Air Travel is Cheap Now, but Discounts Won’t Last

By JOE SHARKEY
Published: March 16, 2009

WORRIED about filling seats, airlines have hit the panic button. Amazing air fare sales are breaking out all over. Actually, the sales are breaking out mostly on routes where the competition is heavy or business travel has really plummeted.

Not only is the extent of the discounts extraordinary — $158 for a round-trip ticket between Denver and Houston on a sale announced Monday by Frontier Airlines; $548 on Delta between New York and Dublin; $598 round trip between Los Angeles or New York to Australia in Qantas. The time frame is often extraordinary as well. Fare sales like these are usually limited to slack travel periods in winter. Many of these extend into the summer.

I sort these fares on the major travel aggregator sites like Kayak, TripAdvisor, Fly.com and FareCompare, which make comparison shopping easy. If you’re flexible (Saturday night stay requirements are often tucked into these fares to make them unattractive to business travelers), shop around and have a ball. It’s a great time for cheap travel.

And it’s not going to last.

Two fundamental shifts in air travel are under way. One is that airlines are horrified at the falloff in passenger traffic and are scrubbing flights, dropping routes and parking more planes in the desert to shrink capacity, even beyond announced reductions, to keep planes flying full.

And two, the “unbundling” of services that began with charges for snacks and checked bags is emerging as the new economic model for the shrunken air travel system.

Forget about the guy from Ryanair who recently got all that publicity by speculating about installing pay toilets on planes. Instead, look at the methodical way that the domestic airlines are planning for a future in which booking a flight will be a little like ordering from a Chinese takeout menu. That is, it will be efficient, user friendly and full of à la carte choices.

“Three or four years ago, airlines got fed up with their tickets being priced like bushels of wheat on a commodities exchange, so they set out a strategy for how to make prices less transparent,” said Rick Seaney, the chief executive of FareCompare.com.

The strategy was based on imposing extra fees on an increasing number of amenities and services — not just checked bags and in-flight pillows, but an expanding range of add-ons like exit row seats, priority seating and boarding, in-flight entertainment or Wi-Fi, and on and on.

These fees raise cash for the airlines. But they annoy customers, who are having a hard time figuring out what a trip costs once they make their choices. Usually, they find out when they arrive at the airport or on board the flight. As I said last week, TripAdvisor.com added a useful feature to its flight search site that lets you click on the thousands of itinerary options, including fee-based services, so you can get the actual price.

The airlines are aware that customers shop around online and that they hate trying to figure out fees. So they are currently working with other ticket distributors on a complex system that Mr. Seaney said will expand the fee checklists and allow all distributors, whether an airline itself or an online travel agency, to be more uniformly precise in just what a customer is ordering.

“They’ll present a base ticket price in three or four categories, and then you’ll have a bunch of things you can add,” Mr. Seaney said. “You’ll get a base price quote, and then you’ll have a bunch of columns with choices that add something to the ticket. You going to see a whole new slew of amenities that you pay for in advance.”

Mr. Seaney is on an “optional services” committee formed by the Airline Tariff Publishing Company, the global leader in collecting and distributing airline fare data.

The committee is evaluating the universe of fee-based extra services, and drawing up lists of uniform codes to make it easier to “compare applies to apples,” Mr. Seaney said.

Among the items on that growing list are the usual things like prepaid checked bag (code 0AA), snack (0AT), aisle seat exit row (0A5), beverage (0AX), video games (0AF), passenger assistance (0BY) and wheelchair (0AH)

Wait, “wheelchair” has an optional services code? OMG!

E-mail: jsharkey@nytimes.com

E-mail: jsharkey@nytimes.com

Getting out, A Cancun Spring Break

When it comes to the best Spring break destinations, you will find that Cancun, Mexico is where you will want to go. There are thousands of kids who will flock to Cancun for the parties and all of the adventures that can be had in Mexico. You will want to make sure that you take part in the festivities so that you can have the time of your life on your break. You will want to make sure that you time the time to make this trip one to remember.

Cancun is a place filled with miles of white beaches; however, hundreds of nightclubs will make your nights happening. During the day, you can sip margaritas and tan in the gorgeous weather or take a dip in the warm Caribbean Ocean or lagoon waters. Plenty of daytime, activities are available if you aren’t too hung over from the night before. Some of the activities that you can do are swimming with the dolphins, fish, boat, Jet Ski, shop, and even golf. You can also tour the Mayan ruins and visit other historical locations if you want a vacation that is more than just about drinking and meeting people.

