smart money cruises ~ the scoop

Despite one of the world’s most famous golfers missing this weekend’s British Open due to knee surgery, his presence still looms large.  Journalists quiz the pros whether a win means as much with Tiger Woods out of the hunt.  Jokes Geoff Ogilvy, ranked third in the world, “I just hope they taught the engraver how to put an asterisk on the trophy.”

            Tiger Woods                                                

Last year’s near winner, Sergio Garcia believes a win is a win.  

“With all due respect, the Open is bigger than any of us, even Tiger Woods.  If I manage to win this week, I’m not going to go, ‘Oh, I won the British Open but Tiger wasn’t there.’ I’ll still have the claret jug, which is the most important thing.”

One wonders if some of the pros may quietly be breathing a collective sigh of relief knowing Woods is out of the picture for the rest of the season.   The TV networks undoubtedly hold a different view, concerned viewership will suffer without Woods, the first major PGA tournament he’s missed in 12 years.

Since Woods won’t be gracing the TV screen the rest of the golf season, perhaps now would be a good time to brush up on a few strokes.  There are several golf cruises available.  The golf itineraries follow some of Europe’s best courses.  Professionals are on hand to offer important tips and the latest video technology is available to help improve your game.  Could be pretty sweet to perfect your swing against a sea and sky background.  By the way, cruise lines provide clubs or you can bring your own. 

Luxury line Silversea offers several golf cruise itineraries throughout the year.  Peter Deilmann also has quite a few golf theme itineraries set.  One quick bit of trivia, golf cruises are one of the most popular theme cruises offered in today’s expanding cruise market.

Happy travels! 

Golf Cruise, Theme Cruise, Tiger Woods,  British Open 2008, Europe Cruise, Luxury Cruise,  Silversea, Smart Money Cruises 

So if I had a few thousand dollars burning a hole in my pocket and a couple weeks of vacation this summer, there’s one particular cruise I’d book in a heartbeat.  It’s on a luxury cruise line with world-famous guests traveling a storybook European itinerary.  Let me fill in the blanks.

If you check out my cruise website, www.smartmoneycruises.com, you’ll see more than 50 theme categories listed with hundreds of cruises.  But out of all the cruises I’ve researched, this one is definitely at the top of my list.  It’s on Crystal Cruise Lines Serenity, traveling from Monte Carlo to Venice. The special guests on board are award-winning newswoman Barbara Walters and famed composer Marvin Hamlisch.  It also happens to be one of Crystal’s popular Wine and Food Festival themes.  So not only do you get to mingle with A list celebrities but you get the pleasure of enjoying some of the best food and wine, all while journeying from the French Riviera to one of the prettiest cities in the world, Venice, Italy.  Now that’s my kind of cruise!

                                                                                 

It’s departing Monte Carlo this July 31 and docks in Venice on August 12th.  At this date I’m not writing to encourage you to book the trip but I want you to be aware of some of the options available among the many cruise lines today.

We’ve gone far beyond Broadway style shows and casinos for our at-sea entertainment.  I remember my first cruise (a 10-day Royal Caribbean adventure in the early ’80’s).  You ate at designated times and you either gambled or watched the shows.  Honestly, they weren’t that good back then.  But it was something to do in the evening.  There were no workshops, themed-cruises or celebrities traveling.  It’s amazing how far the industry has come, even in the last few years.  (By the way, I loved that cruise and still think of it often.  There’s nothing quite like your first cruise!)

Although there are millions of folks who’ve yet to take their first cruise, there are also many passengers who are repeat cruisers.  They’ve seen a lot of the ports, particularly in the Caribbean.  Many are content to stay on the ship and just enjoy its amenities.  That’s become much easier as the increase of shipboard activities mean the ships themselves are now becoming the destination.  That’s fine with cruise line execs.  As long as you stay on board, so does your money.

By the way, if you want to see more on the Crystal Serenity cruise, you can reach the page at www.smartmoneycruises.com/television-movies.htm.

Happy travels!     

 

 Theme Cruise, Barbara Walters, Marvin Hamlisch, Crystal Cruise, Europe Cruise, Crystal Serenity, Smart Money Cruises

So where did I live off from my last post?  Oh yes, food.  Well, my family is partial to Mexican food and we like the family-run places so I’m giving our vote to an eatery that’s been around since 1940.  It’s called ‘El Indio’.  It’s not fancy, you order at the counter then search for a table.  It’s in an industrial area and parking can be interesting.  So what makes this place worth recommending?

