Just Cruises Plus

Real water lilies at Giverny

After three nights at the Count’s “castle” we continued to follow the route that my uncle took in his fight across France during WWII.  After visiting several towns devastated in the war, we deviated from the route to get to our next B & B in the town of Giverny, the home of Claude Monet where he created his most famous works.  Monet was one of the founders of the Impressionist movement; in fact, the name “impressionist” came from one of his paintings named Impression, Sunrise. The highlight of the town of Giverny is Monet’s gardens where his Water Lilies series was painted. But that is not all that that Giverny area has to offer.

Les Andelys

Les Andelys is nearby. From the hill overlooking it, Les Andelys appears to be a toy town or fairyland. Les Andelys is actually two towns, hence the word “Les”. We walked along the meandering Seine River where the Tapestry 2 Avalon riverboat, happened to be docked. Rachelle was invited aboard for a visit and was very impressed with the upscale public spaces and staterooms.

Château Gaillard

The Château Gaillard, a (partially ruined) fortress built by Richard the Lionhearted in the 12^th century, is the most dramatic sight on the Seine River (I think even more than the Eiffel Tower). It took only one year to build this enormous structure.

Avalon Tapestry II docked in Les Andelys

Our next stop in the Giverny areas was one of the most beautiful villages in France, La Roche-Guyon. It’s imposing castle, named after the town, was the headquarters of the German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, the “Desert Fox”. Rommel committed suicide after the failed attempt on Hitler’s life.

Sandrine’s library / music room

Our hostess at our Giverny Bed & Breakfast was a lovely French woman who spoke perfect English. She was neither a count nor a colonel and her modest, eclectically furnished house was completely different from our first two chateaus. However, it was no less comfortable and Sandrine, our hostess, was warm and charming. We must say that we hit a grand slam with our Normandy Bed & Breakfasts. Each was different but each was fantastic in terms of food, hosts and comfort and location.

My Uncle was initially buried in Villeneuve sur Auvers Cemetery.

After two very pleasant nights, we headed toward Paris. But first, we visited the cemetery where my uncle was buried after he was killed. His body was brought back to the US and the cemetery is now farmland but there is a memorial with his name on a plaque.

Our next installment in this series will focus on our stay in Paris.

Town church in St. Mere Eglise – click for close-up of Private Steel’s effigy

After spending 3 terrific nights with Colonel Ed and his wife, Sharon, we headed for our next bed and breakfast.   But first, we stopped in the town of Saint Mere Eglise, one of the first towns freed from the Germans in WWII.  There is a church in the town square where paratroopers of the 82^nd Airborne Division landed in error due to foul weather.  Many paratroopers were killed and captured in the square.  One paratrooper got hung up on one of the steeples of the church and pretended to be dead.  He witnessed the carnage below and was captured by the Germans but later escaped.  To this day, an effigy of Private John Steele hangs from the steeple.

Our second B&B was referred to as a “castle”

Our next B&B was in a château owned and operated by a real French Count. When we arrived, he immediately began speaking French to us. With our feeble and rusty high school French, we gave a few answers which seemed to please him. From then on, he spoke nearly perfect English. He ”joked” that he was testing us.

The Count’s B&B’s foyer

The chateau was enormous and we had a huge room with a separate dressing room and a very large and modern bathroom. Paintings of the count’s ancestors hung on the walls and French Provincial furniture graced the room.  The Count was a font of tales.  He told us about the time when he was a child and his father was arrested by Germans in the foyer of the château when it was taken over for the use of Wehrmacht officers.  The family had to live in the stables during the German occupation.

His father was a member of the French Resistance and the Count had some harrowing war stories.

The Count ensures fresh flowers are always at the foot of George Mick’s grave

The Count takes care of the grave of an American soldier killed in WWII and buried in the Brittany American Cemetery in St. James, France.  He prepared a beautiful bouquet of flowers from his garden for us to take to the cemetery and place on the grave.

