NEW amazing Cruises Inc-WTH “price advantage” with Celebrity Cruises. Now, just like we have with Norwegian Cruise Line … WOW ! IMPORTANT-TO-KNOW- INSIGHT !

Cruises Inc-WTH has been privileged to have “price advantage” pricing for Norwegian Cruise Line for about two years now.  At moment, I’m not talking about the price advantage we have, with our Block Space (same as group space, but its Corporate Group Space), where cruise line prices go up, and our prices look even better than ever.

I’m talking about “Risk Space”.

What is this ?

Most folks are familiar with Cruises Inc-WTH buying Block Space (group space), in helping individuals, not in a group, keep some money in their pocket … Whether it be lower pricing and/or onboard amenities ! Risk space is TOTALLY different.

This is space that Cruises Inc-WTH “actually buys”.  We put upfront “our money”, for select sailings on different ships.  We don ‘t hold cabin numbers, just the pricing.  And it’s not unlimited space, just so many on each sailing.

The reason it’s called RISK SPACE … If we don’t sell the space, we lose that money !  Naturally, we want to sell it !

We’ve had Risk Space for at least 2 years with Norwegian Cruise Line.  And NOW … Celebrity too !

We don’t have to use special promo codes or do anything special to redeem our space, we can just “see” the special pricing code in our personal computer system.  As well as, the cruise line, such as Norwegian, and now Celebrity, can see the same, for our company, in their system, as well.

Example:  (date not displayed) Our Block Space for balcony, $1069. Our Risk Space, $1029.  Cruises Inc-WTH already had price advantage over cruise line pricing.  And now with our Risk Space, we have even MORE !

We have another advantage, when we also have Block Space on the same date.  Even though we buy the Risk Space pricing for our customer, we then move the booking over to Cruises Inc Block Space.  Our  customers will then receive the added amenities we have in place for our Block Space !

And here’s what’s important best of all … Cruises Inc-WTH Risk Space pricing … Is combinable with Celebrity’s  >>> “Go Big, Better & Best” offers !

You’re right … WOW !

Here’s our applicable Risk space ship/sailings:

Silhouette Eastern/Western Caribbean

RT Fort Lauderdale
Select sailings Nov 2016- April 2017

Reflection Eastern/Western Caribbean

RT Miami
Select sailings Nov 2016- April 2017

Summit in Bermuda

RT Cape Liberty
Select sailing May- August 2016

Infinity Alaska

RT Vancouver
Select sailings JUNE-September 2016

IMPORTANT-KNOW … Cruises Inc-WTH has these same type Block Space savings for our customers, "on other cruise lines", since beginning of time (30 years) …

CALL TODAY !  SAVE !

Tell your friends !

Turning up the heat. Protecting your vacation. Who’s swimming in your life boat. Who might need more protection ?

My long time customers, of 15-20+ years, and I, often find time, in taking a break “from the serious” (their vacation), and share, some of what, each of our lives, might currently be throwing at us.   It can bring a lot of laughter to ones day, as you share same “life boat” experiences, in reference to work and family !

Relationship building is one of Cruises Inc’s core features, as is our sister company CONE, versus some of our other companies, who merely serve as a $299 discount provider.  Getting to know my customers, as well as, them getting to know me, is how we each learn the others habits, moves, needs, and even expectations.

Fortunate for me and Cruises Inc, 70% of my customers are just like me/us.   High attention to detail, want every “T” crossed, and we go steps beyond, in avoiding surprises !  Then there’s the other 30%, who seemingly either, love taking life chances, by riding “side of the life boat”, or have no realization, that the waters are just lurking to grab them !

These waters love folks who …

*Are last minute people

*Love to make changes

Though vacations are all about FuN … The real of the fun, doesn’t actually take place, till “after you get there”.  And though pre-planning activities, is part of the fun, there’s a whole lot of “serious” that needs to stay in the making, till you get there … Helping to avoid chaotic waters ! 

Though fixing problems has been my life forte … That natural “high” I gain from this industry … They don’t come without a lot of stress and prayers ! 

Thankfully, my long time veterans have been around me and this industry so long, they KNOW to “heed” to the many industry horror stories I’ve shared !  So when a life boggling situation faces them or a possible “what if”, I’m the first person on their call list, before assuming any of their own thoughts, are in their best interest.

Unfortunately, this same tactics doesn’t seem to hold true for folks who have yet to encounter vacation fowl-ups or maybe this is their first vacation through us, and don’t quite realize how our expertise is here for the benefit of their safe keeping. 

