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Cruise prices can be deceptively cheaper than hotels at first glance. The breakdown of why the base cruise fare might seem lower, but there are additional factors to consider: Economies of Scale: Cruise ships are massive, allowing them to house and feed thousands of people efficiently. This bulk buying power brings down the cost per passenger for meals and basic accommodations. All-Inclusive (Almost): The base cruise fare often covers meals (excluding specialty restaurants), entertainment, and even some activities. This can make it seem like a better deal compared to a hotel where you'd pay extra for dining and activities. Hidden Costs: Remember, cruise lines strategically price the base fare to be attractive. The hidden costs creep in: Shore Excursions: Exploring ports of call usually involves additional costs for organized tours or independent activities. Beverages: Drinks, including bottled water and alcoholic drinks, are rarely included and can add up quickly. Gratuities: While not mandatory, tipping crew members is expected and can add a few hundred dollars to your trip. Specialty Dining: If you crave a more upscale dining experience, specialty restaurants onboard have additional charges. Onboard Spending: The constant temptation of onboard shops, casinos, and other amenities can significantly inflate your final cost. Are cruises really cheaper? It depends. Cruises can be a great value for budget-conscious travelers who plan carefully and stick to the included amenities. However, for those who like to explore destinations freely, enjoy fancy drinks, or indulge in onboard extras, the final cost might end up being comparable or even more expensive than a land-based vacation. Here are some additional things to consider: Destination: Cruises to remote locations with limited dining options might offer a better value compared to cruises with readily available shore excursions. Travel Style: If you prioritize relaxation and all-inclusive experiences, cruises can be ideal. Active travelers who crave deep cultural immersion might prefer a hotel-based vacation. Cruise lines have mastered the art of maximizing passenger volume and minimizing operational costs per person. They're essentially floating cities, buying food and fuel in bulk, and employing a crew with potentially lower wages (though often with excellent benefits). This efficiency creates the illusion of a budget-friendly vacation. Once you're on a cruise ship, you're a captive audience. While the base fare might seem cheap, cruise lines strategically price it to entice you. Food may be "unlimited," but specialty restaurants, fancy drinks, and onboard activities all have a premium price tag. It's like a resort where you can't leave! The real money for the cruise line often comes from these onboard expenditures.

Experience Luxury for Less: Why Sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises When it comes to cruising, many travelers assume that luxury cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises are out of their budget. However, you might be surprised to find that sailing on a luxury cruise can be comparable in price to non-luxury cruise lines, once you factor in all the included amenities and services. As a luxury travel advisor, I often recommend Regent for this very reason. Here's why opting for a luxury cruise with Regent can provide exceptional value and an unparalleled experience. All-Inclusive Luxury: What Sets Regent Apart One of the standout features of Regent Seven Seas Cruises is their all-inclusive pricing model. This means that nearly everything is included in the upfront cost, eliminating many of the extra expenses that can quickly add up on other cruise lines. Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically included on a Regent cruise: Unlimited Shore Excursions: Regent offers a wide range of complimentary shore excursions at every port, allowing you to explore without worrying about extra costs. Gourmet Dining: Enjoy fine dining at multiple onboard restaurants, all included in your fare. There are no additional charges for specialty dining. Premium Beverages: Unlimited premium wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages are available throughout the ship. Gratuities: All gratuities are included, so you don't need to budget for tipping. Wi-Fi: Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi keeps you connected throughout your voyage. Transfers and Flights: Many Regent cruises include free roundtrip airfare and ground transfers, adding significant value. Comparing Costs: Luxury vs. Non-Luxury Cruise Lines When you compare the initial fare of a Regent cruise with that of a non-luxury cruise line, the Regent fare may appear higher. However, once you add up the costs of shore excursions, specialty dining, beverages, gratuities, and Wi-Fi on a non-luxury cruise, the price difference often narrows significantly. In many cases, you may find that the overall cost is quite comparable, if not less, on a Regent cruise. Personal Experience: Sailing with Regent I recently had clients who were considering a Mediterranean cruise. Initially drawn to a popular non-luxury cruise line due to the lower advertised fare, they were hesitant about Regent. However, after we broke down the costs and compared the overall value, they chose Regent for their trip. They were delighted with their decision, enjoying seamless travel from start to finish, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable excursions. The value they received far exceeded their expectations, proving that luxury doesn’t always mean unaffordable.

