Mosman Cruise Centre

Getting married on one of Cunard's Queens

2012-01-24T09:00:00.000+11:00

A little while ago I wrote about the growing popularity of getting married on board ship. It seems even the great liners can't resist the pull of a wedding. From 2012 Cunard will be offering on board weddings. Couples will be able to choose between the three Queens - Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2 or Queen Victoria.
In order to do this Cunard has to change the registration of their liners from Southampton England to Hamilton in Bermuda which means they will no longer fly the British Red Ensign flag - a change that will disappoint those who love the Britishness of Cunard. (I am sure the red pillar post box on board will remain however!)

Getting married on board ship will appeal to many - and some will choose to also honeymoon on board - maybe encouraging the rest of the wedding party to disembark in port after a few days so they can enjoy the romance of a cruise!

Safety concerns and the Costa Concordia

2012-01-20T21:53:00.002+11:00

The tragedy of the Costa Concordia off the coast of Italy in the last week will have many thinking about the safety aspects of cruise liners. The chances that you will be caught in a shipwreck are very small but the fact that is has happened is enough.

This accident looks like it may have been the result of human error or faulty navigation equipment
The cruise industry is very safety conscious.
Douglas Ward author of the Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising and Ships writes in the latest newsletter: "In light of the Costa Concordia tragedy, it is timely that new IMO (International Maritime Organisation) regulations due to come into effect soon require that all newly built cruise ships have the capability to "return to port" in the event of a major casualty or fire. In other words, all new cruise ships will, in effect, become their own (large) lifeboats. The rules were made because of the sheer size of new ships introduced in the past few years."
You can read more about the safety program here.
The other matter that clearly needs to be addressed is that of life boat drill. Many cruise lines - including Cunard, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian - hold life boat drill before the ship leaves port - and the fact that on board the Costa Concordia the drill had not yet taken place is part of the tragedy. I have not witnessed anyone not paying attention at life boat drill but I understand that some passengers on some ships don't take it seriously. It is to be hoped that they do from now on.

Airy fairy air fare

2012-01-09T18:06:00.000+11:00

What is it that makes every day in travel exciting? Yes - even I find it exciting...
Learning, and doing stuff - sorry, talking like a kid - Learning, and assisting our clients; that's what.
So today, I rose to that challenge when shown an air fare booking by a client who had used points to gain a credit from a retail chain travel agent. The itinerary, to the Americas, was Economy class travel for 2 persons and a credit had been applied for the points used - and the balance paid by credit card.

How I wish I could now write " And we saved them $xxx...!!!"
But unfortunately, the tickets had already been issued.
Our calculation, even with no applied credit, and despite the fact that we charged the applicable merchant fee, would have saved our client $476 on exactly the same flights.

Frankly, I was surprised. Yes we are cruise specialists, but we are above all a full-service travel agency.
If you have one (of that endangered species) it pays to get them to check those "deals".

Last minute cruise specials

2011-12-19T17:12:00.003+11:00

It's not too late to cruise!
Those big, beautiful ships just keep coming and going in our harbour... and you could still be aboard for a cruise!
The beauty of being a specialist is that we can see exactly what is still available on these ships.
Here are a few of the best that still have cabins - see this example below - on offer...

Diamond Princess - voyages you could catch...
29th Dec from Auckland to Sydney arriving 11th Jan.
11th Jan - Sydney to Auckland
4th Feb - Sydney to Beijing
27th Feb - Beijing to Singapore

It is surprising to see such a popular ship anything less than fully-booked at this time!
We still have balcony cabins available on the Sydney - Auckland sailings, and the fares look like low, rather than high-season!

At sea is still an adventure...

2011-12-19T13:41:00.000+11:00

Your chosen cruise is going to be a great holiday - of course! But the rules of seafaring life mean plans can sometimes be set aside. Here's a tale that shows the spirit of seamanship is as strong today as ever...

Night dash by Crystal liner to rescueAtlantic rowers

15 DEC: Crystal Cruises liner CrystalSerenity rescued two trans-Atlantic rowers thrown into the seawhen a giant wave struck their eight-metre boat.

Londoner Tom Fancett and Dutch friendTom Sauer, both 23, were picked up southwest of the Canary Islands while competing in the Atlantic Challenge, billed as the world’s toughestrowing race.

Britain’s Falmouth coastguard,which co-ordinated the rescue, said the emergency beacon from themen’s boat was triggered at 7.54pm on Tuesday, 760kms from theCanary Islands.

The nearest ship, theBahamian-registered Crystal Serenity, was 200kms away.

"Crystal Serenity turned backand proceeded at speed through the night to the position. Withinseven miles (11kms) of the position they saw a red flare," acoastguard spokesman said.

The two men were spotted soonafterwards, clinging to a life raft.

Though having spent some 10 hours inthe water, they were taken aboard uninjured.

Getting married on board

2011-11-23T11:52:00.000+11:00

Cunard has just announced that from 2012 it will be possible to get married on board the QM2, Queen Victoria or Queen Elizabeth. Details are not yet available.

Many cruise lines already offer this service.
Whether you can get married at sea depends on where the ship is registered and also on the laws in your country - however you can usually get round this by getting married on board, but in port - and then sailing.

For those who love to cruise this could be the answer to wedding woes. In March 2011 a South Australian couple were the first to marry on board a P&O Cruise Ship when they tied the knot on the Pacific Jewel then sailed with their guests for 10 days of celebration and holiday.
P&O has a Ceremony at Sea package which is available on all their ships. There are of course a number of legalities that need to be taken into account - just as there would be for a shore wedding - but if the couple and their wedding party are all able to cruise, this could be perfect. P&O's package includes priority check-in, the bouquet, a photographer, the wedding cake and dinner on board in a speciality restaurant for the couple.
Other cruise lines that can offer weddings include: Princess, Celebrity/Azamara, Carnival, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean and Holland America.
If you like the idea of a wedding on board (and the idea of reducing some of the angst that planning a wedding can bring) then wedding cruise (02-99681600) and we will look into what is available to suit your schedule.

Seven Wonders of the World updated

2011-11-19T09:00:00.000+11:00

The Grand Canyon, Machu Picchu and Mount Kilimanjaro don't make it apparently, but Iguazu Falls, Halong Bay and Table Mountain do! At least that is according to a Swiss foundation that was founded in 2001 to establish the Seven Wonders of the World for today's travellers. The original wonders have long since passed out of traveller's itineraries and the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Lighthouse of Alexandria were 2 of the original wonders, all man-made. This latest list from the New 7Wonders Foundation focuses on natural wonders. Voted on via text message and the internet over a couple of years the new Seven Wonders are likely to be:

Halong Bay in Vietnam
The Amazon Rainforest
Iguazu Falls, Brazil
Jeju Island, Korea
Komodo, Indonesia
Puerto Princesa, the Philippines
Table Mountain, South Africa

There will be many who disagree with this list - as with any such poll, but it is interesting and I am sure it will increase the number of people who want to visit those Wonders they have not yet discovered for themselves.

Quick break in New Zealand

2011-11-16T20:30:00.001+11:00

Have neglected the blog for a couple of weeks - but one of those was spent on New Zealand's north island, bushwalking - and enjoying the splendid scenery. We spent 3 days in Rotorua exploring the area - for the second time. A day's walking in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley with a cruise across the Lake Rotomahana and the areas that once were the world famous pink and white terraces. Fascinating and awesome this area is seething with activity - mud and streams bubble and vapour rises from tree tops. The story of the last major eruption of the volcano and the destruction of the terraces in 1886 when the area was a popular tourist place is fascinating. A day in the museum at Rotorua, that was once a health resort, filled out the story of that violent night.
The museum is world class. Housed in the Bath House, an architectural wonder built in the 19th century to accommodate the travellers who had come to Rotorua for the health-giving properties of the waters and much, this building has an absorbing history - and we spent a day there, missing out on a trip to the spa. This was a pity and our only regret of the trip - we didn't leave enough time to book in for a spa and massage! We had to get to the Chateau Tongariro1

We arrived at the Chateau, in the National Park in the late afternoon as the sun was beginning to play its last rays on the magnificent Mount Ngauruhoe which was capped with snow. The hotel is excellent and we booked three nights so we could attend the Tango Ball in the Chateau on the first night and then explore some of the park over the next 2 days. We could see why this mountain featured in the 'Lord of the Rings' movies and over the next few days explored some of the terrain that also provided the backdrop for these involving fantasies.
Our last stop was overnight in Waitomo. Throughout the trip we really enjoyed the food and wine in the restaurants we discovered along the way, but the food at the Huhu Cafe in Waitomo was highlight. All fresh, local produce (except for scallops which apparently cost the earth in NZ and are too small) and wines. Slow-cooked roast lamb and home-made ice cream were among the best we've eaten. Waitomo is famous for its caves of stalicites and stalagimites and the glow-worms - and rightly so.
It was a great week - one I had planned with care so that my partner and I and our 2 friends could have an experience of New Zealand's north island that was tailored to our needs and expectations.

Cruising solo

2011-10-27T11:49:00.001+11:00

Cruise lines can levy up to 200% surcharge for those who want to travel alone. They do this because cabins are configured for 2 persons and the basic fare is calculated per cabin. They also need to make up for the revenue they project that they will lose on the second person's drinks, shopping and other extras on board.
Some of the cruise lines have decided that this is cutting out quite a lucrative part of their market as many singles will not travel with such a financial burden.
Fred Olsen, P&O's Azura, Costa and Norwegian Cruise lines now have single cabins that don't come with the massive markups. In 2010 NCL launched the Norwegian Epic which has 128 solo cabins.
Other cruise lines that favour singles include Crystal, Discovery, Hurtigruten and Saga. Some such as Silverseas offer single discounts for those who book early.
Many of the river cruise lines offer discounted solo rates.
If you are a solo traveller there are a few benefits you can look for in a cruise including:
* dance partners. As a dancer I was made aware of these dancing men when I cruised on the QM earlier this year and a couple of years ago on the Regent Seven Seas Mariner. The single women who love to dance knew that there would be partners, that they would dance all night if they wanted to and for many this was a highlight of their cruise.
* activities that don't require a partner - these days cruise lines offer so many lectures, demonstrations and 'workshops' that it is worth checking just what is on offer before you book. Interactive workshops, learning a new language, cooking demonstrations, art or acting classes, even presentations, can introduce you to other travellers.
* plenty of social activities such as cocktail parties and karaoke nights
* if you have a particular passion choosing a themed cruise, such as golf, cooking or dance cruise will ensure that you meet plenty of like-minded travellers.

These days it can be a good idea to have your travel agent on the look out for special deals for singles as they are coming up more and more. You can cruising solo- or phone 02 9968 1600

Radiance of the Seas meets passenger feedback

2011-09-20T17:26:00.003+10:00

Radiance of the Seas is on her way to Australian waters. Fresh from a multi-million dollar makeover, this ship which entered service in April 2001 and carries 2112 passengers will be followed by her sister ship Rhapsody of the Seas.

Due to arrive in Sydney on the morning of 15 October, she will be the biggest ship based in the region and she will stay here until early April 2012. As well as a 34-night circumnavigation of Australia Radiance of the Seas is offering weekend getaways of 2 nights, 14-night and 16-night cruises to New Zealand and trips to Hobart and Melbourne.

The refit of Radiance has been based on passenger requests, say the owners the Royal Caribbean line. Those who have travelled before on this vessel can expect to find staterooms for singles, new dining venues, an English Pub, an outdoor movie screen, improvements in the lounges and a new Royal Babies and Tots Nursery. And all the carpets and soft furnishings have been replaced.

These new restaurants include a Samba Grill where the Seaview Grill was. Offering different meats, all carved at the table and South American specialities like the caiparinhas (one of my all-time favourite cocktails since I first visited South America) which promises to be a favourite. The Chef's Table will be a venue seating just 14, offering a five course meal with wines to compliment the food. On a similar theme Rita's Cantina will offer Mexican cuisine - and another South American favourite, the Margarita - no cover charge and no reservations.
If you prefer Japanese the Izumi will be more to your taste. Here they promise traditional Japanese food, including sashimi. Or you may find Giovanni's Table with it's focus on the food of Tuscany is more your thing. And when you just feel like being casual there's the new pub or the Park Cafe.
Can't imagine getting around all these restaurants in a week - let alone a weekend taster - and I haven't even mentioned the hot dog House…. you can see I enjoy my food.
I'm looking forward to visiting this ship when she comes our way… and I hope many of my clients will take advantage of her long stay in our waters!
Pic is of the Radiance in dry dock in British Columbia, Canada where many ship fitouts take place.

Europa to get luxury sister

2011-09-08T10:26:00.005+10:00

The Europa is the only cruise ship to be awarded with 5 stars plus in the cruisers bible - the Berlitz Cruise Guide. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the owners of this beauty have just begun work on the Europa 2 - with a modern and less formal design. Europa 2 will have a total of eleven decks and 258 suites. It will have a maximum capacity of 516 passengers and will boast more space per passenger than any other cruise ship in the industry. The ship’s veranda suites will be a minimum of 28 Square meters. Spa Suites, Penthouse Suites and family suites will complement the range of accommodations to choose from on board. Seven restaurants including a sushi bar, two lounges and four bars will offer culinary diversity! There will also be a large wellness and spa area, and numerous sports and health-oriented features...
Hapag-Lloyd are German ships, but having travelled on the Bremen I can say that the staff all speak excellent English - and the service is very good. This line currently has four ships that cater for different markets. Contact me if you'd like more info
If you are not familiar with the first Europa you may like to watch this bit of PR...

Where will the cruise ships go in Sydney?

2011-09-06T13:49:00.004+10:00

The question of where the cruise ships that are too big to go under the Sydney Harbour Bridge - which will be most of them in the next 20 years - is still being pushed around. The obvious spot is Garden Island, currently home to the Navy, which is where the Cunard Queens have docked in the past. Local residents are not happy at the thought that this may become a permanent occurrence if part of Garden Island becomes an international terminal - but it does seem to be the most obvious spot.
I just came across this news item in a community paper which seems to indicate that there are some serious discussions going on.

Let's hear it for travel agents

2011-08-18T13:14:00.006+10:00

How good to see an article in the popular press - To use or not to use a travel agent? = SMH Traveller online - that gives a balanced view of what travel agents are about. One of the most disheartening things about being travel agent is the feeling you get from some people that you are out to rip them off! We have to make a living, but as this article points out we are not more expensive - and frequently less…
"People always ask me, 'How much more is it going to cost me to use a travel professional?' I tell them, essentially, it shouldn't cost you more; it should cost you less," Russo said.
"Sometimes, a travel agent will have a relationship with a vendor. They might not be able to get a better price but might be able to get you some extras, such as an onboard credit or a free shore excursion during a cruise or a free hotel room upgrade or free breakfast."

Read more

Every travel agent is different - and just as you would shop around to find an accountant or a doctor you liked so you should shop around to find a travel agent who understands your travel needs and wants to do the best for you.

Travel agents on call

2011-08-17T18:04:00.001+10:00

We were delighted today by a belated thank you call from clients we had helped when delayed by the recent airline schedule disruptions due to volcanic ash.

Delayed on their way out from Sydney, and then delayed on the return journey... all due to airline schedule changes made to avoid the volcanic ash, Mr & Mrs V were given hotel accommodation in Papeete while awaiting details of their return flight to Sydney. Unhappily when the information came it was that they had confirmed seats but only as far as Auckland. There were no details of their ongoing flight to Sydney.

They contacted us and we ensured they had seats reserved on the next available flight - no reservation had been made until then. With their reservation confirmed they were able to book their luggage through to Sydney and complete their trip with certainty, and in the shortest possible time. The alternative would have been to travel as far as Auckland then reclaim their luggage and try for a reservation on the next available flight which by then would have been much later in the day or on the following day. They avoided a long wait in Auckland and arrived home without further delay.

Your travel agent will look after you to the best of their ability in such situations - even given that there is no recompense for doing so. They are on call, by email and often mobile phone at all hours. In one case the agent was on the phone to Qantas for 5 hours - most of that time on hold. This high standard of client service is regarded as normal in the hundreds of individually owned and operated agencies around Australia. The agents do not charge their clients, nor do the airlines pay. It is a service ethic working in these situations that motivates the travel agent.
The hoped-for reward is the loyalty of their client.

Getting a good deal on Cruises

2011-08-11T12:32:00.004+10:00

Clients booking cruises often report internet deals that seem to undercut normal fares, or offer cruise sailings that we have advised are fully booked.
This occurred just recently when a client requested a booking for a sailing on one of the world cruises from Europe visiting Australia in 2012. As we have direct access to the cruise line booking systems we saw that all cabins in all categories had been sold and there was no availability - all we could offer was to wait-list our client's request.
But not according to an internet cruise site. That site was offering cabins in 12 different categories, inviting bookings that might never be fulfilled.

This highlights an issue, that booking a cruise on the internet is not booking, it is better described as lodging a booking request. The request is subject to confirmation. This would seem to apply to flights, cruises, and hotel rooms.