Over the last 10 years, I’ve learned that “women groups” are the most famous for this (sometimes regular groups).  Most members aren’t actually involved in the confirmation, so they’re also unaware of reasons for decisions/choices made for the group. 

There’s truly a difference between “care-free” choices and “unavoidable life-situations” !  Folks with life-situations, are praying that their need will see mercy on their situation.  While care-free choices, seem to follow with, “What’s the big deal ?”.

Though either can find the vacationer in a bind, folks who use their “bargaining chip” for care-free choices, could forfeit their changes when a real life situation surfaces.

Example.  2 women in a cabin.  They decide they want to change around roommates.  Now the first person in the room can’t go and must cancel.  The 2^nd person in room has already changed once.  Now the cruise line won’t allow a second change.  There’s no choice, but to cancel the cabin.  Loose the pricing.  Loose the space.  My hands are tied !  These are the rules !

SEE where “care –free” decisions can get you ?  Whether it’s change roommates, dining, date/ship, tours, etc … In select cases, one’s bargaining chip get used up !  So when that true life situation turns up, there’s nowhere to go … But out !

Other problems I’ve seen occur: 

*One person late in making final payment, lost the dining time for the group

*Group change the dining, and the cruise line not complete all their paperwork, in seeing that the group dine together

*Tours change, only to have everyone now on different times

*Money lost, for a period of time, in the system, from date/ship changes … Even cancellations.

*Folks decide to “no-show” for a flight, only to find their return flight auto cancelled !

*Why come home –let just stay in the island (wakeup – there are fines!).

OH THERE’S MORE !

If folks could only see my “wide eyes” as they are requesting, they would also know, it’s my 25 years of experience reacting to the request.  Unfortunately, there will always be new life-situations, that agents can’t know the request outcome, cause it’s never happened before … Never been requested before. 

The vacation vendor pays the agent to watch over your vacation and provide you with need-to-know details/protection.  Nowhere does the vacation vendor claim, that a vacation won’t get messed up (could be computer glitch), when a vacationer opts in change !

I’ve learned over time, “select vacationers” need to be protected from themselves  … Help them from sinking their own boat !  So while some folks can’t hear my “danger” words, they seem to hear clearer, when you touch their pocket-book !  So while it’s been working well, in deterring self-harm with women groups, as of late, some new vacationers have given me some new experiences, in teaching me to deter more conflict-harm in the future !

I feel sorry more ... For folks who buy their vacation on their own !  No warning of possible disasters !

Vacation videos for your enjoyment. Videos help increase understanding by 74%. www.CruiseVideoGallery.com

Here's a quicker way to get to our Cruise Video Gallery.

Cruise Ships - Destinations ....
Even Resorts and Vacation Experiences !
Enjoy !
Go here:
www.CruiseVideoGallery.com 

“Added-Value Vacation Preparations Tips”. What you avoid, being prepared. FREE “resources”. When to buy ? When – TOO early to call/inquire !

WOW … 2016 is here !

Cruise Specialist/Travel agent phones  … Ringing off the hook !
WAVE SEASON is underway !
In forming “long-lasting-future-memories” for couples/families/groups !

Not yet booked for your 2016 vacation ? 

WAVE SEASON is already rocking … As in the “phone lines” !
Agents going from call-to-call !
In turn, agents on the phone with cruise lines and vendors … Sometimes, with a hold time of 30 minutes to an hour+.

Did you know … Most vacationers … Already know “which vacation” they want, upon FIRST call to their agent ?  Est 80%

And for many … Their FIRST CALL includes “credit card” in hand !  Est 50% of this 80%.

Why ?  How do they know what they want ?

Today … By way of resources from the Internet … Vacationers research & decide … BEFORE calling their agent with questions … And often “wait with 1^st call”, once ready to confirm !

 

How do you know when (or your agent knows) … YOUR LEVEL of preparation is at “0”.

When the question you ask your agent is …  Is simply, “How much are your vacations” ?
You don’t know where you want to go – Other than Caribbean - When you want to go, for how long, nor how many  folks are going ?

WOW !

That’s like calling a car dealership & asking, “How much are your cars” ? 
Or asking a realtor, “How much are homes” ?
GET IT ?
No one can answer your questions, when you don ‘t know … WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, and HOW LONG ?  Even your budget !
 

What can happen when you don’t 1st ask,  those vacationing with you (even a spouse) ... Who-what-where-when-how long … BEFORE calling an agent ?

Well, if what you find out, doesn’t suite … You (and your agent) … Gets to START ALL OVER !

