Archive for July, 2007

More about Marco Island, Florida….

I just received an e-mail with the following information:

Due to the popularity of Weddings on 07/07/2007, the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort and Spa, is offering to the lucky brides and grooms out there, a package to surpass all packages.  For 200 guest, the Presidential Suite(for the bride and groom, for 4days/3nights) first class airfare, limousine with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries and several other goodies, on 08/08/2008 for the very affordable price of: $80,008.08.

If you think this is something you may want to do, visit: www.hotelchatter.com to get the full story.

Also if you decide this is the right place and the right time for you, please remember to include me as your Travel Agent/Guest:-} I will be there with bells, after all I know where Marco Island is.

Wishing lots of luck and love!!

Until next time…Keep safe…Happy traveling!!!

Travel Survey……

Click Here to take survey

I have created a Travel survey to best serve your needs and to get more familiarize with your travel preferences. Please feel free to participate, the information you supply will only be use by me, to further inform you in the future of offers and specials, as well as destination information.

Thank You for your participation and support.

Until next time….Keep safe….Happy traveling!!!

Marco Island Florida…..

For many years, my family and I have been visiting every Summer, and sometimes in the Winter as well (in our Florida’s winter that is) a wonderful, beautiful place in the West Coast of Florida, “Marco Island”.

We first discovered Marco Island, back in 1989 while on a trip to Key Largo, Florida. The house we rented in Key Largo, was more like a hunted house, than a vacation house, so after expending a night fighting mosquitoes, frogs and the heat, we concluded that we should move on to a better place.

While driving south towards the west coast, we found a very little known (at that time) piece of Paradise “Marco Island”.

Marco Island is located, west of Miami and south of Naples, Florida, for many years, it has been the residence of affluent people as well as local residents who love the peace and the ocean.

The sun sets are fantastic, the sea is always calm and crystal clear. If you love walking, shelling, relaxing and watching the Sun set, I recommend you visit Marco Island soon.

There are several small hotels (across the street from the beach) and also many condominiums, private as well as those managed by the “Hilton Gran Vacation Club” which can be rented on a weekly basics ( 2 bedrooms/2 baths and sleep 8).

Also the Marriott Beach Resorts and Spa, as well as The Hilton Hotel, they both are on the beach and you get a beautiful view of the ocean and the Island from most of the rooms. The rates vary according with the seasons, Summer is less crowded and they have many specials and discounts for locals as well as visitors.

Tiger Tale Beach, is nearby and is rouged and unspoiled, great for shelling and walking on the beach early morning and at sunset. The Rookery and Aquarium are nearby and it is great fun for the hold family. Naples is just a short car ride away, and from the Pier, to the shops downtown, Tin City, Caribbean Gardens/Naple’s Zoo, and many more interesting thing to see and do, you will have an opportunity to be greatly entertained during your stay.

Our family used to get great enjoyment from the Miniature Golf on the road to Naples, of course I was always the score keeper and the boys (3 of them) and my husband, were the players. Every year it was one of our favorite outings while vacationing in Marco Island.

This past week, we went back to Marco Island, this time my husband, my mother and my youngest son (now 21), and although we have been there many times, it never seem to grow old. We walked early in the morning on the beach, did a lot of shelling (it is the greatest gift anyone can receive, the treasures of the sea, unspoiled and un-touch by man), swam in the ocean (the water was so clear, you could see hundreds of fish swimming around you), enjoyed the Pool and the Sun. And at night, you could see all the people, go to the beach and with cameras on hand, wait for the Sun to sink in the Ocean in all its glory, night after night.

We love to visit Marco Island, I know you would too. Look it up, and the next time you like to enjoy the beauty and majesty of Nature, take a trip to a place of peace and elegance, Dolphins, million dollar homes as well as small shops and Historical buildings, visit “Marco Island”. The mix makes for a very interesting place, that you will love to visit time and time again.

Until next time….Keep safe…..Happy Traveling.

Virgin America starts Ticket Sales Today, and more airline news…

Virgin America will begin selling tickets today for flights that should debut Aug. 8. Its initial routes will be San Francisco-Los Angeles (from $44 each way) and San Francisco-New York/Kennedy (from $129 each way). This fall, the carrier will add service from San Francisco to both Las Vegas and Washington/Dulles. First-class fares will run up to half off the current fares charged by competing airlines on those routes. Virgin America is touting its inflight entertainment system that includes 18 DISH-TV live channels, pay-per-view movies, audio channels, and games.

BMI put its U.S.-U.K. routes on sale, with roundtrip fares from $634 from July 18 through Aug. 1 for travel Sept. 4-Dec. 17. These tickets are nonefundable and require a seven-day advance purchase and either a Saturday-night stayover or a minimum stay of three days.