Here are some key points about cruise ships: 1. **Definition**: Cruise ships are large passenger ships designed for leisure travel, providing onboard accommodation, dining, entertainment, and recreational facilities. 2. **Size and Capacity**: Cruise ships vary in size, ranging from smaller vessels accommodating a few hundred passengers to mega-ships capable of carrying several thousand passengers and crew members. 3. **Amenities**: Cruise ships offer a wide range of amenities and services, including multiple restaurants and dining options, bars and lounges, swimming pools, spas, fitness centers, theaters, casinos, shopping arcades, and recreational activities such as rock climbing, mini-golf, and water slides. 4. **Destinations**: Cruise ships operate itineraries to various destinations worldwide, including popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska, Northern Europe, Asia, and South America. Some cruises focus on specific themes or interests, such as cultural exploration, adventure travel, or wildlife viewing. 5. **Accommodation**: Cruise ships feature a variety of cabin categories, ranging from standard interior cabins to luxurious suites with private balconies. Passengers can choose accommodations based on their preferences and budget. 6. **Cruise Lines**: There are numerous cruise lines operating around the world, each with its own unique style, atmosphere, and onboard offerings. Major cruise lines include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Princess Cruises, among others. 7. **Safety and Regulations**: Cruise ships are subject to strict safety regulations and guidelines to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew. These include safety drills, lifeboat and evacuation procedures, environmental protection measures, and compliance with international maritime laws. 8. **Impact on Tourism**: Cruise tourism contributes significantly to local economies in port destinations, generating revenue from passenger spending on excursions, shopping, dining, and other activities. However, it also raises concerns about environmental impact, overcrowding in tourist destinations, and cultural sustainability. Overall, cruise ships offer travelers a convenient and luxurious way to explore multiple destinations while enjoying a wide range of amenities and entertainment options onboard.

The USVI Hotel & Tourism Association (USVIHTA) fully supports the plans for essential and long-needed improvements to the airport experience on St. Thomas and St. Croix. The Cyril E. King Airport (CEKA) was built to process 600,000 arriving and departing passengers a year. In 2022, more than 1.65 million passengers used the terminal. Although the numbers were down in 2023, arrivals of 285,150 passengers through April 2024 are 26.2% higher year over year. The terminals have not been upgraded since 1989 (CEKA) and 2000 (Henry E. Rohlsen Airport or HERA) except for the CEKA baggage claim area, renovated in 2014, and the HERA domestic lounge, remodeled in 2021. As the gateway to the islands for tourists, the airports provide the first and last impression for our visitors. As the territory continues to see an increase in tourist arrivals, there is a critical need to reimagine and improve the airport experience. Visitors come to the U.S. Virgin Islands to enjoy a vacation. The arrival experience at CEKA is extremely challenging. Several planes landing within the same time frame cause long waits for luggage, congestion and confusion for travelers. The long departure lines at Customs and TSA, sometimes snaking outside the terminal, cause enormous frustration. Current procedures for boarding and deplaning need updating to streamline the process and ensure the safety and convenience of travelers and airport employees. Boarding passengers via stairs in the rain and heat simply does not satisfy those criteria. By modernizing the facilities at CEKA and HERA, both airports will finally compete with other Caribbean airports. USVIHTA firmly believes in this private/public partnership (P3). During the bidding process, the only company that reached out to USVIHTA was AECON, part of the VIports Partners consortium that will partner with the Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA). AECON acknowledged the importance of gathering input from the tourism sector and the community regarding the challenges and requirements for a new airport. AVPORTS, the operating partner of VIports, has experience operating airports in the U.S. and Caribbean in a safe and efficient manner with a focus on the customer experience. Each member of the VIports Partners consortium has demonstrated expertise that will benefit this plan. VIports Partners has committed to developing, financing and operating both CEKA and HERA in accordance with best practices at U.S. and Caribbean airports. The terminal redevelopment will include modern airport amenities, including passenger boarding bridges at both airports. Local businesses and stakeholders will have a crucial role in the plan by participating in an advisory team to assist with the procurement process and provide input to the design-build team. They will also participate in the airport concessions. The planned project increases employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for our community. Although VIPA is entering into a P3 agreement, the...

News from your Travel Advisor Arnold - 3 to 5-minute read Having started the 3rd quarter going into full summer season, please find following which may be of interest to you, for your review & reading enjoyment: Luxury hotel brands say they're creating a whole new cruise category. 1 - Ritz-Carlton: Its first yacht Evrima, of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection was put into service in October 2022 and is one in a cadre of luxury hotel companies turning their attention to the sea. Two a bit larger yachts than the first are to be added to the fleet.  https://lnkd.in/ekp6TeJE 2 - Four Seasons: Became one of the latest, announcing at a recent Monaco yacht show that it is planning a yacht line starting with a 190-passenger yacht to be launched in 2026. And according to press releases, already with an option for a second yacht.  https://lnkd.in/etPC5YVm 3 - Aman: One of the world’s most intuitive & pioneering resort, hotel & residence brands will also enter the industry, with Aman at Sea, by building of a 100-passenger yacht in a joint venture with Cruise Saudi called Project Sama. Launch date 2027.  https://lnkd.in/eJ6CsMbN 4 - Accor: Owner of legendary Orient Express, is another entrant having announced a new project. Orient Express  Silenseas, to set sail on World’s largest super sailing yacht. Launch date 2026. A sister yacht is scheduled to join the fleet in 2027.  https://lnkd.in/eFR75ZAq A common thread among these entrants is that none use the word "cruise" in their name, and at least two are actively distancing themselves from the concept. 5 - Relais & Châteaux: R & C is an association of individually owned and operated luxury hotels & is affiliated with Delfin Amazon Cruises. https://lnkd.in/eT4dk9Gs I hope you enjoyed reviewing above information and perhaps consider it for your future travels. Last but not least, it may be of interest to you that after being rather active on my personal FB account, I have recently created a new group & business profile: To stay updated on even more travel news and exclusive content, consider joining my new Facebook group Global Luxury Cruise Forum and following me on my business page Global Luxury Travel Expert  Your shares & likes will also be appreciated.

