventure? Have you seen an exclusive advertisment in the newspaper? Well you don't want to be paying those prices.

I have pleasure in offering a 17 night voyage of exploration and indulgence.

October 2010
Fri 22 Scheduled flight from London to Sydney
Sun 24 Arrive Sydney and transfer to 4* accommodation for 3 night stay
Wed 27 Embark Rhapsody of the Seas, Sydney, Australia
Thu 28 Relax at sea
Fri 29 Relax at sea
Sat 30 Isle Of Pines, New Caledonia
Sun 31 Relax at sea
November 2010
Mon 1 Suva, Fiji
Tue 2 Lautoka, Fiji
Wed 3 Relax at sea
Thu 4 Vila, Vanuata
Fri 5 Lifou, Loyalty Island
Sat 6 Relax at sea
Sun 7 Relax at sea
Mon 8 Sydney, Australia
Disembark Rhapsody of the Sea and transfer to Airport.
Tue 9 Arrive London.

Amazing Value
Just Look What's included
12 nights Spacious accommodation on the beautiful Rhapsody of the Seas.
3 night pre cruise city explorer break in 4* accommodation.
Free upgrade to ocean view from inside.
Return scheduled flights.
On board credit for suites.
Fine Dining 24 hours a day on the cruise.
Non stop iced water, tea, coffee and lemonade.
Full entertainment including live music and shows.
Lectures and demonstrations.

EXCLUSIVE FARES

N GRADE INTERIOR STATEROOM £2199pp
M GRADE INTERIOR STATEROOM £2249pp
INC FREE UPGRADE TO H GRADE OCEANVIEW STATEROOM
G GRADE OCEANVIEW STATEROOM £2599pp
F GRADE OCEANVIEW STATEROOM £2699PP
D1 GRADE DELUXE BALCONY £3199PP
JS JUNIOR SUITE £3499PP
GS GRAND SUITE £3999PP
OS OWNERS SUITE £4499PP
RS ROYAL SUITE £5999PP

I am now taking bookings with just a deposit.

P&O: It's curtains for the pirates

2010-04-14T11:50:00.009+01:00

Captains on the P&O cruises ships Aurora and Arcadia asked the passengers to take the action of closing their curtains while the vessels sailed through the Gulf of Aden.

They were told not to use the promenade deck and to keep the curtains closed between 6.30pm and 7.00am.

They were, however, allowed to leave their cabins.

The Aurora takes 1,870 passengers and the Arcadia has room for 2,000.
Passengers pay around £1,100 for a three- or four-week “sector” of the trip although the price for a full round-the-world cruise is over £7,000.
As part of the world cruise, the Aurora and Arcadia sail from Southampton through the Mediterranean, onto the Suez Canal and through the pirate-infested waters of Somalia.

The area has seen so much piracy in recent years - by gangs armed with automatic rifles and even rocket-propelled grenades - that an international patrol of warships from EU countries was set up.

The International Maritime Organization, which regulates shipping, drew up a set of advice on how to deter pirates.
The code says attacks are most common at dawn and dusk and recommends ships keep their speed up, use dummies as fake lookouts and spool razor wire around the lowest parts of the vessel.
It also recommends that people should stay off the decks during the hours of darkness.
However, drawing the curtains against pirates does not seem to be an internationally recognized solution to the problem.
A spokesman for the IMO said: “I’ve never heard of it before.”

This is the first time such measures have been taken by P&O.
Both the Aurora and the Arcadia set off on world cruises which last around 100 days from Southampton. Both head through the Suez Canal before one travels eastwards and one westwards.

The Arcadia is currently off the Italian coast and due back in Southampton in the next few days, while the Aurora is off west Africa heading home via Madeira. They passed through the Gulf of Aden in January.

A spokeswoman for P&O said: “Passengers were asked to draw the curtains in their cabins and not go onto the promenade deck. Apart from that they had the freedom of the ship, as usual.
“Cruise ship security is the industry’s highest priority, and cruising is a safe holiday.
“Security standards are strictly guided by a network of internationally approved standards, and individual cruise lines also have well established security assessment procedures and protocols.
“Our fleets are equipped with a comprehensive series of protective measures and devices which are activated in accordance with the ship’s security plan.”

Cruise or Vote... do Both!

2010-04-14T11:36:00.006+01:00

So they have annouced a general election for the 6th May. If your on a cruise or any type of holiday then here's the low-down on what to do.

How do I vote? well you vote by post

Voting by post is an easy and convenient way of voting if you are unable to get to the polling station. This section tells you how voting by post works.

To vote by post, you need to be on the electoral register. Then you need to fill in a postal vote application form. You can apply to vote by post now – we’ll take you through the process. After completing the form, you’ll need to print it, sign it, and send it back to your local electoral registration office. You can get their address and other contact details by entering your postcode on this site.

You need to sign your application form personally because the electoral registration office needs a copy of your signature for voting security reasons. We know it’s slightly less convenient than submitting it online, but it helps to ensure the security of your vote and is used to tackle electoral fraud.

Who can apply for a postal vote?

Anyone aged 18 or over who is on the electoral register can apply for a postal vote. You do not need a reason to vote by post. (This does not apply in Northern Ireland - see the Electoral Office website for more information).

Where can I get my postal vote sent?

A postal vote can be sent to your home address or to any other address that you give. Postal votes can be sent overseas, but you need to consider whether there will be enough time to receive and return your ballot paper by election day.

When will I receive my ballot papers?

Postal votes are usually sent out about a week before election day. Once you’ve got it, mark your vote on the ballot paper and make sure you send it back so that it arrives by close of poll (which is 10pm on election day). If it arrives later than this your vote won’t be counted.