AirTran will begin daily nonstops between Newburgh, N.Y. (Stewart) and West Palm Beach, Fla., on Nov. 7.

Continental Airlines will launch daily nonstops between Newark and Mont Tremblant (Canada) on Dec. 14. (Next year, the service will not run on Tuesdays and Wednesdays between Jan. 8 and Feb. 13.)

With the entry in the airline maket of Virgin America, air travel will become more affordable and the competition will increase, favoring the traveling public.

Until next time….Keep safe….Happy Traveling!!!

Avoiding the worst airports this summer…

 

Dulles Airport, near Washington, D.C. (Photo: Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority)

Most seasoned travelers I know have a blacklist—a specific airport (or two) to avoid, no matter what. Washington Dulles, gets the honor for its lack of direct public transportation options, resulting in a multi-hour journey just to get to the airport itself, and its confusing “moving room” transport shuttles that run between terminals.

Now, though, for the summer season, U.S. News & World Report has published a handy article on airports to avoid at all costs. The magazine’s editors came to their findings by analyzing DOT statistics on which airports had “the best and worst combination of delayed planes and crowded flights.”

The top five most miserable airports for summer travel, Detroit, Chicago (O’Hare), Charlotte, New York (JFK), and Newark. Naturally, many of these airports are hubs for one or several major airlines, meaning a high volume of both flights and passengers, which can lead to increased possibilities of snafus. According to U.S. News, you’ll be able to avoid some major hassles this summer by seeking out smaller airports, avoiding major hubs for connecting flights, and putting together a good backup plan.

And they’ve also made recommendations for the top five airports, based on fewest delays and crowd-free flights: Oakland, Houston (Hobby), San Jose, Dallas (Love Field), and St. Louis. Here’s hoping there isn’t a run on these airports, thus leading to some of the problems the hubs currently suffer.

Of course, you may find yourself stressed and inconvenienced at virtually any airport, and there seem to be no guarantees or plans in the works to alleviate problems with congested summer travel. If you get stuck in an endless line, your flight gets delayed or canceled, or you’re confronted with a less-than-helpful airline representative, know you’re not alone. Put together your own blacklist, or, to be even more effective, send a complaint where it counts.

Of course flying can be difficult in the best of times, more so now with all the new rules and regulations, but it is still the best and safest way to travel.

The next time you travel by air, make sure you check with your airline before going to the airport, for possible delays or changes(give your cell phone information at the time of booking, most airlines will notify you of changes affecting your flight). Get to the airport with plenty of time and carry only one or two bags(some airlines will charge you $10.00 or more if you carry more than one suitcase).

We all love to travel, so lets make the experience enjoyable, rather than a major headache. Lets get out there and enjoy this big, great wonderful world.

Until next time…Keep safe….Happy Traveling

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 
 
 

   

Holland American Specials…..

Cruise the Mexican Riviera & Sea of Cortez from only $799

Nothing compares to 10 days on the Mexican Riviera — relaxing in the warm sun and cool waters of Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and Cabo San Lucas. And with two fabulous 10-day itineraries — one featuring the beautiful Sea of Cortez with its renowned train ride to wondrous Copper Canyon — there’s no better time to book your cruise.

Sail roundtrip from convenient San Diego — and share your stateroom with a 3rd or 4th guest from only $399.

10-Day Mexican Riviera

Dive into the resort life of Acapulco and Manzanillo and watch the amazing cliff divers of La Quebrada. Relax in the tranquility of Zihuatanejo and enjoy some of the world’s best swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving in every destination.

ms Zaandam

Oct 1, 26, 2007

ms Ryndam

Dec 13, 2007
INSIDE FROM OUTSIDE FROM VERANDAH
SUITE FROM
$799 $899 $2,249

Fares based on ms Zaandam 10/26/07 sailing. Ask for Promo RV.

10-Day Mexican Riviera & Sea of Cortez

With a full season of dates to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect time to experience the distinctive pleasures of Topolobampo and an optional shore excursion to spectacular Copper Canyon, as well as snorkeling at Los Islotes.

ms Ryndam

Oct 11, 21, 31; Nov 10, 2007;
Feb 5, 15, 25; Mar 6, 16, 26; Apr 5, 15, 2008

INSIDE FROM OUTSIDE FROM VERANDAH
SUITE FROM DELUXE VERANDAH
SUITE FROM

$849 $999 $2,199 $3,399
Fares based on 10/31/07 sailing. Ask for Promo RV/RH.

Acapulco
Home to the legendary cliff divers of La Quebrada, this iconic city also features magnificent tropical villas, elegant hotels, gracious gardens and soft-sand beaches.

Zihuatanejo
This tranquil fishing village is home to artisans and fisherman, while not far away the modern resort of Ixtapa boasts palm-lined boulevards and world-class amenities.