Hotels on the internet and tulips

2011-08-11T09:33:00.005+10:00

A client popped in the other day with a pot of tulips to say thank you for the cruise she had just returned from! I find it incredibly satisfying when a client departs on a holiday I have planned knowing that I have done everything I can to make it a unique and enjoyable trip... so it is really nice when someone pops by to say thank you.
This client had a cruise on the Mediterranean which she really enjoyed.
So what's this got to do with hotels you ask? She also booked hotels in Italy on the internet - though I would have been delighted to book her into some of the exquisite little hotels I have used for other clients - and she wanted me to know that next time she would be asking me to book them for her. Not one of the hotels she booked was as it was represented on the internet. I am hearing more and more of this. Recently my son and his wife booked a hotel on the internet (yes even family do this!) and when they arrived found they had been put in a hotel round the corner which was of a lower grade and did not have the views or the facilities they thought they were booking. And then there were the friends who booked an 'apartment' on the internet in South America only to arrive and find it was a garage...And it is well to know that the sites that offer hotel rooms only do not require a travel agent's licence which has all sorts of responsibilities attached!

Using Frequent Flyer Points wisely

2011-08-10T09:49:00.003+10:00

So you have a few frequent flyer points built up - enough to pay for one return fare to the UK or for 2 single fares which would mean you had to buy 2 return fares! Do you go ahead with the first option? Well before you do check out the cost of the single return fares - you may find they are almost the same as the return fares in which case you would be better to just buy the one return fare - or save the points for another trip. And if you are adding on extra flights - say to somewhere in Europe this would probably be the wisest option as there are often deals that make these cheaper when you buy all the trip at once.
Recently some friends asked me to book their return tickets after they had bought two one-way fares with FF points. There was nothing I could do, they paid almost as much for the 2 one-way fares and they would have for the 2 returns!!
It all seems to simple this booking on the internet... but when you use the systems I use and you know just how complicated the whole airfare system is you would no doubt think twice...especially when you know that there are fares your travel agent can see that the average online purchaser is not privy to!

Cruise Alaska with a small exclusive group

2011-07-22T13:13:00.004+10:00

Fancy cruising Alaska but don't want to go on a big ship? Like the idea of exploring the wilderness - and jumping into a kayak to check out the wildlife?
You might like to cruise Alaska onboard the 32 guest Island Spirit with Captain Jeff Behrens owner and skipper. Cruise into bays and inlets only known by the local experts. Use available Kayaks including a specially designed loading dock, cruise through pristine wilderness viewing wildlife upclose in a small group.

Here's one of their programs....

Pre-cruise program: Whitehorse to Petersburg
Whitehorse
Arrive Whitehorse with transfers on arrival
Overnight Westmark Whitehorse.

Day 2
Whitehorse to Skagway
this morning board the White Pass & Yukon Route scenic journey following the Klondike Goldrush route to Skagway via Coach & Train
Overnight Skagway

Day 3
Skagway to Petersburg
Today join the Alaska Marine Highway for the ferry cruise down the Lynn Canal to Petersburg.
Overnight Scandia House Petersburg.

Day 4
Petersburg - join your Cruise.
Island Spirit - Northbound Inside Passage Cruise Petersburg to Sitka 9 days/8 nights
August, 2012
Wed 29
Petersburg Alaska
Arrive Petersburg, Alaska. A Fantasy Cruises escort meets your group at the airport and transfers you to town for shopping and lunch on your own. (Your baggage will be transferred to the ship and stowed in guest rooms.) Afternoon activities to include tours of Petersburg Cannery and interpretive Muskeg walk. Later today we enjoy an early dinner at the Sons of Norway hall with entertainment. Board vessel, meet crew, cocktail reception/dinner, and short evening cruise.
Meals and Refreshments: Cocktails, Dinner

Thu 30
Whales & Glaciers
Whale search and cruise northbound toward our glacier area. Search for humpback whales enroute. Tides permitting, we may visit Five Finger Lighthouse, one of the oldest in Southeast Alaska. Anchor tonight in a quiet wilderness anchorage. Watch for brown bears in this area.
Meals and Refreshments: Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktails, Dinner

Fri 31
Dawes Glacier & Endicott Arm
This morning, we cruise up to view Dawes Glacier, an active Tidewater glacier in Endicott Arm and Holkam Bay. Enjoy time by the glacier with a great opportunity to see calving and harbor seals with their young pups. Afterwards, we anchor at a local inlet for exploring and kayaking. You might even kayak by an iceberg? The chef's cooking some fresh crab!
Meals and Refreshments: Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktails, Dinner

September, 2012
Sat 1
Ford's Terror, Tongrass National Park
Today we enter one of Southeast Alaska's most pristine and scenic canyons, Ford's Terror. Known for swirling rapids and sheer cliff faces, this wonderful wilderness area is protected under the Tongass National Forest. We'll invite a U.S. forest service ranger to join us and discuss the spectacular fjord around us. Today we enjoy a majestic place to kayak and explore that very few people even know exist.
Meals and Refreshments: Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktails, Dinner

Sun 2
Juneau, Alaska
We depart early this morning, cruising north for a port call in Juneau, Alaska. There's free time here for shopping and time to tour town. Perhaps you'll decide to ride the tram or visit the famous Red Dog Saloon. A map is provided for your use after a brief tour. The crew will walk any interested clients up to the Governor's mansion for a peek. Evening cruise to Barlow Cove. (Sometimes humpback whales swim in this cove.)
Meals and Refreshments: Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktails, Dinner

Mon 3
Chatham Straits & Tenakee Springs
Cruise this morning in Chatham Strait. We search for Dalls porpoise and Orca whales. Today we enjoy a truly unique Alaskan community, Tenakee Springs. Population 97! There's time to stroll among the waterfront homes, visit the merchantile (founded in 1899) and enjoy a little shopping at the friendly bakery. Chat with some local folks that live in the Alaska few ever see or get a chance to visit!
Meals and Refreshments: Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktails, Dinner

Tue 4
Alaska's Inside Passage
A day of cruising today will take you through many narrow and winding passages. Keep a sharp eye on the shoreline for bear, deer and river otter as we ply these serene and peaceful waterways. Watch the local fishermen troll by or see them hauling in their catch. Our anchorage tonight will be "Captain's Choice."
Meals and Refreshments: Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktails, Dinner

Wed 5
Sitka
Morning cruise into Sitka, Alaska, a unique community where you can still feel the Russian history and visit the paths of the founders. Afternoon tours to include Raptor Rehabilitation Center and lecture, Totem Park and Sheldon Jackson Museum. Afterwards, shopping time, then back to the ship for Captain's dinner. Slide presentation after dinner for guests. Enjoy your week of memories and take home a gift!
Meals and Refreshments: Breakfast, Lunch, Cocktails, Dinner

Thu 6
Sitka
Breakfast is served and baggage is transferred to the airport for flights home. Depart from Sitka.
Meals and Refreshments: Breakfast

Ask me for more details including costs. martin@travelchoice.com.au

Travel Insurance and That Ash Cloud

2011-06-23T11:26:00.003+10:00

If you have travel insurance that includes cancellation cover, and you have checked with your travel agent that you are indeed covered when things like ash clouds get in the way of your holiday, then you will be dreadfully disappointed that you can't go away - but you will not be too much out of pocket. However if you haven't insured (and I am always surprised at the people who don't...) then chances are you will lose your money.
In winter each year New Zealand puts on a fabulous tango festival with teachers from Buenos Aires as well as across the Tasman. However this year both teachers and festival goers are at the mercy of the ash cloud from the volcano in Chile.
We are currently working on bookings for people who are/were off to New Zealand this weekend. Sadly many are grounded and there is a very real possibility that they will miss this Festival - and for some it will also mean that they lose their money. Good, comprehensive travel insurance covers prepaid expenses so some of these folk will find that they are covered even for their Festival fees. This is where some of the do-it-myself travellers come unstuck. It is easy to book online and to give out credit card details to secure hotel rooms but unless you are covered by an insurance policy that includes cancellation cover you are likely to be out of pocket. It is also important to know that you have to take out the travel insurance when you book the holiday - you can't take it out once the disaster is known, even if you haven't left home. Travel agents like me are keen to make sure that their clients get value for money and will always recommend appropriate insurance - and when we do all the booking for a client's holiday we will often be able to offer a really good price.
I do hope this ash cloud clears and those who are still waiting for their flights make it

Hanseatic , the 5-star expedition Hapag-LLoyd ship gets major upgrade

2011-06-14T12:25:00.006+10:00

An email today from my friend Gerd...

" MS HANSEATIC after shipyard - new pictures and press release"

Hi all,
MS HANSEATIC came out of shipyard here in Hamburg last night and I was on board today!!
Our MS HANSEATIC product team has taken the first pictures already, which you can see on our website under the following link.

http://www.hl-cruises.com/redwork/do.php?layoutid=100&node=174832&language=2&archivid=40&rnr=
The new cabin design on the Explorer and Bridge Deck looks very nice and in a modern style.
Also the Columbus Lounge got a new design and is from now on called the "Bistro Lemaire".

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is visually unifying the appearance of its fleet. After a 13-day-ship yard stay at Blohm & Voss in Hamburg/ Germany, the HANSEATIC now features the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ characteristic colors, an orange and blue band, as well as an orange funnel with the cruise lines logo. The comprehensive shipyard stay consisted of more than 780 items, among them, the renovation and modernization of two cabin decks, the buffet restaurant, and the sauna and pool area. The ship returns into service on June 10, 2011.

“With the charter contract for the HANSEATIC extended until 2018, we opted to add the visual unification of the fleet. Nevertheless, the legendary former logo of the HANSEATIC will be retained as a product logo on board“, says Sebastian Ahrens, Managing Director of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, explaining the decision.
More than 400 shipyard employees worked in three shifts in order to implement the comprehensive modernisation plan, which included the fundamental renovation of the cabins on Deck 5 and Deck 6. Plenty of wood, new fabrics, furniture and carpeting helped to create a warm atmosphere, and now present a contemporary design for the HANSEATIC.
The buffet restaurant Columbus Lounge also sparkles in a new color design and will now be called the “Bistro Lemaire.” Further items include the modernization of the pool and sauna area, with a new steam sauna, as well as a multi-mode shower. In total, more than 11,482 sq. ft. of carpet, 621 gallons of paint and 3,937 sq. ft. of fabric were deployed in the context of the shipyard renovations.
New service options now available on the HANSEATIC include:

worldwide mobile phone reception via OnAir,
Wi-Fi in all cabins, an extended selection of international newspapers in full editions,
as well as headsets for passengers during the excursions for better clarity for the experts to be heard.

Shining in new splendour, the HANSEATIC will set sail on 10 June for a four-day cruise from Hamburg via List/Sylt and Binz/Ruegen to Travemuende/ Germany.

Upcoming 2011 Expedition Cruises on the HANSEATIC:
NORTHWEST PASSAGE– A SHORTER ROUTE:
For the first time ever, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is offering guests the opportunity to discover the fascination of the Arctic and the Northwest Passage on a shorter, 19-day cruise with MS HANSEATIC. Sailing through a smaller portion of the Northwest Passage, guests will follow the traces of Amundsen and Franklin and explore the ice coast of Greenland as well as the untouched island world in the north of Canada. The short itinerary departs from Kangerlussuaq/Greenland on August 14, 2011 and ends in Reykjavik/Iceland on September

2nd.MAIDEN CALL – THE INDIAN OCEAN:
Guests will experience the heavenly and exotic island world between the Seychelles, Madagascar and Mauritius onboard the HANSEATIC in November/December 2011, making a new stop in Nosy Lakandava/Madagascar. This 14-day itinerary departs from Victoria/Mahe on November 22, 2011, and ends in Port Louis/Mauritius on December 5th

MS HANSEATIC, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ small and beautifully appointed expedition ship, and the world’s only 5-star expedition ship according to Berlitz Cruise Guide, was created to provide intensive exploration in the most elegant surroundings for a maximum of 184 passengers. The HANSEATIC is known worldwide for its unsurpassed abilities to navigate and explore difficult waters of the Arctic and Antarctic due to its highest ice class for passenger vessels (E4). The HANSEATIC cruises the world year round, landing in unusual and remote destinations. A shallow draft and high manoeuvrability allow the ship to enter waters larger cruise vessels cannot reach."

Sydney to get mega-liner in 2012

2011-06-10T14:47:00.005+10:00

Royal Caribbean has anounced that from 2012 the Voyager of the Seas will be based in Australia/Asia and sailing out of Sydney. This is a seriously large cruiser and boasts an ice skating rink, the Royal Promenade and a rock-climbing wall, just for starters.
The 138,000-ton, 3,114-guest Voyager of the Seas was the world's largest cruise ship when it entered service in November 1999. Aussies are getting behind cruising in a big way and the cruise companies are planning more voyages with us in mind. Many of us will be curious to see how Sydney Harbour handles more big cruise ships, especially those that don't fit under the Sydney Harbour Bridge!
I expect there will be a big marketing campaign to get Aussies to book on this cruise so watch out for deals... if you want me to let you know when they come my way just email me - martin@travelchoice.com.au

Aussies take to river cruising

2011-05-19T10:47:00.005+10:00

Aussies make up about 25% of those who love to river cruise - quite a large proportion when you consider our population against the US and Canada which together make up about 60%. Aussies love something new and river cruising has really taken off in the last couple of years. So when it came time to launch their new 'Suite Ship' Avalon Panorama on Saturday May 14, the company chose Australian television host Lisa Wilkinson. On the first cruise open to the public, due to depart Amsterdam 18 May, all but two of the bookings originated in Australasia. So you will need to get in quick if you are interested for this season... if you contact me I'll see what I can find, but it may be next year! (martin@travelchoice.com.au)
To cater for the growing market of river cruise devotees, the company revealed that it will build another ship of the same size (135 metres long) as well as a smaller vessel 110 metres long. They are describing Avalon Panorama as a 'suite ship' because it consists of two entire decks of all-suite accommodation. The company says the design offers 30% more cabin space than the average competitor, with wall-to-wall panoramic windows.

The worst room at the best price

2011-04-06T16:39:00.002+10:00

Have you ever booked a hotel room online at what seemed a fantastic rate only to arrive at your accommodation and find your room didn't have a window, was next to the railway line, or was simply the worst room in the hotel? A client reported this to us recently and told us that no longer would they use this well-known website to book hotels, but would ask us to make the arrangements for her. ''Óh and by the way do you think you could get a better rate?" she asked. (Sometimes we feel we are expected to be magicians!) But the answer in this case was probably yes as we checked the current rate on this website and the rate available to us through our suppliers. And it was a better room!
The other service we like to organise for our travellers is a private transfer. Of course you can often get a taxi, but you may have to wait around and this can be expensive, especially in some places where if you don't know the way and what the fare should be you can be taken for a ride. Also the taxi may not fit all your luggage. A private transfer is not free, and maybe cheaper than taxi and but it does give you piece of mind knowing that someone will meet you when you arrive - and take all your luggage.
Travel agents work hard for their clients, frequently saving them money, so it is depressing when someone says to me - "Oh I didn't book with you because I got it cheaper on the net" - chances are you didn't!!

A load of cruise specials

2011-03-28T17:12:00.005+11:00

Clogging my email intray are a heap of great cruise specials!! But my goodness you'd have to be quick to get some of them...

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises Earlybird savings! Bookings have to be in by Thursday for savings of up $900*pp.
Plus if you book on local South Pacific, Australian and New Zealand Celebrity Century sailings by 31 March 2011 you will receive up to US$150 Onboard Credit*
Also Azamara’s 2011 Europe Offer of US$500 OBC* or A$500 air credit* also ends 31 March 2011

Receive a $1,000* Onboard Spending Credit with any of these SilverSeas 2011 sailings!
Reserve your ocean-view suite and receive a $1,000 "Passport to Luxury" Onboard Spending Credit. Customise your Silversea cruise exactly as you wish.
Options include: spa treatments, speciality restaurants, Silver Shore excursions, Boutique purchases, Internet packages, laundry service, personal training and more.

More than 50 voyages to choose from starting at AU$4,258.
Featured Voyages Include:
15 Apr 2011 Hong Kong to Tokyo
27 Apr 2011 Tokyo to Shanghai
7 May 2011 Shanghai to Tokyo
19 May - Southampton to Barcelona
18 June - Lisbon to Barcelona
REQUEST a QUOTE - martin@travelchoice.com.au - don't forget to put the voyage you are interested in the subject line.