When you get your postal voting papers:

Put them somewhere safe
Don't let anyone else handle them
Make sure they are not left where someone else can pick them up

When you want to vote:

Complete your ballot paper in secret, on your own
Don't let anyone else vote for you
Don't let anyone else see your vote
Don't give the ballot paper to anyone else
Put the ballot paper in the envelope and seal it up yourself
Complete and sign the postal voting statement
Put the postal voting statement and the envelope containing your ballot paper into the larger envelope and seal it.

When you return your postal vote:

Take it to the post box yourself, if you can
If you can't do that, either give it to somebody you know and trust to post it for you,
or ring your local electoral registration office, to ask if they can collect it from you
Don't hand it to a candidate or party worker unless no other way is practical
Don't leave it where someone else can pick it up

Remember that this is your vote - so keep it to yourself

If anyone tries to help you against your will, or force you to give them your postal vote, you should contact the police. If you have any other queries, ring your local electoral registration office – you can get their contact details on this site by entering your postcode.

P&O Azura: Food Review

2010-04-11T13:30:00.020+01:00

It still felt very early when we arrived into Southampton on Friday morning. However, we were soon awoken by the sight of the beautiful Azura docked right in the centre of town at the P&O Cruises Terminal.
As one of the chosen few invited to visit this eagerly awaited ship, I thought I would let the food do the talking. Dining is one of the most important decisions relating to any cruise taken and here is a guide to the gastronomy on board.

Sindhu

Michelin Starred chef Atul Kochhar has brought his wealth of talent and experience to Azura with Sindhu. His contemporary Indian cuisine with a British influence should be a huge success. This was the first place I visited on Azura and was not disappointed. The beautiful design and smells from the kitchen were intoxicating. The attentive staff offered me a selection of hors d’oeuvres and they were all excellent especially the Tiger Prawns in chilli. This is one of the best introductions to cruising in recent years and pre-booking is a must.

The Glass House

TV’s Olly Smith was chosen as the brains behind a new wine bar The Glass House. As the name suggests, the modern design uses glass and mirrors to produce a unique area of clean lines and tranquillity. You can choose from a specially designed menu to partner food with perfectly matching wines. With over 40 different bottles on offer you will have plenty of time to widen your wine knowledge. Unusually, most of the wines are on sale by the glass and teaching courses are available for everyone from novices to experts. I sampled the lemon cheesecake and found it very light and tasty.

Venezia and Verona

After a few nibbles I started to get hungry, so off to lunch. The main Self service dining area is split over 2 restaurants called Verona and Venezia. Both are very similar is design and layout. Venezia is the one to choose when the sun is shining as it offers al fresco dining. The tables out by the rear pool are lovely and segmented to offer some lovely suntraps. There is a small smoking section on the port side with a large number of loungers too. I decided to opt for the fish selection and was impressed. The giant mussels and crab cakes were freshly cooked and of the highest order. I accompanied this with a wonderful salad that had a lemon dressing to complement the seafood. Well organised and efficient staff made it one of the best buffet style lunches I have had on board any ship.

Peninsular Restaurant

Having had a wonderful lunch, I was really anticipating the evening meal and was not to be disappointed. The game terrine starter was very tasty and not too heavy. I washed this down with a nice red blended by Olly Smith exclusively for Azura. I was persuaded by the entertaining waiter to also try the pea and Hock soup. This was done very well, with the sweetness of the peas working excellently next to the salty ham.

Main course was a delight. Lobster done Thermadore style with potatoes, green beans and spinach. A wonderful bisque sauce brought the whole thing together and would impress even the harshest of critics.

The tempo of the staff and the pleasure of the previous courses left me no choice but to plump for a dessert. The cheeseboard offered a nice selection of good quality cheese and the wine matched perfectly.

A Final thought.

P&O have set the bar very high on this ship. If it can maintain the standard it produced over the last two days then it should be a huge success. Everything that was sampled was of the highest quality and the attention to detail was excellent. I will be recommending this ship purely on the basis of the menu and would welcome the chance to talk to anyone in more detail. Thanks for reading and please leave a comment if you enjoyed this review.

$42 Million Jackpot!!! Not paid

2010-04-05T12:47:00.004+01:00

Heard this story over the weekend. Talk about having your dreams snatched away from you.

A Colorado woman who won $42.9 million off a penny slot machine saw her jackpot disappear when the casino said the payout message was an error.

Now Colorado gaming authorities are trying to find out what caused the phony fortune.

The false jackpot message went to Louise Chavez Friday while she was playing penny slots in the Fortune Valley Casino in Central City. The machine announced she'd won $42.9 million – a far richer sum than the posted top prize of $251,000.

Fortune Valley doesn't dispute that the machine told Chavez she'd won millions. But the casino says workers immediately told the gambler the message was an error and reported the mistake to the Colorado Division of Gaming, which regulates casinos.

Colorado gaming authorities say the casino has no legal obligation to pay the $42.9 million. Don Burmania, a spokesman for the division, said the top prize of $251,000 was clearly posted in the casino and that a software malfunction is to blame for the glitch.

Burmania said Chavez likely won a prize, triggering the message, but that the game's structure wouldn't allow such a rich jackpot.

"If she is owed some money, the casino and the manufacturer are more than willing to pay her what she's owed. But it will not be $42.9 million, that's not possible,

When in Rome....

2010-03-22T12:31:00.012Z

Rome is fantastic city to explore & many cruise lines visit the port of Civitavecchia nearby. So slip into your toga and read on for an in-depth insight into how to make the most of this incredible place. Rome, the world's biggest open-air museum, has to be one of the top stops on every cruiser's Mediterranean itinerary.

Above is a nice picture of me in the amazing Piazza Navone. We had a lovely bite to eat and 2 bottles of wine watching the world go by. I can highly recommend it if your feet are tired.

