Cruise enthusiasts seeking a vacation experience that pairs the delights of a "downunder" vacation with outstanding onboard service need look no further than Celebrity Cruises' third season of Australia/New Zealand, Hawaii and South Pacific sailings. In the winter of 2009-2010, Celebrity will offer 14 sailings in the region, visiting a total of 33 ports in eight countries. Guests wishing to extend their vacation also may take advantage of a five-night pre- or post-voyage cruisetour in Australia. Celebrity's 2009-10 Australia/New Zealand/Hawaii/South Pacific sailings opened for sale today.

Disney Cruise Line transforms one of the most beloved animated features of all time into a stage spectacular at the Walt Disney Theatre aboard the Disney Wonder cruise ship with the debut of “Toy Story-The Musical.” This is the first time the popular Disney•Pixar classic has been adapted for the stage.

Guests on Holland America Line's new ms Eurodam who want to enjoy the outdoors in the comfort of their own private haven will delight in the cabanas on the Observation and Lido decks of the company's first Signature-class ship.

Loyal Princess passengers who book early to reserve their favorite destination and accommodations can now receive extra savings with the line's new Princess Captain's Circle Launch Savings benefit. This new discount offers Circle Members up to $300 off when they make their cruise reservations shortly after new cruise schedules are announced. The program offers one of the industry's best past passenger values, as it can be combined with other promotional fares.

Holland America Line and the Port of Seattle have announced Ship to Shelter, an innovative new community-giving program that is the first of its kind in the nation. Holland America Line will collect valuable and reusable goods from their ships sailing from Seattle this summer, and donate them to Seattle area charities serving people in need.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced that Norwegian Pearl recently received the Port of San Francisco's Cruise Ship Environmental Award. In 2007, Norwegian Sun was honored with the same award. The Port's program recognizes annually those cruise ships whose on-board environmental systems help decrease air and water pollution. The three categories evaluated are air emission reduction, wastewater treatment and recycling and disposal programs for solid waste.

Carnival Cruise Lines’ 2,974-passenger Carnival Freedom, which was originally scheduled to operate six- and eight-day Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on a seasonal basis, will now operate the program year-round, following the conclusion of its 2008 Mediterranean program in October.

An oasis is commonly defined as a fertile area in an arid region or a place of refuge, relief, or pleasant contrast. Today, Royal Caribbean International adds another use of the term, defining it as the official name for the cruise line's newest and most awe-inspiring class of cruise ships, until now referred to by the code name "Project Genesis."

MIAMI, May 29, 2008 - From boomerangs to chopsticks to maracas, vacationers can match a travel accessory for each of the 59 Royal Caribbean sailings announced today for 2009-10. Vacationers have extensive options for cruises in Australia, Asia, the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean, ranging from three- to 18-night itineraries, aboard one of three Royal Caribbean ships. Brilliance of the Seas will continue its second year-round deployment in Europe in 2010 from Malaga, Spain. Rhapsody of the Seas will embark on its third season in the South Pacific and Australia, and Legend of the Seas will sail Royal Caribbean's third consecutive winter season in Southeast Asia.

MIAMI (June 5, 2008) -- Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest cruise operator, will launch the first year-round cruise program from the Port of Baltimore with seven-day cruises aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride beginning in fall 2009.

The new program kicks off September 13, 2009, and encompasses two different week-long itineraries departing Sundays from the historic Maryland port.

Nickelodeon has assembled seven days of non-stop fun and activities for its first-ever Nickelodeon Family Cruise with Royal Caribbean, which sets sail August 10-17, on Royal Caribbean International's Freedom of the Seas.

Short cruises are perfect getaways for those who just can't get away - or can't wait - to enjoy a week-long vacation. Royal Caribbean International today announced its short cruises for 2009-10, offering vacationers 18 unique itineraries, ranging from two to five nights, on 306 sailings.

Following the tremendous success of the inaugural “Elvis Cruise” last year, Carnival Cruise Lines and St. Louis, Mo.-based The Elvis Cruise, LLC, announced today the second “Elvis Cruise.” This year, it will be a four-day voyage aboard the Carnival Fantasy in August 2008.