Make sure that you have a chance to do those things. Cancun will come alive at night, but you will be able to find just as much life during the day. Also, Cancun is where the tequila shots are slammed more quickly than the hips on the salsa girls are moving. Hotels, bars, and other spring break companies sponsor contests like the traditional wet tee shirt contest and have fun attractions like foam parties and Mexican-themed bar tours. However, before you leave from Cancun, you will want to make sure that you write down the names of any establishments that you would like to come back again so that you have a game plan for next time.

It is very important that you always remember to be safe in Cancun. You will hear of all the tragedies that could happen, but it could happen to you. You will want to make sure that you go out with a group of friends and that you take only public transportation and you don’t walk too much on the street. Also, if you are planning to drink, you will want to know all of your limits and you will never want to go anywhere out of the safety of the public with a stranger. You do not want to be separated from the group. The most important thing that you will want to do is using your common sense and watch your drinking. You will want to make sure that you take care of yourself responsibly.

Article Written By J. Foley

Vacationing in Mexico While on a Budget

If are planning a trip to Mexico, but you have a budget in mind, then you will be glad to know that visiting Mexico while on a budget is possible. There are many ways to save money through package deals, low-cost airfare, discount accommodations, dining out, and traveling within the country.

Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and fabulous cruises. Even while on a budget, these activities can all be enjoyed during your visit. So no matter what your financial situation is, you will be pleased to discover that planning a vacation to Mexico is affordable for just about anyone.

Saving on airfare is the first way to begin planning a vacation to Mexico while on a budget. There are many different packages available. With the help of the internet, finding a great deal is often simple and easy. Depending on your location, you may also be surprised to discover that your own local travel agent may have vacation packages that include airfare, as well as your accommodations.

Accommodations are a necessity when visiting Mexico. If you are staying with friends or family then you will automatically save money. However, if you need to make arrangements for your housing, then you may find that a package deal is most beneficial to those on a budget. There are other means of inexpensive housing, such as camping, but if you are looking for a hotel environment, then look for one with a package deal. A travel package can save you a considerable amount of money, so shop around and find the best deals that fit your needs.

Restaurants and eating out can be expensive, especially in trendy nightclubs and other famous resorts. However, if you are traveling to Mexico on a budget, you can spend wisely and eat delicious foods while remaining on your budget. You can take advantage of the many outdoor street markets and save. The food is great, delicious, and a true taste of Mexican culture; not to mention, it is also easy on your pocketbook.

Shopping in grocery stores is another way to save money while visiting Mexico. By eating the local produce, you will save money and have more to enjoy for your other vacation expenses. It is important to note that you should treat any fruit and produce that you buy as food that requires care. Make sure to peel and wash all fruits and vegetables before eating them and practice safe handling instructions for all food.

Transportation is another area where you can save money and remain within your targeted financial plan. Mexico buses are a very cheap way to travel. If you need information regarding bus schedules, times, and whether or not you will need a ticket, check with locals during your stay. However, as a safety precaution, you are encouraged not to ride in any taxis that haven’t been prearranged through either the airport or your resort.

When it comes to transportation, you can also save money by taking a bus, rather than an airplane, into Mexico. Some major bus lines, such as Greyhound, will take you straight into Mexico. This is an affordable way to save money and plan your vacation as well.

Planning a Mexico vacation on a budget may seem difficult to do, but you may soon realize that there is a lot of assistance available. With careful planning, and sticking to your budget, you can enjoy a wonderful vacation in Mexico.

Scuba Diving While Vacationing in Mexico

Millions of Americans schedule a Mexico vacation. If you are interested in scheduling a vacation in Mexico, or you already have, you may be wondering what you can do while on vacation. In Mexico, there are an unlimited number of activities that you may find exciting. One of those activities may include scuba diving.

When it comes to scuba diving in Mexico, there are many travelers who are misinformed. Many believe that you have to be an experienced diver to enjoy underwater diving. This is simply not true. Before going scuba diving in the ocean, it is advised that you have basic knowledge of diving and strong swimming skills. However, you do not have to be an experienced diver. When vacationing in Mexico, there are many individuals who go scuba diving for the first time.

