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Travel With Cruises International Blog

RCI BLOG

I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it a million times… A Royal Caribbean cruise is a perfect choice for everyone, especially for families and groups. There is so much to explore on their ships that our clients go back year after year. With such a wide selection of activities for any age or physical ability, this vacation is the one you, your children, and grandchildren will talk about for years to come.

Last year our President, Ines Turus, took her family on a Royal Caribbean cruise for those exact reasons. It was the perfect cruise for all ages.

You and your family will love the variety of pools and water slides, virtual reality games, rock walls, Flowrider simulated surfing, and so much more. With a daycare center offering fun children’s activities mom and dad can have a spa day, or perhaps a special intimate dinner.

If you are planning a reunion, a wedding, a work celebration, a special anniversary or any other occasion, our Cruises International travel advisors can plan private events or excursions to make everlasting memories exclusive for your party. Enjoy a 3-, 4-, or 7-day (or longer) journey. You will be amazed!

Celebrate Thanksgiving or winter break at sea and enjoy my favorite part…leave the cooking up to the chefs! There is still time to get away in 2023! Or book now for 2024 and give this gift for the Holidays! After gifts are opened and soon forgotten, the gift of travel makes memories that last a lifetime.

Booking your adventure early is a huge factor in having more choice of cabins that are close in proximity. Consider adjoining rooms or larger cabin suites. Choosing carefully is so important, and we will help you in picking just the right ones for you.

Safe Travels!

RCI BLOG

Utopia of the Seas® offers 20 dining options, bars, pools (including sloping beach entry pools), water slides, 10-story-high zip line, the Flow Rider surf simulator, and mini golf at AquaDunes.

Royal Caribbean International® has introduced their newest ship, doing her inaugural voyage in the Summer of 2024. She will sail on 3 and 4 day jam packed fun journeys to the Bahamas. Call your family, call your friends, let’s plan a group trip today!

“Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, reunion, wedding, or bachelorette weekend?

How about 3 or 4 days on the newest mega ship in the world”?

As an Oasis Class® ship, Utopia of the Seas® offers the design and amenities as do the other high-in-demand, same class ships, but will solely focus on shorter itineraries of three and four nights. This spectacular, new state of the art ship sails to Nassau and “Perfect Day at CocoCay”, the line’s private island in the Bahamas. If you have hesitated to take a longer cruise, here’s your opportunity to experience it all in just a few days!

Vacationers can choose from 20 types of room accommdations. We’ll assist you in the selection of just the right one for you and your group. Reserve a cabin overlooking the ocean or overlooking one of the amazing “neighborhoods” on board such as Central Park or the Boardwalk. Choose a cabin for three, four, five or book a suite such as the Royal Loft, Ultimate Family, or the new Solarium Suites.

These shorter trips are perfect for families that want to spend part of the week at an Orlando area theme park! Or perhaps you would like to take two shorter vacations this year, versus one long one? We’ll help you plan the perfect short getaway for any occasion.

We are now taking reservations for 2024. By planning early, you can take advantage of the exclusive savings on special departures.

Safe Travels!

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We know we want to travel to Europe; the question is how long do we want to stay and how much do we want to see? Did you know that Norwegian Cruise Line offers cruises longer than a week? Onboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, you can travel through Europe on at 10+ day cruise and experience more countries, more culture, and more fun!

We’ve asked our Cruises International Travel Advisors which destinations are most sought after right now, the answer may surprise you…A Mediterranean cruise with a visit to Istanbul. A land with historic landmarks, vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and excellent food. It is very diverse, having both elements of European and Oriental flair. From traditional teas to the buzzing bazaars, the locals are well known for their hospitality. It will be an experience not soon forgotten!

Iceland, with a chilly name, is one of Europe’s hottest destinations! It is known as the “Land of Fire and Ice”. You will find glaciers, hot springs, geysers, active volcanoes and beautiful waterfalls. The most famous attraction is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa with enriched mineral waters.

There are so many wonderful itineraries it’s hard to choose! Some of the magnificent Euopean sailings are on Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ships.