Holland America have a book by April 8, 2011 and save up to 50% on 2011 Europe Cruises such as the following ...
--Mediterranean 7 to 24 day cruises starting at $699*
--Northern Europe, 12 to 35 day cruises starting at $1,399*
--MS Prinsendam 14 to 28 day cruises starting at $2,249*

* Conditions apply of course - just ask me.... and there's more... but you can see that if you are free to cruise and it takes your fancy there's plenty to choose from if you are quick. You can call me at work 9968 1600 or email me...martin@travelchoice.com.au

Cruise ships and the Japan earthquake

2011-03-15T11:41:00.010+11:00

We left the Queen Mary on Thursday in Osaka, Japan. It was only a short cruise for us and we were sorry to say goodbye to our new friends - and the glorious Queen, but we were looking forward to a couple of days in Osaka and Kyoto before returning home to Sydney. We were in Kyoto, in a Japanese restaurant when the earthquake struck. The building shook and we knew that we had just experienced a tremor, but it was not enough to stop anyone. Very different to the horror and destruction that was taking place elsewhere on the Japanese coast as the massive earthquake and tsunami wreaked havoc. It was not until we reached the airport in Osaka that we began to be aware of the size of what had happened.
The only cruise ship we saw was the Asuka II in Guam (picture). The Queen Mary 2 docked in Osaka the day before the earthquake but was at sea when it struck and cancelled a port call to Nagasaki as a result.
Another ship that has altered her itinerary is Oceania which will visit Okinawa but not Hiroshima or Kobe this week. It will be necessary for cruise lines to re-assess their itineraries in the light of the Japanese disaster.
We are home now and like everyone else listening and watching as events unfold in Japan. While we were on board Queen Mary 2, one of the highlights was, ironically, the fascinating lectures by oceanographer Prof. Denny Pritchard on earthquakes, tsunamis and rogue waves!
One of the things we learnt during the lectures on the Queen Mary 2 is that one of the safest places to be during a tsunami is on a large ship at sea. The sea rises and takes the ship with it, often without those on board being aware that anything has changed , but a tsunami is not a rogue wave which is a completely different event. One of the other things we learnt from Denny Pritchard was that the wave that featured in the destruction movie Poseidon was a total fabrication and could not possibly have happened!

A day on the Queen Mary

2011-03-06T12:48:00.004+11:00

Cruising for Good Health... Well here we are on Day 6 of our cruise from Auckland to Osaka aboard QM2 and now feeling the benefits of a good holiday: we're easy-going, relaxed, and a few kilos heavier! No - I'm just kidding, but with food available at all hours you really need to be disciplined about diet and health... And of course we were (!) but then... another superb meal - Gloucestershire Old Spot pork - in The Carvery last night and our good resolutions were blown to smithereens! But what the heck- we're on holiday and in good, like-minded, food and drink-loving company!

Thank goodness for Deck 7, whose handsome teak promenade we stride each morning in a kind of penance for the night(s!) before. Three laps and you've covered well over a mile - QM2 is 1132 feet, just under 350 metres, long!

The big decisions - we have learned - must be taken early. Boarding in Auckland we found excursions in Guam (we arrive there Monday 7th at 0700) already fully booked. And some acquisitive blackheart has purloined the only Guam guidebook, to the librarian's great annoyance. But we are Aussies, resourceful travelers, so we are confident we will find our own way about - and wary of being gleefully fleeced by predatory taxi drivers and "guides" of the second rank. Such must be the lot of the last-minute traveller!

But at the end of our day ashore we'll scurry back on board to enjoy the real reason for our trip: the QM2 and all the facilities on offer. The Mark Hodginson Trip will serenade us as we try another cocktail in the Chart Room, and our conversation will be about nothing weightier than our next meal and whether to see the show or the movie or just stay put. Holidays are such hard work...

On the good ship... Queen Mary

2011-03-02T17:21:00.003+11:00

Here we are on day 3 of our cruise from Auckland to Osaka, Japan on the Queen Mary. Within 48 hours we had made the decision to take this last minute offer from the cruise company, packed our bags, deposited the cats in the kennels and told most of our friends and family that we were taking this much longed-for cruise. (Our last cruise was cancelled for family reasons which made going on this one so much more important).
We have a balcony cabin which is excellent - very comfortable with a sitting area both inside and out (we'll put up a photo gallery on the side when we get back).
We are taking advantage of these 7 days at sea to learn some new ballroom dances, sample the food in all of the restaurants, watch a few movies, tonight we will go to a performance of classical music, listen to some superb jazz bands, walk the promenade deck for at least a mile a day, visit the beauty parlour, and lean on the railings watching the flat blue sea go by - in fact fill our days with shipboard life.
Perhaps the least exciting of everything we have done so far is eat... the food is good - better in some restaurants on board than others - but not of the standard we are used to at the better restaurants at home (Sydney) and somehow reminiscent of English restaurants in the 1970s! But it is a small niggle.
I am posting this just before I join my partner for a drink - as we watch the sun sink over the yardarm (well we would if there was one) and then dinner - before a little more dancing, and then the performance.
Life on the ocean waves is indeed grand!

Onboard Queen Elizabeth in Sydney Harbour

2011-02-22T18:04:00.001+11:00

Today I joined a group of fellow travel agents to 'inspect' the Queen Elizabeth on her inaugural visit to Sydney Harbour. What started as a grey, rainy morning turned into a sunny lunch time as we were shown the new Queen in all her glory. A very impressive deep blue hull and unusual exhaust stack give this vessel a stately presence at Circular Quay.
Of course I took my camera...so you too could get a glimpse of this beautiful lady!

Features that evoke Cunard's past and glorious maritime history are found throughout - here is the marquetry portrait of Cunard's first Queen Mary.

The Verandah - pictured - offers alternative dining options to all guests. For everyday dining, Brittania class guests dine in the Brittania restaurant; Brittania Club is a higher category of cabin and dining, and Queens Grill and Princess Grill guests have their own dining area and exclusive lounge.

Chess... or golf, or croquet - maybe you prefer the gym or would rather enjoy a siesta before going to the theatre, or listening and dancing to the afternoon session by the ship's swing band.

Welcome to the Brittannia - a restaurant which prides itself on Cunard's White Star service and can serve 200 people with ease. Here I enjoyed an excellent steak and a glass of Cunard's "house" red - a very pleasant merlot from the Wente vineyard in California's Napa valley.

You could be in a world class hotel in London, or meeting a friend in an exclusive club - but no, you are on the Queen Elizabeth.

Today the Queen Elizabeth arrived in Sydney Harbour with Queen Mary 2 - the most famous cruise ships in the world creating news and traffic as Sydneysiders came out in droves to see them.

Sailing out of Sydney in 2011

2011-01-30T16:24:00.001+11:00

The port of Sydney is busy today with cruise liners coming and going (Volendam, Pacific Pearl, Rhapsody of the Seas, Seabourn Sojourn and Arcardia to name a few – and we have been really busy the last few weeks taking inquiries and making bookings on many of these vessels. Sydneysiders it seems love to cruise from their home port…

A new ship in our waters in the not too distant future is the Celebrity Century on her maiden voyage to Sydney arriving on 29^th November and then off to Auckland the next day. You can sail into Sydney if you prefer as the ship leaves Honolulu on November 11 and cruises through the South Pacific before she reaches us.

Celebrity Century is rated 4+ by Berlitz. It has a high passenger space ratio and crew to passenger ratio which of course means you never feel crowded and there is always someone there when you want service. It has a jogging deck at the top of the ship – something that appeals to me as I am very keen on my early morning walk – and, the other feature that appeals to me, is the piano lounge with its welcoming armchairs and club-like ambience. The two balance each other out nicely to my mind!

No more from me… take a look at this Youtube video which will give you a tour of the ship – and then if you’d like to know more – including if there are still cabins available – contact me… martin@travelchoice.com.au – or during work hours 02 9968 1600..

True North is true luxury!

2010-12-30T15:32:00.004+11:00

Yesterday it was my pleasure to go aboard True North, the expedition cruise ship from the Kimberley Coast, on her annual visit to Sydney... Not just passing through but hosting two short sailings to make the most of what Sydney does best: the Christmas - New Year festival. This is a rare opportunity for cruise-lovers to go aboard for a short stay and steal a march on landlubbers with the best view of the Harbour's activities. There are shore excursions but it would be fair to say this is a 5-star extension of the most popular occupation, dining, with the benefits of pleasant company and 24hour service!

Now usually True North is to be found cruising from Broome to Wyndham and back, a trip she does throughout the winter season. And this must be the best way to experience that region without either wasting time relocating or enduring the heat and dust of an inland stay.
True North's daily program can include picnics in the wilderness where everyone is flown in - and out - by the ship's on-board helicopter. This takes your holiday right out of the ordinary and almost into the realms of imagination. Other landings and snorkelling excursions are by tender - she has 3. We all - certainly I do - at times imagine ourselves living in the Australia of the past, in that romantic time of discovery of remote regions. But as you follow in those pioneer footsteps it is true comfort to know that luxury awaits you at the end of the day when you step back on board True North!
After Sydney she journeys to South Australia finishing her sail at Ceduna then going on to Fremantle for yearly maintenance. In February she sails to Dampier before resuming her regular Kimberley couses through to September, after which the sailings are to Rowley Shoals, then West Papua in October (one sailing, almost fully booked already!) and then Papua New Guinea, 3 sailings, before she'll be back in Sydney again for NYE 2011. And they can invite me back any time... (P.S. The dining was excellent!)

Making the most of a long haul flight

2010-12-08T16:18:00.003+11:00

I check the online travel newsletters frequently and I was heartened to read this advice by Nick Trend in the latest Sydney Morning Herald Traveller. (8 December 2010).

"Use a top quality agent…The complexity of possible routings, fares and airlines, especially on a round-the-world ticket, is not something that lends itself well to online systems. An idea or suggestion from an on-the-ball consultant who is compiling itineraries every day could save you both time and money."

I never cease to be amazed by those who ask my advice once they have booked their flights online. Like the couple recently where one of them was flying on a completely airline and laying over for 8 hours in the airport with an eye to saving money when they had a full itinerary on arrival. Or the guy who told my partner recently that he didn’t book with me, he booked online because it was cheaper… it turned out he had booked a red-eye flight and he would be spending some time in transit, overnight as it turned out, and he would need a hotel. (I could have saved him the trouble – and got him a fare at almost the same price without needing the accommodation).
There are some great deals on the internet, and if you doing a short haul flight it is important to book when you see the fare – but if it involves any arrangements at the other end, or is a complicated itinerary it is true that your travel agent can save you time and money! Thank you Nick.

The troops are revolting

2010-11-25T17:11:00.004+11:00

Full body x-rays and pat-downs are being used at some airports in the USA by the Transport Security Administration (TSA) after it was alleged that a passenger from Nigeria unsucessfully tried to detonate an explosive device in his underpants midair. We can understand the safety reasons for this, but such personally invasive behaviour is not without its backlashes.
In one story from the USA a Colorado man has been reported to have designed briefs and bras with strategically-placed patches of x-ray repelling fabric. The man, Jeff Buske, an electrical engineer is concerned about being blitzed by unwanted radiation and says his sales have gone through the roof.
On the other side of the fence those responsible for patting down and x-raying are also objecting. A report in one of the online travel magazines says that security staff employed by the TSA are rebelling at having to pat and prod smelly and overweight passengers. The report quotes an employee as saying...“It is not comfortable to come to work knowing full well that my hands will be feeling another man’s private parts, their butt, their inner thigh...Even worse is having to try and feel inside the flab rolls of obese passengers – and we seem to get a lot of obese passengers!”

Allure pipes herself under the bridge

2010-11-08T22:20:00.006+11:00

Allure of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's latest contribution to the world of cruising and in the amazing video below you can watch as her funnels retract so she can go under the Storebaelt bridge on the way to base in Fort Lauderdale in Florida US.
Allure of the Seas

is 360 m long,
has a tonnage of 225,000 tons
carries around 5,600 people.
features a two-deck dance hall,
a theatre with 1,380 seats,
an ice-skating rink
has it's own Central Park - a meandering garden and lush public space lined with foliage and fine restaurants
and the telescoping funnels!

If you want to know about her sailings - contact me - Martin@travelchoice.com.au

Why you can't believe website reviews

2010-10-27T17:10:00.006+11:00

When I choose a place for my clients to stay I know I can trust the people I work with. As a travel agent I have a network of suppliers and agents who have checked and rated the properties they offer. However some folk will turn to websites such as Tripadvisor and Stayz before they book a property. How they can be sure the reviews on these websites are genuine is something that I have often wondered so I am not surprised to read in today's Sydney Morning Herald Travel section that 'Fake Tripadvisor reviewers face legal action'? After all what is to stop a competitor from posting a bad review? Nothing up until now it seems, but I also discovered that a group of 300 hotels is now taking legal action against the fake reviews.
Even Google allows reviews and who is to know whether they are genuine or not. Obviously hotels can check if the reviewer did actually stay at their establishment and if there were any complaints at the time, but they need to have the right of immediate reply.
When I travel I frequently take time to check out establishment for myself. When I was in Buenos Aires in April, I spent a day visiting and checking out 8 different establishments, apart from the one where I was staying. Armed with camera and a checklist of things I wanted to know that don't appear in brochures (outside noise, size of bedrooms and bathrooms, ambience of restaurants) it gives me an inside knowledge I can pass onto my clients.
Travel agents would like to see travellers respecting our knowledge of the industry and taking advantage of this knowledge when they book their travel - not just that of any Joe Blow who posts on an internet forum.

Australia's Cruise Season 2010-2011

2010-10-18T21:59:00.009+11:00

The season is beginning... and this will be the biggest season ever for cruise ships coming and going from Australian ports. Sydney alone will see 132 cruise ships entering and leaving Sydney harbour in the months from October to the end of May.
From the many visits by the ships of Carnival Australia, which is Australia's largest cruise ship operator, to the once-only visit by the luxury German-owned Europa, Sydney Harbour is going to be welcoming cruise ships on an almost daily basis through the Spring, Summer and early Autumn of 2010 and 2011.
Below is a run-down of most of the visits. Many of these vessels will also visit other major ports around Australia, and some will also visit the smaller ports of Broome and Exmouth in Western Australia and Cairns and Burnie on the east coast.

In the six months from early October...
15 ships from Carnival cruises will visit the Australia-Pacific region
Cunard's Queens will visit in February. After visiting Fremantle and Adelaide Queen Elizabeth will rendezvous with Queen Mary 2 on February 22 to 23, 2011. Queen Mary 2 will then visit Melbourne on February 25 and Fremantle on Mar 1.
The new Seabourn Sojourn also visits Oz in February. She arrives in Hobart on February 3 and cruises up to Sydney, then on to Adelaide and Fremantle arriving on February 14.
Royal Caribbean's Rhapsody of the Seas will arrive on 16th October and will cruise in and out of Sydney until April.
On her world voyage, Oriana will visit Sydney on 4th November.
Holland-America's Volendam arrives on November 5 and again on December 17 and January 2, cruising to New Zealand and the islands of the Pacific. Her sister ship, Amsterdam docks in Sydney on 13th November after visiting Darwin on November 4, then cruising through the Barrier Reef with visits to Cairns and Brisbane. This is part of her Grand Asia and Australia Voyage.
Regent is sending the Seven Seas Navigator to the Australia-Asia region this year. Her first visit to Australia is on 15th November.
Luxury liner Silver Shadow will arrive on 21st December, departing for New Zealand and returning on 19th Jan and 18th February.
German cruise ship Astor will arrive on 19th January
P&O's newest gem, Pacific Pearl, launching in Auckland on December 21 in will arrive in Sydney for her maiden visit on February 3.
Arcadia - sister ship of the Oriana - arrives on 12th February on her world cruise.
Five-star cruise ship Europa will make her only visit to Sydney this season on 15th February.
Asuka II, formerly the Crystal Harmony, will arrive on 15th February.
Amadea will leave Broome on February 11 and arrive in Sydney on February 25 after visiting Exmouth, Perth, Bunbury, Adelaide, Melbourne and Burnie.
Crystal Serenity arrives in Sydney on 27th February at the end of a 16-night cruise from New Zealand via Tasmania and Melbourne.
Silversea's newest vessel Silver Spirit will arrive in Sydney on 1st March as part of her inaugural World Cruise.
Saga Ruby arrives in Sydney on 3rd March, departing the same day to continue on her world cruise back to Southampton where she arrives on 24th April.
Albatros, sister ship to the Phoenix Reisen-owned Amadea, will arrive in Sydney on 4th April.
Hapag-Lloyd's Columbus, sister ship to the luxury Europa, arrives on 5th March departing next day for Bali.
To find out more about any of these ships, their itineraries and cabin availability call or call in at Mosman Cruise Centre!

Up to date on travel

2010-10-12T16:02:00.003+11:00

"Secret" Dollar Discounts
Today we saw the benefits of our rising Aussie – a cruise fare we found for a client that could be paid in Aussie dollars or if the client had chosen to pay in US dollars… with the US dollar rate converting to a lower total price than the Aussie fare! If this all sounds like double-dutch to you, come in and see what we can do for you on cruise pricing.

Schmoozing the Cruisers
World Cruising Day is happening this week – it’s a major promotion by the cruise industry to encourage forward bookings. Seasoned cruise clients know that the best cruises sell fast. In fact the very best sell “from the top down” – the top-category cabins selling out early.
There is a stack of bargain offers – Regent, Silversea, Crystal, Cunard, Seabourn and The World – plus the top-rated small ships such as Orion, Prince Albert II, True North, Clipper Odyssey . Check the travel sections, check the internet, then check with us! We will make every effort to ensure you’ll be glad you did.