When it’s NOT YET TIME to call your agent ?

*When you don’t know when-where-what-when-how long !
*When you won’t be ready to confirm for another 2 months.  Or 6 months.
*When rates aren’t yet out !  Example, 2018.

What can happen if you look into "insight" before ready to confirm ?

*Price increase

*Missing sales/Exclusive Sales with Cruises Inc
*Loss in cabin choices
*SELL OUT !
*You (and your agent) gets to start over !

Advantages for YOU … To check out “available resources” … Knowing MORE than just who-what-where-when-how long ?

*You’re steps in front of folks, who just call, instead of checking out available resources !
For my clients … My next step with you is, “show you online”, my cheat sheets !  So have a computer in front of you when you call !
*NOT blind sided  !
*Less price shocked !
*Time to ask others … If this vacation suites them too !
*More ready for confirmation !
 
Resources for my cruisers ?
Our website is great !  www.BestCruiseSavings.com … Or just www.VivianWebb.com.
I call it my “cheat sheet”.  I use my site constantly, all do, to see “general insight” for me !
And our website will show “specific” categories, unlike most cruise lines !
And cruise ship deck plans:  www.CincDeckPlans.com

Resources for my Land Package (All-Inclusive) folks ?

Call.  I can send you a list … The vendors we have a preferred relationships with !
There’s value for YOU … In “agent relationships” with vendors !
Just like with cruise lines !

FREE RESOURCES:

The Internet is filled with free resources of info !
No, I don’t buy from Internet Vendors !  Yet, I use their FREE INSIGHT … As can YOU !
It’s not WHERE you get your information before you buy (unless it’s wrong) … It’s WHO YOU BUY YOUR VACATION FROM !
Just like it doesn’t matter if you see “cruise deals” on cruise line websites or other Internet sites.
It’s WHERE YOU BUY !  

Resources I use:

*Travelocity – Flight insight.
*Hotels.com – Hotel insight.
Know … We have “preferred vendors” for Pre-Packages, such as Globus.  And we can buy hotels from Fun Jet, Pleasant Holidays, and more.
Know … Sometimes it’s better to buy pre/post night hotels from the cruise lines, no matter the higher cost.  Especially if traveling abroad !
Beware ... Make sure you're on "official sites" !  If not, you could get caught up on "scam site".

 

What do you do now ... That you have your insight ?

It’s time to CALL with any questions … And then ... CONFIRM !
CALL ME ASAP !

 

 

 

 

 

 

SEE “Biggest Cruisers Tip ever” ! See inside, "Picture" ... Please share !

I received the “biggest tip ever”, for Cruisers today !

Brought to you … By the “lost and found” … At Carnival Cruise Line !
And suggested, I share this with all my clients !

He said … As soon as you get onboard …

Take a picture of your Sign-N-Sail card.

He said, they have so many lost cameras.

They go through the pictures to see if they can find something, that might identify, who the camera belongs too.

He said … TAKE THIS PICTURE … Of your sign & sail card immediately !

This will help them.

He also shared with me … That other cruise lines don’t return lost and found, like Carnival.

And said that, even “ports of call”, give Carnival lost and found items, in hopes of finding its owner.
So even if not on a Carnival …Take a picture of your Sign-N-Sail card.

And my suggestion … If you are a person, like me, who takes LOTS OF PICTURES …

You may just want to take this picture often, throughout your cruise !
CELL PHONES TOO !

Reminder friends, as you are taking this picture for yourself.

THANK YOU CARNIVAL.

And THANK YOU for returning my keys !  Identified with a key chain that said … I love Alaska !  Heheh.

If you are one of my customers, seeing this Tip …. Please let me know how helpful this is !

Either here on my blog or on Facebook post !

Everyone ... Please take the time & "save this picture" and share on your Timeline. 
Help me get this needed TIP to all cruisers !  

THANK YOU !

Life itself is full of daily issues. Vacations too, often subjected to these life situations ! Pre-planning for the “unknown” ! Where Internet buying leaves you. SHARE PLEASE !

For the life of me, I can’t believe folks haven’t heard enough horror stories, to refrain themselves from buying off the “net” … Buying on your own.

Yes, buying off the net means you are “on this road alone” … BY YOURSELF !

You’re most likely not in a position to hear all the stories I do !  Scary !  Scary all the stories and scary for YOU that you're unaware of them !

 

As your own planner, You get to …
*Do all the planning.  Most likely take hours.
*Put the pieces together, like airfare, hotel, transfers & more.
*Know all the rules for cancellation
*Remember final payment due date
*Decide if you want Trip Cancellation Insurance and know what it really covers.
 

