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Archive for December, 2008

P&O Aurora Cruise Ship Cabin Suite 228

When it is time to plan the arrangements for discount cruise travel, there are many decisions that need to be carefully considered, as they will certainly have an impact on how the trip goes and how much you enjoy the experience. One of the first decisions will be selecting from the various types and sizes of cruise ships available. After that, you will need to determine what kind of amenities you would like in your cabin and where you prefer the cabin to be located.

When you are browsing through the websites or the brochures for cruise ship travel, you will see that there is always an area that features the layout of the vessel, which outlines the various decks where the passenger cabins are located. Along with the diagrams of the interiors floor plans of the ship, there are usually listings of the different categories of cabins. On very large ships there can be as many as 20 cabin categories, which often makes it very confusing, especially for first-time cruise travelers.

More often than not, the discount cruise travel deals are offered on a select class of cabins on cruise ships. And, it should be no surprise that these will be the least desirable cabins, with regard to size and comfort. Often, there is nearby machinery that can keep you awake at night. But, if you have never cruised before, then you might not be aware of these kinds of situations.

On most ships, the cheapest cabins, and the ones that are sometimes offered as “hot deals” by some of the discount travel websites, are tiny and barely larger than some people’s walk-in closets. These cabins are also generally on the lower levels of the ship and may even be below the waterline, so obviously without portholes. While many people who are more interested in the activities outside their cabin may not be dissuaded by a tiny, windowless cabin, they do need to know about the noise. The lower levels of a ship are very close to the engines and often the roar of the engines can make it very difficult to get any sleep.

However, on the newer ships that are being built today, that is less of a problem, as they are being designed better to avoid this problem. In fact, the new trend that many of the cruise lines are following with the newer ships is laying out the cabins in such a way that all the passengers at least have a port hole. There are even some ships in service now that boast balconies for all cabins, no matter what classification.

This is a great trend for cruise passengers because it helps to assure that any cabin, in any classification, will be comfortable and enjoyable. Having the ability to be in the privacy of your cabin, while relaxing with a cup of coffee or glass of wine on your own verandah, will help to make the cruising experience personal, comfortable and luxurious.

For people who are taking a two-night or three-night cruise and plan to be doing a lot of partying, then grabbing the hot deals on a tiny cabin can be a good choice, if it means making the trip affordable. But if you will be spending a week or more on any one of the many cruise ships, then it is a good idea to be sure you have enough cabin space to be able to stretch out and enjoy your accommodations.

Can you even think of traveling on vacation and being told at what time you could eat, sleep or even play? Cruises used to be very rigidly scheduled. Dinner was at a certain time and the activities were scheduled rigorously. You needed to experience your ocean vacation according to somebody else’s rules. You do not have to worry about that any more. Cruise ships today are incredibly flexible. You can eat whenever you want, even if it is at 2:00 am. The kitchen is always open. You have the ability to swim whenever you choose and play anytime the mood comes to you.

For much more informational value go here: Royal Caribbean And Celebrity Cruises also click here Cheap Caribbean Cruises and more information at Royal Caribbean Transatlantic Cruise To Alaska

Cardiff Airport Landing in a Robin Light Aircraft

Today, Cardiff airport handles around 1.9 million passengers who can travel from Cardiff to over 60 destinations. The airport provides everything one might expect from a popular international travel hub.

The history of Cardiff International airport extends back over 6 years. From 1931 to 1954 the original Cardiff airport operated at Pengam Moors in Cardiff bay but, in 1941, the wartime Air Ministry requisitioned land in the rural Vale of Glamorgan and work began to establish a fully operational wartime airfield and important training base for RAF Spitfire pilots.

It wasn't until after the war that, like many other wartime airfields, the commercial potential was recognised. Aer lingus started a service flying to and from Dublin in 1952 and this was followed by further airport development in the form of a new airport building. As the holiday charter market increased in size in the early 1960s additional destinations were added including France, Belfast and Cork and so the passenger figures increased.

The Ministry of Defence held onto control of the airport right up until the mid-1960s. It wasn't until 1965 that control was transferred from the MOD to Glamorgan County Council. Local government reorganisation during the 1970s resulted in transfer of airport ownership to the three local county councils of South, Mid and West Glamorgan. In 1995, local government reorganisation led to the privatisation of the Cardiff Airport Company with shares sold to TBI Plc., a Welsh property and development firm.