Everything is homemade. Tamales, carnitas, enchiladas, you name it.  All fresh.  You can buy packages of steaming tortillas, sides of guacamole and sour cream to accompany your meal.  It’s totally casual, not as cheap as some, but definitely popular and always a line, especially weekends.  Also very close to the port of San Diego and San Diego Airport.

There’s also a popular burger eatery called Hodad’s and a pasta place named Lotsa Pasta.  Didn’t eat at these but they seem to be well liked.  Googling San Diego restaurants is enlighting.  Everyone has their opinions.   I’ve found restaurant reviews are similar to hotel reviews in that sometimes people can be really picky.  My experience has taught me if even a few folks like it, it’s probably pretty good.  It’s always a good idea to checkout the menus and read as many reviews as possible.  And use your gut instinct. 

                                                             

Things to do in San Diego.  As far as activities go, Sea World San Diego is fun for all ages.  Plan on a full day, possibly two if the little ones need naps.  The San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park are popular but they’re inland a bit so prepare for warmer weather at those locations during the summer. 

If you’re looking to stay along the beach, we love La Jolla.  It’s about a 15 minute drive from the Mission Bay/Sea World area and neighboring Pacific Beach.  There are a lot of restaurants, bars and funky shops along the main drag of Pacific Beach.  It’s geared to a 20’s and 30’s crowd rather than families.  La Jolla, meantime, has a different vibe, lots of boutique properties, nice shops and romantic restaurants.  It’s pricey but pretty.  Parking is tight and food can be expensive but definitely worth a visit if you have an extra afternoon or evening.

One of our other favorite areas is Coronado Island.  There are a half a dozen places worth staying, everything from motel to high-end resort.  That would be the Del (Hotel del Coronado).  At more than 100 years young, it’s a landmark in the San Diego area and worth a walk around the grounds.  Known for many amenities including it’s oceanfront location and Sunday brunch.

So if you’re taking a cruise from San Diego, allow yourself at least a couple of days to get acquainted with the area.  With its’ impressive downtown skyline it looks like a bit city but with it’s casual beach atmosphere and laid back attitude, it has a smaller-town feel.

One other thing to consider, if you’re cruising from the port of Los Angeles, you could still enjoy the San Diego sights.  Consider flying in to San Diego and spending a couple days there then take a shuttle directly to the pier or ride amtrak to downtown L.A. From there you’d take a bus or shuttle transportation to the pier, about 20 miles away.  The ride between the two areas takes on average about two hours. 

So there are lots of choices.  If you have the time and are taking a week-long cruise, consider extending your trip to a-week-and-a-half or even two weeks.  I’ve lived in Southern California all my life and I still have more to see!

Happy travels.

San Diego, Cruise from San Diego, Sea World San Diego, Port of San Diego, San Diego Weather, Smart Money Cruises              

So my family lives in Orange County, California (I never call it Cali).  We usually head to Hawaii for a week or more during the summer.  But truthfully, this year I just couldn’t face an airport.  So we came to San Diego, about an hour and a half south, for a few days.

The weather is very much like our area, mid 70’s this weekend, the last weekend of June.  It’s nice to just sit by the pool and hang out.  But of course, I’m not just one to sit.  I wanted to check out the hotel rooms so I brought my flip video and will be posting comments and video of the hotel on my website which you’ll be able to check out at www.smartmoneycruises.com/hotelindex.htm shortly.  By the way, we’re staying at the Hyatt Mission Bay.

                                                            

I’ll be adding hotels from the Southern California area to my website because I think it’s nice to spend a couple of days either before or after your cruise, just chillaxing.  I prefer the pre-cruise stay rather than the post-cruise, especially if you’re flying in from another time zone and need to shake the jet lag.

San Diego is a very pretty area.  It’s divided into several sections.  We’re staying in the Mission Bay area just across from Sea World, at the Hyatt Mission Bay.  It just underwent a $65 million dollar renovation and I must say, it’s a very clean, fresh property, zen-like with an asian influence, great pools and water slides.  There’s a water view, either bay or marina, from practically every room.  In the summer, because of the resort-like atmosphere, it’s popular with families. 

I have to say, even though I miss Hawaii, getting here was a breeze.  We like to stop in Carlsbad at the outlet mall to take a break and stretch our legs (and usually our wallets.)  It’s been awhile since I’ve been to the city of San Diego and I was surprised that it only took about another 20 minutes to get to the San Diego airport area from Carlsbad.  That’s on a weekend with no traffic.

I’m going to write more about our trip and share some of our favorite eating spots.  As we drive around I’ll get a better lay of the land and hopefully share some more tips on hotels and activities.  For now, we’re off for a bite to eat.  Hamburgers or seafood?  After a day enjoying the salt air, either sounds good.

   
San Diego, Things to do in San Diego , Sea World San Diego , San Diego Hotels , San Diego Weather
  

I can’t think of a better example than the following to explain the importance of securing a passport and travel insurance before you cruise.

A husband and wife traveling with three young children, including a baby, made headlines recently when the 7-month-old daughter became ill.  A doctor at the Royal Caribbean ship’s medical facility feared the dreaded norovirus so the family was dropped off and obtained medical assistance in the Bahamas.  The illness reportedly turned out to be a cold.  So now we’re thinking, oh my gosh.  Not a good experience.  To make matters worse, we learn the family had no passports or trip cancellation insurance. 

                                                                          

So, the family had to contact the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas for emergency passports and find transportation home.  Out of pocket cost, a reported $1700.  The cruise line has since stepped in to assist the family with a credit for a future cruise but was under no obligation to do so.

First of all, I can’t imagine cruising without a passport.  In this case, passports weren’t required because the ship left and returned to a U.S. port.  However, it did visit foreign ports and, just as this story indicates, if you end up returning home from a foreign stop, you need a passport.  Simple as that.  Also, three kids?  No travel insurance?  If they were trying to save a few bucks, they learned a tough lesson.  That’s not where you want to cut financial corners.

Even when it’s just my husband and myself traveling, we still purchase trip cancellation insurance.  We have a daughter, and elderly parents.  If they get sick and we can’t go, we’re covered.  Peace of mind and common sense.

So, before you cruise, be prepared.  I’ve provided some links to answer some of your passport and travel insurance questions:

us passport

how to get a passport

travel insurance

These websites should get you started.  Keep in mind it can take several weeks to obtain a passport once you’ve sent in all the correct paperwork, particularly during the summer when travel is at its peak.

Cruise lines also offer their own insurance but its fine to book elsewhere.  Just do your research.

Happy travels! 

                                                                                                          

US Passport, Travel Insurance, Royal Caribbean, Trip Insurance, Passport

So I took my teenaged daughter to Vegas last week (Spring Break) for her first-ever visit.  Overall, we had a great time.  It didn’t turn out to be a Las Vegas vacation as we spent most of it touring hotels, casinos, inspecting pool areas, buffets, convention centers, stores, visiting downtown and just being tourists.  I lived there in the early 80’s when Vegas was, well, Vegas.  Back then the atmosphere was the furthest thing possible from what it is now…and to be honest, I liked it better 25 years ago.         

                                                       

So what compels me to write about our week-long adventure?  A survey I just read revealing Atlantic City, New Jersey ranks higher in customer satisfaction and value than Vegas.  Apparently that’s a big “upset” since Atlantic City is a relative newcomer to the gambling and entertainment industry (30 years for Atlantic City versus 77 years for Vegas).                                      

                                                    

In fairness, I don’t know much about Atlantic City but just returning from Vegas, the survey really didn’t surprise me.  There’s no doubt, in my opinion, Vegas is losing it’s small town luster faster than a progressive slot machine can suck in those $20 bills.  And that means customer service takes a hit too.

One quick example to share.  The world’s largest souvenir shop, on the corner of Sahara and the Strip, has no restroom for customers.  You have to walk across the street to the Sahara Hotel’s NASCAR shop for a bathroom.  When we returned I asked the cashier at the souvenir shop to make some change and she just stared at me like I’d ask for her paycheck.  Again, this is the world’s largest souvenir shop where you can spend too much time gawking at the flashing “Welcome Vegas” signs and sifting through dice ornaments.  If you don’t have to do the pee dance.

