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WANDERING WONDER WOMAN - a travel blog
Off the Beaten Path in Ireland
12/14/2018 3:00:50 PM Link 1 comment | Add comment
When we envision Ireland, there is green as far as the eye can see with sheep grazing. What most do not realize is how much there is to discover in this lush, vibrant land. Upon my journey to Ireland I only hoped to gain a better perspective on their country and culture. Below, encapsulated is a journey that shows you venturing off the beaten path, is always a good idea.
Knowth
Wide awake as my 4AM flight landed, I was full of excitement! Our first stop brought us to Knowth where the passage tombs lie. Huge stones surrounded the base of the tomb, each one engraved in a unique way with megalithic art. Once inside, we could see tight pathways that jutted off leading to each tomb. Emerging, the weather took a sharp turn quickly reminding us winter is coming. As unprepared as we were for the brisk cold, nothing could compete with view of the entire countryside on top of Knowth.
Butler Arms Hotel
Nestled along the Ring of Kerry, The Butler Arms Hotel in Waterville is iconic for all Star Wars fans. During filming, the cast resided here in this quaint town and gorgeous rugged landscape. In the distance, I was able to catch a glimpse of Skellig Island that was used as a film location. Imagine that along with views of waves crashing and mountains in the distance while golfing. The Bulter Arms is the perfect getaway for any avid golfer complete with the Waterville Golf Links and Hogs Head Golf Club.
Slieve League Cliffs
Be sure to indulge in a full Irish breakfast to fuel the day’s journey. Starting to make our way along the Northern west coast, our next stop was the Slieve League Cliffs. A steep bus ride took us to the lookout point where we had stellar views to enjoy the scenery of the towering cliffs. Faintly, we could hear the waves crashing onto the shore below and in the distance we could see a lookout tower that was once in use. Even though the more heavily visited Cliffs of Moher is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Ireland, it still only comes to half the height of the Slieve League Cliffs.
Belleek
Heading back towards Northern Ireland we made our way to the famous Belleek China factory. Beautiful hand crafted pottery surrounded us as we were taken though the tour from its start to final product. We ended our tour with purchasing some fine pottery along with a necessary scone and tea break. Most visitors tend to gravitate to the Waterford Crystal factory but do not realize that Belleek makes crystal in addition to their pottery.
Kilronan Castle
Look no further if you desire for your lodging to take a rather elegant turn. The Kilronan Castle, located in County Roscommon, perfectly captured grace and sophistication at its finest. The rooms and service were nothing short of being fit for royalty and I was in heaven! As we dined, we were graced by a harpist that heightened the exquisite atmosphere even more.
The Shire
A night out in Killarney allowed us to stroll along streets lined with many stores and pubs but one stood out in particular, The Shire. The Shire was a Lord of the Rings/Hobbit themed pub that captured its elements perfectly. We ended up there three times two nights in a row! The owners greeted us each night with Irish hospitality anticipating our return.
Sheen Falls Lodge
If you find yourself winding through the Ring of Kerry, be sure to stay in Kenmare at the Sheen Falls Lodge. Renowned for its views of the gushing falls and impeccable hospitality, no wonder it is the highest rated resort in Ireland. The property kept outdoing itself at every turn, leaving me speechless.
I will cherish Ireland forever for its impeccable views and legendary company. I encourage all travelers to stray from the well-worn path and uncover their own journey. Sláinte!
Movies that spark your Wanderlust
9/26/2018 2:30:06 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
We all have something that ignites the wanderlust in us, and for some it’s the visuals settings of a movie. If we were to ask ourselves what movies inspire us to travel, the selection would range from comedies, to classics, to romances, to action, a truly never-ending list. You can discover a new country without ever leaving the couch, allowing the images on screen to spark our excitement for a new adventure. So let’s explore the world of movies, and discover the unique settings that have inspired many travelers through the years.