1971 Saw the first transatlantic flight from Cardiff and this was followed by further development including the current airport terminal building and control tower. The single airport runway was extended to 7,000 feet to accommodate larger bodied aircraft. New routes were added all the time including regular transatlantic flights between Cardiff to Canada. These popular transatlantic links were further developed during the 1980s with charter flights to Florida as well as Canada.

Another runway extension of 750 feet, carried out in the 1980s, enabled the airport to handle 747 jumbo jets. This attracted the British Airways aircraft maintenance facility to be located at Cardiff International Airport. Their hangar is one of the largest in the world supporting aircraft engineering maintenance for British Airways and other airlines.

Passenger figures at Cardiff International Airport have continued to increase and a number of further development projects have been completed, designed to increase capacity and efficiency at the airport terminal. In 2007 figures showed that Cardiff airport had exceeded 2 million annual passengers. The annual growth rate of 14% makes Cardiff the UKs fastest growing regional airport.

For great deals on Cardiff Airport Parking or Cardiff Airport Hotels I recommend that you take a look at gosimply.com.

European River Cruises

In most cases, when a conversation comes up about cruise vacations, people immediately picture the giant cruise ships that circle the globe and carry people to virtually every major port-of-call. But these days, river cruises are giving the big ships some competition and are becoming an increasingly popular choice. Even though, to some people, river cruising is still considered to be a specialty, there is a growing segment of the population who prefer the charm of a river ride over the thrill of sailing the seas.

European river excursions are the most popular and were also the pioneers in providing interesting “off the beaten path” types of cruise vacations. There are many spectacular rivers that meander through different countries in Europe, which allows people to explore many scenic and historic areas not accessible by the large cruise ships.

As the river cruise companies saw that there was increasing interest in the river cruises available throughout Europe, they started expanding into other markets. As a result, you can now cruise waterways in other parts of the world. There are river cruising excursions available in diverse areas such and Africa, Asia, and both North and South America.

One of the advantages of a cruise on a river is that the cruise ships are much smaller and therefore offer a more intimate and personal experience. Most of the cruise lines that sail the watercourses of the world take particular pride in offering their passengers excellent service, often with a ratio of one cruise staff member to every three passengers, or even less. This ensures that each and every person along for the ride has their needs promptly addressed, are well attended to and even pampered on their voyage.

Even though the overall size of the ship that will carry you on the river outing is smaller, in many cases the cabins are somewhat larger than what you would find on the giant cruise ships. In addition, they are often outfitted with fine appointments, which are meant to cater to American tastes and demands. Some of the newer ships have full Wi-Fi internet access and recent renovations on older ships have resulted in cabins with flat screen televisions, MP3 sound systems, fine high-count linens, cashmere throws, plush bathrobes, and European touches in decor and furnishings.

Adding to the luxurious surroundings of your cabin, you will also be gently gliding by gorgeous French chateaus, imposing German castles, brilliant tulip fields and many more stunning sites throughout the interior regions. And, when you are not enjoying the sights rolling by from your comfortable chair on the sun deck, you will have opportunities to leave the ship and savor the ambiance of the towns and villages along the river and rub shoulders with the locals.

Many people say that river cruises are simply the best way to be introduced to the best of Europe, because you can escape the common tourist traps. Cruising European rivers is a relaxing, enjoyable, stress-free, and comfortable way to gain new insights into the history and culture of the countries, the cities and the people.

Have you given much thought yet to where you want to go on vacation? The question is what do you want to do? What would you pick to do? Would you lounge around in the sun all day or have an exciting adventure? Well, how about picking both and make it the answer to your dilemma on your vacation? Cruises are great ways to relax and have fun in the sun. There are many different ports around the world that are just calling out you name. The deals are excellent! Don’t just sit there.

To find out additional information head on over to Royal Caribbean Cruise Line also head on over to Discount Cruises To The Caribbean also Royal Caribbean Cruises Review

Disney Cruise Line

If you have never taken a cruise before, it can be somewhat daunting to try to decide what cruise line you should trust for your maiden voyage. If that is the case, then consider a Disney cruise. Disney incorporated their special magical touches, as well as their exquisite attention to every detail, when designing their impressive luxury cruise liners. And in perfect Disney tradition, their ships present a wonderful experience for both the young and the young at heart.