WHAT IF YOU …

*DO SOMETHING WRONG, LIKE TYPE IN THE WRONG NAME OR PICK THE WRONG DATE ?  Oh well, you’re on your own !
*MISUNDERSTOOD RULES OR SOMETHING ELSE ?  Oh well, you’re on your own !
*HAVE A CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE SITUATION ?  Oh well, you’re on your own to figure out how to change everything !
*CAN’T CHANGE ANYTHING ?  Oh well, you’re on your own.  Possibly lose money and your vacation.
*DON’T GET THE MONEY BACK YOU’RE DUE ?  Oh well, you’re on your own.

Are you worn out, from just reading this last paragraph ?
Then why would YOU or anyone, opt in buying on their own ?
Why take on this responsibility ?

For the most part, agents don’t charge you to buy your initial vacation package !

Why would there still be agents, if everyone “was” or “could” buy everything on their own with no stress ?

 

I find that 75% of my customers have a life change after buying their vacation.  Actually 70% of my day, is changing vacations for customers.  I’m making no money as I make these changes … And neither will you, if you make your own plans … Cause you’re on your own !

Did you know, if you call an agent "after" you bought on your own and "now you have a problem".  This will cost you a lot !  Agent can't work for free, when the vendor is not paying them commission.  Matter of fact, the agent may not be able to do no more, than give advice, because the vendor won't talk to them, because you bought on your own.

Do you have the time ?

First to plan … Then to re-plan … Or fix ?

But you say it makes you feel good to do all this planning.  Fine … Plan !  But when it’s time to buy … Buy from an agent.

An agent is not paid for your planning.  An agent is paid for your purchases.  Are aware, that TODAY, with all the internet resources … 80% folks plan which vacation they want before they call their agent to buy ? 

So if you’re thinking that your agent doesn’t deserve the “little bit of money”, she might make from a vendor, cause you did all the work ?  Then I’m sorry … You not only have the wrong attitude, you don’t actually know the value of the agent !

The agent is for … AFTER THE VACATION IS BOUGHT !

(I do not mean, buy it and then call them.  No, call the agent & let them buy for you).

The agent is here to help guide you … Help you in a fix … Protect you … Protect your vacation.

You ask what do I mean by, “Protect your vacation” ?  Just because your agent buys from a name brand vendor, doesn’t mean that vendor doesn’t mess things up !  And the agent has to fix.  Many times, you will never know about the issue … Unless it can’t be fixed.  It’s usually just fixed, and the agent moves onto the next customer issue.

You say you’ve never run into problems from booking on your own in the past.  THEN THANK YOUR LUCKY STARS !  There’s next time.  And now you’ve been forewarned.  Could be the reason this article was brought to you !

 

The #1 reason to buy from an agent … THE UNKNOWN !

Rules … What could happen … So much more !

It’s the same reason you should be buying Trip Cancellation Insurance (and remember, not all Trip Cancellation Insurances are equal) … THE UNKNOWN.

 

You can’t predict today, must less tomorrow !

It’s your choice to make the right decision for your vacation !
And if you’re taking others … You’re subjecting their vacation too !  And you get to deal with all their “life situations” !

CALL AND BOOK YOUR NEXT VACATION (cruise or Land Tour package/All-Inclusive) FROM AN AGENT TODAY !

AND … Share this article with a friend, whom you know, doesn’t use an agent.  The vacation you save may be a good friend !

 

Call & book with me, your next vacation by Dec 31 (2015) & mention this ad for $$’s for charity !

 

(434/800) 237-3832 ....

Just want to talk, press 62.

Know your vacation & have CC in hand ... Yes listen to the prompts. 

What is “Special Needs Group” at Sea ? Special needs for you, a special love one, or a customer . SEE MY PERSONAL STORY!

Surely you have been onboard a cruise and seen many wheel chairs, scooters, folks with oxygen and more.  Not all these folks bring their own “special needs” with them.  There is a company, called “Special Needs Group”, who will deliver these items, to the ship for you, a loved one, or your customer.

And … “Special Needs Group” can make these special needs deliver for your other vacations.  Hotel/resort stay, theme parks, conventions, and more.

 

Did you know ?

•             The accessible travel/special needs market spends 13.6 billion dollars a year on vacations.

•             Travelers with special needs take 32 million vacations a year.

•             Over 24 million Americans with disabilities would travel more frequently if their special needs were better met.

 

My story and personal experience with “Special Needs Group”.