Topolobampo
Peaceful port in the Sea of Cortez, this pristine area hosts bottlenose dolphins, elegant mansions and an optional train through the spectacular Copper Canyon.

La Paz
Defined by its tranquil perspective, La Paz draws those who love to snorkel and dive in the sapphire seas of Los Islotes, which is also home to a colony of friendly sea lions.

Puerto Vallarta
Once a quaint fishing village, this popular spot retains the cobblestone streets and red-tiled roofs from its past along with bustling markets, delightful beaches and a thriving local culture.

For reservations or information, contact:mkirsten@mktravelclub.com or call (407)913-8345

Until next time….Keep safe….Happy Traveling…

Late Summer Bargains….

There are a boatload (forgive the pun) of Caribbean cruises in August and September. You’ll need to decide whether you want to cruise for less than a week, exactly a week, or more than a week, and whether you’d rather visit the western, eastern, or southern Caribbean islands.

In general, you’ll find better deals in September. August sailings are still considered peak (the most expensive) time, even though it’s hurricane season. Most cruise ships can sail around hurricanes, but if you’re concerned then book a southern Caribbean cruise, where your trip is less likely to be affected by storms.

When I checked, Carnival’s September deals started at $239 per person for a four-night cruise and $479 for a seven-night cruise. Its ships can take on a party atmosphere, and the food is good but not outstanding. Royal Caribbean is a great line for active travelers. I did a quick search on its website and found four-night cruises from $249 and seven-night cruises from $649 for August and September. All prices I mentioned are for inside cabins, which are fine if you don’t plan to spend much time in your cabin. Otherwise, I recommend slightly pricier outside cabins as a compromise, and balcony cabins if you want to splurge.

Step up to a premium line, and you can find seven-night September cruises on Princess in the $549 to $599 range. My searches on Holland America and Celebrity came up with nothing noteworthy. Be aware, of course, that cruise prices change more often than the weather, so the prices noted here are ballpark figures and may or may not have changed by the time you read this.

For more deal options, you can also contact a travel agent: mkirsten@mktravelclub.com

Splash Into Summer!

The Hutchinson Island Marriott is a world of its own, where people rediscover what they really treasure. There’s something here for everyone. Enjoy miles of unspoiled beaches, excellent golf, refreshing pools, tennis, a world-class marina, a wide array of water sports and ideal suite and studio accommodations for a vacation at the beach. It makes the perfect summer getaway.

Experience the Treasure Coast of Florida this summer.

Rates Starting at $200
Package Includes:
2 Beach Towels
1 Beach Bag
2 Drink Coupons
Suntan Lotion

For reservations and information, contact:mkirsten@mktravelclub.com

Boston fares from $159 R/T*

Flights to Boston are on sale from Continental. Advertised fares start at $172 round-trip, but I found lower fares from $159 on US Airways.

Continental’s prices were beaten by other U.S.-based carriers for each of the routes I checked over a wide travel period. But, since Continental has not listed specific travel dates for this sale, these fares may be competitive for your itinerary—you’ll have to compare fares to be sure.

The deal

Continental has not listed specific travel dates or a booking deadline.

Best sample round-trip fares, not including additional taxes and fees, are:

$159 from Newark, NJ to Boston, MA on US Airways
$159 from Boston, MA to Newark, NJ on US Airways
$179 from Boston, MA to Cleveland, OH on American, Northwest, and US Airways
$179 from Cleveland, OH to Boston, MA on American, Northwest, and US Airways
$199 from Boston, MA to Houston, TX on US Airways
$199 from Houston, TX to Boston, MA on US Airways
All prices, dates, and booking details listed here were valid at the time of publication. Some information may have changed since that time.

Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights or dates. Be flexible with your travel dates to find the lowest fares. Blackout dates and additional restrictions may apply.

I hope the above information, gives you an ideal for your future travel. I will be searching for more locations and deals in the next days, and will be posting it as I find them. Remember “Our Service is Free…and Our Advice is Priceless”.

For reservations and information, please contact: mkirsten@mktravelclub.com or call (407)913-8345

Until next time….Keep safe….Happy Traveling….

Bellagio,Las Vegas Promotions…..

This just in from Bellagio,Las vegas:

For those of us who love Las Vegas, and I know many of us do. Here is an opportunity to stay at the best and most beautiful hotel on the Strip. Bellagio just announced its promotional rates for the next 3 months.

July
Wed 18 ($179.00)
Mon 22 ($189.00)
Tue 23 ($189.00)
Wed 24 ($179.00)
Thu 25 ($179.00)
Fri 26 ($179.00)
August

Tue 7 ($199.00)
Wed 8 ($199.00)
Thu 9($199.00)
Wed 15 ($209.00)
Thu 16 ($179.00)
Wed 29 ($179.00)
Thu 30 ($179.00)

September

Mon 3 ($179.00)
Tue 4 ($179.00)
Wed 5 ($179.00)
Wed 12 ($199.00)
Thu 20 ($179.00)
Tue 25 ($199.00)

These rates are based on availability. These offers are available Sunday through Thursday only where applicable, not including Fridays,Saturdays and holidays. Rates do not include the Clark County room tax of (9%).