There is no doubt that children and Disney go hand-in-hand. They will have the time of their lives on a Disney inspired cruise and will be constantly engaged in fun activities that will keep them interested. There are also entertainment options and activities designed just for the adults. And, because the kids are kept happily busy with their activities, the parents can also enjoy their time and relax knowing that the kids are safe and enjoying themselves. Of course, there are also many things that families can enjoy doing together which will create great lasting memories.

The Disney Cruise Line currently have a small fleet of two ships, which were built to their demanding specifications. The ships are called the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic and they feature art-deco decor throughout, which hearkens back to the time when the grand luxury liners crossed the oceans, in the early 1900′s. Disney has plans to bring two more ships into service in the near future because their foray into the cruise business has been so successful.

Both of these ships also boast a number of innovations true to the Disney approach to doing things well and with unique touches. One of these innovations is the way that they rotate their guests through a series of their restaurants during each cruise, so that not only is the food unique each day but so are the surroundings. In addition, you will also find reservation-only specialty restaurants that you can choose to dine in, as an option.

Because Disney is such a family oriented company, you will find that the cabins have all been designed in a family-friendly way. They are more spacious, by about 25%, than what you will find on other cruise lines, and they include clever touches in the cabins to make it easier for the kids and the parents to have their own space. Also, more than 70% of the cabins have a porthole or a verandah which helps passengers avoid feeling claustrophobic.

Taking the cruise by Disney has been referred to as taking a vacation on a floating theme park. Each ship has four different theme restaurants, a “district” that features many entertainment options for the adults, a retail shopping area, a Broadway-style theater with live shows, and also a movie theater. In addition, there are three pools, a spa center that covers more than 9,000 square feet, and over 15,000 square feet of territory that is strictly devoted to entertaining the kids.

The small Disney Cruise fleet currently calls Cape Canaveral, Florida, it’s home port and is only an hour from Disney World. This proximity provides a terrific opportunity for families to enjoy the hospitality of Disney both on land and on sea. While you can book reservations separately, Disney offers some very attractive packages that combine the best of both worlds.

Have you given much thought yet to where you want to go on vacation? The question is what do you want to do? What would pick to do? Would you lounge around in the sun all day or have an exciting adventure? Well, how about picking both and make it the answer to your dilemma on your vacation? Cruises are great ways to relax and have fun in the sun. There are many different ports around the world that are just calling out you name. The deals are excellent! Don’t just sit there. You can begin your cruise itinerary now by clicking here now:

For more helpful information click here Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and go to Bargain Cruises On Royal Caribbean similarly Royal Caribbean Cruises Employee Benefits

Interview from Stansted Protest

Over fifty protesters from the climate action group Plane Stupid have been arrested at Stansted airport today after occupying a runway during the early hours.

Over 50 Ryanair flights were cancelled or delayed due to the protest which took place in a secure area near the runway. Eco-Protesters were taken away by police after being accused of aggravated trespass and conspiracy to commit a public nuisance.

Protesters had used boltcutters to gain entry to the runway and then built themselves a small stockade, near to the runway, using concrete blocks and security fencing. They then chained themselves to the fencing.

In October the UK government had given the go-ahead to controversial plans for the expansion of Stansted Airport. The British Airports Authority who own the airport have stated that they want to increase passenger numbers from 25 million to 35 million in just one year. This would cause a substantial increase in the number of flights from the airport from 241,000 to 264,000.

While supporters of the controversial expansion have spoken of the many new jobs that would be provided the eco-activists have reminded people of the environmental damage that would be caused. The average aircraft flying out of Stansted airport is responsible for around 41.58 tonnes of CO2 emitted into the atmosphere.

One young female protestor said:

“We’re here because our parents’ generation has failed us and its now down to young people to stop climate change by whatever peaceful means we have left. We’re afraid of what the police might do to us, we’re afraid of going to jail but nothing scares us as much as the threat of runaway climate change. We’ve thought through the consequences of what we’re doing here but we’re determined to stop as many tonnes of CO2 as we can.”

Matthew Knowles from the Society of British Aerospace Companies has stated that the protesters are ignoring the up-to-date facts regarding aviation and climate change. He pointed out how aircraft today are 70% more fuel efficient than they were 50 years ago and went on to say that it is about time that these ill-informed protests stopped.