The Norwegian Prima, recently made it’s debut to outstanding reviews. It is currently the most requested ship in the Norwegian fleet, and we expect the Norwegian Viva (her sister ship) will share the same results.

Call us soon to help you plan which destinations you want to visit. We can also make your hotel and transportation accommodations. Stay longer pre/post cruise and make the most of your European vacation.

Safe Travels!

Regent Seven Seas sets the benchmark in all-inclusive cruise vacations!

april headerA Viking River cruise is a truly immersive experience. It is both destination focused and culturally enriching.

You will discover turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, historic cities, medieval towns and spectacular scenery on one or more of Europe’s rivers. The newest is the Middle Rhine, a spectacular 15-day itinerary through Lyon, Provence & Rhineland. Half the fun is waiting to be surprised on what is waiting behind the next winding river bend.

A Viking Longship is an intimate vessel, with all the amenities of an elegant hotel, including all-outside staterooms with floor-to-ceiling windows for spectacular views.

You can dine on the Aquavit Terrace®, a revolutionary indoor/outdoor seating area at the bow of the ship, or in the main dining room featuring daily-changing menus including regional specialties. Visit the organic herb garden on board, which the chefs will utilize throughout your journey. They also use locally sourced ingredients--such as Norwegian salmon, Dutch Gouda, Spanish jamon and Hungarian paprika. This makes for a truly authentic experience, especially when pared with a handpicked selection of regional wines.

The on board experience brings culture to life with guest lecturers focusing on the next destination's history, art, and architecture. Port talks will provide an overview of the next port via multimedia presentation. You can also chose to read up on the towns at the library with a curated book collection in the library. Enjoy destination performances, cooking and crafting demonstrations by locals, using centuries old methods.

The beauty of Viking River cruises is that the longships can take you closer to town, some offer activities a short few steps away from the port. The Viking Way® of exploration, offers behind-the-scenes insights and opportunities to experience places otherwise difficult to visit.

Viking Rivers/Oceans/Expeditions sail on all 7 continents. The newest offerings are trips along the Nile River, and the Mississippi River, as well as Expeditions on the Great Lakes. These do sell out quickly. Many of our advisors have taken these trips and would love to share our knowledge with you. Let us help you plan your next unforgettable trip.

Safe Travels!

Friday, 17 March 2023 08:56 Written by

Cruises International – Vacations Land & Sea Honored by ALG Vacations® as a 2023 Elite Emerald Travel Agency

elite emerald social facebook 39145 940x788March 17, 2023: ALG Vacations® (ALGV), the nation’s leading leisure tour operator and part of the Apple Leisure Group, a member of the Hyatt family of companies, has honored  Cruises International – Vacations Land & Sea as a 2023 ALGV Elite Emerald travel agency. ALGV Elite tiers include Sapphire/Sapphire Select, Emerald, and Diamond/Diamond Preferred. Less than 10% of travel agencies nationwide selling leisure travel have been honored with the ALGV Elite distinction, based on 2022 sales production.

“ALG Vacations is thrilled to recognize the nation’s top-producing travel agencies again this year with the ALGV Elite program,” said ALGV’s Jim Tedesco, Vice President, Sales. “Elite agencies are highly recommended by ALG Vacations because their advisors know our brands, product offerings, and policies well, and have reached a level of sales that can only be achieved through superior service and high customer satisfaction,” he added. ALG Vacations’ highly respected brands include Apple Vacations, Funjet Vacations, Travel Impressions, Southwest Vacations, Blue Sky Tours, and United Vacations.

ALGV Elite agencies are rewarded with a variety of benefits and perks from ALG Vacations, including in-resort training, exclusive promotional codes to pass on to their customers, and access to a VIP support desk, enabling them to deliver premium service to the end consumer.

Cruises International, Vacations Land & Sea is more than just “Travel Agents”, they are your personal concierge, your trusted Travel Advisors, your advocate. By taking the time to learn your preferences, your lifestyle and your goals, they make sure to recommend only the vacations that are right for you. They know your preferences are as unique as you are, because they believe every vacation should be your vacation of a lifetime.

