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News for Week of November 18th
ABC’s Smash Hit “Dancing with the Stars” Sizzles on Board Holland America Line
“Dancing with the Stars” is one of the biggest television shows on earth, and soon everyone will be able to learn the steps, meet the stars, and join in the fun.
Six theme cruises in 2013 and early 2014 will feature “Dancing with the Stars” events including dance lessons; a chance to meet the dancers, ask questions and take photos; and a dazzling production starring celebrities and the famed dance pros, complete with glamorous costumes and routines from the TV show.
Currently scheduled to appear on select sailings are two-time champion pro dancers Mark Ballas and Kym Johnson; pros Tristan MacManus and Lacey Schwimmer; and some of your favorite celebrity competitors.* More dance pros and celebrities to be announced.
In addition to the theme cruises, every sailing on all 15 ships in the Holland America Line fleet will feature an exclusive “Dancing with the Stars” program including dance lessons and an opportunity for some lucky guests to dance center stage in an exciting dance-off performance. These activities will feature the ships’ professional dancers and will be developed in collaboration with the show’s dancers and choreographers.
Dancing with the Stars Cruise Dates & Ships
February 16th Eurodam 7 night E Carib
June 22nd Veendam 7 night Canada/New England
June 30th Oosterdam 7 night Alaska
July 7th Oosterdam 7 night Alaska
January 12th, 2014 Nieuw Amsterdam 7 night E Carib
January 12th, 2014 Nieuw Amsterdam 7 night W Carib
Trivia Contest – October 19, 2012
For our October 19th trivia question, we challenged our readers to name the “haunted” ship which we described as follows:
-One of the most often seen (and photographed) spirits is of John Pedder who was crushed to death by a closing watertight door.
The correct response is the RMS Queen Mary. Congratulations to Walter Baker of Warminster, PA whose name was randomly selected from the 23 who answered correctly.
Queen Mary docked in Long Beach with a Russian submarine in foreground. Photo compliments of Tim McConnell.
RMS Queen Mary was a transatlantic ocean liner that sailed from 1936 to 1967 for the Cunard Line (known as Cunard-White Star when the vessel entered service). This ship was built along with her running mate, RMS Queen Elizabeth, as part of Cunard’s planned two-ship weekly express service between Southampton, Cherbourg and New York City.
Queen Mary was officially retired from service in 1967. In October of that year, she sailed from Southampton to the port of Long Beach, California where she has become a permanent attraction featuring restaurants, a museum and hotel. In her current space, she has has struggled through multiple owners/operators. She shares dock space with a Russian submarine.
Following Queen Mary’s permanent docking in California, the ship became a subject of rumors that it was haunted. Anecdotal reports of paranormal activity have included children crying in the nursery room, once used as the third-class playroom, and a mysterious splashing noise in the drained first-class swimming pool. In 1966, 18-year-old engineer John Pedder was crushed by a watertight door in the engine room during a fire drill, and his ghost is said to haunt the ship. One of the most “haunted” spots of the ship is Cabin B340, which is aparently no longer rented out due to the extreme paranormal activity, which is believed to be the result of the murder of an 8 year old girl.
Other Interesting Tidbits
Azamara is Now Inclusive
New Program Highlights
Azamara Club Cruises just announced that its guest experience will soon include the new “AzAmazing Evening”, an immersive complimentary destination event featured on every voyage. In addition, the cruise line is introducing a selection of complimentary standard spirits, wines and international beers throughout the ship during the bars’ opening hours. Both offerings will begin with Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey’s next Europe season, March 27 and May 15 2013, respectively.
Guests aboard Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest already enjoy many inclusive amenities, such as included gratuities for housekeeping, dining and bar staff; complimentary bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees, teas, and complimentary red and white boutique wines to accompany lunch and dinner, complimentary self-service laundry; English Butler service for suite guests; and shuttle transportation to city centers in ports, where available. And now, guests will also enjoy the new AzAmazing Evening event on every voyage, and selected standard spirits, wines and beers throughout the voyage from bars and lounges.