I personally was so “thankful” to be introduced to these folks, while at my Cruises Inc annual convention at sea, this past November.  Though I had heard of them, I often forgot their specific name, and didn’t actually learn till my convention, that the Special Needs Group had become one of Cruises Inc’s “preferred vendors”. 

This introduction “and the tote bag that the Special Needs Group had given each of us at our annual convention”, came in very handy, for my next cruise, just 5 days later, with my mother.   Though my mother already had a scooter (we had decided to purchase, a year ago, instead of renting from Special Needs Group), I would soon learn, that the transportation company to the ship, had fully damaged my mother’s scooter.

Earlier, the transportation company had grabbed the wrong handle, when opting to pick up mom’s scooter, instead of using the bus’ metal ramp.  It released the scooters back wheels.  Once the wheels were off, the bus driver quickly tried to put the wheels back on, by jamming the scooter down onto the back wheels.  Though mom and I saw them doing this, I couldn’t stop them fast enough from doing.  And later learned, the bus driver had bent the rod.

Upon arriving at the port, as soon as the transportation company took the scooter off the bus (I helped), the driver quickly drove off.  Because the scooter was still in just “manual roll mode”, we didn’t yet know of it’s damage.  What we soon learned, when the porters at the port, looked at the scooter, was that the “rod” that motorizes the scooter, had been bent.

Sadly, we had already arrived extremely late to our ship (est 1:30-2pm).  And now with a broken scooter and no “motor-mobility” for my mother, I didn’t know what I was going to do.

I remember this tote bag I had been given.  On top of that, I had brought it with me, because I had decided, that I was going to use it as my pocket book, while onboard this cruise (the tote bag was so light, and my bag for my last cruise, was so heavy).  SEE, ALL THINGS HAPPEN FOR A REASON !

The tote bag was in my carry-on.  I quickly opened my bag and pulled out this tote, which not only had the name of the company, but it’s phone number.  WOW !  I MEAN WOW !

While I was getting Special Needs Group on the phone, the porters at the ship, was trying to fix mom’s scooter.   It was a “heavy metal rod” and it wasn’t budging.

Special Needs Group said, for $285, the could rent us a scooter for the week and would work fast, to get the scooter to the ship, before it sailed at 4pm.  I was thrilled and mom was thrilled.  And the porters of the ship said they didn’t have the tools to bend back the rod, so go for the new scooter.  I gave them mom’s credit card.

5 minutes later, a porter had ran off and found a heavy duty tool and was able to bend the rod back.  Promised me the scooter would work fine for now.  So I called Special Needs Group back and cancelled the rented scooter.  I can’t thank Special Needs Group enough, nor the porters of the ship, for helping in this crisis !  Yes, we were onboard by, est 3pm ! 

 

FYI ... I walked around my cruise proudly with my Special Needs Group tote bag on my arm (even on dress-up nights), with the intention of letting folks know who they are !  Cruisers did notice my bag and ask me about this company.  And I saw several scooters with the Special Needs logo (several of their rentals were onboard "our cruise").

 

Again ... Thank you Special Needs Group for being their ... And ready to quickly jump on my needs !

 

Here’s their website:  http://www.specialneedsatsea.com/

 
•             They are the  leading global provider of wheelchair, scooter, oxygen and other special needs equipment rentals.

•             Recommended by the world's major cruise lines for superior service and value.  We are the ONLY company referred by ALL of the major cruise lines.

•             Special Needs Group also services guests visiting hotels, resorts, theme parks and convention centers.

 

Cruise Accessibility

Special Needs Group has done the research so you can have all the available information on the accessibility features of each ship for each cruise line.  If you want to know what areas are accessible for you while on a wheelchair or a mobility scooter on Norwegian, Holland America, Princess, Royal Caribbean, or any of the other major cruise lines, Special Needs Group has the info for you.
Go here:  http://www.specialneedsatsea.com/cruise-accessibility/
 
Available equipment to rent, for onboard. 
Go Here:  http://www.specialneedsatsea.com/reserve-equipment/

Equipment you may want to purchase in addition, for your cruise. 

Go here:  https://store.specialneedsgroup.com/

Special Needs Group has a blog.

Go here:  http://www.specialneedsatsea.com/blog/

And you can sign up for a Free Monthly e-Newsletter.

Go here:  http://www.specialneedsatsea.com/news/special-needs-group-consumer-newsletter/

 

You no longer have rent nor buy nor carry heavy equipment “to” your next cruise/vacation, in taking care of those special needs … Whether it’s for you, a loved one, or even a client.  Call “Special Needs Group”before your next vacation ... And help make this vacation/meeting more convenient/pleasurable for everyone !
  