ALG Vacations® (ALGV) is part of Hyatt and managed under Apple Leisure Group® (ALG), a leading North American resort brand-management, leisure travel and hospitality group with a unique business model serving travelers and destinations worldwide. ALGV is a collection of powerful and growing vacations brands widely recognized for providing the industry’s leading leisure travel experience across the world. ALGV was voted the ASTA Tour Operator Partner of the Year in 2020 and 2021 and has received numerous 2022 awards from the leading travel trade publications. With more than three million passengers annually, ALGV features well-established vacation brands including Apple Vacations®, Funjet Vacations®, Travel Impressions®, Southwest Vacations®, Blue Sky Tours®, and United Vacations®.

Wednesday, 15 March 2023 10:17

It’s our time...

Written by

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It’s time to book your Fall vacations! It’s time to enjoy Europe, once all the students have gone back to school and the weather is mild. September, October is my very favorite time in Europe, time when I can truly enjoy the local authenticity of where I am.

It’s time to book Alaska. Again, the spring and fall “Shoulder seasons” are my favorite time to see this great destination! In spring the animals are just coming out and are not yet shy to the crowds later in the summer, families are in school, so it’s our time to enjoy. The glacial waterfalls are abundant, and the air is fresh. It’s time!

How about Canada, New England for the fall colors and historical value? We often forget about these great itineraries, and yet this area is spectacular and close to home! In anticipation of what we know will be in high demand, we have locked in low prices just for you, our Cruises International clients! The sailings below are amazing values, just look at the savings! These are available at the time I write this, but cabins are in high demand, disappearing quickly, so please call your vacation planner today to lock in your departure before the rates increase. Reference the sailing of your choice. It’s time!

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A Royal Caribbean cruise is more than a cruise--it’s the best family vacation in the world! It is the perfect fleet to take your children and grandchildren on an epic voyage they will never forget.

Two of the world’s largest ships, the Wonder of the Seas and the Icon of the Seas, have been recently introduced and are very much in demand. Because of the popularity of unique family accommodations, we are seeing these cabins book earlier than ever before. It is not too early to book your 2024 family vacations. Plan now for a summer, or a winter break cruise with the entire family while the best cabins are available. Imagine the fun of together looking forward to your adventure all year long. It truly brings families together!

Ask your Cruises International Travel Advisor about Royal Caribbean’s private island, A Perfect Day™ at CocoCay. It is a fan favorite! You can enjoy the day on waterslides, swim-up bar, a pirate ship, huge freshwater pool and the highest waterslide in North America. Rent a private Overwater Cabana Bora Bora style or enjoy a great lunch poolside. However you prefer tropical fun and relaxation, you will find it here!

The Icon of the Seas has the most water slides on board, a splash park, Waters Edge pool for infinite horizon views, Crowns Edge Challenge Park (Skywalk and rope course). The Awe inspiring AquaDomeSM and Absolute ZeroSM the biggest ice area at sea. Fun for all ages! Need I say more?

Let’s talk accommodations. Consider staying in an Ocean View room with an Infinite Balcony, with a push of a button your living space will be transformed to an oceanside escape. Sunset corner suites offer wrap-around balconies and endless views in all directions. The Ultimate Family Townhouse is the envy of the neighborhood with three levels of amenities including an in-suite slide, wrap-around terrace, and hot tub. The advice of your Cruises International Vacation Advisor will not only save you time and money by suggesting just the right sailing and accommodations for you and your family, but will offer suggestions that make the very most of every aspect of your family’s unforgettable adventure!

Safe Travels!

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We do enjoy recommending cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line. It is such a great value on some of the most beautiful ships at sea. The old days of being on a set dining schedule are long gone. They were the first to do away with the strict dining schedules and offering more freedom to choose.

If you think you only have 7 day options, you will be surprised to know they offer up to 21 day Extraordinary Journeys that allow you a more immersive experience.