Bellagio is the only resort in the country with 2 AAA Five Diamonds Award winning restaurants.

For more information and reservations, please e-mail:mkirsten@mktravelclub.com

Until next time….Keep safe and Happy Traveling…….

New York West Side…..

City That Never Sleeps

West Side

You’ll find plenty to keep busy around the clock in this up and coming enclave that’s home to lively ethnic eateries, rollicking bars and lounges, zooming taxi cabs, and retail stores.

Must do activities:

1)Legally Blond Ticket:

When her boyfriend dumps her for someone more “serious,” bubbly fashionista Elle Woods puts aside her credit card, hits the books, and sets out to go where no Delta Nu has ever gone before: Harvard Law. Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the 2001 hit film starring Reese Witherspoon, this hilarious story proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style.

Operating Hours

Available until October 28, 2007

Wednesday at 2pm and 8pm

Thursday at 8pm

Friday at 8pm

Saturday at 2pm

Sunday at 2pm and 7pm

Price Starting at:$121.50

2)Bateaux New York Harbor Dinner Cruise

Prices starting at $126.54

Take this three-hour harbor cruise with dinner that is the ultimate New York indulgence.

A sister ship of Bateaux in London and Paris, Bateaux New York’s Celestial offers fine food, sophisticated music, and unparalleled views of the world’s most magnificent skyline through its unique curved glass walls and ceiling. Fresh flowers, fine china, and linen-draped tables are just a few of the elegant touches. This exquisite mix of magnificent views, sophisticated cuisine, international wines, jazz and pop trios, and vocalist make Bateaux New York an unforgettable New York experience.

Operating Hours

Daily.

Not available: 12/31/06, 12/31/07; Dry-docked 1/1/07-2/9/07

Inclusions

Cruise, dinner, and entertainment

Exclusions
Drinks and gratuity

Operates daily.

Not available: 12/31/06, 12/31/07 Dry-docked 1/1/07-2/9/07

Children are allowed but not recommended for the dinner cruise. Children ages two and under are free but must be mentioned when you confirm your reservation.

Until next time…Keep safe….Happy traveling.

Booking your next cruise……

You can often find low rates and extra value by purchasing your cruise through a travel agent. You will get free information from experience agents, and she/he will guide you to choose the best cruise for your budget and requirements.

The deals

Here are some of the top deals. All sailings take place in 2007 and 2008.

1)$1,549 for an inside cabin on a 15-night Panama Canal cruise aboard Celebrity’s Millennium departing from Ft. Lauderdale for San Francisco on April 20, 2008.

2)$2,795 for an outside cabin on a seven-night South Pacific cruise aboard Regent’s Paul Gauguin departing from Papeete on December 22, 2007.

3)$3,085 for a balcony cabin on a seven-night Caribbean cruise aboard Crystal’s Crystal Symphony departing from Miami on December 1, 2007. Take advantage of this low rate.

4)$629 for an inside cabin on a seven-night Bermuda cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Empress of the Seas departing from Philadelphia on October 13, 2007.

5)$1,049 for an inside cabin on a seven-night Bermuda cruise aboard Azamara’s Azamara Journey departing from Bayonne on October 6, 2007.

6)$349 for an inside cabin on a five-night western Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas departing from Ft. Lauderdale on September 10, 2007.

7)$499 for an inside cabin on a seven-night southern Caribbean cruise aboard Carnival’s Destiny departing from San Juan on October 21, 2007.

8)$729 for an inside cabin on an eight-night eastern Caribbean cruise aboard Carnival’s Carnival Miracle departing from New York on April 23, 2008.

9)$619 for an inside cabin on a 10-night Hawaii cruise aboard Norwegian’s Pride of Aloha departing from Honolulu on December 12, 2007.

10)$799 for an outside cabin on a six-night Bahamas and Florida cruise aboard Norwegian’s Norwegian Spirit departing from New York on August 26, 2007.

11)$899 for a balcony cabin on a seven-night southern Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas departing from San Juan on September 16, 2007.

All prices, dates, and booking details listed here were valid at the time of publication. Some information may have changed since that time. There are more deals available on all cruise lines and ports, for year round sailing. Our service is free….our advice is priceless!!

For more information or to book a cruise, e-mail:mkirsten@mktravelclub.com

Fares are per person based on double occupancy and do not include additional taxes or fees. Prices are capacity controlled and may change at any time.

Until next time….Keep safe….Happy traveling!!!