Folks ask if I get tired of cruising. No, and here’s why. The value of “downtime” and booking your next vacation before you leave or just upon returning.

Well, I’ve been away from home for just over a month now.  I left Lynchburg, Va, my home town, November 13, and will be flying back home today.  Since gone, I’ve been on 2 cruises and I’ve spent Thanksgiving in Daytona Beach, Fla, with my mom.

Do I ever get tired of cruising, folks often ask.  No.  I just completed my 132^nd cruise, and can hardly wait till my next cruise.  For next year, I already have a cruise booked for the end of April, to Alaska in June, another cruise in December, and hope I’ll be planning one for March and November, with my mother.

There’s several reasons/values that I choose to cruise, as often as I can. 

       When I am home, in Lynchburg, I basically work, non-stop, seven days a week.  Though I may not schedule appointments, after 6pm during the week, nor or weekends, folks can call me, after hours, to purchase a new vacation (with credit card in hand) or for an emergency (leaving on vacation this week). 

Though the phones can be quiet many times, after hours, the needed work behind the scenes, of basically endless.  Like many, in their own jobs, or tasks at home, select tasks, repeat themselves, either every day, or select days of the month.

So my #1 reason, for choosing to cruise, like I hope others realize, with their own work, is needed “downtime”.  Time to rejuvenate.  Time to regroup.  Time to get re-excited about working.  Come back more motivated than before I left.

2.       It time for some good eating.  I’m so into this !  First of all, my diet at home, for the most part, eliminates carbs !  And often consists of like hot dogs, eggs, grilled chicken, or anything else that I can fix in the toaster oven or microwave.  With being on the phone, I had to learn years ago, that I can’t turn on the stove, or I would soon hear the smoke alarms.

Besides the fact, that I can’t wait to binge out on some carbs, I look forward to variety and foods I would never find myself fixing at home.  Not only, cause I don’t actually cook, but many foods fixed on a cruise, would be costly to purchase, especially for only one person.

3.        I admit, I love the dining room experience, for 2 reasons.  Years back, the 2 hours dining room experience, was part of the entertainment.  Either getting to know the wait staff, or just anticipating what the different dishes would look like, to include their tastes.

My 2^nd reason, was dressing up.  Years past, we dressed up almost every night.  I loved this.  I go out seldom at home, and have little opportunity to wear the clothes in my closet.  Though I don’t wear dresses nor heels anymore (due to my leg, from being run over 15 years ago), I still bring my better clothes for dinner.

4.       Shows/Entertainment.  At home, not only do I not go out much, I find myself, not wanting to spend the $50-90 to see a play or the $10 to see a movie at the theater.  Cruises, not only give me that excuse to go, because they are complimentary, but being free, encourages me to partake !

5.       Seeing the World.  What could be better.  I hate driving, so cruises provide me that opportunity to get from place to place, whether I choose a cruise that includes some US ports or I venture to Europe, Asia, or more.  Not only to see some of the wonders of the world, but experience different cultures.

6.       I love shopping.  However, at home, I have very little time for this.  And I love purchasing and giving items to friends/family, from the areas I’ve traveled.  Have also purchased many items, that I had hoped to resell, so others, whom I don’t know, could also enjoy.

 

And why do I have another cruise/vacation booked, before I return or as soon as I return ?

What  better way to keep the momentum or the excitement, of returning home to work and obligations, that knowing, your future vacation is already planned ?

Well, I’ve given lots of reasons of why “getting away” never gets tiresome.  Along with the many values I and you can gain with cruising/vacation.

Like myself, in years past, before I discovered cruising, I gave myself excuses for not getting away.  Too busy and no money, were 2 of my highest reasons.

Once I learned what cruising “gave me”, I can’t stop getting away.  I need refurbishment.  I need downtown.  I want to stay excited about my job.  I want variety in my life.  I want fun and something to look forward to.

 

What’s your reason for cruising/vacation ?  Better yet, what’s your excuse for not ?

Do different cruise lines have different personalities ?

Was on a cruise this past week, and a gentleman at our table said, “He didn’t really find much differences in the cruise lines !”. 

I actually differ in this thought … I say there are differences !  Need to look at the details !

Are they known for their …

Food ?
Desserts/pastries ?
Quality of meats ?
Entertainment ?
Night Life ?
Production shows ?
Day time activities ?
Service ?
Smiles ?
Helpfulness/caring attitude ?
Cleanliness ?
Attention to detail ?
Ratio of staff to cruisers ?
Décor ?
Art appreciation ?
Updating their ships ?
Smaller/quaint ships ?
Modern amenities ?
 