Under the Tuscan Sun: Tuscany
Have you ever felt truly at home somewhere... as if a gravitational pull is drawing you closer? In the movie ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’, Frances finds a new life and rejuvenation in Italy. Tuscany is that rather dreamy region of Italy just north of Rome encompassing Florence, Pisa, Siena, and Lucca. Imagine winding through roads full of castles, historical sites, ancient farmhouses, vineyards, and fields of poppies. Known for being the birthplace of the Renaissance, the forefathers such as Leonardo da Vinci, Donatello, and Michelangelo created a revolution in the arts. Like the pull in the movie, art and architecture found its home in Tuscany. Discover Tuscany and the greater regions of Italy with one of our latest group departures. History becomes reality and the sights are jaw-dropping. Join us as we uncover the Italian wonders in Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento (the Amalfi Coast) along with many other locations one only dreams of.
The Princess Bride: Ireland
The Princess Bride is a beloved classic that holds an esteemed place in our hearts. The Cliffs of Moher create a dramatic landscape on the west side of Ireland. Known as the ‘Cliffs of Insanity’ in the movie, Vezzini, Inigo Montoya, and Fezzik take captive Princess Buttercup to start a war. Little do they know, farm boy, Westley, is not far behind. Something we seldom think about is Ireland’s rich culinary history. If you love cheese, chocolate, whiskey, and a good time our culinary Ireland tour is for you. Bask in the breeze as you stare into the waves looking beyond the Cliffs of Moher. Soak in the moment while sampling cheeses from a local goat farm. This is but a glimpse of the culinary delights you’ll encounter on this 8-day adventure. A true highlight will be a culinary lesson in Dublin at the world their famous cooking school, and after the lesson compete against fellow students in a cook-off! Race for the prize like Westley raced to save Princess Buttercup.
Lord of the Rings & the Hobbit: New Zealand
New Zealand is home to a plethora of movie sets but none are quite as comprehensive or memorable as the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Whether you want to see the dramatic landscape of Middle Earth or the nestled hobbit homes of the Shire, New Zealand is calling. Dive into the Hobbiton movie set with their authentic tours that allow you to feast and roam the Shire pastures. Many of the most stunning locations in New Zealand are instantly recognizable from the series. North Island locations include: Matamata (Shire, Hobbiton movie set), Wellington (Gardens of Isengard, the River Anduin, Rivendell, Osgiliath Wood, Paths of the Dead); South Island locations: Nelson Tasman (Home of the ‘One Ring’, Chetwood Forest, Dimrill Dale), Canterbury (Edoras), Mackenzie Country (Pelennor Fields), Southern Lakes (Ford of Bruinen, Gandalf’s ride, Isengard and Lothlorien), and Fiordland (River Anduin, Fangorn Forest). Go beyond our earthly borders and step into a new world that only New Zealand can bring.
Sound of Music: Austria
The hills truly do come alive while in Austria. Just like in the Sound of Music, Salzburg, Austria is laden with rolling green hills and a backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Live out the movie-worthy story of the von Trapps. Not only can you follow in the footsteps of Julie Andrew’s character Maria von Trapp, but discover how the modern fairytale became the film we adore. Speckled between the hills are stunning palaces and fortresses that made Salzburg an acclaimed member of the UNESCO World Heritage. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, being born and raised here, brought also the sound of music through his masterpieces.
Couples Retreat: Bora Bora
Do you ever find yourself daydreaming at work of escaping to an island paradise? In Couples Retreat they feature the St. Regis Bora Bora that surpasses all your expectations. With its crystal clear water and exclusivity, it is no wonder it was named ‘Heaven of Earth’. Over-the-water bungalows dot right off the shoreline creating a luxurious experience one would not soon forget. Couples Retreat shows the difficulties relationships can run into, but that everything can be amended. In Bora Bora all your worries are carried away by the gentle crashing of waves. Rejuvenate yourself in a tropical paradise unlike anywhere on earth.
Step onto set and become the star in your own production. Let your imagination soar, and see how discovering the world changes you. Look at travel through a new lens and create your own original box office hit.
Travel. Eat. Repeat.
8/22/2018 3:46:35 PM Link 1 comment | Add comment
I am an avid lover of food and one who shamelessly plans my vacations around food. Eat well and travel often is a phrase synonymous with food tourism. The popularity of food travel is sweeping the palettes of foodies and epicureans alike. Right in our backyard, food tourism can be found in every Southern state. I was born with a passion to travel and to seek out the best culinary experience possible. When nearly one-third of travelers spending is already allotted to food, why not ensure you are getting the best cuisine available?