According to the Count, the château is haunted. Our friend, John had a close encounter with the ghost.

Cows along the road are a common sight

We continued to visit the Norman towns and villages where my uncle fought with the 3rd Armored Division until he was killed in action near Paris.  Most of the towns were pretty much destroyed during the war but have been completely rebuilt.  Normandy is largely farm country with apple orchards, corn fields and lots of cows. R oads are two lane with very little traffic.

Riding through a typical Norman village

We made a planned diversion to Mont Saint-Michel, the second most visited site in France (the Eiffel Tower is number 1). It is an active Benedictine abbey located on an islet. The original church structure was completed in 1144 and more structures were added in the 13^th century. At low tide, one can walk about 600 meters from the mainland to the islet. However, unless you have a guide, this is not recommended because there are areas of quicksand. People have lost their lives when they got stuck in the quicksand and the tide came in. The tide difference between high and low tide can be as much as 45 feet and it comes in real fast. We did it the easy way. We parked our rental car in the main parking lot and took a shuttle bus on the recently completed bridge to a point very close to the massive structure.

Mont Saint-Michel at low tide

We’ll post more about our trip to Normandy & Paris in a few weeks. Stay tuned!

The Braves by French sculptor Anilore Banon – Omaha Beach

My uncle landed on Omaha Beach less than a month after D-Day. He was killed in action less than two months later near Paris. Seventy-one years later, my cousin, Richard, and I planned a trip to France where we would tour the towns and villages where he fought until his death. We left Philadelphia, together with my wife, Rachelle, and John, a friend of Richard’s, in mid August on our two week pilgrimage.

I won’t dwell on the details of the battles fought by my uncle but I would like to share our experiences in France. During our two weeks in France, we stayed in three bed and breakfasts (Normandy) and one apartment (Paris). This virtually insured that we would mingle with the local residents and, equally important, would keep our costs under control.

Charming Port of Honfleur in Normandy

As we left Charles De Gaulle airport in our rented car, we noticed that the French roads are in better shape than ours and are much cleaner (not so many McDonald’s wrappers along the hi-ways). We had some extra time before arriving at our first chateau, so we made a slight detour and headed to Honfleur.

The American Cemetery at Omaha Beach

Our first bed and breakfast was at a chateau owned by a retired Colonel in the British Royal Marines (Britain’s most elite warriors) and his wife, who was an expert in the history of Normandy, particularly its medieval history. This turned out to be perfect for us. We not only had a first rate experience at the chateau, but the Colonel drove us to Omaha Beach (where the Americans landed), Pointe du Hoc (made famous by the U.S. Rangers) and the American Cemetery.   The quality of this tour was fantastic. While the colonel was much too young to have been part of the D-Day landings, being a military officer gave him insights that other guides simply cannot match. When you take a tour with the Colonel, your lunch is included and he eats with you and shares his experiences and answers your questions (another bonus).

Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument

Villedieu-les-Poeles – A town that we visited in Normandy

On our second day with the Colonel, he drove us through many of the quaint villages where my uncle fought with the 3rd Armored Division.  They look much different than they looked 71 years ago.

Mortain was a major 3rd Armored Division battle site.  View of Mortain’s main street in 1944.

Mortain’s main street in 2015

The Colonel and his wife’s bed and breakfast was not typical.  We also got dinner as well as drinks before dinner and, if you are going on a tour with the Colonel, a talk by the Colonel on what you will be seeing the next day. The meals were prepared by a young Norman woman and were outstanding. The colonel’s wife, Sharon, had a wonderful sense of humor and she kept the conversation moving at dinner. Our rooms were spotless and had private bathrooms with plumbing more modern than most of our US hotels (this was true of all of the bed and breakfasts where we stayed as well as the apartment).   If you are a history buff (WWII, British or French), and you want a welcoming place to stay, we highly recommend this chateau.  For more information, call us.