Was on Carnival just a month ago.  To name a few of their specialties … They seem to be into their dinner menu presentations. Desserts were very good.  Love to entertain you in the dining room.  And had towel animals. Heavy into comedy and sing-around-the-piano music !  Didn’t see much of the cabin staff.

Then I was on Norwegian two weeks later.  To name a couple … More late night activities (folk seemed up later).  Focus much on their “pay for” dining venues (we didn’t make it to the complimentary dining this time).  Variety of food in their lido café.  They had two “high pay” productions.  Again, didn’t see much of the cabin staff.

Next on Celebrity.  All their staff were smiling, till we discovered a couple of folks near the end of the cruise.  Their food at dinner and desserts were great.  Complimentary desserts great at the Coffee Café.  Not too much variety in their lido café, outside of pizza, spaghetti, Asian, and hamburgers/hotdogs.  However, they did have complimentary sushi every night.  Their shows were great, and they mostly used their Celebrity singers and dancers.  Saw the cabin staff more and they were very helpful with a pleasant greeting !

Have been on Princess a couple of times this last year.  They have a motto, that there staff must greet each person and stop talking to each other as you pass.  Love their complimentary foods at the Coffee Café.  Their Lido café offered a variety, with scrumptious desserts.

Hadn’t been on a Royal Caribbean this year, but they are usually known for their service too.

If my 1^st choice is how the staff greats you, Celebrity would win this year.  And Princess comes in a close 2^nd.   Celebrity might have to win in their dining menus too … However, I may be playing favorites, because I just disembarked 2 days ago !

I think sometimes, we take for granted “service” and just expect it.  Yet, there are cruise lines who provide a much better display, such as Celebrity and Princess, as I have named above.

And remember … New ships mean something … Bigger ships too.  All in what you’re looking for !  Quaint ? Late night activities ?  Good food ? Service ?

If you’ve cruised on the same cruise line over and over … You might see a total difference, if you opt in the future, to try a new line !  It is true, you get what you pay for … But if you are savvy and flexible in dates, you can take advantage of some great offers the cruise lines are providing, during non-peak sailings !  Why not try something new next cruise !

It’s not always “just about price” !

 

 

 

Are you letting FREE cruise & land credits pass you by ? It’s as simple as … Who you know ! Start TODAY … Fulfill your “travel bucket list”.

No Blog article next week …  I’ll be cruising the Celebrity Constellation with my mother for 9 nights !  She’s been going through a few hard times over the last 2 months … And it’s time to get here away !

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Surely, if you opened this to read, you are a person  … Who either loves to travel or want to travel !  If so, then you too, are among the 80% of folks in the US, who have that same type thought !

Hopefully, you are working on your “travel dreams bucket list” each year !  There’s so much to see/do !

If money is holding you up … Continue to read !

Traveling is not only fun  … It’s a way to escape from every day stresses !  With an opportunity to immerse yourself into a new culture or visit many sites … Whether it’s around the World or here in the United States !

And it’s about creating “vacation memories” ! 

That which you’ll revisit over and over in your mind and through your pictures, for years to come … And with the folks who went with you !

What do you like most about vacation memories ?

Where you went ?  What you experienced ?  Who you were with ?

Have you ever been on vacation, and thought …. Oh, I wish “so-so” was here to see this … To experience this with us ?   Or returned, and heard folks say, oh, I wish we had been with you ?

Sit back and think about some of those wonderful vacation memories you have experienced over the years … And who you wished (who can travel) had been with you … Sharing the memories ?

Were these …

Family members ?
Friends ?
Co-workers ?
Classmates ?
Friends at church ?
Belong to the same organization as you ?

How many folks did you think of ?  How many folks do you actually know ?

10 ?
20 ?
50 ?

No matter the number … These folks could be traveling with you and creating even bigger long-lasting memories … For you and for them !

Did you know that 75% folks who love to travel, would rather travel with others ?

Could it be … There are many around you … Who are just waiting for YOU to ask them to join you !

FYI … The cruise lines and land tour operators are here to give you “credits” towards the number of folks you ask to join YOU ... They want to give you these credits !

I use the word “credits” because some things are not free, such as airfare, taxes, transfers, pre-night hotel.  However, the more you invite, the better opportunity you have of “earning credits” to cover these costs too !

Want to know what’s even MORE EXCITING ?