While I have had the pleasure of uncovering a few of these hidden gems, the others have either received renowned praise or become a destination in its own. One of my favorite parts of traveling is seeking out new restaurants especially if it is a hot local spot. Checkout my hand selected restaurants and tours across the Southeast.
New Orleans
Cajun and creole are the essence of New Orleans fare. I love the extra zing and spice they add into their cuisine to jazz it up. Located in the infamous French Quarter, you can find the New Orleans Food and History Tour that celebrates their culture and gastronomy. Bring your appetite and be prepared for a bit of walking as you savor seven classic dishes. With authentic offerings ranging from sweet potato beignets, muffalettas (my personal favorite), to a popular hot sauce bar. It will be easy to see why they are the number one food destination in the United States. Watch the cuisine come alive as this history tour unfolds, receiving a personal touch that only comes directly from interacting with the chefs. If you have more of a hankering for freshly caught seafood The Original New Orleans Seafood and History Tour will satisfy your cravings. With at least six stops you will sample shrimp remoulade, creole seafood gumbo and end it on a sweet note with pralines. They even highlight the restaurant where the Shrimp and Crab Cake was featured on Guy Fieri’s ‘Diners Drive In’s and Dives’.
Birmingham
I was recently discussing with a friend where the best local place in Birmingham, Alabama is to eat. Without hesitation she said Highlands Bar and Grill that specializes in French-inspired Southern cuisine. With an ever-rotating menu, the experience is new each visit. They have been nominated ten times for a James Beard Foundation Award as the most outstanding restaurant and finally received the title in 2018. For the coveted title alone, this restaurant is truly a culinary experience that cannot be missed.
Charleston
Charleston radiates with culinary gems to be sought out. They even have an entire street dedicated to their Southern fare, Kings Street. Savor the Flavor of Upper King Street will transport you back to your childhood if you grew up in the South. The tour will take you to the most distinguished restaurants that feature low country comfort food. Fried chicken, fried green tomatoes, and mac-n-cheese are just a few of the tantalizing dishes you can savor. If your taste buds are crying out for authentic barbeque and stone ground grits with the sweetest tea to wash it down, you will want to embark on Savor the Flavors of Charleston Tour. But, for a truly unique experience be sure to check out R’s Kitchen, but book early as reservations fill well in advance.
Big Canoe/ Marble Hill
Over the past few years we have made it a family tradition to take a vacation right after Christmas. This past Winter season we ventured to Big Canoe, Georgia. With its rustic feel and gorgeous mountainous scenery, it made for an incredible vacation. The mountains were nestled with stand-alone restaurants that were almost as unforgettable. Just outside the Big Canoe community is Marble Hill were you can find the Home restaurant. Homey, comfortable décor immediately welcomes you along with heavenly aromas of their locally sourced cuisine being prepared. After much debate I settled on their Hot Smoked Salmon Flatbread which was out of this world! Being slightly clumsy or enjoying it too much, I managed to drop half of my food on the floor. Thankfully our server laughed without judgment and promptly brought me another. I was just excited to score some extra food to save for later. And on a side note the Home Burger and Filets received rave reviews from my family members. Not only does the tucked away community of Big Canoe have the ability to boast of their stunning views, but they also know how to make you feel at Home.
Gatlinburg
Many years ago my parents thought it would be a great idea to take my high school brother and five of his friends to Gatlinburg for Spring Break. I was the lucky person who got to sleep on a blowup mattress in a closet while everyone was quite comfortable in their own bed. After being taken everywhere the boys desired, my mom and I found an escape by getting to eat dinner in peace. I have been dying to share one of my all-time beloved restaurants! Located in the Smokey Mountains of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is J.T. Hannah’s where they prepare top notch slow cooked St. Louis ribs. Let me tell you, I have been daydreaming for over five years now about these ribs. I cannot get over them. It was by chance my mom and I decided to eat here one night on vacation. We spilt a full rack of ribs and selected their Spinach Maria and sweet potato fries which could have both stood alone from the ribs. As a destination unto itself, Gatlinburg is known for its breath taking scenery and now you know, its food!
