Cruise Holidays - Attheta Travel

Some cruise itineraries focus on visiting a different port every day, with lots of onshore activities to choose from. Still, most cruises have at least one day at sea, with no scheduled port call. And, some cruises – particularly cruises that reposition ships from one body of water to another, world cruises that cross wide swaths of water between continents, and cruises that depart from the west coast for Hawaii – offer a string of days at sea. The great thing about days at sea is that they give you time to fully explore and enjoy the comforts and amenities of your ship. And, you can be as active or as relaxed as you choose. You can nap in the comfort of your stateroom or stretch out in a deck chair; or, find a book in the ship’s library and curl up in a corner for a good read. To maximize your relaxation, book a luxurious treatment in the ship’s spa, or enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the onboard dining spots you haven’t tried yet. If you want to be a bit more active, try you...

The British Virgin Islands are some of the most scenic islands in the Caribbean Sea. Most of this group of about 60 islands and islets are impressively mountainous, with a warm tropical climate moderated by refreshing trade winds. The water around these islands is crystal-clear and calm.        Tortola, the largest of the British Virgin Islands, is the only one that can accommodate large cruise ships. If several ships are there on the day you visit, the shops and restaurants of Tortola’s Road Harbor may already be overwhelmed by cruise ship passengers by the time you reach the dock. Don’t worry – while Tortola is worth exploring, it is also a launching point for ferry and boat service to other islands.          For example, you can catch a ferry to the island of Jost Van Dyke, said to be named for a female pirate. Check out the pristine beach at White Bay, and enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the island’s m...

If you have an urge to see the South Pacific, but you aren’t sure which islands to visit, here’s some basic information for you. First of all, you’re wise to consider experiencing the South Pacific via cruise ship. The South Pacific has wonderful land-based resorts, but you may realize greater value for your vacation dollar on a cruise, as your accommodations, meals and entertainment will all be included in your fare. Plus, you’ll easily be able to explore more than one of the lovely islands.     The South Pacific has about 7,500 islands sprinkled across a vast swath of the South Pacific Ocean. Only about 500 of the islands are inhabited. Photos will show you islands surrounded by thriving reef systems and gorgeous water in various shades of blue, with inviting white sand beaches backed by swaying palms. Be assured that the islands are even more beautiful when seen in person. The islands of the South Pacific are usually divided into three major regions: ...

A luxury cruise is an incredible vacation experience, with VIP treatment at every turn. Luxury cruise lines know how to pamper their guests: expect gorgeously appointed accommodations and public spaces, serene spas offering indulgent treatments, and true gourmet dining at every meal, whether you enjoy it in an elegant restaurant or in the privacy of your own suite. Most luxury ships are smaller and more intimate than average. The ratio of crew to passengers is also higher on luxury ships: some sail with a crew member for each guest, ensuring the most attentive and personalized service. While the luxury lines have much in common, each has its own identity and signature amenities, too. The time-honored practices of traditional cruising, such as pre-set seating in the dining room, are a hallmark of Crystal Cruises. This line sails some of the larger ships in the luxury market, with outstanding service that makes each guest feel like the most important person on board. Crystal is a...

As we begin our third year as a Cruise Holidays franchise owner, we want to say “Thank You” to our loyal customers who have virtually followed us to our new location.   Meanwhile, we are adding new customers and finding new friends.   I have always loved the leisure travel business.   I completed my travel certification in 1995 and worked part time in the travel trade. After my early retirement from Qwest in 2002, I joined the staff at Cruise Holidays of Bellevue.   After working in the store for eight years, I made the transition to Cruise Holidays franchise owner in February of 2010.   As a “virtual office” agency, I can manage my business from anywhere. Garry has retired from his previous line of work (project management) and has joined me, full time, in our travel business.   He is supporting our agency in marketing and travel research. Garry is working to become an “Accredited Cruise Counselor” – he should earn his credentials by early spri...

Information is extracted from Cruise Holidays annual survey of agents.   No real surprises listed, but interesting survey results from the past few years: 2011 ·         Onboard credits offered by cruise lines through travel agents are the most popular cruise booking incentive, according to Cruise Holidays. ·         The Disney Dream was the most anticipated new ship of 2011, according to Cruise Holidays. ·         Celebrity Cruises’ Silhouette was the 2 nd most anticipated ship of 2011, according to Cruise Holidays. ·         Oceania Cruises’ Marina was the 3 rd most anticipated ship of 2011, according to Cruise Holidays. ·         The top cruise destination booked in 2010 for 2011by Cruise Holidays was the Caribbean. ·         The 2 ...

The nomenclature of Caribbean Islands can be a little confusing: just what are the Antilles , and why are some Greater and some Lesser? Exactly which islands are in each grouping? And, which ones can you visit on a cruise? Collectively, the islands of the Caribbean are known as the West Indies . They can be sorted into three groups by location: the Bahamas (which some people consider too far north to qualify as true Caribbean Islands ); the Greater Antilles; and the Lesser Antilles . The Greater Antilles include Cuba , Hispaniola (which is divided into the nations of Haiti and the Dominican Republic ), Jamaica and Puerto Rico . The Cayman Islands are often included in the Greater Antilles as well, as they are located quite close to Cuba . These larger, older Caribbean islands are generally made of continental rock. The Caymans and Jamaica are popular cruise destinations, while Puerto Rico is a starting and ending point for many Caribbean itineraries, offering opportunit...