Another young Plane Stupid protester at Stansted airport said:

“We fully appreciate the scale of what we’ve done here today and we know many people will struggle to understand why we’ve done it, but the Arctic ice cap is disappearing, the seas are rising and our last chance to save our future is vanishing. With people taking more flights in Britain than anywhere else on earth, we have a unique responsibility to tackle emissions from flying.”

One of the passengers whose flight was delayed by the action has said that not only did the protest break all of the safety rules, it also disrupted peoples lives. He went on to say that he hoped the authorities would treat the protestors very seriously.

 

When travelling from Stansted airport I recommend booking your Stansted Airport Parking space in advance for some significant savings.

 

Princess Cruises Australia

For decades now, the Princess Cruise Line has had their fleet of ships circling the globe to almost any cruise destination that a person could dream of visiting. Princess cruises offer their passengers a huge selection of interesting and exciting itineraries that range from a minimum of three days to more than two months in length. The Princess line sails to more than 220 ports which are spread across six different continents.

From popular Caribbean ports to exotic destinations in Africa or the Orient, just about anyone can enjoy a great cruise vacation on a Princess cruise ship. This cruise line has set itself apart from the other cruise lines by voyaging to more global destinations than any of the others. From their offices in Seattle, Princess was also a leader in opening up the northern waters as a popular sea-going destination and they operate the largest tour division that specializes in Alaskan cruises.

Princess Cruises are also known for the quality of the accommodations and experiences that people can expect to enjoy onboard. Cruise ship passengers on a Princess cruise can expect to be delighted with imported teak woodwork, shimmering brass accents, and luxurious butter-soft leather furnishings. The spacious ship staterooms often boast private balconies and provide affordable luxury to both experienced cruisers and those who are new to cruise vacations.

There are three different classes of ships available for a Princess Cruise. The Grand Class ships are the newest vessels in the Princess cruise line fleet, can accommodate up to 3,100 passengers, and feature some innovative amenities and unique design elements. The design of the Grand class ships allows for a feeling of spaciousness while at the same time providing opportunities for intimacy. Also featured are a variety of dining rooms, entertainment venues, special amenities such as a virtual reality center and computerized golf options.

The other two classes of Princess cruise ships are the Sun Class of ships which were first debuted in 1995. A Sun Class ship is able to carry about 1,900 passengers. The Explorer Class ships in the Princess cruise line are the smallest and provide a more intimate atmosphere, while still providing all of the modern amenities that people expect to enjoy on their cruise vacations.

While it is important to be comfortable on the cruise, it is also important to consider what type of shore excursions that your cruise line offers after arriving at the various ports. The Princess Cruise Adventure Ashore program has more than a thousand tours and activities available throughout the network of ports that they sail to worldwide. In addition to this huge selection of day excursions, Princess also has an expansive choice in “cruise tour” offerings, that let you combine your cruising with multi-day land tours at the various ports-of-call.

Princess Cruises also have many options that allow passengers to extend their vacations, either pre-cruise or post-cruise. The Princess Cruise Plus program can help cruisers enjoy extended stays and tours in some of the world’s hot spots and most cosmopolitan cities, and can even help with the arrangements for discount cruise travel and hotel vacation packages.

Once upon a time a cruise was not that great of a vacation. You had to follow the ship’s itinerary and rarely had much choice in what went on. Even the activities were scheduled and sometimes might be very boring. The cruises available now are nothing like their predecessors. These types of ships have an extensive range of services that range from luxury spas for people looking to unwind all the way to gambling. Your cruise is made exactly like you want it. No more schedules that are strict for you. You can choose when you want to eat, sleep or play.

For a great deal more informational value go to this online destination: Royal Caribbean Cruises Boarding Form and go to Royal Caribbean Cruise Photographs and more information at Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Trawler Charters

Trawler charters are the perfect way to explore some of the world’s most beautiful coastlines, pristine white beaches, crystal clear waters, and secluded bays.  The locations available for a trawler charter are endless.  Some of the well known locations are the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Florida, the Bahamas, Australia, the South Pacific, the Pacific Northwest and more.