Offering travelers more choices to experience multiple destinations throughout Europe, Royal Caribbean International today announced the planned deployment of a record eight ships to the region for the 2009 summer and fall seasons. Vacationers can select from itineraries ranging from four to 14 nights aboard some of the world's most innovative cruise ships: Independence of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Freedom-class ship; two Voyager-class ships, Navigator of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas; as well as Brilliance of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, Legend of the Seas, Splendour of the Seas, and Vision of the Seas.

Building upon its distinction as the family cruise leader, Carnival Cruise Lines has introduced a new on-board program called “Circle C” aimed specifically at the 12- to 14-year-old age group, with expansive new clubs, a full schedule of activities and trained staff.

Feel like making a difference? Feel like making a positive change that helps tourism? Tourism Cares for America is your answer.

Cruise industry veteran Lynn C. Torrent has been named senior vice president of sales and guest services at Miami-based Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest cruise operator. She will take on her new role on March 3.

When Celebrity Solstice launches in December, vacationers will find that the grass really is greener on a Celebrity Cruises vacation. The ship will present an industry first on the top deck of the ship: real, growing grass, set in an innovative new country club environment known as "The Lawn Club."

Deluxe cruise line Azamara Cruises has announced new itineraries for Azamara Journey beginning in the fall of 2008. On November 12, 2008, the ship will sail a new, 12-night Western Mediterranean cruise roundtrip from Barcelona. On December 3, 2008, the ship will sail from Barcelona on a 15-night transatlantic voyage concluding in Miami, where Azamara will present two new, 16-night Panama Canal sailings, followed by a series of 12-night exotic Caribbean cruises through March 2009, when the ship will relocate to Europe.

Disney Cruise Line will transform one of the most beloved animated features of all time into a stage spectacular aboard the Disney Wonder cruise ship when "Toy Story-The Musical" makes its debut at the Walt Disney Theatre this spring. This is the first time the popular Disney•Pixar classic has been adapted for the stage.

From coconut scallops in the Caribbean and Spanish tapas in the Mediterranean to chicken mole in Mexico, guests sailing aboard Holland America Line’s premium cruise ships in 2008 will savor new menus reflecting their ship’s current itinerary. Master Chef Rudi Sodamin has incorporated flavors, techniques and recipes from around the world on new menus fleetwide.

If you're planning a trip, bring your laptop computer, cell phone, camera, personal digital assistant, or other battery-powered device along. These items are safe to fly with!

NCL has instituted a policy fleetwide that requires all guests to arrive at the cruise terminal no later than two (2) hours prior

In 2008, Holland America Line doubles departures of its seven-day deep southern Caribbean itinerary, created for those seeking a week-long cruise to lesser visited Caribbean ports. In January the company will deploy ms Westerdam on seven cruises and ms Eurodam on a special New Year’s Eve cruise. The latter departure visits Oranjestad, Aruba, Willemstad, Curaçao and the company’s award winning private island Half Moon Cay.

CARNIVAL FREEDOM - INAUGURAL U.S. VOYAGE OF CARNIVAL’S NEWEST ‘FUN SHIP’

2008 looks to be another successful growth year for Amadeus Waterways. Both Portugal and Spain will be new itineraries for the luxury cruise line aboard the Amadouro. In Spain, the ship will visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a visit to Salamanca, and many other wonderful destinations. Their Portugal itinerary will be sailing down the Douro River Valley.

Star Clippers will own the largest sailing ship by 2010 as per a recent statement from the company. Star Clipper is planning to build a massive 518 foot long, 7,400-gross ton, five-masted vessel with a capacity of 296 guests. Star Clippers’ Royal Clipper will be 48 percent smaller and carries 30 percent less passengers.

From its first-ever Northern Europe program and South America voyages aboard the new Carnival Splendor to a significant capacity increase from Jacksonville, Fla., and the new $250 million "Evolutions of Fun" ship enhancement initiative, Carnival Cruise Lines has a number of exciting developments on tap for the coming year:

Cunard Line has announced an additional voyage to QE2's 2008 Farewell Season. The company announced in June that the vessel would leave the fleet in November 2008 and begin a new life as a first-class hotel and entertainment destination in Dubai.