After researching and reliving all the culinary experiences I have encountered, I am NOW starving. I challenge you as a traveller to set your eyes beyond a destination and explore the world of food out there. Submerse yourself in delectable delights and set your course to uncover your own culinary journey.
To book any of the above mentioned tours, be sure to call us at 850-235-2640 or 800-277-3770.
6/20/2018 3:27:38 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Travel Ventures Presents…..Upcoming Group Departures for 2018/2019!
As “the best travel agency in Bay County” (voted for by News Herald readers in 2018) Travel Ventures has been a full service agency since 1989. In addition to all of your individual travel needs we are also renowned for our motorcoach and group travel packages. Over the years we have had the privilege to share some of the world’s best travel destinations with you, our valued clients and friends.
We have a lot of fun adventures planned over the next year – call us while space is still available!
Opryland & Biltmore Christmas Spectacular
This December, get into the holiday spirit with a visit to Opryland and the Biltmore Estate! This festive extravaganza will be brimming with the sounds of the season, Nashville style – including a visit to the Grand Old Opry! We then travel into the Blue Ridge Mountains, where America’s largest home sparkles with over 50 decorated Christmas trees, 65 adorned fireplaces, and countless twinkling lights.
December 1, 2018 3 nights $995 per person
- Motor coach transportation from Panama City Beach
- 2 nights at The Opryland Hotel
- 1 night at a Biltmore hotel
- General Jackson showboat lunch cruise
- Grand Ole Opry tickets
- Christmas dinner show with Trace Adkins
- Biltmore Christmas dinner and candlelight processional
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Todd Allen Herendeen Cruise & Motorcoach Package
Set sail for the spectacular Mexican Yucatan with Panama City Beach’s favorite entertainer! Enjoy Carnival’s award-winning dining and 3 exclusive Todd Herendeen music shows on board the superb Triumph. Between performances explore ancient Mayan ruins, take a guided tour of Cozumel or simply soak up the Caribbean sunshine from your favorite spot on the ship.
January 5, 2019 5 nights $590 per person
·Cozumel ·Progresso ·round-trip motor coach transportation to/from New Orleans, taxes, port fees and 3 private Todd Herendeen shows
Eastern Caribbean Cruise & Motorcoach Package
Escape with us to the balmy blue skies of some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands. In February, what sounds better than white-sand beaches, swaying palms and warm, tropical waters? This sensational sailing boasts 4 exciting ports of call and some of the most fun you can have at sea!
February 23, 2019 8 nights $940 per person
·Grand Turk · St. Kitt’s · St. Maarten · Puerto Rico · round-trip motor coach transportation, port charges and taxes
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Cuba Cruise & Motorcoach Package
NEW! Much more than just a cruise, this trip promises to be a travel experience and immersion into the culture of Cuba and its people. Don’t miss this opportunity to see this fascinating country as part of a group – Cuba is the place to visit and there’s no better way to do it than with us on this motorcoach cruise package!
March 10, 2019 7 nights $1498 per person
·Havana · Cienfuegos · Grand Cayman · round-trip motor coach transportation, one night pre-cruise hotel, port charges and taxes
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Celebrity Alaska Cruisetour
This majestic destination offers so much – including a rich history of frontier adventures, mass migrations and gold rush booms. The abundance of wildlife and awe inspiring scenery is unlike anywhere else, and this cruisetour places you up close and personal for every jaw-dropping minute. Experience this bucket list adventure on the impeccable Celebrity Millennium – space does fill up fast so call today!
June 7, 2019 11 nights cruise/land $2378 per person
· Skagway · Ketchikan · Juneau · Icy Strait Point · Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour · Fairbanks sternwheeler cruise · Wilderness Express glass-domed rail car · taxes and port charges
Travel like a royal with our Insider's Guide to London!
5/1/2018 3:57:51 PM Link 1 comment | Add comment
With all the royal buzz happening right now it seemed only fitting that this month’s blog have a London theme. So let’s get the latest news from Buckingham Palace, and talk to our native Londoner agent to get her travel tips and recommendations for experiencing the royal side of London.