There are so many must-see places dating back so many thousands of years that one day is not really enough to see Rome, but it's a good start - enough to give you a feel for this ancient city where modern life goes on at a frenetic pace.
You can spend your day seeing the sights, or combine one or two landmarks with a dash around the designer shops, all the time dodging the too many cars and too many people that make Rome the exciting city it is today.
Naturally, you must make time for a decent lunch as only the Italians can make it. Grab an outside chair at a piazza and watch the people go by, or tuck into a big tub of gelato ice cream at the foot of the Trevi Fountain.

Arriving
It might say Rome on your cruise itinerary, but cruise ships dock in Civitavecchia, which is one-and-a-half to two hours' drive from the Eternal City.
All cruise lines will have guided excursions to Rome, taking in the key sights, and most also have "Rome on your own" tours, which essentially provide a transfer with a guide, who drops you off with a map and takes you back to the ship but leaves you to do as you want in between. Expect to pay anything from £35 to £45 per person for this service.
If you want to go it alone, you can take the train from Civitavecchia. The port provides a free shuttle from the dock to the centre of Civitavecchia and the train station is a short walk from where you are dropped off. There are several trains an hour to Rome. High-speed trains will get you there in just under an hour; otherwise allow 1½ hours. Cost is €4.50 (£3.10) one way.
Allow plenty of time for the return journey – ships will wait for late-returning excursions, but are not obliged to wait for DIY passengers.
Taxis from Civitavecchia to Rome cost £85-£90 one way for a car for two people. If this appeals, book in advance with one of the companies that are allowed through the port to pick up passengers from the ship.

What to see

1. The Vatican
The home of every pope since 1377, the Vatican is the smallest state in the world, occupying 44 acres within Rome. There are two reasons to visit: St Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums. Take one of the recommended routes through the museums to see the highlights instead of rushing straight to the Sistine Chapel.
St Peter's is the largest basilica in the world and holds an incredible 20,000 people. Look out for Michelangelo's Pietà inside on the right, Bernini's 20-metre-high Baldacchino and the bronze statue of St Peter whose foot has been worn away by the touch of pilgrims. If you're feeling fit, climb up St Peter's dome for amazing views across the city.
www.vatican.va
Mon-Sat, 8.30am-4pm, exit by 6pm. Last Sun of each month 8.30am-12.30pm, exit by 2pm. Closed January 1 and 6, February 11, March 19, Easter Sunday and Monday, May 1 and 22, June 29 (only if it falls on a Sunday), August 14-15, November 1, December 8, 25 and 26.

2. The Colosseum

The place where gladiators and wild animals fought to the death has become the symbol of Rome, the must-see sight for every visitor, which means it is also a favourite hangout for souvenir sellers and men dressed up as Roman legionaries, hoping to earn a few euro by having their picture taken with tourists. Built in AD72 by the Emperor Vespasian, its size is spectacular, featuring 80 arches for easy crowd control and space for 55,000 spectators.
Piazza del Colosseo
00 39 06 399 677 00
9am-7.30pm daily
€10 (£7.10). Free for EU citizens under 18 and over 65 years.

3. The Roman Forum

The business centre of ancient Rome, this is where people came to shop and make speeches, and where justice was administered. Walk a little way past the Colosseum, turn right and carry on walking, under the Arch of Titus, along the Via Sacra, past the maze of remains, to the Arch of Septimus Severus, erected in AD203 to celebrate his victory over the Parthians.
Via dei Fori Imperiali
00 39 06 699 0110
9am-one hour before sunset
€9 (£7.43), free for children under 18 from EU countries. Audio guides, €4 (£3.30).

4. The Pantheon

Built by the Emperor Hadrian between AD118 and 125 and converted into a church in AD608, the Pantheon's huge dome is awe-inspiring, supported only by columns around the outside of the building, lit only by a hole in the top of the roof. The bronze from the roof beams was used to build the canopy in St Peter's Basilica and the floor is a 19th-century reconstruction, but the huge bronze doors are Roman. The painter Raphael is buried here, as are the sovereigns from Italy's days as a monarchy.
Piazza della Rotonda
Mon-Sat, 8.30am-7.30pm; Sun, 9am-6pm.
00 39 06 6830 0230
Entrance free

5. Trevi Fountain
OK, so it's the biggest tourist trap in a city of tourist traps, but even without Anita Ekberg's midnight dip in the fountain in La Dolce Vita no visit to Rome is complete without seeing this breathtakingly over-the-top piece of Baroque.
Designed by Nicolo Salvi in 1762, it depicts Neptune flanked by two Tritons, each with a seahorse representing the different moods of the sea. Battle through the crowds to get to the edge and throw in a coin – right hand over left shoulder – to ensure your return visit to Rome. Watch out for pickpockets!

Excursions

Price guides are for adults. Child prices may also be available.
All of the cruise ships have a big selection of whole- or half-day guided tours of Rome that either whizz around the main sights or take a bit more time to see less. Most allow an hour or so for shopping at the end of the tour.

All offer coach tours for people who don't want to do too much walking but do want to tick off the sights. A typical tour will drive past the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine, the Vatican City and Circus Maximus, with photo stops where possible. Expect to pay around £34.50-£82.50 per person.

There are tours that focus on the Vatican or Imperial Rome, with visits to the Roman Forum, Colosseum and St Peter's, and there are also guided walking tours, typically visiting the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon and Vatican. Prices range from £56-£112.50 per person.

Cruise lines also offer excursions into the countryside for those who have already been to Rome, with days out to ancient villages, formal gardens and wine and olive-oil tasting tours. Some include a drive along the Appian Way, the ancient Roman military route to the countryside. Prices range from £29.50-£83 per person.
You can also pre-book excursions with local companies. Discovery Guided Tours (www.discoveryguidedtours.com) has a 10-hour Splendours of Rome tour that can be tailored to your tastes. Driver/guides speak English and will give a guided commentary and take you to the sights, but wait in the car at each stop. Costs are €475 (£340) for up to three people. Discovery Guided Tours can also book return transfers from Civitavecchia to Rome if you want to see the city alone, costing €350 (£250) for up to three people.