Vacations Consultants of America, which started in 2005 and now has 150 affiliates, treats its agents like family.

“We’re really service oriented,” says Robert Rothmann, president of the company. “We really cater to making people and their businesses as profitable as they can be”.

There’s a new Host company in the travel industry that says it is placing its focus on YOU, the Independent travel agent. According to Vacation Consultants of America president Robert Rothmann, the company is not aiming to become one of the largest Hosts in the country, but rather one of the best.

In time to help guests set their New Year's resolutions for a healthier lifestyle, Royal Caribbean International announces a new smoking policy onboard its ships, effective January 2008. To bolster the cruise line's new Vitality wellness program, recently debuted on Liberty of the Seas - the newest vessel to share the title of the world's largest cruise ship with sister-ship, Freedom of the Seas - Royal Caribbean is increasing smoke-free zones by designating all staterooms and one lounge on each ship in its fleet as non-smoking areas.

Carnival Cruise Lines and NASCAR racing legend Rusty Wallace have teamed up again for another "Rusty Wallace Cruise" on a seven-day voyage aboard the 2,758-passenger Carnival Triumph in December.

Amadeus Waterways has christened the brand-new 150-passenger MS Amalegro, the second of four in its Europe river cruise fleet. Amadeus Waterways President Rudi Schreiner, Vice President Kristin Karst and Chairman James Murphy were joined by business partners Geoff McGeary, and Fred and Joe Berardo for the christening of the luxury river cruise ship.

Carnival Cruise Lines’ 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor – the largest “Fun Ship” ever constructed – will launch year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises from Long Beach, Calif., beginning in March 2009, following its inaugural schedule of European and Caribbean voyages.

Princess Cruises will add another 'gem' to its fleet in November 2008, with the debut of Ruby Princess. The line has unveiled the ship's name along with its inaugural deployment - a season of seven-day Western Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale.

One of our clients recently returned from their trip to the Eastern Caribbean and found this remote little beach tucked away in Tortola. We wanted to share this story with you and other unique places the Caribbean has tucked away for its guests.

A cruise will provide you with a relaxing getaway while also allowing you to see the world, explore an exotic new place, eat fabulous cuisine, make friends, and bond with your family or significant other. Your dreams will come true when you choose to cruise!

While pampering more than 90 million people throughout the world, North American cruise lines have one of the best safety records in the travel industry to date.

By far, cruising is one of the best vacation values for your money! Cruise vacations exist for every person with every budget. Beyond your stateroom accommodations, your cruise fare includes most meals, onboard activities, and entertainment. The great thing about cruising is that you will know the price of your vacation before you go! See our “What is included in a cruise” section for more details.

Royal Caribbean International welcomed the line's 21st ship, Liberty of the Seas, to the United States today. Sharing the title of world's largest cruise ship with sister ship, Freedom of the Seas, Liberty will be the first Royal Caribbean ship to roll out enhanced onboard programming in wellness, weddings, and family and teen activities.

The requirement to possess a valid Passport or PASScard* for all U.S. citizens who travel by air, sea or land to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central and South America, Canada and Mexico has been extended to June 1, 2009. However, the government can accelerate this date based on meeting certain standards.

Please note that the State of Alaska recently imposed a new fee for all 2007 cruises entering Alaskan waters. The fee is not specific to any port of call, but instead applies to all cruises entering Alaskan waters. The fee, like any other GTF, is fully refundable in the event of cancellation of the cruise. The fee applies both to new bookings and to those currently booked.

Please be advised that the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have instituted new air travel regulations. Air travelers are no longer allowed to carry liquids or gels of any kind in their carry-on baggage. Items of this nature must be in checked baggage. Some exceptions exist. We advise you to review the new regulations and obtain the most up-to-date information from the Homeland Security’s web site

Carnival Cruise Lines’ 110,000-ton Carnival Glory recently began a new four-port, seven-day itinerary, part of the ship’s alternating week-long eastern and western Caribbean cruise schedule from Port Canaveral, Fla.

Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest cruise operator, has extended its contract with the City of Mobile, Ala., for another year, thus allowing the line’s 1,452-passenger Holiday to continue operating its popular four- and five-day Mexico cruises from the Alabama Cruise Terminal.

The brand new MS Amadagio from Amadeus Waterways sets new standards in European river cruising and offers a number of features, no other European river cruise ship can match. The ship was designed and built in Holland by Europe's best ship builders and under the watchful eyes of Europe's top Caterers. It truly is a remarkable ship and will make your cruise experience unforgettable.

Under sunny skies with the Manhattan skyline as a dramatic backdrop, Crown Princess, the newest ship in Princess Cruises fleet, was christened today marking its official debut. Home and lifestyle expert Martha Stewart pulled the lever which broke the traditional champagne bottle on the ship, while singing star Katharine McPhee wowed ceremony guests with the same vocal talent that recently catapulted her to television fame.

Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest cruise operator, is expanding wireless Internet access to all public rooms and suites aboard its 21 “Fun Ships” by the end of 2006.

Just six short years ago Viking River Cruises founder Torstein Hagen established a U.S. headquarters in Woodland Hills, giving American travelers a new way to explore Europe and Russia – by cruising the regions’ scenic rivers. Today, Viking River Cruises is the leader in the river cruise industry, operating the world’s largest fleet of 23 ships. In 2004, the company expanded its offerings to include China cruisetours, and it recently introduced Viking Tours, which offers the same outstanding quality guides and excursions Viking River Cruises is known for on all-inclusive tour packages in Scandinavia and the Baltics.

Cruising is oft-cited as the idyllic vacation choice for complete relaxation and escape. The lifestyle of today’s consumer, however, often means that to truly relax and enjoy, people want an easy and convenient way to keep in touch with family, friends, or the office. What could be easier than using your own cell phone aboard ship the same as you can at home?

Leading travel protection company, Travel Insured International, confirmed Bankruptcy and Default coverage is available for travel on United, U.S. Air, Delta, Northwest and their subsidiaries, currently operating under the protection of Bankruptcy filing.

In my opinion, the Las Vegas area is one of the nicest places in the Western US and falling in love with Las Vegas is easy to do. This town is "The Entertainment Capital of the World" the city welcomes 37.5 million people a year. Visitors love to enjoy dazzling shows, five star hotels, first rate nightclubs, unique shopping experiences, world class gaming, and plenty of Las Vegas coupons.

The Fifa World Cup 2006 Germany will become the biggest party of the century. Official start is June 9th, 2006, but the party already begins with an opening ceremony in Olympic Stadium in Berlin Germany at June 8th. By the way, this is the first time an opening party will be held starting a football/soccer World Cup.

Travelers to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada will be required to have a passport or other secure, accepted document to enter or re-enter the United States. This is a change from prior travel requirements and will affect all United States citizens entering the United States from countries within the Western Hemisphere who do not currently possess valid passports.

NCL Corporation (“NCL”) today announced that Norwegian Spirit will drop anchor in the Big Easy beginning in November 2007 sailing seven-day exotic Western Caribbean cruises through April 2008. Norwegian Spirit’s itinerary will feature calls into Belize City, Santo Tomas, Guatemala and Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.

MIAMI (May 26, 2006) – Carnival Cruise Lines’ 110,000-ton Carnival Glory recently began a new four-port, seven-day itinerary, part of the ship’s alternating week-long eastern and western Caribbean cruise schedule from Port Canaveral, Fla.

Carnival Glory’s new western Caribbean cruises feature extended day-long visits to four tropical destinations – Cozumel, Belize, Costa Maya and Nassau.

“Glory’s new seven-day Caribbean itinerary combines two of cruising’s most popular destinations – Cozumel and Nassau – with two of the newest – Belize and Costa Maya. Ports included on this one-of-a-kind program not only feature excellent shopping, dining and watersports but archeological ruins and eco-tourism opportunities, not to mention some of the world’s best beaches,” said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO.