Greetings!
Welcome to our August newsletter, we hope you're having a great summer! We really enjoyed our cruisetour to Alaska in July. We hope you'll join us on one of our trips, or let us plan a getaway just for you.
There's still
very
limited availability to
Join Us
for the once in a decade, 11-Day escorted tour:
Oberammergau Passion Play
with Danube River Cruise from Budapest, Hungary to Regensburg, Germany. This incredible adventure begins on August 4th, 2020. Please see below for more details, and
contact us today
so we can reserve your space and assure that you can join us. If you miss it, you won't be able to see it again until 2030. We hope to see you on this exciting trip!
Our
Destinations
section this month features Papeete, Tahiti, the departure and return point for our
just added
10 day Oceania cruise from January 21- 31, 2019. This will be an amazing trip, exploring some of the most beautiful ports in the South Pacific, including Moorea, Fakarava, Rangiroa, Bora Bora, Raiatea, and Huahine.
Join Us
on this breathtaking escape to these magnificent Polynesian islands! See more details on this incredible cruise and Papeete below.
Looking for a fall getaway? Check out our
just added
12-Day Canada and New England Cruise from Quebec City to New York, October 8 -20, 2018. We love to cruise New England in the fall when the weather is getting cooler and the colors are changing. Book now and enjoy NCL's Free at Sea promo and choose from 1-4 offers, including Unlimited Open Bar, Shore Excursion Credits, Specialty Dining and WiFi.
Don't miss our Princess cruise to Southeast Asia, round-trip from Singapore, departing on January 7, 2020. Please
Join Us!
Book before
9/4/18
and receive the Sip + Sail premier beverage package and $100 per person deposits! See details below.
Wondering what you should pack for your next cruise, and what's prohibited? Check out Travel Tips Corner this month and make sure you're prepared so you can really enjoy your cruise.
Did you know? Whenever we're traveling, you can book your own air, hotels, car rentals, travel insurance and more by visiting our website or by clicking
here
.
Did you miss any of our previous newsletters? You
can still view them by clicking
here.
There are many trips to choose from, or
contact us today
and we'll plan your own personalized vacation!
Happy travels,
Betty & Frank Villani
(909) 980-6040
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12 Day Canada and New England Cruise
Quebec City to New York
October 8 - 20, 2018
NCL Free at Sea Offer!
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Behold magnificent autumn splendors as you make your way from Canada to New England, stopping in many beautiful ports. Enjoy the cobblestone streets of Quebec City's Old Town and look for whales off the coast of Saguenay. Explore the waterfront of Charlottetown and experience the majestic reversing falls of St John.
Enjoy NCL's Free at Sea promo and choose 1-4 offers for your cruise!
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CRUISE PORTS
Quebec City (Quebec); Saguenay (La Baie)(Quebec); Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island); Sydney (Nova Scotia); Halifax (Nova Scotia);
Saint John, Bay of Fundy (New Brunswick);Portland (Maine);
Bar Harbor (Maine); Boston (Massachusetts);
New York (New York)
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Join Us!
Sparkling South Pacific
Papeete to Papeete, Tahiti
January 21 - 31, 2019
10 Day Voyage - 6 Ports
We're very excited to invite you to
Join Us!
on this magnificent cruise to the Polynesian islands aboard the Oceania Marina! See more about Papeete in this month's
Destinations
section, featured near the bottom of this newsletter.
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Breathtakingly beautiful, stunning landscapes await, from the verdant mountains to the azure seas and white sand beaches as we visit these ports:
Moorea | Fakarava|
Rangiroa | Bora Bora | Raiatea | Huahine
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We'll be sailing aboard the elegant Oceania Marina, the pinnacle of contemporary comfort! The amenities and culinary options on this vessel are extraordinary. Click on the video for a glimpse of what awaits you on this outstanding vessel to paradise.
Contact us today
to book this spectacular cruise!
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Panama Canal
Ocean to Ocean!
15 Days, 7 Ports
Fort Lauderdale to
Los Angeles
March 2 - 17, 2019
Sail to these beautiful ports on this amazing cruise onboard the Coral Princess!
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April 11-18, 2019
Vancouver to
Los Angeles
Pacific Wine Country
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Your adventure on the Emerald Princess begins the moment you step aboard. With nearly 900 staterooms with balconies, you'll awaken each day to a new horizon. Experience the relaxed ambiance onboard and tantalizing cuisine in elegant dining rooms as you enjoy this wine country cruise!
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Join Us!
April 14 - 21, 2019
Los Angeles to Los Angeles
7-Day Mexican Riviera
Imagine BLISS!
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Sail with us to the Mexican Riviera aboard NCLs newest and most incredible ship, Norwegian Bliss. Custom-built for the spectacular, Norwegian Bliss features a revolutionary Observation Lounge for you to soak in every stunning moment, such as dolphins splashing through warm turquoise waters. Come aboard and experience the best dining, entertainment and amenities at sea against a backdrop of unrivaled natural beauty.
