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Greetings!
Summer Doldrums? Not Here!
Airline News
We have previously discussed the travesty that surrounds the airlines of today. We have worked with numerous clients who have had significant delays or cancellations or who have been re-routed. We are not immune to these issues as witnessed by our recent flights from Ontario, CA to JFK and the return. We selected JetBlue as it is the only airline to offer non-stop service between ONT and any NYC airport. Our red-eye outbound was scheduled to depart at 11:59 pm; it actually departed about three hours late. The return was worse as we experienced a six-hour delay. When we say we understand your angst and frustrations with air travel, we mean it as we have now experienced delays twice in recent flights, and an outright cancellation once. Air is simply the most difficult aspect of being your travel advisor. Be assured, we search for the best itinerary for your schedule though we know you’ll be fortunate if everything goes according to the plan! This is why we always schedule flights at least 2 days early for taking a cruise.
The end of an era: Southwest Airlines announced it is ending its free checked bag policy for most of its fare types, ending a perk that saved customers millions of dollars in bag fees. For all flights booked on or after May 28, passengers will have to pay for their checked luggage; it has announced a $35 charge for the first checked bag, and a $45 charge for the second bag. “We have tremendous opportunity to meet current and future Customer needs, attract new Customer segments we don’t compete for today, and return to the levels of profitability that both we and our Shareholders expect,” Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan said in the release. Passengers who book Business Select fares, or are members of the airline’s frequent flyer program Rapid Rewards at the A-List Preferred level, will still receive two free bags. Passengers who are A-List members will receive one free checked bag.
Cruise News
The 2028 Silversea World Cruise embraces a spirit of discovery that some of you understand better than most. From the glaciers of Chile to the skyscrapers of Dubai, this epic journey takes the experience of a Silversea voyage to a whole new level. You can voyage across five continents on the intimate Silver Shadow, exploring at a pace that reveals the pulse of each destination. With visits to over 30 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and overnights in major cities, our clients can take the time to celebrate every moment of the journey. These World Cruises book up quickly, so please contact us if you would like the complete itinerary and pricing.
Royal Caribbean has announced its newest ship, the Legend of the Seas which will be a member of the Icon-class of ships. It is sailing now from Barcelona, and it will winter in Ft. Lauderdale with western and southern Caribbean sailings. This is another beautiful ship perfect for multi-generational family experiences.
Destination Information
For those of you who have experienced the Eternal City more than once, on your next visit to Rome, you may want to discover the Coppedè Quarter in Rome, a true hidden gem, known for its unique, eclectic and beautiful architecture, offering a quaint neighborhood, without the touristy crowds. The quarter is characterized by whimsical details, fairy tale like buildings, detailed facades, and ornate decorations. Designed by architect Gino Coppedè in the early 20th century, it features a mix of Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Baroque elements; the area consists of 18 palaces and 27 buildings and villas. It’s a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for the traveler looking to explore something different in Rome!
Architectural Digest has assembled what it considers the 21 most beautiful places in the world to visit. Here is the list: Victoria Falls, Paris, Amazon Rainforest, Lapland (Finland), Torres del Paine National Park (Chile), Arashiyama Bamboo Forest (Japan), Banff National Park (Canada), The Alhambra (Spain), Dominica, Vatnajokoll National Park (Iceland), Great Barrier Reef, Petra, Sea of Cortez, Shetland Islands (Scotland), Jaipur (India), Grindelwald (Switzerland), Zhangjiajie National Forest (China), Machu Picchu (Peru), Serengeti National Park (Tanzania), Grand Canyon (USA), and Ha Long Bay (Vietnam). How many have you been to? Are any on your bucket list? We can help you get to any of them!
Cruise Review
We thoroughly enjoyed our recent NCL cruise from New York to Bermuda. Bermuda never fails us with its pink sand beaches, turquoise waters, friendly people, colorful houses, and general cleanliness. The Getaway was a wonderful ship for our multi-generational family group with its vast array of experiences for people of all ages. Our only complaint is that the cruise was only 7 days. So, we are pleased to announce a longer NCL cruise in November/December 2026 from New York to the Caribbean. See the write-up below and let us know if you would like to experience this cruise.
So, where in the world do you want to go?
Betty & Frank Villani
909-980-6040
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