You’ll invite the hand full of folks you know … Then they’ll invite folks they know …
And you’re on your way to earning MORE & MORE “travel credits” !

If money has been your stumbling block … This opportunity is most definitely for YOU !

Travel the World … Just because of who you know … And who your friends know !

Lots of folks have been doing this for years !  It’s YOUR TURN !

So if you’ve not yet written your travel bucket list, it’s time !

Then decide which destination you want to be your FIRST !
Then make a list of all the folks you know !

Call a travel professional today !

Consider your planning … 15 months out !

Cruising Tip: Are you watching cruise line offers … Even when you’re not in the market to buy a cruise ?

I'll be sailing on the new NCL Escape next week ... No Blog post.  See you Thanksgiving week !

The best time to catch a great cruise offer is when … You’re not even in the market to buy ! 

Isn’t that how everything works ? 

The car you wanted, was on sale “last week” ! 
The sheets you wanted for your bed, were on sale “last week”.
But you weren’t watching the sales last week !

If you’re not paying attention to the offers coming through your email, you can miss that big savings or opportunity !  It’s how many folks save on their cruises and sail more often than others !

Unless you are buying last minute, usually only a deposit is needed to secure your rate.  No one knows what they’ll be doing next year or even in two years (?).  Whether they can get time off work or find that babysitter (?). 

The time to buy is when you least expect it ! 

Watch those specials !
You deserve to GET AWAY !

 

Cruising Tip: Noticed other cruisers are receiving such great “cruise deals”, and not you. Could it be you’re choosing the wrong cruise line !

So many folks automatically assume, that Carnival has the lower rates, and stop there.  If you are signed up to receive Carnival specials, have you noticed, actually not much is offered ?

With Carnival, you may see …

1.       Free upgrades.  Did you know ?  This is most often offered only on their higher prices.  Folks think they are getting the better deal, but maybe not !
2.       Reduced deposit.  Did you know ?  Again, this often on higher pricing.
3.       Onboard credit.  You don’t see this often !
4.       Military Rates.  Did you know ?  This is not available every date.  And military rates don’t often beat other offers !
5.       Past Guest Rates.  Did you know ? This is not on every date.  And doesn’t often out beat other offers.

 

The way to save with Carnival is their “Early Saver Rates”.  Book 5 months or more from sailing.  Other rates, like Military, Senior, Resident Rates, or even Past Guest Rates, are for the most times, not the lower rates.  Folks calling Carnival direct, and asking for these rates, are most often paying a higher rate.

Are you signed up to receive offers from other cruise lines ? (are you signed up for our e-Savers to see my staff's weekly cruise line Exclusives ?  www.SignUp4CruiseDeals.com)

Their added savings amenities, can often outbeat Carnivals pricing.
Free gratuities … Free drinks … Free onboard credit … and more.

Choosing your cruise, shouldn’t be all about price.  Maybe for a little more money, or taking advantages of their amenities, you may receive a better value.

Check out this savings, my client received yesterday !

10 night on Princess … Balcony started at $999pp.
My customer is past guest of Princess.
She moved up to a BE-Balcony, only $ 959pp.
She received $150 pp onboard credit from Princess.
And we had another $ 42.50pp onboard credit for her.
That’s $385 in onboard credit for her cabin.
Go here for itinerary:
http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/sc.do?d=01/31/2016&d2=02/06/2016&i=892020&c=40&v=175&IncludeAlumniRates=false&IncludeSeniorRates=false&zipcode=&statecode=&dsc=y

 

We have 1500+ dates, on “other cruise lines” to save cruisers money !

Of course, we sell out of these quick … Yet, we may be able to get you the same amenities … Must call !

Could it be time to venture with other cruise lines ?

 

 

Cruising Tip: Discover a favorite dish, at dinner, while onboard your cruise ? Wishing to repeat that dish another night ?

Ever been on a cruise and discovered a dish you truly loved at dinner ?  And wish you could have that another night too ?  Maybe you can.  Ask !

 

Years back, I was on a Royal Caribbean cruise, and they ran out of our table having a 2^nd lobster that night.  We asked if we could have another night … Sure enough, we received the next night.

 

 

My cruise last week was onboard Carnival.  I fell in love with the Bread Budding.  It was so buttery …I love butter !  I asked my waiter if I could have again the next night.  Sure enough, it was delivered the next night !  And to beat it all, I was sitting at a different table/different waiter (near by) and my waiter set this up for me.

 

On Princess … Folks love the soufflés … you must order these in advance, to have multiple times !

 

ENJOY !