First B&B – View of dining room and main entrance from hallway

First B&B – View from 2nd floor french windows

First B&B – sitting room

Our 2nd Bed and Breakfast was more like a castle.  It was immense and it was owned by a real French Count.  We’ll post more about this B & B in 2 weeks.  Stay tuned.

Why you should go to Alaska this summer (2015) on a Celebrity cruise:

–  Best time to see wildlife is August & early September

–  Best Chance of seeing Northern Lights is August & early September

–  Less chance of rain in August and early September

–  Celebrity is the best of the premium cruise lines

–  Prices will never be this low again

–  Celebrity has bonuses for you if you book your Alaska cruise by July 3^rd

Choose one of the following: Free beverage package for two or Free gratuities or $200 ship board credit (Oceanview or Veranda staterooms)

Extra bonus for booking with Just Cruises Plus – $200 per room toward excursions (Veranda rooms)

Perhaps you’ve been to Alaska —  then let us tell you why you should see Europe this summer (2015) on a Celebrity cruise:

–  The Euro has collapsed. That means that you pay less for everything you purchase in Europe

–  During August, the Europeans are on vacation. That means less crowds at attractions

–  September has best chance of perfect temperatures.

–  Celebrity is the best of the premium cruise lines

–  Prices will never be this low again

–  Celebrity has bonuses for you if you book your Europe cruise by July 3^rd

Choose two of the following: Free beverage package for two or Free gratuities or up to $300 ship board credit (Oceanview or Veranda staterooms)

Extra bonus for booking with Just Cruises Plus – $200 per room toward excursions (Veranda rooms)

Combinable with the “Grass is Greener” Celebrity promotion

OFFER VALID UNTIL JULY 3

CALL OR EMAIL JUST CRUISES PLUS TODAY!!!!!

We had a great response to our contest asking for your approach to preparing for your vacation. Three things immediately stood out. First, all of our responses were from females. Does this mean that men don’t plan and pack? Second, planning and preparations for most vacationers who responded began at least 2 weeks pre trip. Third, the responses that we liked the most involved computers to assist in planning and organizing.

Laverne T. uses a very comprehensive spread sheet. She listed the days of her trip across the top of the spread sheet and noted the dress code for each day. Clothes categories for day and evening were listed down the side of the spreadsheet. Each “cell” provides space for the actual item that will be packed.   Laverne also includes a checklist of her standard “other” items (such as toiletries, electronics, etc) at the bottom of the spreadsheet.

Barbara R. keeps a “vacation” list on her computer. The list is divided in two parts. The top part of the list is for things that are necessary for all vacations such as passports, medications, extra glasses, toiletries, etc. The bottom part of the list gives the particular clothing. Of course, the bottom list changes for each vacation.

About three weeks before her trip, she pulls up her list and takes it shopping and buys any needed items. She finds that her list stops her from over packing which is very important in these days of hefty baggage fees.

Ellie S. starts her list 2 weeks before the vacation. She also uses the spreadsheet method but the columns of her spreadsheet are named “Casual”, “Smart” and “Formal”, “Jewelry” and “Shoes” and the sides are named “Dinner ware”, “Daywear”, “Swimwear” and “Gymwear” (WOW!).  Within each cell, she is very specific. For example, where “Casual” and “Daywear” meet, she lists “Under Armour Pants”.

She actually begins the packing process 5 days before the vacation. She wears heavier items when going to the ship to make her bags lighter.

These three methods, while different, have the same goal, making sure you have everything you need while eliminating unneeded items. No more taking things “in case” you might need them.

When reviewing all of the response, we found the following lists or spreadsheets to be helpful:

-Spreadsheet for planning what to wear each day/night (outfits, associated jewelry, shoes, handbags, belts, etc) and other day-specific needs

-Detailed list of what to pack (clothes plus toiletries, medications, etc)

-To do list for all that needs to be done prior to the trip

Miscellaneous Notes and Pointers:

We received several pointers, some were “lessons learned” from folks who where “burned” by not following their own advice. Here are some worth mentioning:

-Line up all of your luggage, both checked and hand carry, in one spot of the house, preferably close to the door. When packing the car/transport, have one person go back at the end to make sure there are none left at the door. (seems obvious, but….)