Fasten Your Saddles?
The worst recent travel news was the release of new aircraft seats designed like a saddle. The passenger sit-stands, and the airline can pack more rows into the plane. We would hate to know that any of our clients was travelling this way.
If it doesn’t sound like fun to you consider…
Premium Economy on Qantas: book before the 26^th October and you may fly to major capitals in greater comfort from $2999 including taxes, no booking fee – call us for details. (Fares and departure dates vary.)
Contact me - martin@travelchoice.com.au for more info on any of this!

No busman's holiday for this travel agent

2010-09-21T11:48:00.005+10:00

Ever wonder how travel agents keep up to date? It's not easy I can assure you. Apart from the absolute plethora of brochures that land on our doorstep, mostly unannounced, there are what in the trade is called 'product nights' or 'product launches'. I don't actually think of travel as 'product' but that is the trade jargon. This is the time of year when these launches and nights are frequent. As with all such events - and having been in other industries before travel I have experienced them elsewhere - some are actually informative, some make you feel like you are back in school, some feed you well, others offer you a nibble if you are quick! A few are really interesting and very rarely one stands out for its originality and class.
Last night it was Tauck, a company that offers tours and cruises to all corners of the world; last week it was Qantas (and a chance to check out the latest exhibition at Sydney's MCA); later on this week it will be Abercrombie and Kent, another company that offers luxury travel - there are more but I'm only thinking a week ahead at the moment.
Recently I have been thinking I would love to get away for a week or two - a busman's holiday perhaps? - but even that is too difficult - too many launches, too many brochures! All important so I know what I am talking about when you come into the agency - but I'd love a holiday!

6 things cruising passengers need to know

2010-09-05T16:49:00.008+10:00

The Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships is The Reference for serious cruisers and every year a new edition is published - it is now in its 26th year. Cruise travel agents use it because it is an independent guide. Here is some advice from author and cruising doyen, Douglas Ward.

Tipping twice! This happens when passengers are already charged a tip in their booking but when signing a receipt onboard they are asked for a gratuity. Ward suggests you check your bills carefully and be aware that this can happen.
Currency conversion is another element that is hard to control. Your credit card may not be debited on the day a transaction is made but at a later date when the rate is different.
Airport transfers in Europe are another area where people can be over-charged.
Bottled water is frequently overpriced. This can happen anywhere of course - on some cruise ships you may even find a tip added to the cost!
Bingo cards are hugely overpriced on some ships.
Paying for a bridge tour - on some ships this is a high price raffle.

To get the best value out of a cruise Ward recommends cruisers book during the off-season, book an inside cabin - and sail on the older pre-1980 ships. But here we beg to differ. Yes, you will cruise cheaply if you go for the older ships but frankly we don't believe you will cruise as well. Inhabiting inside cabins on unstabilized ships in rough weather - and perhaps when you are most likely to be feeling queasy! - is no way to have a great holiday. We always suggest ocean-view or balcony cabins and sometimes we can get these for clients at very little price difference.

Why travel insurance

2010-08-13T18:50:00.006+10:00

Sometimes we find that folk don't want to pay Travel Insurance, believing that accidents wont happen to them. Here is a salutory tale of four girls who were glad they did!

Four of the girls who were injured in a motor boat accident near Koh Samui in Thailand in July were insured with the insurance company we recommend. You may remember the news story about seven Australians being hurt in the crash between two boats on their way to a night festival.
This is what we have heard from the insurance company...

"The four girls [those who were insured] were taken to two local hospitals in Koh Samui for treatment."
The insurance company "concerned about the basic level of medical expertise available in the Koh Samui hospitals" had a Doctor from Bangkok en route to Koh Samui within the hour.
"Within approximately two hours [the company] had two air ambulance jets from Bangkok on the way to pick up the girls with two additional doctors and four nurses.
Until our [the insurance company's] medical teams arrived in Koh Samui, the girls had only received limited treatment and were relieved to see our [the company's] team.

The insurance company "...informed the girls' families as soon as we heard of the situation. They were provided with continuous updates on their condition". Flights and accommodation were arranged for the parents and a support officer was on hand.
After six days three of the girls were flown home by the insurance company, the fourth required further surgery and was supported in hospital.

Each of the girls had paid just $124 for their insurance cover. By the time the three girls were flown home the cost had come to $145,331 and there was still more to pay.

At Mosman Cruise Centre we are always are happy to quote on travel insurance for you - even if we haven't booked your trip - most travel agents are. See contact details.

From Sydney to Dover

2010-08-01T15:21:00.005+10:00

Between 1900 when the first ship built to take passengers cruising was launched and 1960 when jet travel began to take over over, long ocean voyages were the way most people got from outposts such as Australia to Europe. Many of my friends did the voyage from Sydney to the UK in the 1960s and 70s and it was the beginning of the overseas adventure.
Now it is possible to travel once again between Sydney and the UK (Dover to be precise), though in a very different way to when it was the accepted form of travel. And more and more clients are inquiring about doing this trip.
I have clients sailing this year on the Oriana. A ship with the same name made her first voyage from Southampton to Sydney in December 1960 carrying 2,000 passengers in two classes – first and tourist.
Today the Oriana is rated as a 4-star ship by the Berlitz guide and is described as offering ‘timeless elegance’ - the décor is not overstated. The library for example – is a real one with plenty of books, a librarian and comfortable chairs and tables.
As part of a world cruise Oriana will depart from Sydney on November 4. She will visit many more ports in Asia than earlier cruise ships did, sailing through the Suez canal and the Mediterranean to arrive in Southampton on 17 December in time for Christmas.
Passengers are also booking a similar cruise of the Dawn Princess next year (2011). The itinerary is different as Dawn Princess will stop in different ports, but she will sail much the same route going through the Suez Canal. She departs Sydney on 25 May and arrives in Dover on the 17th July – in time for the English summer.
Dawn Princess is also a 4 star rated ship and Berlitz describes it as having an ‘almost intimate feel’ – that despite it having berths for 2,250 passengers.
If you fancy a leisurely journey to the Old Dart there couldn’t be a better way to travel, arriving fresh and ready to enjoy your destination, as so many have done in years gone by.

cruising with kids

2010-07-26T21:09:00.002+10:00

Recently we've been getting more inquiries from families who want to take their kids on a cruise. Any parent (or grandparent) who loves to go to a resort with their family and have the best of both worlds where they can be with the family but also have their own time knowing the kids are well cared for and having fun, will find cruising offers them a great holiday. More and more cruising companies are offering cruises for families, kids clubs and features to appeal to all the family - and then of course there's Disney, which as you would expect is all about ...Disney! We've just put a fact sheet on cruising with kids on the TravelChoice website for those who want to know more.

River cruising, visa problem, Cunard 2012, be wary booking online

2010-07-10T16:02:00.009+10:00

This week has been really busy despite the cold, wet weather and school holidays. (Those who don't live in Sydney may not know that school holidays change the traffic (less), the shoppers in Mosman (fewer - they go away or care for their grandchildren!) and the vibe (not as frantic)). Among our tasks this week...

We booked a 5-star river cruise for a couple who want to travel from Budapest to Amsterdam in late August. Our customers chose a luxury vessel which was built in the 1990s to combine the charm and leisurely luxury of the 1930s with the best in modern service and cuisine. Many cruises are not advertised and this couple just fancied such a holiday - so it was great that we were able to find what they wanted - and book it.
A young Indonesian friend wanted to travel to Argentina, but on an Indonesian passport. Not as easy as travelling on an Australian passport so we had to contact one of our visa processing specialists and expidite the necessary interview as he wanted to leave soon. Visas can be a problem and it is only when you are in a situation such as this that you appreciate the specialist knowledge about processing and likely turnaround.
Another couple were keen to cruise the Mediterranean and wanted to know what was available at a certain time. The Mediterranean is a busy and popular cruising arena and it can be daunting when the brief is so wide, but, after checking with our wholesalers we found them a cruise they never would have discovered on the internet.
Cunard announced their 2012 program - which as always will be hugely popular with regular and new cruisers who want to experience travelling on one of the great Queens.
In Britain, the consumer authorities have issued a warning to those booking travel on the internet that they are at risk of being ripped off by online bargains that are a figment of the website's imagination! When booking and paying online some folk get so excited they hand over their hard-earned cash before actually checking that the website is an authentic travel agent. Occasionally we have a customer who had been misled by what they have found on the internet - we will always help where we can, but of course we would prefer customers to book their travel with us - we can get just about all the deals you see on the internet and much, much more - and we are licenced travel agents! here's a photo of us (Biba and Martin) on board a cruise ship visit recently.

Cold days and summer cruises beckon

2010-06-29T13:51:00.003+10:00

Sydney is having a cold spell! Max 15deg, min 4deg - and it was pretty close to that when we went for our walk this morning near the Harbour. But the sun is shining. And it is a great time to be planning your next cruise - or your first cruise. There are some fabulous deals around at this time of year - and there are still some great Christmas cruises on offer. Globus for example has just released its 2010/11 European Christmas packages offering combination river cruise and land itineraries. European river cruises operate at this time of year and you can take a Viking cruise and visit Vienna or a Uniworld cruise and travel from Cologne to Nuremburg - a different way to spend Christmas. Antarctica is the dream destination for many too - and now is the time to book! Our weekly newsletter includes heaps of current specials... sign up if you haven't already, it's free.
If you see something advertised - or something on the net - do contact me and ask if I can do better - or if it is booked out if I can find out more. Frequently cruises, packages, even hotels, that appear to be booked out on the internet are in fact still available to the industry. You'll find me at martin@travelchoice.com.au

Hotel skullduggery uncovered on the net

2010-06-04T10:44:00.006+10:00

Sometimes at dinner parties or social occasions I will talk to people who want to tell me what a good travel deal they have got on the internet. I listen politely and occasionally I point out that they may not be getting what they think they have booked – but generally this is not wise as many folk believe that if it is on the net it must be true.

For those who like to book on the internet this press release crossed my desk last week….
“May 21, 2010. Accommodation provider, Mantra Group has stepped up its efforts to warn consumers of the risks associated with confirming online reservations through unlicensed operators.
According to Mantra Group General Manager of Distribution Luke Jamieson, the company has received numerous complaints from clients who thought they had confirmed Mantra-branded accommodation, only to discover upon their arrival that the property had no record of any reservation or payment. Other consumers simply ended up with substandard rooms at non-Mantra properties.
“In some instances guests received their keys to privately-owned apartments in the resort car parks or gardens,” said Jamieson.
Earlier in the year Mantra Group began legal proceedings against a number of unlicensed operators to protect its marketing brand.
In March, Justice Reeves of the Federal Court of Australia ruled against Stephen Andrew Grand and Tailly Pty Ltd (Tailly) after each set up misleading websites and Google advertisements with Mantra’s trademarks to source bookings for their own accommodation businesses.
A court injunction was issued and Grand and Tailly Pty Ltd have been ordered to pay Mantra any earnings made from bookings sourced from the infringing websites.
Last month Tailly went into voluntary liquidation, owing 260 consumers more than $300,000.
“Consumers using faceless website operators have no way of knowing the financial circumstances or capabilities of the company and are putting their hard-earned money and holiday experiences at risk by using them,” Jamison further warned.
It is advised that consumers book their accommodations direct with Mantra online’’ —and I would add —or with a licensed travel agent!
More on hotel skullduggery uncovered... a website called agoda which has had some pretty bad reviews such as
"Their web site malfunctions and changes dates, but when you try to change their error they refuse and you lose your entire booking! Their customer service is non-existent most of the time when you try to get someone to correct their error...." Customer from Salt Lake City, USA
"Their refund and cancellations policy is a money grabbing scam. I have never heard of a 100% loss of refund if cancelled less than 10 days before check-in date but, Agoda does just that..." "I booked a 4-star hotel in AGODA, but the hotel was merely 3 stars. Terrible experience." So I rest my case

To Russia with Care

2010-05-28T15:47:00.003+10:00

Cruising on the waterways of Russia is a choice of more and more travellers. The major river, the Volga, is the longest river in Europe, rising in the Valdai Hills, north-west of Moscow, it winds across Russia, collecting flow from many tributaries until it arrives at the Caspian Sea – home of the world’s best caviar!
A huge network of canals were built by the Tsars to complement the Volga as a major transport network, and connections with the Don River and the Black Sea are made through the Volga-Don Canal. As well the lakes of the north (Lake Ladoga, Lake Onega), Saint Petersburg and the Baltic Sea are joined through the Volga-Baltic Waterway; and it is possible to reach Moscow by the Moscow Canal connecting the Volga and the Moskva rivers. These waterways were built for commercial shipping and are perfect for river boat cruising.

Russian history, which most of us think of as the opulence of the Tsars with their magnificent churches and cathedrals, is interwoven with the waterways and rivers – so river cruising is the perfect introduction to this rich history and culture.

However visiting Russia needs careful planning and travellers to this part of the world need to be sure they have all the right documentation including visas. Smarttraveler, the website of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises:
“Routine police checks in public and tourist spots are common. You should carry with you your passport, originals of the registered visa and migration card. Photocopies are not acceptable. Failure to provide travel documentation can result in detention and/or substantial fines….
“Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly” and you need to ensure that they are up to date….
“All foreign citizens entering Russia are required to fill in a migration card….
“You must register with the Federal Migration Services within three working days of arrival in Russia. Most hotels undertake visa registration on behalf of guests. If you are not staying at a hotel, the process of registration can be complex….
“Extensive areas of Russia, especially in Siberia and the Russian Far East, are designated closed areas. Foreigners require government permission to enter.”
So it is wise to be wary when booking your holiday in Russia – when you book a river cruise or a package all this is taken care of by your agent and you can relax and enjoy your holiday in this exotic and exciting country.

Cruising around South America

2010-05-21T22:53:00.003+10:00

It’s been a while since I posted… I’ve been travelling round South America after our cruise in Patagonia and it was a fantastic trip - thoroughly enjoyed Buenos Aires (my third visit) and Machu Picchu (second visit – and even better than the first). You can read all about it on my colleague’s tango blog.

There is so much to explore in South America that we plan to go again soon. We joined a couple of fellow tango dancers in Buenos Aires who had just got off a cruise from Santiago to Buenos Aires. Or you can go the other way if you like …. There are a number of ships that do this trip each year, so there is plenty to choose from.

Holland America’s Veendam 21 Night South America Fly/Cruise/Tour Package starts at $6,399 from Sydney.
Departs 10 November 2010
Price includes flights, accommodation, 2-day tour of Iguassu Falls and 12 night cruise. This cruise departs from Buenos Aires – so tango lovers may prefer us to organize a package for them in Buenos Aires so they can enjoy tango before taking their cruise.
This itinerary takes in Montevideo, the Falkland Islands,two days of scenic cruising in the awesome Romanche and Alemania glaciers, Punta Arenas and the Chilean Fjords. You will call at Puerto Montt, the gateway to Chile’s beautiful Lake District before arriving at Valparaiso (the port for Santiago) , a World Heritage city with unique architecture and famous cable cars.
Fjords, Incas & Andes 21 night package
Includes a post cruise extension to Peru featuring Machu Picchu. This trip begins with a flight from Sydney leaving November 13 and flying to Buenos Aires for 2 days before departing for Iguassu Falls. You then fly back to Buenos Aires to board the Veendam for the cruise round Cape Horn to Santiago.
Festive Tango & Ice 23-night package
includes Christmas and New Year onboard.

Or you might prefer
Silversea’s Silver Whisper Santiago to Buenos Aires 16 day cruise.(The photo is Silver Whisper in Sydney Harbour

Santiago (Valparaiso) Chile to Buenos Aires – 16 days. Departing
3 December 2010 – coming the other way on 19 December.
4 January 2011 – leaving Buenos Aires on 20 January
20 January 2011 sailing back to Buenos Aires – then on 5 February she sails up to Fort Lauderdale in Florida.

Silver Whisper is a 5-star ship (according to the Berlitz Guide) and is part of the Silversea fleet. Fares are all-inclusive (and I love selling these to clients because they know there are no hidden extras) and passengers are typically discerning, well-travelled people who enjoy excellent food and European-style service.

Silver Whisper’s itinerary boarding in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Day 1 Montevideo, Uruguay
Day 2 Punta del Este, Uruguay
Day 3 Day At Sea
Day 4 Puerto Madryn, Argentina
Day 5 Day At Sea
Day 6 Stanley, Falkland Islands (called Las Malvinas by Argentina)
Day 7 Chilean Fjords/Magellan Strait
Day 8 Punta Arenas, Chile
Day 9 Punta Arenas, Chile
Day 10 Cruising The Chilean Fjords
Day 11 Cruising The Chilean Fjords
Day 12 Laguna San Rafael, Chile
Day 13 Puerto Chacabuco, Chile
Day 14 Puerto Montt, Chile
Day 15 Day At Sea
Day 16 Santiago (Valparaíso)

If cruising to or around South America appeals to you – we can find the package to suit. Send us an email – martin@travelchoice.com.au and let us know what you would like to do.