Scuba diving is a pretty self-explained activity. Scuba divers are featured in many movies and can be found in many amusement parks. While the general idea of scuba diving is the same in Mexico, what you will see underwater is not. There are a number of underwater animals and plants that can only be seen in or around the Mexico area. This in itself is one of the many reasons why you should schedule a scuba diving adventure.

In Mexico, scuba divers are often able to swim with the dolphins and sea turtles. To many, this alone is worth the cost of scuba diving. Aside from swimming with sea animals, you can also spend your scuba diving trip examining the life and environment underwater. Just a few of the many sea animals that you may see in Mexico include lobsters, eels, sting rays, and a large number of different kinds of fishes. The fishes found in underwater Mexico often include puffer fishes, spotted fishes, and parrot fishes.

While the sea animals found underwater are the most exciting part of scuba diving, there are other underwater activities that you can participate in. Many scuba divers enjoy diving along coral reefs that are found along the coast of Mexico. Coral reefs are not only home to a large number of sea animals, but they also make for great adventures. You may find it exciting traveling in, over, or around the many different sized reefs.

Unless you are an experienced underwater diver, you are advised to go scuba diving with a trained professional. These professionals are most commonly found with scuba diving tour groups. Scuba diving tour groups can be found all along the coast of Mexico. Scuba diving is a popular pastime in Mexico; therefore, you are encouraged to schedule your scuba diving adventures ahead of time.

In addition to scheduling a scuba dive with a trained diver, you can learn how to scuba dive at a number of locations in Mexico. Many of these locations also offer guided tours. Scuba diving lessons are offered as group lessons or private lessons. Private lessons may be more expensive, but many first time scuba divers find them rewarding, in more ways than one.

Underworld Scuba operates scuba diving and snorkeling tours in the Manzanillo area of Mexico. It has been said that the Manzanillo area is one of the best places to go scuba diving in Mexico. Underworld Scuba, along with number other companies, state that the area is thriving with underwater life and adventures. Another popular scuba diving tour company is The Puerto Dive Team, which operates out of Oaxaco Mexico. They are most known for their private one-on-one underwater tours.

To find other guided tours that are designed for scuba divers, you are encouraged to contact your local travel agent or do the research yourself. Whether or not you have already selected your Mexico destination, you should easily be able to find nearby tours. The closer you are to the coast, the more tours you will have access to. What you can do and see underwater is absolutely amazing. It is likely what you see will stay with you for years to come.

Article Written By J. Foley

Excalibur Hotel and Casino Brings Magic to Life

If you are harboring thoughts of bringing the family for a Las Vegas vacation, then perhaps you should seriously consider a stay at Excalibur Hotel and Casino. This hotel will have you feeling as though you've stepped into the fairy tales of your childhood. From the moment you cross the threshold from the outside world to the charmed existence of life in the hotel you will find that you have truly been charmed and are leading a somewhat enchanted existence.

Not only is there the magnificent casino to enjoy, there is also the wonderful pool, links golf, the castle walk for your shopping pleasure, and the midway where you can play all kinds of fun and exciting arcade and carnival games. Perhaps one of the most memorable and impressive of offerings is the Tournament of Kings dinner show. This show is offered nightly at 6:00 and 8:30 and you will eat in the manner of those in medieval times, without utensils while watching the evil wizard Mordred as he invades the evening festivities. This show is quite enjoyable and relies heavily upon audience participation.

Dining in the hotel and casino can be quite the adventure without the assistance of horses and actors as there are several dining options including the Roundtable Buffet, The Steakhouse at Camelot, Regale Italian Eatery, Sherwood Forest Café, and how could we forget Sir Galahad's Pub and Prime Rib House?

If you're looking for the fairytale wedding of your dreams, then Excalibur has the package for you. You can even elect to rent medieval costumes in which to get married. There are many different packages available to fit various budgets and wedding needs. Wedding packages vary in price from around $400 plus $55 for the cost of the minister to around $1575 plus the cost of the minister. These are all rather basic packages and do not include extras such as costume rentals, extra poses for the wedding photos, or video and candle services.