Where to shop
Shopping in Rome is not cheap, but if you can't resist hearing the ringing of cash tills there are some fantastic places to head.
The most exclusive outlets – the likes of Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Max Mara and Valentino - are on the Via Condotti. Many have door bells to keep out time-wasters, but you can always window-shop.
Better still, wander off down the side streets to find shops with more affordable prices. Via Borgognona is good for fashion, Via Frattina is the place to look for shoes, and Via del Babuino is big on antique shops.
The market at Piazza Campo dei Fiori (daily except Sunday) is famous for its food. If you're in town on a Sunday, the Porta Portese street market sells everything from clothes to antiques.

Essentials

Time difference: Rome is one hour ahead of GMT
Currency: Euro
Language: Italian
Rome Tourist office (00 39 06 488 991, www.romaturismo.it) Via Parigi 5, open Mon-Sat, 9am-7pm.
Getting around: The historic centre is small, so the best way to see it is on foot, armed with a good map. If you need a rest, hop on one of the mini-electric buses introduced to keep down pollution. Tickets must be bought in advance from tobacco kiosks and news stands. The price is €1 (70p) for a ticket valid for 75 minutes.

Excursion of the day: Santorini

2010-03-16T12:26:00.006Z

The southernmost of Greece's Cycladic islands, Santorini (Thira) is a must-do port of call for any cruise ship sailing the east Mediterranean. Unashamedly commercial and expensive, it is also one of the world's most dramatically beautiful islands.
Its unique form is attributed to a massive volcanic explosion, which blew out the island’s centre in around 1600 BC to create a “caldera” (sea-filled crater) measuring approximately eight by four miles.

Sleepy through winter (population: 13,400), the island heaves with tourists from early May to late October. During high season it hosts an average of 60,000 visitors per day, and there can be as many as five cruise ships arriving in the same morning.
Everyone comes in search of the quintessential Santorini experience: to explore the narrow winding streets and whitewashed houses of the twin cliff-top towns of Thira and Oia, overlooking the deep blue waters of the caldera.

Marketed primarily as a romantic getaway for couples (it is a popular wedding destination), it is also much loved by celebrities – recent visitors include Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell.

Arriving
The main ferry port, Athinios, cannot accommodate large vessels, so most cruise ships put down anchor in the caldera, immediately below Thira, and passengers are brought ashore to the pier at Skala aboard tenders (smaller boats).
From Skala, there are three ways to reach cliff-top Thira: cable car (daily, 6.30am-10pm, every 20 mins, €4/£3.15), mule ride (€4/£3.15), or a tough hike up 580 steps (following the same path as the mules).

Essentials

Time difference: Santorini is two hours ahead of GMT.
Currency: euro (€)
Local language: Greek
Tourist office: there is a small tourist information office near the main square in Thira (00 30 228 602 7199 and 00 30 228 602 7111), open daily 8am-3pm through summer.

Getting around: the island is served by cheap and efficient (though often horribly crowded) public buses. Through the summer, buses depart from Thira for Oia (every 30 minutes), for Pyrgos and Perissa (every 30 minutes) and for Akrotiri (every 60 minutes).

Alternatively you can hire a car or moped in Thira, though it is worth noting that the roads are narrow, winding and somewhat treacherous. You’ll also find a taxi rank near the bus station in Thira, but as there are only 30 taxis on the whole island you often have to wait for a vehicle.

Excursion of the Day: Florence/Pisa

2010-03-16T12:08:00.005Z

Florence is one of the world's most beautiful cities, with reminders of its 14th and 15th-century Renaissance glory days everywhere you look; whether you spend your few hours queuing for the Uffizi Gallery or seeing as many sights as possible, you will come away wanting to see more.

This is the city of Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Galileo (actually born in Pisa but he spent much of his life in Florence), and the powerful Medici family which ruled the city from the 14th to the 18th century.

Between them they have given Florence one of the world's finest collections of art museums and galleries, beautiful churches and piazzas, including the Boboli Garden - a peaceful oasis away from streets packed with tourists.

If you find your cultural spirit flagging, stop for coffee at Piazza della Signoria, the city's buzzing centre. It's not the cheapest place to take a break, but worth paying a premium to share a square with such famous statuary as Ammannati's Neptune, Cellini's Perseus holding Medusa's head and Michelangelo's David (a copy – the original is in the Galleria dell'Accademia).

Arriving
Cruise ships listing (land-locked) Florence on the itinerary generally dock at Livorno, a port town saved from obscurity by the fact that it is about 60 miles (100km) from Florence and 12 miles (20km) from Pisa - so cruisers can do both cities in one day.

A few ships dock at La Spezia, which is about two and a half hours' drive from Florence and an hour from Pisa.

Most cruise ships have a "Florence on your own" excursion, providing transport to
and from the city but leaving you free to explore. The drive from Livorno to Florence takes an hour, or 30 minutes if the traffic is good. Expect to pay from £35 for this excursion.

Alternatively, there is an hourly train service from Livorno Central to Florence. Journey time is one hour and 22 minutes, and the cost €13 (£10.20) return.
Ships have shuttle buses (usually free) to Livorno's Piazza Grande, 1.8 miles (3km) from the station. A bus from here to the station costs €1 (80p) per person one-way and takes about 10 minutes; a taxi costs about €7 (£5.50) and takes around five minutes.

Taxis from Livorno port to Florence will set you back about €300 (£235) for a return journey.