News from the Palace
A New Prince! Prince William and Kate Middleton, aka the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, welcomed their third child, a son, on April 23rd. He has been named Louis Arthur Charles, and is now the 5th in line for the throne, knocking his uncle Prince Harry down to spot number 6.
A Royal Wedding! In case you’ve been living under a rock, Prince Harry is set to wed American actress Meghan Markel on Saturday, 19 May, 2018 at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, England. And yes, you can watch every majestic minute live here in the USA, starting at 5:00 am on CBS.
Wedding News! The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, will be Prince Harry’s best man at his wedding. The Archbishop of Canterbury will marry the couple, and 600 lucky members of the public will have the opportunity to be at Windsor Castle to see the whole extravaganza in person. It has also emerged that the royal couple will have a lemon elderflower cake made by pastry chef Claire Ptak, owner of the London-based Violet Bakery.
The wedding falls on the same day as the FA cup final – which is the biggest soccer day of the year. Obviously this has caused quite a conundrum, with many Brits torn between the two events. In addition, the public are more than a little miffed that the wedding will be on a Saturday, as a royal wedding usually guarantees a day off during the work week!
Insider’s London Travel Tips
For a splendid royal display of pomp and pageantry, don’t miss the “Trooping of the Colour”, the Queen’s official birthday ceremony. This grand military spectacle is the biggest event on the royal calendar, and will take place Saturday, June 9, 2018. If you are a fan of the monarchy this is a must see - arrive early for a prime viewing spot!
Buckingham Palace is a given, but carve out time to visit Kensington Palace and you’ll get a completely different perspective. This royal residence offers a unique look into the lives of its many famous occupants, including Queen Victoria, who was born here and lived here with Prince Albert until his tragic death. Princess Diana, another tragic royal, resided at Kensington as did Queen Anne and Princess Margaret. Today, the palace serves as home to a new generation of royals – William, Kate and their children, and now Harry and Meghan. Take in the extraordinary painted staircases, opulent décor and sunken gardens from the portions of the palace open to visitors. There are also regular exhibitions well worth the time for those seeking a deeper peep into the history of this fascinating and storied family.
The Goring Hotel is situated right around the corner from Buckingham Palace, and is where her Majesty likes to entertain when not pulling out all the stops at the palace. The Goring is an ultra-luxurious, very British hotel – with silk lined walls and priceless antique furniture. Fancy a stay there? For $1700 you can enjoy 2 nights – not including breakfast!
You can’t miss Westminster Abbey. This ancient religious building has more than 1000 years of royal tradition, and is the official coronation church. The abbey has been the setting for 17 royal weddings, including the most recent – the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in 2011.
Want to shop like the queen? Head on down to Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly – “the queen’s grocer” and pick up a few bits and bobs. Choose from a fine selection of housewares, gifts, teas, wines and delectable sweets. If you’re not in the mood for shopping then try an “English High Tea” experience in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon.
No visit to London is complete without viewing the Tower of London and Tower Bridge – but closely guarded in the Jewel House you will find a dazzling collection of almost 25,000 gemstones. Feast your eyes on crowns and ceremonial regalia dating back hundreds of years.
For a custom quote to see England “your way” or to get the latest promotions and deals on a guided tour, call us at (850) 235 2640 or (800) 277 3770 today!
3/30/2018 2:49:38 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Genealogical Travel – Take a Personal Journey
To some people, the word vacation is synonymous with images of sandy beaches and swaying palms. But for a huge (and rapidly increasing) number of others it’s about tracing the family heritage, no matter where in the world that may be. Thanks to a boom in these types of tours, those of us with an interest in exploring our roots now have the option to do so in conjunction with a memorable vacation.
Ancestry and heritage vacations are an exciting way to connect with a destination in a personal way and to gain a deeper understanding of who we are. But what is the difference between ancestry and DNA travel? And how do we know what’s right for us?
Ancestry Travel
This category of travel consists of just about any trip in which people interested in their genealogical roots visit regions or sites that are part of their family history. When it comes to ancestry travel destinations, Scotland, England and Ireland tend to be the most common, with Eastern Europe and Italy also having high numbers of these types of tourists.
Heritage tours are broader than a specific DNA focused experience. Travelers may not know exactly where their descendants were from or even very much about their history, but the connection is there. Ancestral visitors are generally looking to get an overall feel for the destination and its culture without delving into too much detail.