Beginning with Azamara’s 2013 Europe Sailings…
What to expect during the new AzAmazing events? One-hundred percent of Azamara’s 2013 itineraries feature late-night departures and overnight port stays, some as long as two or three days. This concept of slowing the ships down to offer guests the opportunity to experience a city’s night life is a rarity in the cruise industry that will now be further showcased through AzAmazing Evening, destination affairs to remember.
Guests sailing a Baltic voyage, for example, could enjoy a private ballet performance in St. Petersburg, Russia, while walking the red carpet and sipping champagne. Or those on a Mediterranean voyage may find themselves sampling Jerez, Spain’s, famous sherry wine at Gonzalez Byass and later enjoying a private equestrian ballet at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. The complimentary evening ashore varies from voyage to voyage, offering guests sailing consecutive voyages a wide variety of experiences.
What to expect from the new complimentary beverage offerings? In addition to Azamara’s existing selection of complimentary boutique wines, served at lunch and dinner, guests will enjoy a wider complimentary selection that includes a selection of standard spirits, wines and international beers throughout the day at any of the ships’ bars and lounges.
Is Azamara for you?
Azamara Club Cruises is a destination-immersive cruise line for discerning travelers who want to not only see the places and cultures they visit, but to live them. Azamara’s two intimate, 694-guest ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, with a combination of 347 suites and staterooms, offer a European-boutique hotel ambience with extraordinary service, fine cuisine and wines from around the world, all while sailing to a host of destinations larger ships cannot reach.
Azamara Club Cruises sails European destinations, including the Baltic and Scandinavia, British Isles, Western Europe, French and Italian Rivieras, Greek Isles, Croatia, Holy Land and Black Sea, as well as Asia, South America, lesser-traveled islands of the West Indies, and in 2014 the West Coast of the United States, with more overnight and late-night stays in every region. Travelers also can choose even more immersive experiences with Azamara cruisetours in four of the world’s most exciting destinations, including Asia, Buenos Aires, India and Turkey.
Things to do in New York City (that are fun and don’t cost a fortune)
New York is a great place to visit any time of year, but given the lovely fall weather we have been experiencing, now is a wonderful time to go. Whether you are visiting for the day, or staying a few days pre or post cruise, here are some suggestions for things to do that are either free or low cost.
Places to Walk/Run
Walk, run, bike or just relax on the Esplanade
Along the Hudson River on the West Side — You can start as far south as Battery Park, near the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. In some parts it is referred to as the “Esplanade”. Great for people and dog watching and scenery keeps changing — along the way, you may come across a playground, a park, or an outdoor concert. We will sometimes take our bicycles onto the Staten Island Ferry (Staten Island Parking is just $7.00 for the day and the ferry to Manhattan is free) and then bike along the path that has been created on the West Side.
High Line — this is a raised historic park built along an old retired freight line. Some of the tracks were still left in tact. Sculptures and other exhibits vary and typically are worked into the perennial gardens along the pathway. Many events are held here, including an occasional movie under the stars. Even without the sculptures or events, the architecture, street scenes, murals and billboards are sure to generate great topics of conversation.
Billboard, viewed from the High Line.
Brooklyn Bridge — Walk/run/ride across the Brooklyn Bridge. (the pedestrian-only level). Great views on a clear day!
Flowers in the park.
Other Things to Do
Little Italy— Great to eat here, but you may just consider stopping by to see it. The lights are especially terrific at night. The core of Little Italy is onMulberry Street, between Canal and Broome. Our favorite southern Italian restaurant, Benito II, recently closed, but there are multiple others to select from! If you are looking for something to do this weekend, the annual Feast of San Gennaro is begin celebrated. Mulberry Street will have street vendors and musicians in addition to the usual sidewalk cafes.
Washington Square Park (near NYU) — Another great people-watching and dog-watching place. On a nice day, there are often folk singers jamming and you can just hang out and enjoy.