Trawler charters have several sizes to choose from.  The 43 foot trawler has all the amenities and power to suit most people’s needs.  Your time aboard is guaranteed to be luxurious with a large main salon and full galley.  The flybridge is also large and welcoming and a great place to relax under the large bimini cover.

Three couples or a family would not feel crowded aboard the 43 foot trawler.  With tree staterooms and two full heads with showers everyone would enjoy their own space.  Among the places for sunbathing is the aft deck.  For swimming and snorkeling there is a large transom door that opens to a swim platform.

The charm of a luxury trawler charter is undeniable.  Like any vacation a charter takes planning and preparation to insure satisfaction.  It is important to choose the right trawler charter for you.  You will also have to book flights and other travel arrangements to get you to the trawler.  There are charter specialists available that will utilize their experience to organize your charter so that everything is considered and your vacation runs smoothly.

If you are an experienced sailor you may want to do a bareboat charter.  You would be able to pilot the trawler yourself.  The chartering company would have to review your sailing resume.  If you qualify this is a great way to save.

Most of us just want to relax on our vacations and let the captain take care of everything.  Trawler charters have highly qualified captains on retainer and their resumes are available for you to review.

The highly trained captain will pilot your trawler charter to many picturesque ports-of-call on either the Eastern or Western coasts.  There is so much to see and do.  Your captain will be familiar with the various ports and be able to educate you on the restaurants and things to do.

If you rent a trawler charter in the Pacific Northwest you would enjoy sailing around the multitude of islands in that area.  There is tons of wildlife to experience and photograph.  The Pugent Sound is home to bear, whales, deer and eagles.  The fishing and crabbin is amazing.  Dine on your own fresh catch in the evening after a day of recreation.

You can dine ashore or use the galley and dining facilities on the trawler.  You can remain aboard your comfortable trawler charter at night, in the privacy of the spacious cabin, or stay ashore at your own expense.

Trawler charter prices would normally include: your fully equipped diesel trawler yacht; with linens and towels; a U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain; a fully equipped galley; boat fuel; and dock fees. Meals ashore and taxes are extra. You have full use of the galley while aboard. You may bring your own food and beverages aboard for the cruise.

To get additional info on yacht charters visit Sailing Yacht Charters and also BVI Yacht Charter

If you have ever dreamed of taking a vacation aboard a private yacht charter but thought it was out of reach, think again.  If you do some careful online research you may be able to find a yacht that is affordable but still as luxurious as you had imagined.  Charter yachts are available in a variety of locations, some may not be far from your home.

Count the Costs

When comparing prices be selective in your final decision.  Make sure the yacht will meet all your needs at the listed price.  Are there additional fees that they have not made you aware of?  Ask the yacht company to give you a detailed list of exactly what their charter includes.  Are the wine and beverages included, docking fees, fuel, recreational activities, etc.?

Do Your Research

Do an online investigation.  You don’t want any surprises after you have set sail and are in a remote location. Most of the crewed charter yachts will have a website with beautiful photos, captain and crew backgrounds, maybe even some feedback from people who have traveled aboard their charter. Ask questions such as what type of security do they provide, what would happen in the event of a medical emergency?

Safety and comfort are important issues to address before leaving port. Just as important are the destination, the food, special needs, recreational activities, and the size of the yacht. A yachting vacation should be the trip of a lifetime, relaxing and enjoyable, your every need should be attended to and the location as romantic and beautiful as you had imagined.

Enjoy Your Cruising Experience

Now that we have covered the necessary technical information here is what to expect onboard one of these crewed charter yachts. A typical day of cruising will include exploring private inlets and bays, swimming, fishing and snorkeling or maybe some waterskiing or racing with your friends on a jet ski. You may decide you just want to relax on a private beach improving your suntan. For a cultural experience there is always shopping in a quaint island village or collecting pieces of art from various ports of call.

The yacht will include all the comforts of home but just a bit more luxurious.  Just like in a hotel, your bed will be made and towels laundered so that everything is fresh when enter your cabin each evening.  The crew is only visible when you need them. You set the time schedule for the meals to be prepared. Cocktails will be served as you sit on a lounge chair enjoying the sun and tropical breezes.

Taking a trip aboard a crewed charter yacht will make any other vacation seem boring.

To get more info on yacht charter and vacations visit Virgin Islands Vacations.