Top Ten Tips

2010-03-14T10:36:00.007Z

So you’ve booked and paid for your cruise…. Your all packed and ready..... You’ve got together all your hard earned cash… Well here’s a few idea that might make that money go a little further.

If anyone would like to add some more ideas they would be greatly received.

Currency exchange
Look for cruises charging for purchases in sterling so you don't have to pay foreign exchange fees.

Tipping
Choose a company that includes tips in the basic price (these include packages offered by Thomson and Swan Hellenic, for example).

Excursions
Find an alternative to the expensive half-day or full-day excursions (that typically cost from £20 to £90 per person) by booking through a private company such as Port Promotions (portpromotions.com ) or arranging tours yourself, using taxis.

Dining out
Consider a freestyle cruising plan, which gives a greater choice of restaurants and an alternative to the ship's dining room, at reasonable prices.

Spa treatments
Take advantage of spa specials when the ship is in port or at the beginning of a cruise; or get a better price by booking several treatments at once.

Drinks
Consider buying a pre-bookable drinks package (typically costing around £10 per day).

Laundry bills
Avoid charges of up to £5 for a couple of shirts at the ship's laundry by using the self-service launderette or looking for deals where you get a bag of clothes washed at a cheaper rate.

Essential incidentals
Don't pay an on-board premium for small necessities, such as sun cream or batteries. Take sufficient supplies with you.

Internet access
Use onshore internet cafés rather than paying around £10 for 30 minutes for online access on the ship. Or ask about packages where you get more minutes for less.

Miscellaneous extras
Hold back on buying photos and DVDs from the ship photographer – it's cheaper to organise your own. Casinos are an obvious money-spinner; not so obvious are the art auctions, where you're given free champagne and then invited to bid.

Hortus Ortus, Dic mihi solum facta, domina

2010-02-24T11:58:00.006Z

BBC GARDENERS' WORLD MAGAZINE - MARCH ISSUE - NEW CRUISE PROMOTIONS

Love your Lilium columbianum?..... excited by Erythronium revolutum?

Well this should get your trowels moving a little faster!

Inside the new edition of Gardeners World magazine are two new exclusive Cruise.Co.Uk garden cruises.

CANARIES COLLECTION

On the Fred Olsen Braemar on the 5th October 2010.
Garden Host – David Hurrion
2 x FREE Garden Tours in – Madeira & Tenerife
£75 per cabin on board spend OR Car Parking at port
Cruise Length : 13 Nights
Prices start from only £1019pp

Tue 5th Oct DOVER
Wed 6th Oct CRUISING
Thu 7th Oct CRUISING
Fri 8th Oct CRUISING
Sat 9th Oct FUNCHAL, MADEIRA
Sun 10th Oct SANTA CRUZ DE LA PALMA, CANARY ISLA
Mon 11th Oct SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, CANARY ISLA
Tue 12th Oct LAS PALMAS DE GRAN CANARIA
Wed 13th Oct ARRECIFE, LANZAROTE
Thu 14th Oct CRUISING
Fri 15th Oct LISBON, PORTUGAL
Sat 16th Oct CRUISING
Sun 17th Oct CRUISING
Mon 18th Oct DOVER

CARIBBEAN ISLES

On the Fred Olson Braemar on the 25th November 2010.
Garden Hosts – Matthew Biggs and Will Giles
FREE full day tour in St Lucia – Diamond Botanical Gardens and lunch
£75 per cabin on board spend OR Car Parking at airport
Flight available from various airports
Total duration of 15 nights
Prices start from only £1299pp

Thu 25th Nov MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA
Fri 26th Nov MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA
Sat 27th Nov CRUISING
Sun 28th Nov SANTO DOMINGO, DOMINICAN REP.
Mon 29th Nov ROAD TOWN, TORTOLA
Tue 30th Nov PHILLIPSBURG, ST. MAARTEN
Tue 30th Nov PHILIPSBURG, ST. MAARTEN
Wed 01st Dec BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS
Thu 02nd Dec ST. JOHN'S, ANTIGUA
Fri 03rd Dec CASTRIES, ST. LUCIA
Sat 04th Dec CRUISING
Sun 05th Dec PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD
Mon 06th Dec SCARBOROUGH, TOBAGO
Tue 07th Dec ST. GEORGE'S, GRENADA
Wed 08th Dec BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS
Thu 09th Dec BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS

Feedback from customers who have experienced these cruises is fantastic. The atmosphere created by the BBC Gardeners World team is wonderful and the popularity of these events is growing all of the time.

These cruises are exclusive to Cruise.Co.Uk and book up very quickly. If you have an interest and would like some further information please give me a call.

See you all soon.

Dan

Are you Azura these prices?

2010-02-23T15:58:00.006Z

Dear All,

Fancy a trip on the new P&O Azura? Well now's the chance for a red hot cruise deal.

We have had a special fare in today offering the cheapest fares ever for this sailing.

This is an exclusive offering and only a select number of cabins are available.

So.... you all want to know how much then.

Here are few examples to wet your appetite.

Insides from £1049pp

Outsides from £1249 (obstructed) £1349 (no obstruction)

Balconies are even better. You can take your pick all the way up to CC grade for £1599!

Obviously these will go in a matter of days, so spread the word.

If you would like more details my direct line is 0800 408 6127

Thanks

Dan

It's a deal... it's a steal.... it's sale of the ....

2010-02-18T11:32:00.008Z

Calling all you ravers out there!!!!

Ok, get your white gloves and glow sticks ready.

Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Sea is departing Barcelona on the 20th May 2010 for a 4 night cruise, that offers an over-night stay in Ibiza.