Before your big day make sure you make liberal use of the spa services available at Excalibur Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Of course this is a great idea even if you are just hoping to relax while on vacation. You remember relaxation right? That is what you did on occasion before you had children. You should definitely get the royal treatment that is available through the spa and enjoy every minute of your visit. Some of the spa services offered at Excalibur include: facials, wraps, Aveda facials, and various massages. There are add on services that can be purchased and packages available. This is a great way to spend an hour or three before your big day or any day.

Once you've finished getting pampered at the spa, step on over to Kristina's Salon and get primped. You can enjoy everything from manicures to full service hair styling services. Whether you are preparing for your big day and saying "I do!" or simply for a romantic evening on the strip this is a great place to begin.

Excalibur also offers full service catering and convention services. Whether you are hosting a wedding reception or a company convention we have the facilities as well as the expertise to keep everything operating seamlessly behind the scenes so that all eyes will be on the things that are important. Projections and profits for the corporate conventions and the bride and groom for wedding receptions.

Excalibur Hotel Casino can meet almost any lodging and accommodation needs for those staying and playing in Las Vegas, more than that we can provide a great 'fairy tale' atmosphere for your family vacation or just your big trip in general. If you haven't given proper consideration to the idea of staying here during your visit, I highly encourage that you do-especially if you have a little princess in your party that you are trying to impress.

Article Written By J. Foley

Travel costs dropping as economy squeezes spending

By VICKI LEE PARKER - McClatchy-Tribune News Service


If you are planning on taking your family on a vacation this year, think big. In fact, think about finally going on that dream vacation that you have long wished for. Chances are you will be able to afford it.

I talked with several travel agents who say they are seeing travel discounts and perks in record amounts. The deals include the high-end packages such as luxury Mexican resorts, European vacations and Alaskan cruises.

"For people who feel secure in their jobs and can afford it, there are some great deals throughout the summer time," says Stuart Carroll, owner of Carroll Travel in Washington, D.C.
Click here to find out more!

Tom Crosby, a spokesman for AAA Carolinas, says the economy has hurt some popular tourist spots. A number of the bigger resorts are no longer getting the same volume of convention business, so they have extra beds to fill, he says.

Crosby says he is seeing discounts across the board. "You can save 25 percent to 40 percent on cruises, 10 percent to 15 percent on hotels and 10 to 25 percent on package tours," he says.

Darcy Grimes, manager for travel marketing for AAA Carolinas, says that in 2007 she was booking seven-night Alaska cruises on Holland America Line from $799 per person. Now she's booking the same cruise for as low as $499.

Similarly, in 2007 a five-night Western Caribbean cruise rate was $599 per person. Grimes found the same cruise last week starting at $249 per person.

In addition to the lower rates, Grimes says that cruise lines are offering additional bonuses to help stimulate sales.

"Most have cut out the fuel supplement charge, and others are offering reduced deposits or onboard credits if consumers book by a certain date.

Grimes is finding similar deals for European trips. Because the dollar has strengthened against the euro, she is seeing up to a 100 percent savings on hotel stays.

"If the room cost you $200 a night last year, it will probably cost $100 this year," she says.

Carroll of Carroll Travel says he has booked people at The Royal in Cancun for as little as $800 a week. That's about a 50 percent savings, he says.

"Hotel rooms are a perishable thing," Carroll notes. "Once the night goes, they can never sell it again."

To fill those rooms, hotels are also offering other specials. Some are waiving the minimum night requirement. Others are offering an extra free night if you stay a certain number of nights.

Some resorts are lowering the down payment and offering air credits and meal credits.

There is one caveat though: Finding a flight to your dream vacation site may be challenging. A number of airlines, in an effort to reduce expenses, have decreased the number of flights they are offering to certain areas. So book early.

Here are some other tips to help secure great vacation deals:

- Use a travel agent. Agents can check several deals at once and it doesn't cost you anything.

- Check cruise lines two weeks before departure date. Some cruises will offer last-minute deals.

- Ask about travel insurance. This will protect you in case there are changes in your travel plans or your financial circumstances.

(Vicki Lee Parker is a freelance personal finance columnist. She can be reached at vickileeparker@gmail.com or (919) 877-5719.)