Cruising in Patagonia

2010-04-03T00:00:00.012+11:00

We are staying at the Alto Calafate in El Calafate, Patagonia in Southern Argentina. A beautiful wilderness that has only seriously been on the tourist track for about the last 10 years, the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is the focus of tourism. Arriving 3 days ago we spent the first night in this comfortable, friendly hotel before embarking on an overnight cruise of the Lago Argentino. (Lake Argentina). The boat is small, taking only 14 passengers, and is the only boat that cruises overnight. A huge expanse of water, there is plenty to see - the very first being a large bright blue iceberg that was calmly floating near the wharf. There are over 200 glaciers in the park, the most famous being Perito Moreno because of the spectacular calving that has taken place in the last 20 years - and of its accessibility by road.
Our first day we visited the Spegazzini Glacier, a spectacular glacier that has a number of 'tributaries' - if that is what you call them - then berthed in a quiet bay so that we could walk up into the mountains and see the glacier from another vantage point. On the way the curious Andean condor circled overhead, obviously investigating the two legged creatures that were walking where usually only wild cows and horses trod, and the noisy Magellan woodpecker and his family entertained flitting from tree to tree and hammering away. The quiet was sublime and the scenery ruggedly beautiful.
In the evening we enjoyed an excellent meal with local wines on board and we were woken next morning by the clank of the anchors as we set off to the Perito Moreno glacier. The boat bounced across the icy waters in the breeze and through the Devil's Mouth towards the glacier. The weather was cold enough for woolly hats and parkas and with the wind made it even colder. The captain motored close to the glacier and we all waited in anticipation for a calving. There were small falls, but no big crashes like the one in 2004 - see the Youtube video below. Nonetheless we enjoyed the view of the glacier as well as an excellent lunch accompanied once again by the local wines as we waited.
Our boat returned to dock in the middle of the afternoon and we were very satisfied with our experience... today we are planning to discover more about the glaciers from the land.

Review: V Australia: Sydney to Los Angeles

2010-03-20T06:15:00.001+11:00

My partner is on a quick trip to Los Angeles and as we often have to take a flight to meet a ship here is a review of her experiences on this flight. She'll update it if she feels she has something to add after the return flight.

Flight: Sydney - LA - VA1 - 777D Boeing - Virgin Australia
Class: Economy
Seat configuration: 3-3-3
Seat pitch and depth: 18cm leg room, 15cm recline. You can choose to pay extra for extra legroom - how much depends on your destination.
Features: USB slot, video on demand - dozens of films, TV shows and games to choose from.
Service: Generally helpful, friendly and relaxed.
Food & Beverages: 3 choices including vegetarian for dinner, 2 for breakfast. Heaps of drink choices
Overall it was a comfortable, easy flight and the seats are definitely more comfortable than my last international flight with Qantas. I will be doing an international flight with Qantas in about 2 weeks, so will have something to compare this with.

Cruise ships... they just keep docking

2010-03-08T09:45:00.010+11:00

This is the time of year when ships move in and out of Australian ports almost daily and as the industry grows more and more will come. Today the Queen Mary 2 leaves Sydney bound for Adelaide. In the last 10 days I have been on board the Arcadia and the Balmoral and my colleague has just come back from a short cruise on the Dawn Princess. More to come...
The Arcadia is a P&O vessel and was designed for the British market "trendy British" is how Berlitz describes her layout. The guide also describes it as "restrained and welcoming" which I agree with. This is one of a number of ships displaying works of art (around 3,000 in this case) - and all by contemporary British artists. It has an observation lounge at the top of the ship, 14 bars - including an English pub of course and a spa with a hydrotherapy pool (see pic). There are 5 types of accommodation - though descriptions can be confusing to the novice. The picture is of the Barcelona Suite. A strictly child-free ship, the four- star Arcadia is on her way back to Southampton via Hong Kong, Bangkok and Singapore.
The Balmoral is another British ship and she belongs to the Fred Olsen line. I felt like I was visiting a friendly British club. With a much smaller capacity than the Arcadia which can take 2,500 passengers, the Balmoral which can carry 1350 has a more intimate feel. Also on a World Voyage, the Balmoral is, at time of writing, in the Great Australian Bight.
This week (8th March) Sydney will see the Pacific Sun at Wharf 8, the Pacific Princess (13th March) at the Overseas Passenger Terminal and next day the Volendam with Crystal Symphony arriving on the 18th. Busy time... but a great chance to see these fabulous ships in our busy harbour.
Email me - martin@travelchoice.com.au if you would like any more information on any of these ships and their destinations.

Cruising with interest in the Mediterranean

2010-02-19T15:09:00.005+11:00

Many of my clients want their cruising holiday to be rewarding educationally - as well as relaxing... so I was very pleased to find out about the Aegean Odyssey and it's philosophy of ''interest and excitement ashore, comfort and relaxation on board". Aegean Odyssey, formerly the 2-star Aegean I has been totally rebuilt and refurbished to offer 380 cabins including 81 large cabins, 42 with balconies and 16 single cabins for solo travellers. In it's previous life it had 570 cabins.
Her greatest distinction is the lecture program. Titled 'Voyages to Antiquity' Aegean Odyssey's cruises are ''not only for the amateur or professional historian but also for people who simply want to understand the history, art, myths and architecture of the ancient world". The ship has been adapted so that she is able to cruise the Mediterranean coast and moor in some of the smaller harbours inaccessible to the larger ships.
There are 9 Mediterranean voyages planned for 2010 starting in May, each of around 2 weeks, and some offering pre and post cruise excursions. The ship will dock in port at night wherever possible enabling passengers to sample the local cuisine and wine.
Lecturers and speakers are all highly qualified and range from experts in Greek and classical literature, professors of archaeology and the classics and experts in marine art and naval history to masters of wine and food writers.
I was delighted to be able to offer this cruise to a client this week - and expect that many more of my clients will want to take advantage of this new cruising experience.

Finding a cruise - when you know where to look

2010-01-31T17:13:00.006+11:00

Problem-solving makes my job interesting! Just last week a couple - regular clients of ours, but not cruisers - came in to ask whether they could return from a planned visit to Japan by sea rather than by air. I gave a qualified yes, but really was not certain it could be done: the days are gone when booking a sea-passage was a year-round possibility. Today we move freight by sea, and people by air. Cruise ship movements are ruled by the seasons and there are many months on the calendar with no international arrivals. But it can be done, and so I was pleasantly surprised to be able to offer a passage by freighter, from Japan to Brisbane, to suit their preferred dates of travel.

Freighter travel is paid for at a daily rate, plus certain fixed costs - and it usually is more expensive than the equivalent journey made by air. There may not be ships travelling the desired route. The ships may not leave or arrive exactly when scheduled - there are considerations and allowances to be made that do not affect cruise/passenger ships. The facilities on board are spartan; the need for self-sufficiency somewhat greater. But for all that there is an experience to be had that appeals to many - and so we are happy to handle enquiries and bookings, and to provide the opportunity if we can.
And it is always a pleasure to find the answer to a problem.

How cruising has changed - but travel agents still feature

2010-01-20T16:42:00.002+11:00

"Most group travel, most cruises, many complicated itineraries and even the majority of lodging reservations still are booked through travel agencies" according to Douglas Quinby of PhoCusWright, a travel industry research company who is quoted in a recent SMH Traveller story on The Decade in Travel. However cruising has changed hugely in the last ten years. I often write about a new ship that has just been, or is about to be, launched.
Ten years ago cruising was not a choice many travellers considered. In the 1970s the industry began to recover from the decline caused by the increased availability of air travel when Cunard introduced one-class travel across the Atlantic and provided entertainment that made the 4-day trip an experience in itself. In the 1980s bigger ships with more facilities were built but as cruising moved into the 1990s ships were built to cater to different markets. Today we have cruise ships that are built to cater for families or for discerning couples, we have ships that are built for expeditions and ships, like Oasis of the Seas, that are floating cities with parks and wave pools and much more. If we in the industry are flat out keeping up to date with what the cruise companies are offering, it is no wonder the traveller who wants to cruise chooses to go with a cruise travel agent.

Silver Whisper, snow and more to come

2010-01-17T21:10:00.005+11:00

Today the Silver Whisper arrived at Circular Quay, and tomorrow, Monday, she will depart carrying with her many of my fellow countrymen who have escaped Britain to cruise in luxury through the tropics to Singapore. Her next port of call is Brisbane and from there she will head up to Thursday Island, Indonesia and Singapore where many of the passengers will disembark and fly back to the icy weather that Britain is currently experiencing, along with the rest of Europe. Just for interest I've dropped in the pic at left which was taken by my brother on Beachy Head in Eastbourne, in the south of England, just days ago!
Silver Whisper is part of the Silversea fleet. A luxury 5 star ship she has a crew to passenger ratio of 1 to 3, just 194 cabins and an Italian heritage which means her cuisine is outstanding. All-inclusive fares and the little extras make this ship - and her sister ships popular with the discerning over-50 traveller.
The company is about to launch a sister ship to Silver Whisper. The 540 guest Silver Spirit will be launched on Thursday, January 21 in Fort Lauderdale. It is likely that Silver Spirit will visit Australia in 2011...
Ask me for a brochure if you are interested in finding out more about these beautiful ships!

10 reasons to take a river cruise

2010-01-08T16:21:00.005+11:00

Yesterday we had a couple in the agency who were keen to do one of the cruises from Moscow (pictured) to St Petersburg along the Volga River. These cruises are becoming increasingly popular so they were lucky that we found them a cruise, though it wasn't on the date they first wanted. Sometimes it can take half a day to find such a trip and it never ceases to amaze me that so many people want to do this searching themselves on the internet instead of asking a travel agent to do the hard yards for them. The cruise our clients wanted to do is one of the most popular and as these boats take under 200 passengers and only cruise in the warmer weather we were very pleased to find what they wanted.
If you have never considered a river cruise, here are 10 things you might like to know:
1. A river boat is a floating hotel. It is a relaxing and rewarding way to travel through parts of Europe, only unpacking once.
2. Today's river boats are packed with amenities including libraries, spas, access to the internet, bicycles and some even have pools.
3. The staterooms are typically extremely comfortable and have similar beds to those you find in hotels, television and entertainment centres and other plush amenities.
4. Food is gourmet and dressing is casual. Meals are included and on some cruises so is wine.
5. On-board entertainment frequently includes local musicians and talks by experts in the areas you are travelling through.
6. When your boat docks you will be right in the heart of the action where you can explore and shop and enjoy the services of local guides.
7. These boats are smaller than ocean cruises and there are plenty of opportunities to get to know others onboard.
8. You will be able to explore a number of different cities, all without having to de-camp as you would in a coach or overland tour.
9. Canals and waterways criss-cross Europe and Asia and there are many parts of the world that can be explored in this way.
10. It's the perfect way for those who suffer from sea sickness to enjoy all the benefits of a cruise.

On board the World

2009-12-23T22:19:00.006+11:00

Stepping aboard The World (see slideshow) today was a rare experience for Biba and I... rare because this is a ship that has so many places to go, and to stay for a while, that she passes through just once every 3 years. And doubly rare because stepping aboard was more like entering the grand home of a friend than boarding a cruise ship.
Accommodation on The World is not in cabins, nor in staterooms but in apartments - a studio at least; a 1, 2 or 3-bedroom home with kitchen if you choose. Every apartment has a private, full-width balcony, marble bathroom with tub, gorgeous accessories like Frette linen; all fares are fully-inclusive, and the cost compares favourably with a luxury holiday at the best land locations. And space... with a maximum of 200 guests (served by 265 crew) and weighing in at 43,500 tons there is simply no comparison with mainstream cruise ships.

The lobby( Pictured in slide show) - decked today in Christmas finery, including tree - is home to one of 5 grand pianos, the preferred form of entertainment aboard. Guests will be treated to fine music and enrichment lectures, rather than Broadway-style shows. Golf and Bridge are well catered for, the gym is popular and professional coaching is available to take your game, or personal training, further. You can dine and drink in any of 4 restaurants - on local produce whenever that is of exceptional quality - and you may shop in a well-stocked deli for ingredients and entertain "at home". A chef is available and the cleaning up will be done by service staff. Throughout the ship there is a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the only formality being a requirement in two of the four restaurants for gentlemen to wear a jacket at the evening meal.
The impression throughout our visit was that denizens of The World set very high standards and prefer the quiet enjoyment of the environment they have created.

Travel by Design is a concept that makes use of The World's long stays in port. Guests can check in anywhere in the world, enjoy the cruising life for a minimum of 6 nights aboard - during which the ship becomes their floating luxury hotel wherever she is moored. This brings cruising back to being real travel, offering a fuller experience than can be gained in a day visit.
And because she is designed as a home-away-from-home for her owners, returning to The World each night can be a little like coming home.
This World is somewhere special.
On board: choice of 6 dining venues, or dine in-suite; 2 pools; full size tennis court; golf simulator and open air driving range; Banyan Tree spa
How much? Mosman Cruise Centre Stay & Cruise packages start from US$655 per person per day (13th Feb 2010, 11 nights, Bali to Singapore)."

What's The World (fmly the World of ResidenSea) like - watch this blog

2009-12-22T10:55:00.006+11:00

Tomorrow I'm doing a tour of the 'World of Residensea' which is in Sydney's Overseas Passenger Terminal over Christmas - so I'll be back before then to post some photos. This will be my first time on board this ship and I am really looking forward to it.
Though we have a website and a blog! one of the things I enjoy most about being a cruise consultant is meeting clients - and talking about ships. I personally enjoy discussing my holiday plans with others in the industry, asking questions and getting answers directly rather than trawling around a website trying to find the answers I want. I am always pleased when I am able to find a cruise to suit a client when it appears from searches they have done that there is nothing to fit their needs. We are a rare breed amongst travel agents - we research everywhere to find the right fit, not only with those known in travel jargon as 'preferreds'!
So watch this space for my trip around 'The World'!!

(Which is one ship that will not fit under the Sydney Harbour Bridge - along with the 42 others mentioned in a report in today's Sydney Morning Herald that are being built, without consideration of the height of our iconic Bridge - over-used word iconic but it seems to fit here!).
Hmph! Well Hmph! at those who plan International Cruise Terminals anyway... What are they thinking of, building a terminal at White Bay just because the land is currently a wasteland, when many existing and new cruise ships simply won't be able to dock there? It seems 'they' are looking around the harbour east of the bridge as well - but since most of the obvious spots seem to belong to the Navy it is likely to be a difficult task. That's my rant for the day!)

P.S. If you are interested in ship-watching over summer in Sydney visit the Sydney Ports Schedule website.

Not flying today

2009-12-16T22:45:00.004+11:00

Having personally been caught in a British Airways strike in the UK a couple of years ago, I understand the frustration both as a passenger and a travel agent when these things happen - and at Christmas. Currently British Airways is suffering from industrial action which is likely to go on well into the New Year, inconveniencing passengers and creating uncertainty at a time of year when we are all telling each other to be happy!!
In addition Melbourne's Virgin passengers were warned to expect extensive delays yesterday when a damaged cable affected their check-in system. When we've planned a trip and anticipated it for some time we just want to get there - and if we are at the end of our trip we just want to get home... so these delays, which are out of our control, can make us very unhappy.
As a travel agent I advise my clients to research the situation on the day of travel before heading to the airport. Check with the airline, with the airport flight departures information service - check everything you can to avoid spending excess time or making a fruitless trip when flights are delayed or cancelled. My guess is that other OneWorld airlines will do their best to help British Airways through this, and that BA will do their utmost to fly their scheduled services to avoid disrupting so many people's Christmas plans. (And of course being a member of an airline lounge club really counts when there are delays!) I wish everyone travelling by air smooth connections throughout this period.

3 cruise ships and a dull day

2009-12-10T18:17:00.006+11:00

Just come back from a photo trip to catch the Sun Princess, Diamond Princess and the Pacific Jewel in Sydney Harbour - or Sun Princess as it was leaving. But today Sydney turned on a grey, humid type drizzle and it really wasn't worth it. So I've dropped in a picture of the deck of Sun Princess taken last time I was onboard.
28 ships in 28 days was the headline in the Sydney Morning Herald today - yes folks this is the beginning of a really busy time on Sydney Harbour as cruise ships come and go bringing thousands of tourists to our beautiful harbour. Most ships will dock at the International Cruise Terminal or Darling Harbour, but a few will be forced to use White Bay. This is a bit of hole - it has no facilities for cruise passengers and they are crowded onto buses and taken to Central Station - not much of a way to discover Sydney. When the ships don't fit under the bridge they must moor in the harbour which is a better experience as passengers are taken by boat into Sydney.
Given that our Government doesn't seem to understand the importance of providing decent, central facilities for cruise passengers I am not holding my breath on a solution to this problem.

How likely is a port upgrade?

2009-12-07T23:04:00.004+11:00

An SMH news item on an Access Economics report on the cruise industry reveals that the cruise sector was the standout performer in the tourism market - good news for those of us who love to cruise, and who sell cruises. However it also included comments from Carnival Australia, Australia's largest cruise shipping company, about the need for governments to commit to port upgrades. With the constant changes in the NSW government it is likely that this is very low on their list of priorities despite the fact that Sydney is an important destination. We recently posted a story on our website about the 'Oasis of the Seas', the largest cruise liner afloat which needed a special port in the Caribbean to be built to accommodate her. There is no way she could fit into the current port facilities - and it seems that by 2020 only 15 per cent of cruise liners will be able to dock west of the harbour!
It will be sad if the many Sydneysiders who would like to cruise out of our harbour - and the many more visitors who would want to cruise into these waters are prevented by a lack of government planning and foresight. It will be even sadder if NSW misses out of the tourism dollars that go with cruise passengers.