Whatever the destination,ancestral visitors are always given a warm welcome. With the right local knowledge or a good guide, there are many opportunities to participate in activities that will enhance the genealogical aspects of the trip.
DNA Travel
Where ancestry travel is primarily discovering your family history, DNA travel can now pinpoint a person’s exact geographical make-up and genetic history. Your genes are what really determine your ethnic heritage, and a simple kit can save hours of research.
A DNA testing kit can be purchased for approximately $99.00 and results will be sent after just a few weeks. In addition to confirming your exact ancestry, these kits can actually put you in touch with people that share your genetic history. This is a wonderful way for someone serious about family tree history to take the project to the next level by connecting with other family members that may otherwise have slipped through the cracks! Most people end up learning that their lineage is almost always more varied than they thought, which can then lead to an interest in traveling to destinations never previously considered.
Helpful tips for the perfect genealogical vacation
- Research your family history before planning your trip. Sites like Ancestry.com and Familytree.com make it easy – and some relatives are a wealth of information. It’s always helpful to have a contact in the area you are traveling to.
- If you don’t have enough detailed information on your ancestors or the area, consider a general heritage tour instead. These can still speak to you on a personal level and be extremely rewarding.
- Work with your travel agent who can help you plan a custom genealogical travel experience. Using your last name we can search your clan or heritage and tailor a vacation based in that area.
Avoiding Holiday Travel Stress
12/12/2017 9:26:02 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment
Here we are, with another holiday season once again just around the corner. All year we look forward to some well-deserved days off – either spending time with our loved ones or recharging our batteries on vacation. Unfortunately though, heavy traffic, long lines and short fuses can sometimes put a damper on holiday plans before you’ve even begun.
Here are some tips for keeping the festive spirit alive by land, sea or air.
Flying
· Know your baggage restrictions before you start packing! All airlines have this information on their website, or you can usually find it on your e-ticket. If you’re taking gifts, consider weight and space limitations.
· Check into your flight online and print your boarding passes to save time at the airport.
· Get to the airport early. If you anticipate long lines then you won’t feel as rushed or have to start your trip with a sprint across terminals.
· Pre-assign seats. It may cost a few extra dollars (only certain fares) but will guarantee seats together or in your preferred location.
· Take a good book. If there are delays at least you will be entertained, which will hopefully alleviate a little frustration.
· Book well in advance. If you do not have much flexibility and are looking for the best fare (who isn’t?!) then it pays to secure those flights long before the tree goes up!
Driving
· Plan your route ahead of time but have a back-up in mind, just in case of delays.
· Stop for plenty of breaks. The only thing worse than being stuck in a car for an extended period is doing it with grouchy, overtired passengers!
· Pack a “car picnic” to avoid overcrowded highway restaurants along the way.
· Take an audiobook for entertainment. Choose a title that will appeal to everyone or something you’ve been meaning to read but just haven’t had the time.
Cruising
· Get to the cruise terminal early. It’s likely to be busy so plan accordingly.
· Never leave home the day of your cruise. Whether you are driving or flying to the cruise terminal be sure to arrive the night before so there’s no risk of missing the boat, so to speak.
· If you are traveling as a couple and hoping for some quiet relaxation, opt for a cruise line such as Holland America, Celebrity or Princess. If you’re traveling with kids looking for a fun-filled adventure, Carnival, Norwegian or Royal Caribbean may be a better bet.
· Make sure all your paperwork and required documentation is complete and packed somewhere easily accessible. This is the biggest reason for delays in boarding or even refusal in some cases.
· Holiday cruises can be some of the highest rates of the year. Deals are out there though - ask us to watch for flash sales and special promotions for you!
· Always check in advance on the cruise line’s policy for bringing alcohol aboard. You can usually bring one bottle of wine or champagne, but if you plan on toasting the season more than once or twice, there are drink packages you may wish to purchase ahead of your sailing.
Don’t forget – the best way to avoid holiday travel stress is to use your travel agent! We take the headache out of all your planning, researching and fare comparisons, and do all the work for you at no extra cost! Happy holidays!