ADVENTURE OF THE SEAS Itinerary
Date : Thu 20 May 2010
Cruise Length : 4 Nights

Thu 20 May BARCELONA - SPAIN 14:00 17:00
Fri 21 May PROVENCE (TOULON) - FRANCE 07:00 18:00
Sat 22 May IBIZA - SPAIN 16:30 Arrive
Sun 23 May IBIZA - SPAIN 15:00 Depart
Mon 24 May BARCELONA - SPAIN 06:00

With the over-night in Ibiza it allows a good night out and plenty of time to see this beautiful island. The ship will dock into Ibiza Town so exploring the old town is a must.

I might even be on this myself.. if you want any more details please call or e-mail.

Happy Sailing

Dan

Can Wayne Rooney do this?

2010-02-13T09:06:00.004Z

With the world cup approaching..... Is Wayne Rooney this good?

16 Weeks to Go

2010-02-12T08:46:00.004Z

Only 16 weeks to go till the start of the world cup in South Africa.

Ashley Cole has a broken ankle and will be out for 6 weeks. Lets hope the rest, especially Rooney stay injury free.

Most cruise ships offer a bar of some decription that will show the football matches. Thomson have confirmed they will be showing all of the England games during the world cup.

So if your going on a cruise during the world cup, lets hope you have a great time and have something huge to celebrate on July 11th.

Cooking is a bit of all White

2010-01-29T11:10:00.006Z

Marco Pierre White is offering children cooking lessons on board a P&O cruise ship next month.

The celebrity chef will hold classes on the Ventura, on which he runs a restaurant – the White Room.

The first lessons will be during a half-term Caribbean cruise departing from Barbados. There will be up to three classes a day for up to eight children at a time.

Dishes on White’s “mini’s menu” include Marco’s mother’s tomato pasta and Marco’s fish fingers for children, aimed at children who refuse to eat fish unless it comes from the freezer. The junior chefs will also be challenged to taste spicy foods.

“These sessions have been a great success with grown-ups, so we felt it was right for children to have a chance to shine in the kitchen,” said Mr White.

Sessions cost £20 per child and £75 per adult. They are also available on two itineraries on cruises from Southampton this summer.

Next Stop Haiti

2010-01-26T11:46:00.008Z

When news broke this week that a cruise ship sailed into Haiti for a beach-resort rest stop three days after last week's cataclysm, hundreds of people expressed themselves on bulletin boards and in social media.

They either were livid about the callousness of holidaymakers cavorting in sunny waters while people were dying mere kilometres away, or stubbornly held it was an irrelevant or even positive thing.

No one was debating whether people should have been cruising that week at all – or whether cruise ships should ever berth in Haiti, which has for decades been the poorest nation in the hemisphere, in perpetual need of the help that is finally flowing now.

No, the argument was whether it was too soon and too close.

Should cruise passengers, instead of drinking margaritas on their private beach at Labadee, 100 kilometres from Port au Prince, have hopped the fence that separates the Royal Caribbean International Cruise Line's leased land from the rest of the country and helped dig people out?

Or should they have stayed on board in protest, as half of them did when the first ship, The Independence of the Seas, stopped there on Jan. 15?

“I am shocked that people can enjoy themselves when a scant 60 miles away there is such devastation and death,” wrote Peggy Singer on a public Facebook page, identifying herself as a Royal Caribbean Diamond Plus member.

But why does proximity matter? No one seems upset at the much greater number of cruise ships docking in the Dominican Republic, which is on the same island as Haiti. Why should 100 kilometres' distance offend more than 1,000?

Jon Haidt, a professor of psychology at the University of Virginia, says the outrage is rooted firmly in some dearly held parts of our psyches.

“There is a world of difference” between near and far, he says, just as there is between staying on the ship and stepping onto the beach.

“The difference, in the human mind, is not really about the practical. It's very much about symbolic relations.”

Proximity and boundaries, both in time and space, he says, are as important to humans as hijabs and crosses, and for similar reasons.

“There is a whole psychology of sacredness and solemnity,” he says. “Issues of death especially tend to bring that out. There's also a psychology of hedonism and degradation. Both have their place – even in religious countries, you have Mardi Gras. But to have them thrust together, like it has been in Haiti, is deeply disturbing.”

The part of the brain that recoils at the thought of a beach party in such close proximity to the earthquake's devastation is the same one artists such as Francis Bacon or Andres Serrano make stabs at, Prof. Haidt suggests.

“The best example is Serrano with Piss Christ ,” he says, referring to the controversial 1987 image of a crucifix submerged in a jar of Mr. Serrano's own urine. “It's a really gorgeous photograph – gorgeous in ways that seem almost religious, with their golden light – but then you know it's urine.”

So your mind knows too close and too soon when (like pornography) you see it, even if others would disagree. And when you do, you flip out, because you're wired to. The extreme response is not rational but it is profoundly human.

But equally human, according to neuroscientist Jean Decety, were the responses of the cruise passengers and their defenders.

“We were the first ship to visit Labadee after the earthquake,” wrote Lillian Fiedel, “and a lot of us felt uncomfortable about the decision of RCCL to stop there, but I guess they felt it was an opportunity to actually bring in supplies and food to the area??!!!”

Others wrote about tipping more generously, not haggling with craft vendors and leaving their barbeque lunch and bottles of water behind for the Haitian support staff and their families. There was also much talk of jobs created (RCCL employs about 200 Haitians in Labadee), and the positive economic impact of the cruises for the Haitian people and government.

To Dr. Decety of the University of Chicago, one of the world's foremost experts on the brain and sympathy, this is all about the network in the brain that helped us evolve sympathy and empathy, as well as callousness and rationalization. The “pain matrix,” spread across several regions of the brain, reacts strongly to witnessing or even thinking about suffering.

“You have this very strong reaction in your brain,” says Dr. Decety, “to escape the source of pain.”

The brain sees three options to reduce its discomfort: You can either help, ignore, or reappraise.