Soho, Tribeca, Greenwich Village — Artsy/ bohemian areas that are fun to walk around and window shop. Also some good restaurants.
South Street Seaport
South Street Seaport – Very cool tall ships and other vessels.
Times Square — Look up and see that you are surrounded by lights and glitter!
The Apple Store (near Central Park) — fun to visit, even if you go just to look at the unique entrance. There are other Apple Stores in Soho and Grand Central Station.
FAO Schwartz — A toy store, great for window shopping (around the corner from the Apple Store).
Top of the Rock and Tour of NBC Studios — If you spend money on a tour, the tour of Rockefeller Center and NBC Studios is one worth considering and it is under $25 a person.
Photo Contest – September 7, 2012
Contest Photo 9/7/12 - Independence Square in St. Kitts.
This week, there were very few attempts to guess the location of our contest photo (shown to the right). Congratulations to Ronald & Robyn Powers of Brooklyn, NY, who were randomly selected from those who responded correctly.
The photo was taken on St. Kitts, a West Indian island which borders both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. It is considered part of the Leeward Islands along with such islands as Saba, Sint Martin, the Virigin Islands and it’s sister island, Nevis.
St. Kitts is located about 1,300 southeast of Miami. It is one of the lesser known cruise ports, so it is a special treat when it is on ship’s itinerary. It’s cruise port is located in it’s capital city, Basseterre. While many original buildings have been destroyed by hurricanes, fires and earthquakes, the surviving colonial and Georgian architecture gives bustling Basseterre a unique look. The town’s hub is the Circus, a square styled afterLondon’sPiccadilly Circus, with a clock tower in the center. Art galleries, music and bookstores, Internet cafes, boutiques and craft shops make it a fun place to explore. Independence Square, encircled by stately Georgian manors was where Basseterre’s slave market was held.
The island’s lush geography lends itself to eco-tourism, starting with the dense tropical rainforests that surround dormant volcano, Mount Liamuiga. Colorful birds, butterflies and mokeys reside here.
Scenic Railway offers unique views of the island.
While in St. Kitts, we took a ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, which enabled us to get to know the island quickly and experience some unique views. The double-decker railcars follow the old sugar cane train tracks, offering views of the Caribbean Sea, mountains and neighboring island. And if you’re lucky, you will be serenaded by some of the local children. The remaining photos are a sampling of what we saw while on this train.
View of the volcanic peaks.
View of the Caribbean Sea.
View of Saba Island.
View of two friends relaxing in the grass.
Photo Contest – August 17, 2012
We suspected last week’s photo contest might be a tough one, so we were not too surprised that there were fewer than 10 responses. Of those responses, just one was correct.
Historic Historic village of Leland, Michigan. Contest Photo 8/17/12.
Congratulations to Rocky Cestroni of Huntingdon Valley who correctly guessed that the photo was taken in historic Leland, Michigan.
Leland was built on the site of one of the oldest and largest Ottawa (Native American traders) villages. It is located on the northwest coast of the Leelanau Peninsula(which is part of Michigan’s lower peninsula). It’s naturally occurring fish ladder was the initial attraction to settlers.
Historic “Fishtown" - a view from the dam.
The construction of a dam and sawmill on the river ramped up the influx of settlers in the mid 1800s. The settlers built wooden docks, which allowed steamers and schooners to transport new settlers and supplies. Fisherman built wooden shacks where they processed their catch and serviced their fleet.
Up to eight powered tugs once sailed out of “Fishtown,” as the buildings came to be known. Fishtown is now home to a working fishery and a thriving charter fishing business. The riverfront is lined by a boardwalk and quaint shacks that have been converted into tourist shops.
Sidewalk flowers.
Taste-ful shops and art galleries.
Your Europe Survey Results
Royal Caribbean reported weak 2nd quarter financial results. According to Richard Fain, Royal Caribbean’s CEO, anemic European bookings was the primary culprit. He indicated that the weak economy as well as the tragic capsizing of the Costa Concordia caused folks to avoid Europe.