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Join Us!
Southeast Asia
11 Days - 6 Ports
January 7 - 18, 2020
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Join Us!
on board the Sapphire Princess as we explore these beautiful ports of Southeast Asia!
Reserve before
September 4, 2018
, balcony and above, and receive the Sip + Sail premier beverage package and $100 per person deposits.
Contact us today
and don't miss this chance to experience the magnificence of Southeast Asia with us!
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Join Us!
Oberammergau Passion Play with Danube River Cruise
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August 4 - 20, 2020
11 Day Cruisetour
aboard the Monarch Empress with Oberammergau Passion Play!
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This amazing escorted tour includes 9 nights accommodations: 7 nights outside cabin aboard the Monarch Empress, and 2 nights Oberammergau region - Parkhotel am Soiersee, Bad Bayersoien, Germany, river and port charges of $190 per person, cruise and hotel porterage, 25 meals (10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 9 dinners), shore excursions and entrance fees (per itinerary), and Category 1 Passion Play seating!
Land prices for for Category C & D staterooms (2nd level of the ship) start at $4199 per person. A deposit of $500 per person is required and reservations are subject to availability, so
c
ontact us today
for reservations or more information.
See below for full itinerary and more about this cruisetour or click
HERE
for complete details!
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DAY 1, Tuesday
- Depart for Hungary
Depart for Hungary
DAY 2, Wednesday
- Cruise Embarkation in Budapest
Arrive in Budapest, Hungary and transfer to the port. Embarkation will begin at 2 pm. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. Tonight, a gala Welcome Dinner sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
Overnight:
River Cruise
Meals:
Dinner
DAY 3, Thursday
- Bratislava City Tour
This morning, enjoy the tranquil scenery as the boat sails along the scenic Danube. In the late afternoon, arrive in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, a mix of modern and Baroque architecture. This capital city is among the youngest in Europe, yet retains a rich history dating back more than 2000 years. Walk along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town center; view St. Martin's Cathedral, coronation site of the Kings of Hungary, the 13th century Old Town Hall and the Franciscan church. Time to explore this colorful city on your own before returning to the ship for dinner. This evening, the ship will set sail to Vienna
Overnight:
River Cruise
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4, Friday
- Vienna City Tour
Your morning tour of romantic Vienna introduces you to this Imperial city with its legendary opulence and elegance. Drive along the famed Ringstrasse, Vienna's main boulevard lined with magnificent Baroque palaces, parks and monuments. View the lavish Hofburg Palace, and the impressive Vienna Opera House. Continue to majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Parliament building. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, or, join the
optional
tour to the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, once summer residence of the Hapsburgs. Visit the gorgeous baroque apartments and stroll through the world-famous manicured gardens. Tonight, perhaps take the opportunity to attend an evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music" at an
optional
concert performance of the classical masterpieces of Mozart and Strauss, two of Vienna's most famous citizens
Optional:
Schonbrunn Palace Tour (PM)
Optional:
Classical Viennese Concert (PM)
Overnight:
River Cruise
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5, Saturday
- Melk Abbey
This morning, arrive in the village of Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube. Free time to stroll this quintessential village in the heart of the Wachau wine district. Walk along medieval cobblestone streets revealing 16th-century town houses and wine taverns. Continue cruising late this morning and relax on board as the boat cruises through the scenic Wachau Valley, with lovely storybook views of vineyards, castles, hilltop ruins and monasteries. Later, disembark in Melk for a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey, considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. View the Abbot's chambers, the Kaiser's walk, and the lavish library. The ship will set sail as you dine on board this evening
Overnight:
River Cruise
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6, Sunday
- Full Day in Linz
Early this morning cruise into Linz. Founded by the Romans, Linz has cultivated a strong artistic tradition, especially in the field of music. Today is free to explore the city independently, taking in such sites as St. Mary's Cathedral and Linz Castle, or just relaxing at a café sampling the famous Linzer torte which was named after this quaint city. Alternatively, join the
optional
full day excursion to Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic. Travel through the picturesque landscape of Southern Bohemia to Cesky Krumlov, a fairy-tale town with its maze of narrow cobbled streets. Declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site in 1992, Cesky Krumlov has earned an international reputation for its State Castle and Chateau, one of the largest in Central Europe, superbly furnished with priceless art, tapestries and richly decorated weapons. The guided walk through town is highlighted by Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance houses once mansions of noblemen families
Optional:
Full Day Tour of Cesky Krumlov
Overnight:
River Cruise
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7, Monday
- Full Day in Passau
Today presents a wonderful opportunity to join the
optional
full day tour to beautiful Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music. The walking tour will include some of Salzburg's most historic sites including the Mirabell Palace, the Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Cemetery. After lunch at a local restaurant, there will be time to discover Salzburg on your own before returning to the ship. If you choose to remain on board, the day is free to explore the 2500-year-old Passau. Well known for its pastel patrician houses, cafes, cobblestone lanes and riverfront promenade, Passau is a town with a mix of Roman, Italian Baroque and Gothic architecture. In the early evening, all passengers will rejoin the ship and set sail for Regensburg