“That's what people do on the cruise,” he says. “They reappraise: ‘I bring money, I bring jobs there,' they say, ‘so it's okay.' We have this very plastic brain that is adapted to different situations and the way we appraise situations.”

(Dr. Decety stresses that he is in the business of making neurological judgments, not moral ones.)

Of course, all the agitation about the cruise ship is masking the much larger question that comes up whenever disaster strikes an already poor nation: Where were we six months ago, when the need was nearly as great?

That's neurological, too. Just as we have an extreme visual sensitivity to movement, we are hard-wired to respond to changes in situations, even if the status quo logically would demand as much attention. It's a survival technique from the savannah, the thinking goes, when movement meant either prey or predator.

“The brain tells us, ‘Oh, it's big,'” says Dr. Decety. “It changes our habituation processes.”

Haiti is moving, in several senses of the term, so it has captured our attention. But if every previous disaster is any indication, it won't keep it for long.

NCL Jewel on the Apprentice USA

2010-01-22T10:46:00.006Z

For those of you who are fans of the apprentice.

This weeks episode of the apprentice USA shown on BBC One included a task featuring the NCL Jewel. The apprentice contestants were given the opportunity to produce a TV advertisement for the ship and NCL's excellent freestyle cruising.

The link to the episode on You Tube is
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3WFTn7y_t7w&feature=PlayList&p=0401D8E03F6F2D14&index=17

It shows the ship and style of NCl very well and it looks a great cruise line to holiday with. I'm hoping to visit the new Epic that is introduced later this year.

It is an excellent series and for any of you that enjoy the UK version of the apprentice I definitely recommend a look.

Happy sailing.

Daniel

Let it Snow ..Let it Snow ..Let it snow

2010-01-13T10:32:00.006Z

Now, I love the snow.

I know the country grinds to a halt in these conditions but I really love it. It is great fun and people should take the chance to try and enjoy it.

Having the kids off from school is wonderful and snow ball fights and building a snowman is my idea of a good day.

Hope you all take some time to have some fun. We don't get it that often after all.

Regards

Dan

F1 Cruise and Stay

2009-12-18T11:23:00.006Z

Like cruising?... Like for Formula 1? …Then combine the two with this amazing Dubai stay n cruise package. I have put together the following for one of my customers and thought it would be a good idea to display this wonderful Itinerary.
Fly 2nd April 2010. London Heathrow to Dubai.
2nd to 4th April. Stay in a 4*+ Hotel in Dubai.
This is the whole weekend of the Dubai grand Prix and will allow lots of time for watching the racing as well as spending time shopping and sunbathing.

5th April. 7night Royal Caribbean cruise on the amazing Brilliance of the Seas.
Date Port Arrival Boarding Departure Remark

Mon 05 Apr DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 11:00 DOCKED
Tue 06 Apr DUBAI - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 13:00 E DOCKED
Wed 07 Apr MUSCAT - OMAN 09:00 19:00 E DOCKED
Thu 08 Apr FUJAIRAH,UAE 07:00 16:00 E DOCKED
Fri 09 Apr ABU DHABI,UAE 09:00 18:00 E DOCKED
Sat 10 Apr BAHRAIN 10:00 18:30 E DOCKED
Sun 11 Apr DUBAI 14:00 E DOCKED
Mon 12 Apr DUBAI

The whole package is available for only £1399 per person based on 2 sharing.
(Price is subject to change, depending on availability and flights)

This is a really good deal for this time of year as it falls in Easter.

If you would like anymore information please call or e-mail me.

Regards

Daniel

The poker game of life (Part 1)

2009-12-09T08:20:00.006Z

The good news is that in every deck of fifty two cards there are 2,598,960 possible five card poker hands. The bad news is that you are going to dealt only one of them.
The best news, however, is that you don't have to hold the best hand to win. The one dimension unique to poker, which sets it above and apart from any other game ever invented, is the element of bluff. By betting as if you are holding the best hand, by representing strength, you can frighten every other player out of the pot and take their money without even having to show your cards.
This is true of no other game except life, with which poker has a great deal in common. Most human beings conduct their lives as a series of risks, some more calculated than others. They may not like to admit it especialy to themselves, but they bluff their waythrough life's complexities, both professional and personal, every day.

At least eight million brits regularly play poker. Those are remarkably high percentages repective to population. These people are penchant for risk, at work as at play, at home as much as outside it. Compulsive risk takers tend to beleive that they are more interesting, and often more sucessful, then their brethren who prefer to play life safe. A passion for poker, often strong enough to outweigh their domestic or proffesional responsibilities, is a direct reflection of the way they tend to conduct their other relationships, and of the values by which they choose to live their lives. It is not a question of wether they bluff, but when, how often, and how well.
You could say that there are 2,598,960 possible permutations of each of us, which we marshall according to current demands or needs. There is nothing too reprehensible about this. Humankind, as the poet said, cannot bear very much reality. Men and women do not have to be overly overtly competitive to regard life as a complex adult game, whose rules are there to be bent or even broken. So why do so few of them care to admit that deciet and chicanery are part of their everyday lives, at work, at home, even when alone?
They fail to see, for instance, that some of the people they bluff the most consistently and effectively are themselves.
In life as in poker, there are tells. At the table a player may tend to scratch his ear, or fiddle nervously with a ring, if he is bluffing. He will probably be the last person to recognise this. Once his opponents have isolated them, however, such giveaway habits are worth a great deal.
Whether he likes it or not, a man's character is stripped bare at the poker table. If other players read him better then he does, he only has himself to blame. Unless he is both able and prepared to see himself as others do, flaws and all, he will be a loser in cards as in life.

England Expects

2009-12-08T09:57:00.006Z

England supporters have been warned to plan well in advance if they want to follow their team to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Estimates have suggested that around 20,000 England fans could travel to the tournament next summer.