We also felt like some of the shopkeepers at the Caesar’s Palace Forum Shops were staring through us, watching our every move, like we were going to steal something.  Certainly they’d seen other customers shell-shocked at their staggering prices, given the quality of merchandise.

So the survey of several thousand visitors to both destinations says 78% of Atlantic City visitors were “very likely to recommend” the resort to others while 59% would recommend Vegas.   Now let’s get real for a moment.  Chances of this survey poorly affecting Vegas tourism is as likely as hitting  7 7 7.   But with Vegas profits off, the nationwide recession and price of gas taking their toll, a bit of an attitude adjustment in Sin City wouldn’t be a bad idea. 

                                                                                            

Las Vegas, Las Vegas Casinos, Las Vegas Tourism,Las Vegas Hotels, Las Vegas Vacation

It’s official.  Royal Caribbean’s takes delivery of it’s newest baby, Independence of the Seas, it’s latest Freedom-class addition.   A Godmother is also crowned for the largest ship of its kind to be based in Europe.

Although the role of Godmother is traditionally reserved for dignitaries or celebrities, the cruise line decided to think outside of the box with this award asking ordinary citizens to nominate an exceptional friend or family member.

British resident Elizabeth Hill earned the honor.  Along with her portrait hanging in the ship, she’ll take part in inaugural ceremonies including the official naming of the ship.  And how about this for a special prize.   Free cruises for the next decade.  Wow!  Hill was selected by a panel of judges who consider her “an ordinary woman accomplishing extraordinary things” for youth in her community.

                                

                                                          Independence of the Seas 

Meantime, the 3,600 passenger Independence will feature the trademarks of it’s sister ships (Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas) including a water park, surf simulator, boxing ring, rock-climbing wall and ice skating rink, among other amenities.  The one, big difference here, this ship’s water park facilities and pools will be heated.

The 160,000 ton Independence of the Seas will sail Mediterranean itineraries this summer before heading to the Caribbean in the fall.

P.S.  Here’s a link to a cool video, runs 2:46, just a brief overview of the ship from a British perspective: 

        http://www.telegraph.co.uk/portal/ttv/lifestyle.jhtml?bcpid=1365140359&bclid=1363192395&bctid=1520957023

Happy travels!                                                     

                                                                                               Royal Caribbean, Independence of the Seas, Cruises to Europe, Caribbean Cruise, Europe Cruises

Real trees, gardens, grass and a town square combine aboard Royal Caribbean International Cruise Line’s latest fleet of ships in an unprecedented effort to create a Central Park atmosphere at sea.

The two 225,000 ton Project Genesis ships will be the largest cruise ships built to date.  Fifty percent larger than Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s current Freedom Class of ships, they’ll each accommodate 5,400 passengers.  The Central Park area, running the length of a football field, will be open air with its own micro-climate and irrigation to ensure the health of the living plants.  Modeled after New York’s famous Central Park, this newest engineering feat will replace the Freedom Class line’s popular shopping arcade known as the Royal Promenade.

                                                        

Along with outdoor dining, the ships will also feature a moving bar, called the Rising Tide, which will glide up and down three decks.  The park will be located on deck 8 of the 16-deck ships.  The first Genesis-class ship, as yet unnamed, now being built in Finland, is expected to begin it’s Caribbean itineraries in the fall of 2009.  Ft. Lauderdale, Florida is it’s scheduled home port.  The second ship’s expected launch is 2010.                                                       

 

With the launch of Project Genesis, the ships, rather than the ports, become the destination.   Cruisers admit to a curiosity and say they’ll probably try the larger ships once but many question why the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line needed such a large design.  Those who enjoy the ports believe those stops will be limited or phased out given the ship’s berthing size.  That could translate to some new business for the smaller, more intimate ships already popular among many veteran cruisers.    

                                                                                      

Royal Caribbean, Largest Cruise Ship, Biggest Cruise Ship, Central Park at Sea, Smart Money Cruises

A couple of years ago Aloha Air filed for Chapter 11 and was able to reorganize.  So when the airline, operating more than 60 years, announced two weeks ago it was again filing bankruptcy, I thought, well, the fuel prices are taking their toll but things will be OK.  As we now know, things aren’t OK as Aloha has announced it’s shutting all passenger service and continuing only its cargo operation.