Seabourn Odyssey - take a peek

2009-11-24T19:20:00.005+11:00

I love trawling round Youtube and today I found this great video of the new Seabourn Odyssey which is cruising into the Pacific early next year (2010). Quite the best way to check out a ship if you can't go on a ship visit.

Odyssey leaves Fort Lauderdale Florida on January 5 and sails to Cartagena Colombia, then through the Panama Canal and into the Pacific Ocean and Costa Rica and Guatemala. She will visit Acapulco and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico before heading north to Los Angeles. Hawaii is the next ports of call, then Christmas Island on February 2. Passengers will enjoy the delights of Tahiti and the Cook Islands and reach Lyttleton in New Zealand on Feb 17. Melbourne is her first Australian port on 22 February and Sydney on the 24th.
Odyssey joins her sister ships Legend, Pride and Spirit - all 5-star vessels suitable for sophisticated couples mostly over-50. If you are looking for gourmet food and European-style service then this could be it.
Thanks to travel writer Fran Golden for this peek!

The new look Regent Seven Seas Mariner

2009-11-17T14:46:00.009+11:00

After cruising on the Regent Seven Seas Mariner last year I was looking forward to once again boarding this beautiful ship this morning. I invited a group of clients to join us and although the day was grey it didn't dampen our anticipation.
We sipped on champagne and nibbled hors d'oeuvres as part of our visit and thoroughly enjoyed visiting the new restaurant known as Prime 7 which has replaced the Asian restaurant, and the cabins that have been refurbished. (You may remember that I wrote a couple of months ago about passengers on this line asking for showers instead of showers over baths and quite a few of the cabins have not been modified.)
Regent Seven Seas and Mosman Cruise Centre have some great offers to passengers in 2010.
All sailings will be offered as two for 1 and include unlimited shore excursions. You will also be able to pre-book alternative dining before you sail. And one of the things I love about this cruise line is the no extra charge for wine, beer and the mini bar.
This is the first of my ship's visits and I'll write about as many as possible so you can get a first hand impression.
I'll also take my camera!
Special offer to clients: If you are a client of the Mosman Cruise Centre or Travel Choice and you would like to join me on a ship visit let me know by email (martin@travelchoice.com.au) or phone 9968 1600.

Dancing across the Atlantic

2009-11-09T22:22:00.005+11:00

If you have a passion being able to indulge it and enjoy a cruise at the same time is a treat. Crystal Cruises have just announced their Big Band Celebration Cruise for 2010 and as well as a Big Band playing dance music every night there will be extra dance hosts. Dancing is known to be one of the best things you can do to keep active physically and mentally as you age and I for one love it! Evidence that it is not only fun but important to one's health is a bonus. Check out this story on TangoAustralia if you would like to know more.
Crystal Serenity has just left Lisbon on her 2009 Ballroom Dancing Cruise, however next year's cruise which will follow the same route from Lisbon in Portugal to Miami in Florida, with a couple of port calls in the Azores is now available. So contact me for more information if like me you love to dance! Email martin@travelchoice.com.au

Last minute cruising

2009-11-05T09:56:00.002+11:00

There are still a few pre-Christmas cabins left for those who decide at the last minute they would like to take a cruise and avoid the silly season. Yesterday we were able to book a couple on a the cruise of their choice - before Christmas - and we are getting emails everyday about specials and last-minute deals.
So if you fancy escaping the pre-Christmas rush - or need to re-charge your batteries before the relatives arrive and the festive season really gets underway - contact us today - travel@travelchoice.com.au

Aussie dollar giving best value for cruising

2009-10-27T21:52:00.004+11:00

The Aussie dollar just keeps going up and this is fantastic news for those who are planning to travel overseas or cruise in the next few months. Many cruises are priced in the US dollar or the British pound. Now is a great time to get really good value for your money and the best value comes when you book an all-inclusive cruise - which means you really getting everything in American dollars.
When you are checking on the internet for good cruise deals you do need to know that booking on the internet is a totally different kettle of fish - as pointed out by Cruise Weekly this week. In an interview with another leading cruise agent they note that consumers need to be wary of booking cruises on US sites as the shipping lines reserve the right to deny boarding at check-in if they find that travellers are not US residents who booked with a US agent at the the US market rate. I'd also like to remind you that we can match most rates that you see online and on top of doing all the booking for you, we ensure that you have all the paperwork you need and that you have a trouble-free trip.
If the high Aussie dollar is tempting you to take a cruise - go for it! And if the rain and cold is getting you down because we still haven't made it to Summer here in Sydney - what better way to give yourself something to look forward to!

10 cruises I'd like to be on

2009-10-18T20:03:00.004+11:00

A little touch of wishful thinking from yours truly as Sydney still struggles to cope with wearing woolies and waiting for summer days...
Not in any order...
1. Chilean ice fjords on Scorpios 2
2. Sailing on Star Clipper in the Andaman Sea
3. Round the world on Queen Mary 2
4. Northern Europe and Scandinavia on Europa
5. Cruising the Po River on River Cloud
6. Visiting Antarctica and Mawsons Hut on Orion
7. Sailing the Caribbean on Sea Dream I or Sea Dream II
8. Checking out the Panama Canal on Regent's Voyager
9. Exploring Egypt and the Red Sea on Silversea's Silver Whisper
10.River cruising into Russia on Viking Surkov
That's one of the hazards of being a cruise agent (if you could call it that) there are so many exciting and interesting cruises just waiting to be enjoyed.

Thoughts of warmer climes on a cold Sydney day

2009-10-09T11:41:00.009+11:00

Sydney's dwellings are not built for cold - they never have been! and when it's cold and windy you know about it!
When I arrived in Oz as a young English migrant under the Big Brother movement I was amazed at how cold the winters were...especially in the southern highlands where I did a stint on a farm - in winter! But things haven't changed. After a few weeks of lulling residents into putting away the doonas and dry-cleaning the coats - with the spring winds giving my partner AngelinaTango (AT) and many other Sydneysiders hideous hayfever - the weather has returned to a wintry 15 degrees (60F). According to the weather bureau it's here to stay for a week at least!
Along with a few of my clients I am thinking of warmer climes... where can I take a short break and warm my blood, swim off my winter blues and get into the mood for a real Aussie summer (which has something to do with lying around on the beach and swimming in the surf)?
But where to? The South Pacific is experiencing extreme weather... tsunamis, typhoons and terrible floods are not enticing... and how badly these disasters are going to affect tourism to these parts will be seen in the coming months. Meanwhile I'm working on finding AT that warm weather tonic - and it might just be a cruise.
I've added a weather chart at the bottom of the blog... and while I was searching for it I found this video - the weather isn't this bad... and I just love this Fats Waller movie - hope it brightens your day - it did mine!!

Your cruise ship is your hotel...

2009-09-21T15:01:00.003+10:00

We cruise-lovers love our ships - and we have to love being aboard because that's where you spend the major portion of your cruising time. But there comes a time when the cruise ends and you have to get off, and then - if it is somewhere you want to stay a while - you discover again how the costs mount up. But wait a bit! Some cruise lines are on your side in this - they arrange their itineraries to give you an overnight stay in port. And then the ship is your hotel.
I can think of several cruise lines who plan their sailings this way - and they are mostly the 4 1/2 to 5 star ships. Now I can add another: the 4-star river cruise company CroisiEurope who, today, have offered a 4-night stay in Venice, in October 2009, aboard a river boat: it's a cruise that doesn't leave. The boat stays moored - you stay and dine aboard for 4 nights and each day you are free to explore Venice on your own or with optional guided excursions, all at a quite remarkably low price. There is only one of these "cruises" that I am aware of. But we love to discover the unusual so we'll keep a watch out for - and would love to hear about - any others.

Regent - choose your bathtub...

2009-09-14T22:13:00.005+10:00

Just come back from another Agents' Briefing... and always ready to be less than impressed - but this was informative and probably quite timely. Regent Seven Seas Cruises have just 3 vessels - the Mariner, the Navigator and the Voyager. Regular readers of this blog will know that last year I took a very enjoyable trip aboard Mariner (see slide show at side of blog) and, since then have been happy to recommend her to clients. What I didn't know was how important it is to specify what kind of bathroom you like when booking Mariner! I shall explain. Apparently, when Mariner was designed, it was thought more attractive to have a full bath in every suite. But the passengers disagree: many find it uncomfortable to shower while standing in a bathtub and they have voiced their discontent. Regent have taken note and are in a continuing process of refurbishment, removing the bathtubs and installing large shower enclosures - except where there is room for both, and then the passenger has the choice. So bathe at will, but tell your agent (hopefully us!) whether you prefer bath or shower! Mariner arrives into Sydney November 17th, staying over two nights before departing to New Zealand (14 nights) then to Los Angeles (19 nights), after which she prepares for her Circle South America voyage, Fort Lauderdale and return from January 10. What a fabulous voyage that will be! Just contact me - martin@travelchoice.com.au - for more info.

New P&O superliner

2009-09-07T22:05:00.004+10:00

In December P&O's newest superliner the Pacific Jewel will depart from Sydney. As the Australian cruise market grows so do the number of ships concentrating on our market. This one will sail year round from Sydney to the South Pacific and New Zealand so as soon as I get the opportunity to go on board I will organise some photos for a slide show on this blog. With over 200 balcony cabins (always my choice) and a celebrity chef at sea, there are 40 cruises to choose from. Luke Mangan, well-known to Sydney's foodies for his restaurants - and to Aussies for his role on TV's 'MasterChef' will launch Pacific Jewel's signature restaurant. Salt Grill by Luke Mangan will feature a number of his signature dishes on the menu. The five-night maiden voyage departs Sydney on December 13 and takes in Melbourne and Burnie in Tasmania before returning to Sydney.
If you'd like to know more let me know and I'll get you some info.
Martin@travelchoice.com.au

Volendam - a popular choice

2009-08-27T16:10:00.001+10:00

The ever-popular ship Volendam of Holland America lines will be heading in to Sydney Harbour on 6th December, carrying a full complement of passengers on the last leg of her journey to Australia, departing from Singapore on November 21st.

Contrary to expectations, that sailing is now almost fully booked* - a scenario we are coming to expect, even in these financially troubled times! (We just booked the next-to-last balcony stateroom!)

It seems that cruising is booming because it represents certain and reliable value for money. When you consider that your cruise fare covers all the basics - and more - of a holiday in a comfortable resort, with ever-changing views, new people to meet and the opportunity to visit foreign lands without the hassle of constant unpacking... well it sounds very attractive too!

The Volendam is lovely ship, beautifully appointed with high standards of service and food that win praise from the many repeat passengers of Holland America Line. She offers an environment that travellers of all ages can enjoy, so is popular both in and out of the school holiday periods that occur during her short stay in our region. After her cruise season - taking in voyages to South Pacific islands, New Zealand, and a circumnavigation of Australia - she will depart 17th April for Vancouver via New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji and the Hawaiian islands. Volendam's comforts can be enjoyed for only $120 per person, per night - a more than favourable comparison with land based travel costs.

Discounts or early bird offers - tips to help you decide

2009-08-25T12:15:00.004+10:00

My last post was about the stream of deals that are coming into my (and every other travel agent's ) email inbox everyday. If you would like to cruise, how do you decide whether to take one of these deals, wait for an early bird cruise offer or simply book the cruise you have your heart set on?
It really depends on how important this cruise is to you or whether you are prepared to put the dollars ahead of the destination.
Last-minute deals are ideal for those who are not particular about the destination - or a particular cruise. At the moment there are quite a few bargains around and if you simply want to cruise we will find you something to please. There are offers on a wide range of cruises but you will probably need to make up your mind quite quickly - ideally on the spot.
Early-bird deals are ideal for those who have checked the brochures and travel pages and know what they want. When you book an early-bird cruise you can choose your cabin, your dates and be sure that the flights are available, all of which can be very comforting when you are planning a holiday.
Cruising is growing in popularity as more people realise that many fares are all-inclusive. When you know that your meals, entertainment and in some cases even the tips are included in the cost of your holiday, it can make a big difference.
If you have any questions please email me... always happy to help. Martin@travelchoice.com.au

A morning of travel discounts

2009-08-18T13:10:00.003+10:00

Like most travel agents I open my email each morning to a flood of emails from suppliers, clients, advertisers, travel newsletters... and the odd family missive that often gets lost in everything else. And of course the odd bit of spam that creeps through the filter. At the moment travel discounts are Big News... today we can offer you...

10 per cent off Tall Ship Western Mediterranean Cruising with Star Clippers. The voyage departing Lisbon, Portugal on April 21 comes with a discount if you book by 31 August. Star Clippers are luxury megayachts that combine sailing with cruising.

Up to 50 per cent off when 2 people share on 5 River Cruises.... the Danube from Budapest to Passau on 15 November; 14 nights from Basel to Vienna on 25 October or 9 November; the Rhine and Moselle sailing from Amsterdam to Basel on 23 October; 26 nights from Amsterdam to Bucharest on 16 October and 12 nights from Amsterdam to Vienna on 24 September, 30 October or 11 November...all this year!

Holland America's Volendam 14 night China and Vietnam leaving on 26 October this year is offering up to 44 per cent off

New American itineraries on MSC's brand new Magnifica... itineraries from New York City.

And I'm still reading them!
If you'd like to know any more about any of these just drop me an email... now is the time to make a last minute travel plan there are just so many deals.
Martin@travelchoice.com.au

Holland America 2 day sale

2009-08-13T10:37:00.003+10:00

Now here's a deal... for two days Holland America are giving the most amazing fares on their whole range of cruises. These deals have just been announced and are only available until tomorrow evening - Friday August 14. Contact me - martin@travelchoice.com.au - or phone us 2 9968 1600 and we'll be happy to tell you all about it! Plus we've got a gift for those who book - which we'll also tell you about!

Travellers like travel blogs and the internet

2009-08-12T16:44:00.003+10:00

It's hardly news to anyone in the travel industry but today one of the travel newsletters sent to travel agents published research indicating that 'Blogs [are] favoured over agents' and that Australians 'are enthusiastically embracing the internet to plan and book their holidays'. Of course you are. Australians love technology and they love DIY - and that includes holidays so it is not something new to travel agents, though it is always interesting to have one's experiences backed up by research.
Travel agents must be trained in how to research holidays and how to use the tools that are available to the travel industry so that they can knowledgeably plan and book holidays.
Travel agents also use the internet - but the websites they are searching are mostly very different to the websites that you, the consumer/DIY traveller is searching. We are able to see much more of the back-end of travel and from that can usually find better deals. We also know the reliable suppliers and know what you can expect from the hotel/ tour operator/ cruise you are investigating. We are able to see whether that cheap flight you are looking at is what it seems or whether it involves sitting in a far away airport for half a day waiting for a connecting flight; and we can soon find out whether the hotel room that is cheaper on the net is actually the worst room in the house!
We are also in the know when it comes to getting what the traveller wants - and knowing whether a destination, a hotel, a tour or a cruise will meet you, our client's expectations. A friend recently booked two weekends away - within driving distance of home - based on internet research - and neither has lived up to expectations. These are only cottages for a night or two away but on a minor scale they illustrate what can happen when you book from a website - what you see is not necessarily what you get. In one instance she even turned round and drove home! As we all know anyone can write and publish on the internet - and anyone can create a website for their business (bed and breakfast, hotel, tour package) with pretty pictures.
So if you want to be sure that what you see is what you will get, asking your travel agent to check your research and prices will often uncover a better deal - and may prevent you from suffering traveller's disappointment!

Why now is the time to river cruise

2009-08-06T10:12:00.004+10:00

Meandering through the European countryside where fairytale castles appear around a bend, historic villages perch amidst lush scenery and you retreat to your very own comfortable cabin is the perfect holiday for those who want to enjoy Europe at a snail's pace.
Thanks to the brains behind the Rhine-Main-Danube canal which was completed in 1992 it is possible to cruise along 3,000 miles of river and canal network enjoying Europe at leisure. Today there is a huge range of river cruises to choose from including this selection which are big on service - Peter Deilmann, Amadeus Waterways, Avalon, Uniworld, Viking and Vantage.
Ships that cruise the rivers of Europe must meet certain specifications - maximum width is 11.5 metres, maximum length is 127 metres and three decks are all that is allowed - they carry between 164 and 176 passengers. Apart from these criteria you will find that every line has something different to offer - most appeal to the over-50s but there are also cruises that court families. Some focus on themes such as cuisine, wine, tulip time in Holland.
Currently many of the river cruise lines are offering some amazing specials - too many to list here. So if river cruising is something you've thought about but never investigated - now is the time to get in touch with us, tell us what you would like to do and where you would like to go and we'll present you with some amazing options for you to explore European waterways.
And if cruising is something you have avoided because you get sea sick - river cruising is for you.