The booking of flights and accommodation will be less straightforward than for the last World Cup, in Germany in 2006, while security and internal travel should also be major considerations.

Tour operators are likely to experience an increase in interest today as the venues for England's three group matches are confirmed at the tournament draw in Cape Town. To coincide with the draw, the Football Supporters' Federation is launching an online guide to South Africa 2010 this morning.

The FSF director of international affairs, Kevin Miles, said: "By comparison to the last World Cup, a lot of preparation has got to go into this one.

"In Germany we had a lot of people who at the last minute decided they were going to go and drove over or found a flight. That is not going to be possible this time. Once we know the draw people can start planning their trip and advance preparation is going to be very important.

"People need to know where they are staying, preferably in central locations, and how they are going to get between venues."

The guide, part of the FSF Fans' Embassy service, will be updated regularly until the end of the tournament. Its launch will be followed in the spring by a free guide book and embassies will be set up in South Africa.

The guide details every host city and includes information on security in a country notorious for its crime rate.

Tickets for matches are not expected to be as difficult to come by as they were in Germany.

Miles said: "It'll be less of a problem than in previous tournaments. England games are always in demand but I don't think there will be the same squeeze on tickets as Germany because of the costs of travelling and the distances."

World Cup final in a cooking pot?

2009-12-08T09:48:00.003Z

One of the most artistic and awe-inspiring football venues on the African continent, the newly-reconstructed Soccer City Stadium will host the first and final matches of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

The ground's design is inspired by the iconic African pot known as the calabash, and its aesthetic appeal will be heightened when the stadium is lit at night. Soccer City is located in Johannesburg's southwest and is only a short distance from one of the country's football-crazy townships, Soweto. About 40 per cent of Johannesburg's population live in Soweto and this proximity is bound to make the stadium a hub of activity throughout the 2010 finals.

The stadium is widely regarded as the heart of football in South Africa as it has hosted many important matches through history. In the mid 1980s, officials came together to build the first international football stadium in the country and the construction was funded from the football fraternity's coffers. Soccer City hosted the first mass rally of Nelson Mandela after his release from prison in 1990. Thousands of mourners lamented Chris Hani's assassination at the stadium in 1993. It was also the venue for the 1996 CAF African Cup of Nations final, with South Africa eventually triumphing 2-0 over Tunisia.

The original stadium, which was known as the FNB Stadium, had a capacity of 80,000. Upgrades involved extending the upper tier to increase the capacity to 94,700; adding 99 more suites to bring the number to 184; constructing an encircling roof; adding new changing room facilities and installing new floodlighting.

Not too Funky Nassau

2009-12-01T09:35:00.004Z

Tours to the Caribbean city of Nassau have been suspended following violent attacks on cruise ship passengers.

A series of armed attacks on cruise ship passengers in Nassau has raised fears about the safety of visitors to the Bahamas.

Several Europeans were among a group of 18 tourists held up by two men wielding shotguns during a guided tour of an eco-park close to Nassau last weekend. Their local guide was tied up and a woman hit in the face with the butt of a gun as the robbers took money, cameras, mobile phones and passports from the passengers.

Last month, in another daylight incident, 11 cruise passengers were robbed at gunpoint as they stood at the top of the Queen's Staircase, the city's landmark attraction.

Police authorities in Nassau have reported a sharp rise in muggings in the city, including a recent attack on a Canadian tourist as he walked along Bay Street, close to the cruise line terminals.

The increase in violence at a destination previously considered safe for visitors has caused Royal Caribbean and Disney cruise lines to suspend some shore-based excursions.

"A holiday is supposed to be filled with fun, rejuvenation and relaxation. An act of crime should not be part of any vacation, and we regret that our guests had to experience those events," said Lyan Sierra-Caro, a Royal Caribbean spokeswoman. "We are thankful that none of our guests was injured."

Royal Caribbean has joined Disney in halting its excursions to the Earth Village park, which offered Segway and horseback tours through woodland, while it conducts an investigation.

Tourism and police chiefs, wary of the threat to this £2.3bn industry, have promised to deploy more uniformed officers at tourist sites and renew efforts to catch those responsible for the attacks.

The Bahamas is trying to combat an increase in violent crime – there have been a record 77 murders so far this year. In the past it was rare for tourists to be targeted.

"It is difficult to promote the islands as a place for people to consider for their holiday when these kinds of incidents occur," said Vernice Walkine, minister for tourism. "We are deeply concerned about a troubling series of events involving rogue elements of our society. We want to assure our cruise line partners that we will work closely with the police until they have rooted out these problems and restored these places and activities as safe for the enjoyment of our visitors."

Nassau is one of the most popular stopovers on cruises from Florida, with more than two million passengers visiting last year, according to the Bahamas tourism ministry.

According to the London-based Passenger Shipping Association, 208,000 Britons took a Caribbean cruise in 2008.

Oasis of the Seas.. Tagged for Success

2009-11-30T14:09:00.010Z

A tagging system for three to 11-year-olds has been introduced on board the world's largest cruise liner.

Ships have become so big that cruise lines are encouraging parents to use GPS systems to keep track of their children.

Royal Caribbean International has introduced tagging system for three to 11-year-olds in a move that coincides with the launch this week of Oasis of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship. Using an electronic device built into the wristbands that all children on the ship must wear, the system enables parents to locate their offspring wherever they are among the ship's 16 decks.

Oasis of the Seas can carry up to 6,300 passengers and weighs more than 225,000 tons.

The system is linked to a new on-board phone system called Royal Connect which also enables guests to keep in contact with each other and view on-board activities.
The device costs $17.50 (£12) to hire for the duration of a cruise and can only be used on the ship and not for ship to shore calls.

If it is successful, the new system will be introduced on other ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.