Optional:
Full Day Tour of Salzburg
Overnight:
River Cruise
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8, Tuesday
- Regensburg City Tour
Arrive in Regensburg this morning, one of Germany's largest and best preserved medieval cities designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided walking tour highlights the city's stunning architecture as you view the Old Town Hall, the Dom St. Peter, and the Porta Praetoria, gateway to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Marvel at beautiful churches and one of the oldest stone bridges crossing the Danube. Return to the boat or spend the afternoon at leisure discovering the delights of Regensburg on your own. The ship will remain docked in port this evening as you enjoy your final night on board
Overnight:
River Cruise
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9, Wednesday
- Disembarkation, Travel to Oberammergau
This morning, disembark from the ship and drive towards the Bavarian hamlet of Oberammergau. Benefit from a guided tour along the way, where you will learn about the history of the region
Overnight:
Oberammergau region
Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 10, Thursday
- World-Renowned Passion Play
Morning is at leisure. This afternoon, attend a moving performance of the world-famous Passion Play that dates back to 1634. This epic play is held every 10 years and performed by the inhabitants of Oberammergau. During the break, join your travel companions for dinner before witnessing the stirring second half of the Passion Play performance. Afterwards, return to your hotel
Overnight:
Oberammergau region
Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 11, Friday
- Depart Germany
This morning transfer to the airport in Munich for your departure flight
Meals:
Breakfast
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Once in a Decade - Oberammergau Passion Play
The play that's been a tradition for the past 380 years continues, beginning in May, 2020 in Oberammergau, located on the edge of the Bavarian Alps in Germany. It's only there every 10 years! Click on the video below to see highlights from the 2010 play.
Contact us today
to become part of this spectacular event - it sells out quickly!
Click on the video below for more about Oberammergau:
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Have you dreamed of visiting French Polynesia in the South Pacific? It's always been on our list of great places to go!
Join Us
in Papette before our Sparkling South Pacific cruise (details featured near the top of this newsletter). Beauty abounds in Tahiti and we can't wait to experience it with you! Stay in an overwater bungalow, go dolphin or whale watching, shopping in the local market, or visit the local pearl museum. See below for more exploration options.
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Discover the best of Papeete on this full-day 4WD safari adventure. Travel through almost impenetrable rainforest to discover some of the jewels of Tahiti. See the places where most tourists cannot gain access. Experience the untouched majestic beauty of Papeete and uncover archeological sites on this tour.
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Explore the lesser visited south-west coast of the island of Tahiti on a boat tour around the peninsula and Teahupoo. You will discover that there is more to Teahupoo than its world-famous waves. You'll see turquoise lagoons, rugged cliffs, hidden caves and spectacular waterfalls.
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Go in search of spinner dolphins on a 2-hour cruise on the island of Tahiti. Cross the beautiful turquoise waters of the southern Pacific Ocean to Fisherman’s Bay where you can watch dolphins leaping and playing in the waters around your boat. Enjoy some time to snorkel in a gorgeous lagoon.
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Explore Papeete on a night time Segway tour. Glide along the Papeete waterfront on your Segway and take in the views of Papeete at night. You’ll visit many of Papeete’s top attractions including Vaiete Square, New Marina, Paofai Park and the Monument of Independence.
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What to Pack on Your Next Cruise
To help you plan, we suggest you limit your luggage to a maximum of one bag per person, if traveling on cruises of 3-5 days duration, and no more than two bags per person, for cruises of 6 days or longer. In addition, you must personally carry-on any boarding documentation (passports, Visas, I.D), valuables, medications, medical insurance cards, credit cards and items which require special handling, and any other items you may need before your checked bags arrive to your stateroom.
Your cruise ship will provide basic toiletries for the shower, so there is no reason to waste precious luggage space on shampoo and conditioner. Check your bathroom before you leave to make sure you haven't left behind contact lenses, contact solution, glasses, medications, deodorant, mouthwash and hair gel. If you do forget anything, however, the ship will have a convenience store where you can pick up any toiletries or sundries that you left behind at home.
Choose your wardrobe based on the guidelines of your cruise. Generally, casual clothing during the day and smart casual for traditional dining at night. Formal nights allow you to wear more elegant attire, such as evening gowns and cocktail dresses for women and dinner jackets, tuxedos or dark suits for men.
Items prohibited on most cruise ships include firearms, including non-firing replicas, all forms of ammunition, explosives or explosive devices, air or pellet guns, fireworks, flares, many types of knives, including diver's knives, flammable liquids, hazardous chemicals and materials, drones (some cruise lines allow drones for use on the land excursions), beer and alcohol (although many cruise lines allow one bottle of wine per person over 21 and may charge a corkage fee). Check with your cruise lines for a complete list of prohibited items before you pack your luggage.
For a complete list of what to pack and what to leave at home, check with your cruise lines, or let us know if you have a specific question before you sail.
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