                                                         

This is going to make for an interesting spring break as many folks head out for a Hawaii vacation this coming week.  The good news is airlines, including United and Hawaiian, will attempt to honor the Aloha tickets.  If you’re leaving in a couple of days, try to get results by phone.  If that doesn’t work you may want to head to the airport and get your tickets changed before the day of your flight.  If you have a big family traveling you may have to split up your party and not worry about seat assignments.

If you’re looking for a refund, you’re in luck if you purchased your tickets with a credit card.  The credit card companys should be able to issue a refund in a timely manner.  If you purchased with cash or a check, you’ll have to file a claim with bankruptcy court.  

I can imagine the guest relations desk on the Norwegian Cruise Lines ships, Pride of America and Pride of Aloha will be extremely busy this week as the Hawaii cruise passengers holding Aloha Air tickets will hear the Hawaii news and need help rearranging flights home this coming weekend.

Here are some answers to questions posed by Aloha Air ticket holders:

     - If you have an Aloha Airlines ticket, it is still valid.  Aloha is working to get other carriers to honor your ticket.  Check out reservation assistance from:

     - Hawaiian Airlines:  www.HawaiianAir.com/AlohaAssistance/

     - United Airlines: http://www.united.com/page/article/0,6722,52609,00.html or 1-800-UNITED1

      - You’re AlohaPass Miles are no longer valid

      - Contact credit card agency if ticket purchased with credit card, file claim with bankruptcy court if paid by cash or check

If you’re staying at a Marriott property and are stuck, the Marriott hotels and vacation clubs are offering special rates for the extra nights you may have to stay in Hawaii.  Various other hotels are also offering special considerations for stranded passengers.

Here’s another number:  Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau’s web site: http://www.gohawaii.com/alohaairlines

And Aloha’s website answers a few questions:  http://www.alohaairlines.com/landing_pages/aloha_oe_faq.php

As to why Aloha quit flying, the rising fuel costs and interisland fare wars took their toll.  Airline analysts say Hawaii’s interisland market simply couldn’t sustain three competing airlines and one of them would be forced out.  Some 1900 Aloha employees are expected to lose their jobs.  As to the effect the airline’s closure will have on Hawaii tourism, that remains to be seen.  But if history is any indication, less competition usually means higher fares. 

                                                                                   

Aloha Airlines,Hawaii Airlines, Flights to Hawaii, Hawaii Cruises, Hawaii Tourism, Hawaii News
  

Post-Katrina New Orleans conjers up a host of visual pictures from the New Orleans mardi gras to pro football’s New Orleans Saints to the cajun spiced dishes spilling from famous New Orleans restaurants.  There’s something for all the senses in this city of kindness and chaos. 

I still remember biting into a warm, powdery beignet (a puff-pastry given a french name meaning ‘bump’) and slurping a thick, chickory coffee at the landmark Cafe du Monde.  On occasion I think back to the local prawns I couldn’t get enough of during a rainy July 4th weekend many years ago.  And I still laugh as I attempt to forget my pronunciation of “remoulade” (re-moo-lahd).  I always knew that high school french would come in handy!  

                                                       

Why was I reminiscing about the Crescent City?  Blame the daydreams on an email I received from the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau.  What sets this message apart is it’s long list of discounts on everything from food to tours to hotels.  And since cruises from New Orleans are gaining in popularity, I thought I’d pass along the link, just in case you’re planning a future cruise.  The best discounts seem to be at the end of the list in the ”Where to Stay” category.  Check out the City of New Orleans.

There’s also another popular New Orleans tourism site online.  I suggest you do some comparing.  These websites are packed with helpful information that will give you a well-informed start as you plan your southern adventure.  

I can’t emphasize enough, if your cruise roundtrips from the city of New Orleans, make sure you plan a pre or post cruise stay.   Soaking in the history, the gentile spirit of the locals, not to mention the world-renowned cuisine is an absolute must.  There’s really no other city like it in the United States. 

There are more than 70 cruises from New Orleans scheduled through the end of this year.  If you’re pressed for time, consider booking a tour with the cruise line directly.  Just make sure to do your homework so you won’t miss out on all of the city’s great attractions. 

Happy travels and have a shrimp for me!  

                                                                                        

Cruises from New Orleans, New Orleans Cruises, City of New Orleans , New Orleans Hotels , New Orleans Mardi Gras , New Orleans Restaurants