-Keep all documents in one place within your hand-carry luggage, but each type into separate labeled envelopes – it makes them easier to locate:

-air eticket/boarding pass
-cruise boarding pass
-travel protection insurance
-hotel confirmation
-train tickets/passes
-other confirmations

– If you take prescription medications, check to see when your current supply will run out. If you expect to run out while away, you may need to pre-arrange with your insurance company to refill your prescription early without being penalized.

– Once you create a list in preparation for your trip, update that list with what you actually end up using on your trip this can serve as a good baseline for your next trip and may help you avoid overpacking.

– Add items/thoughts to your list as soon as you think of them. Then check the item off once you’ve addressed it. For items that need to get packed, you may want to add another check to show that it was ultimately packed.

Congratulations to Barbara Rubenstein of Bensalem, PA, who is the winner of the $50 gift card.  Her name was randomly selected from all who submitted their suggestions.

We received over 60 responses to our May 9th trivia question which asked which ship had 7 godmothers.

Click here for lots of Oasis information and photos

Congratulations to Adrienne Klein of Philadelphia, PA, whose name was randomly selected from those with the correct response.

The answer is Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas®.  The 7 godmothers represent the Oasis’ 7 “neighborhoods”.

The 7 neighborhoods are:

– Central Park
– Boardwalk
– Royal Promenade
– Entertainment Place
– Vitality at Sea Spa & Fitness Center
– Pools & Sports Zone
– Youth Zone

And who were the 7 Godmothers?

-Gloria Estefan (singer)
-Michelle Kwan (figure skater)
-Jane Seymour (actress)
-Dara Torres (swimmer)
-Keisha Knight Pulliam (actress)
-Shawn Johnson (gymnast)
-Daisy Fuentes (tv personality)

The Oasis of the Seas is a destination in and of itself.  Click here for Oasis info, updates and photos as well as detailed info on each of the neighborhoods.

Click here for a great deal on a “dance-optional” cruise aboard the Oasis.

We had such a great time dancing aboard the Serenade earlier this year, that we’re already booked next year aboard the fabulous Oasis of the Seas®, sailing from Fort Lauderdale on January 9, 2016.

This cruise includes multiple dance sessions with our two passionate and experienced dance instructors – Carol Feldman and DJ Pete Burdack.

Dancing is optional, so whether you’re a dancer or not, come join us for a fantastic time aboard this amazing ship.

More about Carol Feldman

Carol Feldman has been teaching and dancing since 1992.  She began her teaching at a country western club called Oakley’s.  She has continued to teach in many clubs in the New Jersey area including Prospector’s, Michael’s Cafe and Katmandu to name a few.  She ran dances for many years at the Hightstown Ballroom. She teaches regularly at Hillbilly Hall and often for Central Jersey Dance in Princeton.  She hosts frequent dance workshops and often volunteers in the dance community.  She was awarded the Christopher Nardone Spirit of Giving Award in 2006 for her work in the dance community.

More about Pete Burdack

Whether it’s line dancing, west coast swing, lindy or two step, Pete is known for his energy and enthusiasm on the dance floor.  Needless to say, he transfers that intensity to his DJ style.  Pete consistently delivers the “wow” factor not only for the dancers but for the spectators who just want to listen to music and be part of the scene.  It is no wonder why he can be heard a several large dance venues and organizations including but not limited to the Colorado Cafe, Rhythms of the Night, and Central Jersey Dance Society.

We are holding a limited number of  Boardwalk and Central Park Balconies at the special rate of $980* per person.  Special Alert:  Group rates end Friday, 9/25 at 5:00 PM.

* Price includes all taxes and fees.

Call or email now to reserve your stateroom and take advantage of these exclusive group rates.