5 travel lessons learned in 2008: From hotels to airports, this year defied business-travel expectations

By Joe Brancatelli
updated 3:24 p.m. ET, Tues., Dec. 30, 2008

At the end of each of the thirtysomething years that I have survived a life on the road, I inevitably reach the same conclusion: It sure has been another bizarre 12 months for business travel.

Who'd have guessed that more than 80 airlines would fold in 2008, many of them destroyed by the price of oil this spring and summer? Who'd have imagined that the airlines could cut domestic seat capacity by double digits this fall and still see chairs go empty and fares drop? And who'd have thought hotels, expecting record increases in room rates in 2008, would end the year discounting lustily and mulling huge declines in 2009?

But all this chaos does have the proverbial silver lining: You learn stuff. Here are five things I've learned this year.


The rich aren’t different

The upper end of the travel industry has insisted that its increased emphasis on $20,000 first-class airline seats and $1,000-a-night hotel rooms was justified because the rich were different. The wealthy would always travel, claimed the developers of new luxury resorts and the executives of every airline that unveiled another pricey, front-cabin offering.

But the rich aren't different — except that they've curtailed travel faster than the rest of us. According to IATA, the worldwide airline trade group, premium-class travel dropped 8 percent in September, 6.9 percent in October, and "early indications for November point to further large declines."

Occupancy rates at luxury hotels have plummeted faster than the lodging industry at large, and even fancy brands such as Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons are suddenly discounting like crazy and throwing in extras like free nights and gratis breakfasts.

Better airline mousetraps don’t guarantee success

Last year at this time, there were four all-business-class airlines flying the North Atlantic skies and a fifth prepping for launch. They offered extraordinary in-flight comfort for a lot less than major carriers charged, and they expected business travelers to beat a path to their cabin doors.

Turns out, building a better mousetrap doesn't guarantee survival in the dog-eat-dog airline world. Maxjet, EOS and Silverjet all folded on the New York-London route and L'Avion, which flies between New York and Paris, sold itself to OpenSkies, B.A.'s boutique carrier that launched in June.

But OpenSkies is struggling too. Its revolutionary prem+ cabin has confused passengers, who expect the back of the bus to be cramped and cheap, not spacious and fairly priced. And the lie-flat beds up front have yet to steal enough business from its larger competitors on the Paris and Amsterdam runs.

Slow and steady wins the airport race

This was going to be the year of the new airport terminal, with major facilities opening at London's Heathrow Airport; New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport; Raleigh/Durham; Indianapolis; and Detroit's Metro Airport.

This year I learned that it really does pay to delay your opening if you need extra time to get everything right. You may take a publicity hit for a blown deadline or two, but you won't suffer the disaster than befell Terminal 5 at Heathrow. It opened bang on time in late March — but was a nightmare of lost bags, missed connections, worldwide ridicule and money-gushing make-goods for British Airways.

Heathrow's owner, B.A.A., paid a bigger price: British regulators last week ordered the subsidiary of Spain's Ferrovial to sell its other London airports, Gatwick and Stansted. The four U.S. facilities shifted their launch dates by a few weeks and opened without notable incident or embarrassment.

Not all fees are created equal

The airlines turned 2008 into the year of à la carte pricing, unbundling just about everything from the basic ticket price: checked luggage; advance seat selection; in-flight meals and beverages; fuel costs; and even blankets and pillows. The goal, of course, was to charge lower-fare customers for all the little niceties that once were free.

Passengers pushed back hard against the fuel surcharges, even as oil prices soared to record highs. They reacted indifferently to the concept of paying for seat selection and largely ignored the airlines' buy-on-board meal programs and buy-a-blanket plans. And they seemed to accept without complaint the concept of paying for checked luggage.

The free second checked bag disappeared from most domestic flights as early as February. By the summer, American Airlines was also charging for the first checked bag. Virtually all of American's major competitors have now fallen in line, reckoning that they were leaving money on the table by giving away something for which passengers would willingly fork over $15.

No longer almighty, the dollar is resilient

When the U.S. dollar fell to record lows earlier this year and made international travel insanely expensive, there was no reason to believe the once-Almighty Dollar would ever regain its luster.

But worldwide financial crises can be the dollar's best friend. The Australian, New Zealand, and Canadian dollars have given up years of gains against the U.S. dollar in just a few months. The British pound, trading above $2 for much of the year, has crashed. It closed last week below $1.50, which is about where it was trading before 9/11.