It is still amazing to me after all these years that you can have an entire vacation and have it still be less expensive than dinner, and hotel for the same time frame. Waking up in a new port or country every day is just a bonus. Plus, with award winning Broadway shows, live on board games (like trivia, Bingo, Deal or No Deal), the value continues to climb.

The newest ships have been designed with passengers in mind. Larger living spaces and more balconies are what everyone wants. But the option to elevate your stay is always there.

Hidden away at the top of the ship, guests The Haven have many extras included. It is accessible only by key-card and offers their most luxurious accommodations. Enjoy unparalleled service of a butler & concierge. Relax in your king sized bed, elegant bath or on your private balcony. Cabins can sleep up to 8 guests.

Once you’ve stayed in the Haven you may never want to cruise any other way. From dramatic floor to ceiling windows to the little extra touches--like gourmet treats delivered to your room daily!

Our advisors would love to design the perfect vacation to fit your specific needs. They work closely with your budget to get the most value for your vacation dollar. Let them compare among all your choices and make recommendations with only you and your lifestyle preferences in mind.

Happy travels!

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Maybe because it was one of my 1st cruises back when I started in the business in the 1970’s, or maybe because of the phenomenal evolution of this great line that I have had the pleasure to witness over the years, but Norwegian Cruise Line is quickly becoming a guest favorite.

Many of you may think of Norwegian as Caribbean 7-Day Itineraries but think again. We highly recommend one of their uniquely designed Extraordinary Journeys that allow you more immersive experience. Discover how the journey can change you. Enjoy the most spectacular scenery of your life on the 10- and 11-Day itineraries, or longer on the brand-new Norwegian Prima from London to Northern Europe. This Extraordinary Journeys itinerary includes Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords, and Belgium. You will not be disappointed! The Norwegian Prima which came out to astounding industry reviews only last year, makes these cruises a tremendous value.

Other remarkable port cities are Santorini in Greece, Port Victoria in the Seychelles, Safaga in Egypt allowing you to experience the awe of the Valley of the Kings, Bora Bora in French Polynesia, or spend the day on a safari tour from Richard’s Bay in South Africa. This is today’s Norwegian Cruise Line, showing you the world from state-of-the-art ships with amazing dining venues, and extraordinary entertainment.

Our friendly and knowledgeable advisors can show you your many options, including our pre-reserved cabins that offer you the best price along with our great service. They will compare among all your choices and make recommendations with only you and your lifestyle preferences in mind.

Safe travels!

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The world is waiting! Have you ever dreamed of taking a plunge into the famous Blue Lagoon of Iceland or Island hop in Greece where the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean gently kiss the white sandy beaches? Celebrity Cruises allows you to “dip your toes” in the sand in up to eight countries in one award-winning vacation!

We can turn a good vacation into a spectacular one by getting to know you and your lifestyle preferences. That said, we find ourselves recommending Celebrity in Europe to more and more of our clients lately. Here’s why.

We position Celebrity as the Relaxing Luxury resort at sea. Dine in a variety of restaurants. Rest in Luxurious spaces and wake up to a new destination every morning. Take in an unforgettable view in one of their outdoor spaces: The Resort Deck, One-of-a-kind Town Club, or their chic Rooftop Terrace.

Each of their bars are uniquely designed with the latest trends in mind. Sample craft beers, enjoy the very best selection of Martinis, and an unsurpassed wine selection. Celebrity received an unparalleled 92 Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence--the most awards ever in the industry.

The new Celebrity ships are state-of-the-art, with amazing attention to every detail, and offer comprehensive itineraries. If any of this touches a cord and makes you sigh, let’s talk and compare. Let’s make sure your “good” vacation turns into a “spectacular” one.

That is what we do.

Consider an upgrade to a Concierge Class Veranda stateroom that comes with exclusive events, daily delectables delivered to your cabin, personal concierge, and special touches that make this a truly spectacular vacation. Please call your Cruises International - Vacations Land & Sea Travel Advisor soon. We look forward to serving you!

Safe Travels!

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