 – Call us: (215)364-3310 or  (800)783-7489

 – Email us:  info@justcruisesplus.com

Click for Details about Ports of Call

Click for Oasis photos and info and updates

Click for Optional Pre-Cruise Hotel Details

Viking River Cruises announced that New Orleans will be the home to 6 new Viking ships.  The first one is to arrive in 2017 and will sail to destinations like Memphis, St. Paul and St. Louis.  Viking’s move is expected to be a boon to the New Orleans’s tourism industry, with increased traffic to hotels and restaurants.

Because of Viking’s popularity in the European river cruising market, its move to the United States is likely to spark new interest in Mississippi itineraries in general.  The cruise line plans announcements on its Mississippi itineraries and ship design later this year. The boats which will be built in the U.S. are expected to be similar to the contemporary ships Viking uses on European rivers.

Interested in a Mississippi River cruise sooner than 2017?

The American Queen Steamboat Company operates the only true overnight steamboat on the Mississippi. The food is truly gourmet and the vessel, although a steamboat, has every modern amenity.

Although not a true steamboat, American Cruise Line’s new paddle wheeler, the America Eagle, will debut on the Mississippi April 11^th.

Why a river cruise?

River cruising in general has exploded in popularity in recent years, offering a more intimate way to experience cruising than the mega-ships that carry thousands of people and are loaded with attractions such as rides and Broadway shows.  Some travelers say riverboats are a welcome throwback to an earlier era of cruising.

River cruising is also more destination-oriented, with boats navigating narrow waterways to port cities that massive ships could never reach.

White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad – 2/15/15 Contest

We received 67 responses to our 2/15/15 photo contest and, although everyone knew that the photo was taken in Alaska, just 41 correctly named both the railroad and the location. The winner of the contest is Norm Remer of Southampton, PA, whose name was randomly selected from the 41correct responses.

The town of Skagway, located on the Alaskan Panhandle, has a population of less than 1000 which doubles in size during the summer months to support the huge influx of tourists.  The port is a popular cruise ship stop — understandable, when you walk through the small town and, everywhere you turn, there is a breathtaking view of mountains.

Downtown Skagway

Skagway’s White Pass and Yukon Route narrow gauge railroad, originally built during the Gold Rush, runs throughout the summer months.  Although usually pulled by diesel locomotives, you could get lucky and ride behind an old time steam locomotive.  There are several trips per day and, although you can purchase tickets while on your ship, we recommend that you purchase them in advance to assure you get the excursion you want.  This is our number one recommendation for Skagway.  The scenery is amazing — hence, the reference to the “Scenic Railroad of the World”.

Advertisement or graffiti? (photo by Jahn Nolan)

The most common tour offered is round trip from “downtown” Skagway to past the summit and return. This tour crosses the Canadian boarder into Yukon Territory, British Columbia. For those who want to combine the railway experience with other adventures, there are several combo-variations offered including; Railway with Kayaking, Railway with Hiking, Railway with a Dog Sled visit and Railway with Biking.

View of the steam locomotive and the dock from the town

We opted for a tour which took us by train to Fort Fraser and then we biked back to the town.  Even with the drizzly weather, the ride to the bottom was exhilarating!  There was little pedaling and lots of braking.

Preparing to bike down the mountain

Our trip to Alaska was in early September.  The temperature was a LOT warmer than we are experiencing here (in Philadelphia).

Majesty of the Seas

The Majesty of the Seas is the last of its class in the Royal Caribbean fleet.  She will be heading to Europe in April of 2016 to sail for Pullmantour Cruise Line, a subsidiary of Royal Caribbean International.  When she was built, she and her sisters, at 75,000 tons, were the biggest cruise ships in the world.  Twenty-two years later, she is dwarfed by the likes of the Oasis and Allure of the Seas at 220,000 tons.

She has been relegated to the short cruise market with 3 and 4 night cruises from Miami.  We sailed on her about 10 years ago and recall her wonderful crew and small (cozy) staterooms.  In Florida for the winter?  Why not take advantage of super low last minute rates?