And while the dollar has zigzagged crazily against the euro in mid December, it closed below $1.40, a far cry from the $1.60 level it had reached early in the year. The notable exception: the Japanese yen, which has gained about 15 percent against the dollar lately. In other words, don't plan any trips to Tokyo.

The fine print ...
One thing I have long known that you should learn: Never believe what an airline says about its future route plans. Earlier this year, big carriers were crowing about their new flights to China.

Virtually all of them were canceled or delayed indefinitely. And United Airlines, which began a heavily publicized daily Washington-Beijing service last year, has slashed the route back to just a few flights a week. It has also switched to a smaller aircraft to further reduce the number of seats it flies between the two capitals.

Holiday travel tips

By Lynn Parramore
01:59 PM PST, December 18, 2008


A volatile economy, reduced airline capacity and stressed consumers are making this holiday travel season one of the most challenging in recent years. Before you start that sleigh ride for the holidays, here are some tips that can help save you money, time and headaches.

Reserve airport parking. During peak travel times, traffic delays and increased demand for parking can make nabbing a space at the airport a nightmare at best and a trip-ender at worst. Before you leave, check out AboutAirportParking.com, which guides you to the best places to park at more than 100 airports, often at significant discounts.

You can find detailed specs on each lot, along with prices, Google maps, online reservations, user reviews and information about such services as valet parking, luggage assistance and even oil changes.

AboutAirportParking.com also provides stats on general airport time delays and average security wait at individual airports.

You can sort your parking lot choices by distance, rate or name by using a drop-down menu. There are even star ratings and user reviews on many of the facilities. At LAX, for example, the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Valet gets five stars and has 30 user reviews, which range from tepid (one or two) to laudatory. It's true; people get starry-eyed about parking.

Before you pack, check baggage restrictions. American, Continental, Northwest, United, Delta, US Airways, Frontier, AirTran and Spirit now charge $15 for a first checked bag each way for travel within the U.S. Virgin America allows the first bag to be checked for free, and Southwest still does not charge for the first or second bag.

Also be sure to check weight restrictions. Weight, the enemy of fuel efficiency, has come under increasing scrutiny of late, and airlines more often will charge you for bags that exceed the carriers' limits. (Fifty pounds is common, but check the websites.)

And don't forget about carry-ons. If you have one that's too large, you may end up checking it and that will cost you some bucks. You can save room in your carry-on by wearing such bulky pieces as coats and boots on the plane, then stowing them.

You also can avoid security hassles by bringing a Transportation Security Administration-compliant toiletry kit like My SmartPac (www.mysmartpac.com). You can also find small sizes of many of your favorite products (to avoid problems with TSA's 3-ounce rule) at www.minimus.biz. It even carries such hard-to-find-in-small items as shaving cream, deodorant and hair spray.

For resources and ingenious tips on how to pack light, check out Onebag.com or SmartPacking.com, or Google "packing light."

Make sure you have the right carry-on. Does your carry-on exceed airline restrictions? For most airlines, this means 45 linear inches or less. (To calculate add the height, width and depth of the bag, which must not exceed 45.)

Functional, stylish bags that fit the bill are available through numerous stores and online outlets. At 44 linear inches, the Helium Rolling Carry-On and Rick Steves' Convertible Carry On are compact, sturdy and surprisingly roomy options and are available through such retailers as Travel Smith, Buy.com and Luggage.com.

Pack snacks. To cut costs, many airlines have stopped serving food, soda and even bottled water. Take your own snacks and an empty bottle to fill at a water fountain once you've passed security. (If you prefer a flavored water, many brands now offer powders you can add to any bottled water to give you the same taste.) Energy bars are filling and take up little precious packing space. For kids try cheese sticks, flavored rice cakes and grapes.

Drive wisely. If you're planning to be on the road, use AAA's gas calculator for an estimate on fuel expenses ( www.fuelcostcalculator.com).

To avoid peak traffic, hit the road early in the morning or travel on Christmas Day. You can save money -- and the environment -- by checking tires before you leave. An under-inflated tire will decrease your fuel economy by up to 2%.