At Just Cruises Plus, we also noticed that European bookings were much slower this year than last year. Although we had many inquiries about Europe, the most common reason our clients decided not to travel to Europe was high airfare rates. Last year, round trip airfare was in the range of $800 to $900 for a round trip ticket to major European cities. This year, rates nearly doubled mainly due to higher fuel prices (although they are beginning to drop).
We had over 100 responses to our survey asking for your opinion of why Europe bookings were slow. A large majority felt that the economy was primarily responsible. Only 7 people agreed with Mr. Fain that the Concordia was a major factor.
There is one inconsistency in our survey results, theCEO’s conclusions and your opinions. Last year, the economy was weaker by most objective measures (stock market lower and unemployment higher) but European bookings were stronger than this year. Why? Perhaps, because our politicians are utterly incapable of getting their act together and we are feeling uncertain about the future of the economy.
If you are a contrarian, now may be the best time to cruise Europe. Cruise lines are offering big discounts and the Euro is lower than it has been in many years which means that you can buy more with your dollars. For example, Royal Caribbean has some 7 day cruises leaving from Rome in October. The price for a balcony is $599.
What’s the best time to visit Europe? For the best chance of good weather, spring and fall in the Mediterranean and mid summer in Scandinavia.
The winner of this week’s $25 gift card drawing is Michele Nihen, of Chalfont, PA. Michele’s name was randomly selected from all who responded with their opinion.
Give Us Your Opinion
Royal Caribbean reported a net loss of 3.6 million for the 2nd quarter. Management said that the entire loss resulted from declines in European travel. To quote Richard Fain, the Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean “The bummer, of course was Europe. We all knew there were challenges there, but we had not anticipated either the severity of the financial crisis or the roller coaster ride that politicians and the media have precipitated. And, of course, the Concordia impact there has been the greatest and the slowest to dissipate.”
What do you think is the most important factor that caused cruisers to avoid Europe this year?
Concordia
Weak Economy
Civil unrest including Arab Spring
High airfare rates
All of the above probably had a deleterious effect on European bookings. If you had to pick the most imortant, what would it be?
Give us your oponion and we will enter you into our weekly drawing for a $25 Visa gift card.
Everyone who responds will be entered into this week’s drawing for a $25 gift card. Responses must be called or emailed to Just Cruises Plus by this Thursday, August 9. The winner of this week’s contest will be announced next week.
Photo Contest – July 20, 2012
We had 35 responses to our “mystery bridge” photo contest. More than half gave the correct response: Chesapeake Bay Bridge in Maryland. Other good tries: Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel (Virgina), the 7-mile Bridge (Florida Keys), Delaware Memorial Bridge (NJ-Delaware).
The $25 gift card goes to Peggy Widmer of Wadsworth, Ohio whose name was randomly selected from the correct responses.
July 20, 2012 Photo Contest - Chesapeake Bay Bridge
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge (commonly known as the Bay Bridge) is a major dual-span bridge which spans the Chesapeake Bay and connects Maryland’s rural eastern shore region with the more urban Western Shore (including Annapolis). The bridge, originally built as a single span, opened in 1952 and, at tha time, was the world’s longest continuous over-water steel structure with a length of 4.3 miles. The parallel span was added in 1973. The bridge is officially named the William Preston Lane, Jr. Memorial Bridge for the governor of Maryland who initiated its construction.
This bridge is a favorite of ours because when we are driving on it, we are usually on our way to sail on the Chesapeake and when we are under it, we are already enjoying ourselves on a cruise ship or sailboat.
Royal Caribbean Goes in Red
Royal Cariiben reported a net loss of 3.6 million for the 2nd quarter. Management said that the loss resulted from declines in Europe. Asia, Alaska and the Caribbean all showed a profit.
Our next week’s gift drawing (via email) will be related to Royal Caribbean’s poor 3rd quarter result.