The dreaded swine flu

2009-07-28T16:33:00.006+10:00

I get lots of questions about swine flu so I thought it was timely to include some information from the Travelvax people who say that "only people at higher risk of swine flu should forego overseas travel during the current pandemic".
Anyone travelling needs to be aware of the potential risks of close contact with crowds in particular at airports and on planes and take commonsense precautions against flu, such as washing their hands often in soap and running water and using an alcohol based hand gel when soap is not available. You can buy these gels and have your own on hand for travelling. Also avoiding contact with obviously sick people is a sensible precaution.
If you are planning a trip and are concerned about swine flu you can put together a kit to put your mind at rest. Include latex gloves, antiseptic towelettes, N95 face masks - not all face masks are the same and these are considered the ones you need to protect against flu germs - and contact details for the Australian Health department.
Talking to your doctor, who knows your medical history, is also a wise precaution.

Travel newsletters - do you read them?

2009-07-16T11:23:00.002+10:00

Like many businesses these days, including travel agencies, we have a weekly newsletter that goes out to subscribers and clients listing some of the latest deals. And like many businesses we receive thousands of emails from our suppliers and other businesses every week. I am selective about what I read as I simply don't have time to read them all... which means that sometimes I miss a gem or some really helpful/interesting news.
There are stacks of travel newsletters and as I can tell how many of our newsletters are opened at the other end I am often disappointed to find that they are not read by more people. So I've created a poll - at right - and would love to know what you think about travel newsletters.
Of course we will continue to produce ours but if you have time to take a look perhaps you could offer suggestions about what you would like to see in it.
To comment on this blog you only need a gmail address... really simple to do.

World's safest destinations

2009-07-09T15:12:00.005+10:00

Though we specialise in finding the right cruise for each and every client - we also do plenty of general travel work so I was fascinated when a friend sent me a link to this story on the Forbes traveler website.
To establish the safest destinations the researchers analysed data from the US State Department on crime warnings for travellers (similar to Australia's DFAT warnings); looked at the latest UN survey on global crime trends and checked fear factors such as natural disasters and terrorism.
No doubt you will do what I did and try to second guess what these destinations are - and like me you will get some right and be surprised at others.
So here are some of the countries that make this list - not in any order:

New Zealand. I love New Zealand. We spent 5 days in Wellington recently enjoying the crisp winter days, the clean fresh air and the warm hospitality of the Kiwis.

Singapore. A regular stopover for many Aussies, but how many of us stay here for a few days - a great place to indulge in eating and shopping

Iceland. I have yet to visit this tiny country - but it is on my list

Switzerland. We had a wonderful time backpacking round Switzerland in the 70s. It was incredibly modern by Australian standards then.

Bhutan. My older son, who is a great traveller, recently visited Bhutan and found the people amongst the warmest and friendliest he had ever met.

Mauritius. Popular with honeymooners - and anyone who wants a great island holiday,.

ABC Islands - the Dutch islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao in the Caribbean - (mental note to find out more about these).

Dubai. Popular stopover - which I have done - but well worth a visit. If you are a keen horse race-goer Dubai will be on your list.

Ireland - surprised? it has been found to be the least violent country in Europe.

Cyprus - another surprise.

And the most dangerous - Afghanistan, Iraq... and the U.S.
Find out more - including why these countries are considered so safe - by clicking the link above. And if you would like to find out more about the destinations drop me a line - martin@travelchoice.com.au

Cruising around and out of Australia

2009-07-08T16:31:00.002+10:00

Many of our clients want to cruise from Australia - the convenience of catching a taxi to the ship and unpacking only once just can't be beaten. Avoiding airports is very attractive in itself and boarding a ship is a a very different and much more leisurely experience.
So we've put together a flier on the luxury ships that will be cruising from and into Australian ports over this summer. There's still time to book and this flier will give you an outline of what is available and when. You can check it out on our website - or you can contact us - travel@travelchoice.com.au and we will send you a copy.
I took this photo of the Crystal Serenity when she was in Sydney this summer... not that you can mistake the port given the glorious coathanger in the background!

A barge holiday, Wind Star and a celebration: my week

2009-07-04T16:40:00.004+10:00

Sometimes clients pop in to the agency because they would like to take a break, but nothing has caught their imagination. Other clients have seen an advertisement for a cruise or a holiday but when we explore we find that the dates are not suitable - or there are other conditions that are not to their liking. It can be fascinating exploring holiday options to suit individual needs.
I just love the variety that this job brings. This week's inquiries include the family who would like to take a barge holiday in Europe, complete with tandem bikes so they can take their young children to explore the surrounding countryside; the couple who are taking a Wind Star cruise in the Mediterranean; the family who would like to take a cruise together to celebrate a birthday and the retired businessman who wants to do a New Year cruise to New Zealand.
We took a barge holiday with our family when they were teenagers and cruised the Oxford canals. The weather was glorious, late September summer days with warm sunshine and long days where we could walk the canal paths, stop whenever we pleased and simply enjoy the English countryside. My sons loved working the locks and in fact took over the running of the barge which made it a truly relaxing holiday for me. We didn't have bikes but they are certainly an option on many barge holidays.
Wind Star is a four star sail-cruiser from the Windstar Cruise line. This means that she is a cruiser but she also has four giant masts fitted with computer controlled sails. Though this ship is seriously stocked with water sport equipment there are no scheduled activities and she is known for her stylish luxury and superb comfort. This ship not only sails the Mediterranean , including intimate Greek Island cruises, she also visits the Caribbean.
If spending a special occasion on board ship or taking time away for Christmas or New Year is something you would like to do there are dozens of options - you need to decide what type of cruise you would like, ask your travel agent for brochures and information to help you decide. Often folk will find something on the internet that appeals - but there may be something better or more suited that is not easily found - and that's where I love to be able to help out.
I wonder what next week will bring?

Sail the world on Cunard - and join royalty on Sydney Harbour 2011

2009-06-30T13:02:00.005+10:00

If you scroll down the right hand side of this blog you will find the photos I took when we joined the throngs to see the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 berthed in Sydney Harbour. It was a warm summer dusk and we walked down to the ferry wharf at Kirribilli and caught the ferry across the harbour, planning when we arrived at Circular Quay to walk round to see the QM2 at Garden Island. But the crowds were too much for us. You could have walked from one side of the harbour to the other on the spectator craft around the Harbour Bridge - it was amazing that there were no serious collisions! and once we arrived at Circular Quay after our ferry inched its way past the QE2 there was no easy way through the crowds to the walk through the Botanic Gardens.
Cunard has announced that two Queens will once again arrive in Sydney when the Queen Elizabeth on her maiden visit to Australia in 2011 meets up with the QM2 in Sydney Harbour in 2011 on February 22. Queen Elizabeth will visit Fremantle on February 17 and Adelaide on February 20 on her way here.
New Yorkers will have the opportunity to see 3 Queens on these world voyages when QM2 and QE meet up with Queen Victoria on January 13, following a tandem Atlantic cross by Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth.
There is a bonus for those who love to sail on Cunard. For the first time it will be possible to sail the world on the 3 Queens...

If you are interested in booking on the 2011 Cunard voyages - they go on sale on 2 July 2009 - contact us asap and let us know you are interested so we can make sure you get the booking you want. Email travel@travelchoice.com.au - or you can phone us 02 9968 1600.

Life is what happens...

2009-06-20T13:31:00.005+10:00

On June 18th Royal Princess suffered a fire in her engine room and has now put back to Port Said, Egypt for repairs. The current cruise is terminated and the cruise scheduled for 25th June cancelled. All passengers will receive a full refund, plus a 25% future cruise credit and be flown home with all expenses paid by Princess.

Life is what happens while you're busy making plans. Reading of the fire aboard Royal Princess brought home that sea voyages carry the thrill of unpredictability: an adventure is there as a possibility every time we embark on a cruise. This mishap aboard Royal Princess is unfortunate and quite uncommon. Nevertheless it seems to have been dealt with promptly and efficiently, and happily there has been no injury, only personal inconvenience and interruption. Passengers are suffering disruption but will be generously compensated by Princess - and it's even possible some may remember their real adventure in a positive light. After all, travel is about the experience, and the enjoyment of telling the tale is part of it!

Dance hosts and cruise ships

2009-06-10T16:21:00.004+10:00

In recent years I have taken up dancing Argentine tango in my spare time, so I am always interested when a client comes who is looking for a ship that offers dance hosts. This is on my mind because one such client did come in this week and because a friend I met at lunch said he was considering working as a dance host - he is an excellent all-round ballroom dancer. This train of thought of course led me to the Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau movie, 'Out to Sea'. An enjoyable comedy about 2 con-men who get up to all sorts of antics when they take on the jobs of dance hosts on a luxury liner! Nothing real about it, but fun.
If you like to dance it can be a great activity on a cruise ship as many of them have excellent dance floors - some bigger than others. Cruise lines that offer ballroom classes will often also have dance classes, Cunard and Regent Seven Seas being two of them. For people like me, for whom tango is The Dance, there are even cruises which offer tango festivals, included classes, dances and tango bands. We have yet to have a tango cruise call into an Australian port, but they do sail the Caribbean and Mediterranean each year, so you never know.
If you would like to dance be sure to let me know if you are asking for cruise suggestions.

Cruise terminal for Sydney

2009-06-05T16:08:00.006+10:00

The lack of space for cruise ships to dock in Sydney Harbour is an ongoing discussion among many who are involved with the cruise industry - particularly those who live in our magnificent city.
For three to four months a year the harbour welcomes new cruise ships every day, many sailing between the Heads as the sun rises... a memorable experience for those on board.
However there is a shortage of suitable places for ships to dock. Recently the State Government announced a committee to look into the problem of cruise ship facilities in Sydney Harbour, especially east of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Many ships are too big to pass under our famous coathanger so establishing cruise terminals at Darling Harbour (Barangaroo) or White Bay Terminal (not an attractive option with its lack of public transport and industrial port look) is not the answer.
Circular Quay did the job for years but is now dwarfed by many of the visiting ships and because it has been given over to restaurants does not work as well as it should.
However a report in the Sydney Morning Herald on 25 May stated that the Defence Department, which controls Garden Bay where the Queen Victoria docked on her last visit, is planning to base additional naval vessels there and this is not an option.
I hope that the committee has some teeth and is capable of making suggestions that are workable - as the White Bay Terminal currently is not. Another possibility might be Chowder Bay with the old Georges Heights military establishment. This area has enormous historical significance as the site of one of the largest military hospitals after World War I. Would a sympathetic development with a ferry wharf taking passengers across to the city be worth considering? I often walk that way and realise I don't have any photos to illustrate this idea... must get my camera out next time!
Let's hope something happens sooner rather than later. There is tremendous competition between ports for cruise line traffic and we want the cruise lines to have an easy choice when planning to include Sydney.

Mosman Cruise Centre has a new look website

2009-05-22T17:39:00.001+10:00

Our website has been around for about 6 years so we recently decided it was time to update it. Today the new look went live! and we are very excited about it as it is a great way to tell cruisers and travellers about new deals - as well as to add interesting and useful content. Yes we can add deals to this blog but who wants to read a string of specials? Your travel agent does that for you - we get dozens a day! With our new site we can choose the best and put them up for you to read and explore at your leisure.
So take a look at the site - sign up for our newsletter - and do let me know what you think of it! You can email me at martin@travelchoice.com.au

Silverseas - Prince Albert and the Silver Spirit

2009-05-19T11:40:00.005+10:00

What do travel agents do in the evening? Well many work way past closing time putting together itineraries for clients and wouldbe-clients - most are working harder at the moment than ever before - some go home - and some go to events like last night's promotion by Silverseas for travel agents, held at Sydney's classy Establishment.
These are events where suppliers sell to travel agents, so they can sell to you - the customer. Last night Silverseas treated us all to champagne and canapes while they informed about the Prince Albert's (pictured) upcoming season in the Arctic - and her successes in the Antarctic - and their new ship, Silver Spirit which will make her first voyage in December from Barcelona to Lisbon. There are no plans for the Silver Spirit to come to Australasia - she will divide her trips between the Mediterranean and the Americas. Those who love Silverseas will no doubt want to experience the new beauty while she is new.
Meanwhile the Prince Albert has become very popular with those who want to see Antarctica in style. She departs from Ushuaia in our summer months then moves to Norway and the north for the northern summer.
Currently Silverseas are offering discounts on Alaskan cruises aboard Silver Shadow.
Silverseas cruises include all meals, all drinks and gratuities and prices on theese 10 day cruises start at $4497pp twin-share. These cruises start on August 1 - departing until September. This beautiful picture of an Arctic fox is here because I think it's a beautiful creature ... what a treat to catch a glimpse of such an animal!
Contact us - travel@travelchoice.com.au if you'd like more info

Keeping track of your travel itinerary

2009-05-13T13:50:00.002+10:00

So you've mislaid your travel itinerary - or you want to check something but you don't have it with you? There is a great service that those of you who book through a travel agent such as the Mosman Cruise Centre and Travel Choice can use if you have your PC or mobile handy. We use a system called Sabre as our booking system and Sabre has a website called Virtually There that allows travellers to 'pinpoint' their travel details. Using this website you can:

check the status of your flights
book ground transport, travel extras or travel protection
find out what's happening in the city you are visiting - weather, city guides, maps
check out past and present trips
email your itinerary to friends or colleagues
register for flight notifications.

All you need is your reservation code. Check it out once you've booked. I think it's brilliant.

Looking for ice and polar bears - or a Pacific experience

2009-05-12T12:07:00.004+10:00

At this time of year I know many Aussie cruisers are looking to Alaska! From May to September ships cruise the icy waters of North America - Canada and Alaska. One of the most interesting itineraries for the adventurous is offered by Cruise West who take their passengers deep into the Inside Passage, sailing around the Glacier Bay National Park and Perserve (if you need to know where this is use Google maps!). These cruises offer passengers a chance to learn from a National Park ranger and passengers will discover the flora and culture of the area, watch for wildlife and the crack of the glaciers as they calve into the ocean.
Cruise West sailings are on 18 May, 24 July, 29 July, 26 August and 2 September - and they are currently offering big savings - so send us an email if you would like to find out more.

If travelling the South Pacific is more your thing Holland America's Amsterdam is sailing from Los Angeles to Sydney visiting Tahiti, Cook Islands and Vanuatu. It's a 33-night voyage and the package departs from Sydney on 29 September, 2009 for Los Angeles. So you have the pleasure of cruising back to your home port and arriving truly relaxed, after your South Pacific sojourn.
I've added a photo from my trip to Tahiti in 2007, just to whet your appetite.
We're here to tell you more so just email us travel@travelchoice.com.au for more information.

Blogging along

2009-05-07T17:41:00.004+10:00

Sometimes it can be difficult to find something to write about when all the news seems to be depressing... so this afternoon I informed myself by reading some of the blogs from cruise directors and others - they are all on the Reading list.
One of the most interesting is Cruise Diva - she is certainly up to date on all the news and if you want to keep up to date she does it all for you - as she says. She has just announced a blog by Royal Caribbean so I've added it to my reading list.
Royal Caribbean have a ship being built known as Project Genesis which will no doubt be the first to have a park in the middle - modelled on New York's Central Park. More than 25o staterooms will overlook the park which will be on Deck 8 of the 16 deck ship. The park will be used for street performances and other activities. Novel idea and one I will look forward to hearing more about.
This is just a quick blog as I must get back to my reading... will update you more soon.
By the way my honeymooners headed off to Mexico and by now will be enjoying themselves hugely I am sure as businesses open again and the country gets back to normal.
If you want to find out about a cruise do drop me an email - travel@travelchoice.com.au anytime. If I don't have the answer I'll find it for you

Swine flu, the honeymooner's dilemma - and what the cruise ships are doing

2009-05-01T13:43:00.005+10:00

Today the Australian government's Smart traveller website has reissued their travel advice asking Australians planning a trip to Mexico to 'reconsider' because of outbreaks of a new virus dubbed Swine flu. For my honeymoon couple who leave next week - and in fact anyone else who has booked and paid for their trip to Mexico this poses a huge dilemma.
If they cancel their holiday/honeymoon they will lose money according to the cancellation conditions of each service they have paid for. The closer to the departure date, the higher the cancellation fees! Many airline tickets are non-refundable after purchase, although in these situations airlines will often be lenient in their application. Those who have booked through travel agents may do better than those who have booked online when it comes to airlines and cancellations or postponements.
If the Department of Foreign Affairs, which runs the Smart traveller website, upgrades its travel warning to 'do not travel' then those who wish to cancel or postpone will fare! better.
This is where it can pay to have a travel agent going in to bat for you - and where having the best possible travel insurance can make all the difference between salvaging what you can from your trip, or losing everything.
We can speak to our specialists, the in-bound service providers (travel jargon for those who arrange travel in their own country) to sound out what is happening. Where tickets have been issued and hotel bookings pre-paid your travel agent can ascertain whether insurance coverage is going to safeguard the cost of cancelling.
If DFAT did issue a 'do not travel' advice and essential services are suspended then travellers will be prevented from using the services and should have a claim. When travellers make their own decision not to go the cancellations are classed as voluntary and there will be no basis for a claim.
My honeymoon couple have been to see their GP, packed their bags and will be heading off to Mexico - unless the directive changes in the next couple of days. I will be here if they need travel assistance.
Still on swine flu, but checking out the cruises, you may have noticed from the blogs that I follow, that Princess cruises has modified all itineraries on ships going to Mexico, to skip Mexican ports and either visit another port or spend extra time at sea.

Cruising away from the pirates

2009-04-29T21:52:00.002+10:00

Today travel agents have customers who would rather use a person who is a travel agent to book their trips, than a website. For a start you can ask a person questions - and if they don't have the answers they will find out for you - and secondly a person will often offer advice or information they feel you might like to know, which you won't get from a website. And let's face it - travel websites are just travel agents on line.
Recently a couple came into the agency who wanted to book a cruise around and near the Arabian Gulf - an area they had not cruised before. Had they been persistent I would have inquired of the shipping agents and made sure my customers had the most comprehensive information I could provide on the pirate situation. In this case I was able to offer them an alternate cruise in the Mediterranean visiting North African ports and they were happy. As so many large and small ships cruise in pirate-infested waters and their raids on cruise ships are becoming bolder all the time I would hope that the situation can be resolved without major drama - but in the meantime I will do my utmost to ensure the safety of my customers.

Exploring Papua by cruise ship

2009-04-21T12:02:00.006+10:00

Papua New Guinea is often in our news, yet how many of us have visited? We hear about the Kokoda Trail because it is an essential part of our history, but there is so much more. The spectacular terrain makes many parts inaccessible except by sea or by air. Coastal waters are warm because of its proximity to the equator and some of the world's best diving and coral reefs can be found here.
The expedition ship, True North, is visiting Papua in October this year and a number of cabins on this exclusive adventure have just become available. Luxurious and comfortable, there are 20 crew to the 36 passengers and True North prides itself on its fine dining record. There are 6 expedition boats, not zodiacs, and the cruise itinerary is organised to allow passengers to do what they want, when they want.
This cruise departs from Sorong, however guests will arrive in Darwin and be escorted to Sorong on a chartered flight. Highlights of the cruise will involve a quest for the rare and beautiful Wilson's Bird of Paradise, snorkeling and diving in out of the way reefs and lagoons, helicopter rides over the islands and visits to island villages to learn about the local way of life. If an adventure featuring underwater exploration, fabulous scenery, an exotic and little-visited culture, spectacular scenery and fine food is what you are looking for... then contact me today. This trip may not happen again and it may truly be a once-in-a-lifetime chance.
You can phone me 02 9968 1600 - or email martin@travelchoice.com.au

Their gracious majesties: news on Cunard's Three Queens!

2009-04-16T13:01:00.009+10:00

The maiden voyage of Cunard's new Queen Elizabeth 2 sold out in 29 minutes according to the blog of Alastair Greener, Cunard's cruise director. That voyage will start in Southampton 12th October and take her to Portugal and the ports of Vigo, Lisbon and Cadiz, then to the exotic Gran Canaria. QE2's next voyage takes passengers to the Mediterranean for 14 nights, and is then followed by an Agean Introduction in November.
So if you are interested in booking on this gracious new member of the ocean-going royal family or on the Queen Mary 2 or the Queen Victoria for 2010- 2011 it might be worth getting your skates on.
The 2010 itineraries go on sale Friday April 17.
On her World Cruise 2010, Queen Mary 2, whose visit to Sydney in February made the headlines, will sail from New York January 4, arriving in Sydney March 7 after passing through the Whitsundays and visiting Auckland and the Bay of Islands in New Zealand. She'll then go on to Fremantle. There is a huge choice of segments bookable on this cruise.
Queen Victoria will commence her World Cruise 2010, sailing from Southampton, UK January 4 and arriving in Sydney February 19, after visiting many ports in the South Pacific.
Throughout the year, Queen Mary 2 will cruise the Atlantic - doing the Transatlantic crossing between Southampton, Cherbourg and Hamburg and New York 21 times, plus a number of Grand Voyages.
Queen Victoria will circumnavigate the British Isles and sail from Southampton to Iberia, Northern Europe, the Norwegian Fjords, the Mediterranean and the Baltic.
Contact me if you'd like to know more or would like a brochure.
(I took the photo above from the Pool Terrace, aft on Deck 8 of the QM2 when she was in Sydney Harbour 26th Feb this year.)
You can find out first hand what is happening on the Cunard ships on Alastair's Greener's entertaining blog.

Your first cruise

2009-04-14T17:06:00.009+10:00

If you have never cruised now is the time to check out some of the deals that are coming out.
Here are a few tips (you'll find more if you search the internet) that will help you to plan your first trip.

Choosing a time and place.

You can cruise at any time of the year, and every region has its cruising seasons. If you want to cruise from Australia then you will get the most choice in the warmer months. If you want to cruise the Mediterranean then you will have more choice in the northern summer. If Antarctica is your dream then you will also go in our summer - if it's the Arctic then it's our winter. You may want to do an expedition cruise - perhaps you fancy exploring northern Russia or New Guinea. Or you may want to take a river cruise in Europe, in Egypt or discover the lesser known reaches of the Mekong in Vietnam or the Irrawaddy in Burma.

Choosing a cruise ship

It's important to be happy on the ship you have chosen. After your first cruise you will have a much better idea of your likes and dislikes. If you love nightlife, fun and mixing with people then you may want to be on a big ship with lots of activities to choose from. If you are taking children or grandchildren then you will want to be sure the facilities and activities are right for them. if you are wanting the ultimate in service and luxury you will be looking at the more exclusive cruise lines. Price will also be a factor for most. Generally adult-oriented cruise ships will have a higher per person cost than family-oriented ships.

What are your interests

Cruise lines are constantly thinking up new activities for passengers and most have a huge variety - you can often choose between rock-climbing walls, golf, yoga or dancing. Or you may just want to sit in a deck chair and be waited on. Some cruises have a theme - such as Cordon Bleu cookery, astronomy, classical music or bridge.
Where you go will dictate the shore excursions. Mostly these are booked when you are on the cruise but if there is something you absolutely want to do, then ask your cruise consultant about booking beforehand.

Fellow passengers

When you work with a cruise consultant or a travel agent to book your cruise you will have a better chance of finding out about the typical passengers on that ship. You may find yourself on a cruise where most of the passengers speak another language, or they may be much older or younger, noisier, lazier or more active than you like to be. Be sure you to ask as being stuck on a cruise with people with whom you have nothing in common will spoil your trip.

Scheduling air travel

Unless you are travelling from and returning to your home port you are likely to need air travel. Sometimes this is included in the package, but if it isn't you need to be sure that your flights are scheduled so that you can board comfortably - usually the day before the ship is due to sail. Ask your travel agent or cruise consultant about when they suggest you should fly - and also about transfers from the airport to the ship.

What's included in the fare.

Some fares cover everything - from alcohol to tips; others cover the bare basics. The bare basics generally include all meals in designated places - buffet or restaurant; water and fruit juice to drink; access to a swimming pool; access to gym; shows; contests and games; nightclub; disembarking at ports; some TV; library books; food and drink at cocktail or drinks nights.
They all differ but the basic cruise usually does not include: alcohol, the casino, tips, excursions, in-cabin movies, spa, the beauty or massage parlour, drinks in fridge in cabin, medical treatment. You will also find that taxes, port charges and fuel supplements are generally not included in the advertised price of the cruise.

Choosing a cabin

You get what you pay for in a cabin - some of the luxury ships have only balcony cabins but generally you pay more for a balcony, a suite, or an outside cabin. The basic advertised price is often the lowest and will be for an inside cabin. You can check out the deck plan before you book and if the cabin you want is available take it - it may be gone when you come back. Sometimes passengers are given an upgrade. If you think you might suffer from sea sickness then choosing a cabin that is mid-ship or on a lower deck may help - as may having a window you can look out of, or a balcony where you can get some fresh air. And consider whether the ship of your choice has stabilisers.

What to pack

Take a carry-on bag with the basics you will need on the first day. When there are many passengers embarking it can take a while before your luggage reaches your cabin so having the essentials you need to get through the first few hours can make a big difference. As well as your camera and appropriate clothing for the weather, you might add medications, sunscreen, a swim suit and basic toiletries or makeup and a change of clothes. If you are travelling with children make sure that they too have a carry-on bag.

Each cruise line will have a style of clothing it expects the passengers to wear and your cruise consultant can fill you in on this. If you have chosen your cruise because you like fine dining, or luxury you will have packed clothes you can change into for dinner; if it's resort casual you will need the right gear and if you know there is a fancy dress night, or a dress-up night then you will need to have that too.
A few cruise lines will allow you take alcohol on board, and most will not. Find out before you pack.

Understand the dining options

When you choose a cruise you need to find out what the dining options are. When seating is assigned you will be given a choice of table size, but if you want to be a twosome you will need to tell your travel agent when you book. You can choose a cruise where seating is assigned for meals or you may find that the cruise of your choice has open seating or a choice of restaurants, bistros and snack bars. If you are on a special diet tell your travel agent so you can be accommodated at meals.

This is a start. Once you have decided to cruise your travel agent or cruise consultant will give you more information on your options. They will also arrange any visas you need and make sure that all your papers are in order for boarding.
Many folk love to cruise because it only means unpacking once, they return to a familiar cabin each night and they get to make lots of new friends...
I'll post some of the great deals that are around in the next few days - meanwhile you can contact me - martin@travelchoice.com.au if you have any questions - or post a comment here and I will answer you.

Thinking about where to go in 2009

2009-04-08T16:24:00.002+10:00

I am not making any suggestions here, just thought you might like to read this out of interest. I am intrigued ... what do you think? Do you agree with these lists - what would you add?

Phuket has been voted the top Luxury Destination of the Year by the New York Times. They have selected The Galapagos Islands as the 3rd most important destination. Now this is a destination I would suggest considering as they restrict the number of tourists a year to visit these amazing islands - and it is top of my list of places I want to visit.

Here are the top 10
1. Beirut
2. Washington D.C.
3. The Galapagos
4. Berlin
5. Las Vegas
6. Fjalinas, Sweden
7. Hawaii
8. Vienna
9. Doha, Qatar
10.Dakar, Senegal

The New York Times then asked their readers for their top destinations for 2009 and the list came out slightly differently - and without The Galapagos!

1. Beirut
2. Penang, Malaysia
3. Metz, France
4. Buffalo
5. Rome, Italy
6. Washington, D.C.
7. Berlin
8. chicago
9. Vienna
10.Hawaii

Find out more.

Fewer ships, cooler mornings

2009-03-30T12:46:00.004+11:00

As the days grow cooler and shorter, fewer ships will enter our harbours. Despite what my mobile said this morning, daylight saving has not finished and I am now taking my early morning walk round the harbour foreshores just after sunrise. (Daylight saving will end on Sunday 5th April).
Here is the Celebrity Millenium when she was moored in Sydney Harbour earlier this year. Today you will find the her docked at the International Terminal. She is due in Melbourne on 31st March, from there she will sail to Hobart, arriving on 3rd April.
Rhapsody of the Seas will arrive in Sydney on 31st March and stay until 2nd April and the Sun Princess will sail into Darling Harbour on 2nd April, leaving the same day.
Sun Princess is in Hobart overnight - and that will be the last cruise ship in our southern most port until the Spring. Melbourne will also not see any more cruise ships until the warm weather returns.
Next summer we will see more ships in our harbours than ever. And new ships are being built just for our waters. Carnival Australia announced last week that the Pacific Pearl will arrive in Australian waters and be based in Sydney from the end of 2010 and Pacific Sun will be based in Newcastle around about the same time.

11 new cruise ships in 2009 and 2010

2009-03-23T12:41:00.003+11:00

Aimed at the growing cruise market, these vessels are mostly sailing from ports in the northern hemisphere and each has a special focus.

Carnival’s Splendor
With 1,503 this ship, which caters for families and those who a love an endless program of Vegas-style entertainment, also has a water slide in the second pool and a retractable glass dome over the midship pool

Celebrity, Solstice and Equinox
Perfect for the “ style-conscious thirtysomethings drawn by edgy design” this ship is a mini art gallery of modern art valued at over $6million US. Features include a real grass croquet lawn. The Solstice is already plying routes from Florida to Italy, and sailing the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. The Equinox will launch in August.

Costa Luminosa
This ship has an 800 seat 4-D cinema, a gold simulator and a Formula One Grand Oriz driving similator. It also has more cabins with balconies than any other Costa ship.

Costa Pacifica.
This ship has a musical theme and includes a sound studio where guests can cut their own CDs with a sound engineer.

Holland America Eurodam
Cruise loving food fanatics are the market for this ship which includes a Culinary Arts Centre where guests can watch cooking demos and take classes.

MSC Fantasia and Splendida
For those who like to be waited on, these ships are old-school according to T+L. 99 suites have their own butler. The Fantasia is sailing already, Splendida is due to be launched in July.

Princess Cruises, Ruby Princess
Aimed at those who are looking for value, the outstanding features of this ship include the Sanctuary at bow where adults can lounge and listen to iPod playlists while they are spritzed with Evian water!

Seabourn Odyssey and Pride
With only 225 cabins Odyssey will undertake her first world cruise in January 2010. The marina on the aft side enables passengers to snorkel or kayak off the side of the ship. The Odyssey will visit Sydney February 2010. Pride is due to be launched in 2010.

Silversea Prince Albert
For those who love adventure, this 66 cabin ship has a fleet of Zodiacs, all cabins have ocean views and it sails to Antarctica, the Arctic and South America.

For tips on the best cabins – and more info check out the Travel+Leisure website.

A few more ships in port

2009-03-17T18:37:00.004+11:00

This week you will spot the following ships in your port...

Wednesday 18 March
Millenium is in Sydney Harbour for the day - she's pictured here when she visited at the end of February
Rhapsody of the Seas visits Adelaide for the day
C Colombus is in Devonport, Tasmania just for the day
Diamond Princess in Hobart Tasmania, leaving same day

Thursday 19 March
Volendam will visit Sydney and stay overnight
Rhapsody of the Seas is in Melbourne for the day

Friday 20th March
Pacific Dawn arrives in Sydney and leaves same day
Sun Princess visits Fremantle and leaves the next day
Rhapsody of the Seas is in Adelaide for the day

Saturday 21st March
Pacific Sun visits Brisbane for the day
Volendam arrives in Melbourne and leaves the same day

Monday 22nd March
Melbourne will welcome Rhapsody of the Seas for the day

Tuesday 23rd March
Royal Princess arrives in Burnie, Tasmania and leaving same day
Volendam is in Adelaide, leaving the same day

More and more Aussies are taking cruises and the most popular cruises are those in our home waters - Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific - then Asia. The big attraction of cruising is the inclusion of accommodation, meals, transport, entertainment and, in many cruises some great extras, all in the one price. And for many getting on and/or off in the home port is another plus - as is only unpacking once. If you fancy cruising - or think you might - we can suggest a cruise that will suit your budget and your time-frame - there are so many to choose from. There are also many different types of cruise ships - so if you would rather travel with people of your own age, on a big ship, or a small exploration vessel, we can find the right one for you.
Drop me an email anytime - martin@travelchoice.com.au

7 night Alaskan Cruise for $1,325

2009-03-13T12:13:00.005+11:00

Have you promised yourself you would take yourself to the Arctic one day? Have you always wanted to see a polar bear in the wild? The latest offer from Carnival Cruises may be just what you have been waiting for. The northbound 7-day cruise onboard Carnival Spirit departs Vancouver, British Columbia and cruises the inside passage to Ketchikan, Juneau and Skegway. Then she visits Sitka, cruises Prince William Sound and the College Fjord before arriving at Anchorage.
There are 6 departure dates between 10 June and 19 August.
The southbound cruise, taking in the same itinerary as above in reverse departs from Anchorage on 6 dates from 3 June to 26 August.
There is also an 8-day Glacier Bay Cruise departing 2 and 9 September starting at $1,742.
These cruises includes all meals and entertainment and taxes and gratuities. Carnival offers Total Choice Dining allowing you to choose the times and meals that suit you.
This offer won't last for long - call us - Martin or Biba on 02 9968 1600 - or email us at travel@travelchoice.com.au.

A taste of Cunard

2009-03-09T21:47:00.003+11:00

I have just spent a very entertaining 20 minutes reading Alastair Greener's blog. Alastair Greener is the entertainment director for Cunard and every Thursday he updates his blog which follows his journeys. At the moment he is on the Queen Victoria and has just visited Rabaul in Papua New Guinea for the first time, and Saipan. His comments are very interesting and he peppers them with photos of the places he visits. If you are a Sydneysider reading this - check out what he has to say about Sydney it is always interesting to read about one's home port from another's point of view. The latest posting also includes a very interesting piece by his guest blogger, Oliver Pengelly, one of the members of RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) who are currently part of the ship's entertainment. Clearly a dedicated actor, Oliver's posting gives a different slant to travelling on one of the world's most amazing cruise ships.
So, take 20 minutes or so and read this blog if you are planning, or hoping, to travel with Cunard one day. It is listed in my blog list, so you can check out the latest postings as Alastair travels onward.