Last December, Californians were forking over $3.32 a gallon for gas; this year, they're paying $1.77 or less. Now that the harsh reality of costly gas has taught us to conserve, we can continue to keep our fuel costs down by employing all we know.

travel@latimes.com

Honeymoon On A Cruise Ship Travel

Travel Guide For You

Honeymoon On A Cruise Ship Travel By J. Foley

Many people plan their marriage well in advance. Planning your marriage not only includes the wedding night and the reception, it also involves one of the most important parts of marriage called the honeymoon. It comes only once in your lifetime and you would want to make it an affair that you and your spouse would want to remember forever and ever. Cruise ship travel honeymoon packages are the perfect answer to your honeymoon questions. It enhances your experience of cruise ship travel like never before and if you are a first timer on a cruise, it will be heaven.

Honeymoon Packages
Your honeymoon package on cruise ship travel will include romantic evening parties, night out at discos, casinos, and a deluxe suite, your own deck where you can bask in the sun, watch the sunset or simply take in the sea air. You can opt for a simple package, then enquire at the reception for honeymoon packages, and pay for each of them. This way it will be easier on your pocket as well.

Plan Your Evening
Most honeymoon cruise ship travel packages differ from cruise to cruise. You can have services like breakfast in bed or late room breakfast on your private deck in your room, an afternoon by the pool, some shopping, watch a movie, work out in the health center and then head for that great evening party in the elegant dining room. If you prefer to simply stay in your room, then you can do that as well and enjoy room service. It depends on what you want to do on your cruise ship travel.

Romance on a Cruise Ship Travel
The best part about such cruise honeymoon packages is that you do not have to pre plan your schedule or itinerary. You can plan it later according to your own preference. There are private lounges where you can have your moments of privacy. Stand by the rail, watch the sea, waves lapping up and down, and watch the sun go down hand in hand. Once the stars start peeping from the sky, you will enter a romantic world. Book a table for two in advance if your prefer privacy in the dining hall or else you two can mingle around with other honeymooners and have a great time.

For more information about honeymoon packages and cruise ship travel, go online and check various websites, which offer such information. You will find cruise ships traveling to all continents in the world. It is up to you and your beloved to decide where you want to head.

Article Written By J. Foley

The Beauty Of An Alaska Cruise Ship Travel

Travel Guide For You


The Beauty Of An Alaska Cruise Ship Travel By J. Foley

Alaskan cruise ship travel attracts thousands of tourists every year from May to September when the temperatures in Alaska are bearable. You can select from a 7-day package to an extensive tour of Alaska depending on your preferences. The extended tour of Alaska by Cruise ship will allow you to go around Alaska by train and explore it in detail.

The Best Time to Visit
The best time to go for Alaska cruise ship travel is from May to September when the temperature hovers at around 50. In the months of July and August however this reaches 75 and can be too hot. Alaska is enchanting. It is magic for first timers and a charm, which draws people towards it. You simply cannot dislike Alaska. There are a plethora of things to do. There are high mountains, enchanting wildlife, breathtaking forests and clean lakes. The people are so friendly that you will feel like you never left home.

Activities – Alaskan style
Explore Alaska and you will always find something new that you missed out the previous time. The view of Mount McKinley as it rises over the Denali national park is stunning and has been the eye candy for numerous photographers. The Tongass national park is famous for kayaking. You can try your hand at bird watching or hiking through the glaciers outside Juneau.

The Glaciers of Glass
Whatever you do during your Alaska cruise ship travel, do not miss out on the ‘voyage of glaciers,’ which is a package offered by many cruise ships. After all Alaska is incomplete without its glaciers. Remember Alaska has one hundred thousand glaciers on display. It is like visiting a glacier museum. Get in to a trolley car and enjoy the view of The Fisherman’s Wharf. Go canoeing in the Kenai Peninsula and paddle to the banks of these serene lakes. You might get a glimpse of some of the local wildlife. Go for a glacier trek and when you reach the top, sit and sip hot coffee. It is not everyday that you get to try and do activities like these. The cruises will allow you to explore and remain awe struck in Alaska. You simply cannot imagine what sailing outside the pristine waters of British Columbia and Alaska can be like.

Your Gears
Select which direction your cabin should face. If it is on the wrong side, you are certainly going to be missing some of the best sights. Carry some light and warm clothes and a good camera with you. After all, you would like to bring back memories with you.

Article Written By J. Foley