B2B travel rumour's 2: Hotel Stars: A Global Perspective . Did you know that the meaning of hotel stars varies from country to country? Yes, a 3-star hotel in India might not offer the same level of comfort as a 3-star hotel in France! The lack of a universal hotel rating system is the culprit. Each country has its own standards, often based on local preferences and customs. For instance, in France, bidets are a must, while in Scandinavia, small beds are a no-no. In India, guests are less fussed about these details. So, before you book your next hotel, do your research. Know what to expect based on the star rating at your destination. To get you started, here's a quick guide to three-star hotels in five popular travel destinations: Thailand , Dubai , Malaysia , the UK , and the US . Key Takeaway: The star rating of a hotel is not a universal measure of quality. It's a local standard that reflects the unique preferences and expectations of each country. So, know before you request for your client! 

How to Plan a Memorable Luxury Travel Experience Planning a luxury travel experience involves more than just booking five-star accommodations and dining at high-end restaurants; it’s about crafting an exceptional journey tailored to your desires and interests. To… #adventures #Travel >>> Read more

Day 5: All-Inclusive Resort Travel Tips 1. Research Before Booking: Every all-inclusive resort has its own unique set of offerings. Before booking, make sure to thoroughly research what’s included in your package. Some resorts include activities like snorkeling and kayaking, while others may charge extra. 2. Take Advantage of On-Site Activities: Most all-inclusive resorts offer a range of on-site activities. From yoga classes to cooking demonstrations, these activities are usually included in your package and can add unique experiences to your vacation. 3. Understand the Dining Options: All-inclusive resorts often boast multiple dining options. Understand what each restaurant offers and their operating hours. Some resorts may require reservations for certain restaurants, so plan accordingly. 4. Be Aware of Tipping Policies: While some all-inclusive resorts include gratuities in their pricing, others do not. Check the resort's policy ahead of time so you can budget accordingly. 5. Explore Off-Site: While all-inclusive resorts provide plenty of amenities and activities, don't forget to explore the local area too. Whether it's a local market, a historic site, or a beautiful beach, immersing yourself in the local culture can make your trip even more memorable. Check with the resort as they often organize excursions or can provide trusted recommendations.

𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝟓 𝐚𝐰𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐞 If you see yourself on a cruise, or know somebody who would, well call me on 07976 051605 or DM me 1. 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥: Cruises offer a convenient and hassle-free way to travel, allowing you to visit multiple destinations without the need for constant packing and unpacking. With all-inclusive packages that typically include accommodations, meals, entertainment, and transportation between ports, cruises simplify the planning process and provide a seamless travel experience. 2. 𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: Cruises provide access to a diverse range of destinations, allowing you to explore multiple cities, countries, and regions in a single trip. Whether you're interested in exploring tropical islands in the Caribbean, ancient civilizations in the Mediterranean, breathtaking fjords in Alaska, or exotic wildlife in the Galapagos, there's a cruise itinerary to suit every interest and preference. Cruises offer the opportunity to discover new destinations and cultures while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a floating resort. 3. 𝐔𝐧𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: Modern cruise ships are equipped with a wide array of amenities and entertainment options to cater to every taste and interest. From luxurious spas, swimming pools, and fitness centers to Broadway-style shows, live music, and themed parties, there's no shortage of activities and entertainment onboard. Additionally, cruise lines often feature specialty restaurants, bars, casinos, shopping boutiques, and recreational facilities, ensuring that there's always something to do and experience during your voyage. 4. 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲-𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐀𝐭𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞: Cruises are an excellent option for families and multigenerational groups, offering something for everyone regardless of age or interests. Many cruise lines provide dedicated kids' clubs, teen centers, and family-friendly activities and entertainment to keep children and parents entertained throughout the voyage. With supervised programs, age-appropriate activities, and amenities designed with families in mind, cruises offer the perfect opportunity for quality time together while exploring new destinations. 5. 𝐒𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐱𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Cruising allows you to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the ocean and coastline from the comfort of your ship, providing a sense of tranquility and relaxation unlike any other mode of travel. Whether you're lounging on a sun deck, enjoying a leisurely meal with ocean views, or watching the sunset from your private balcony, cruising offers countless opportunities to unwind and rejuvenate while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. #law #retail #management #director #business   

Let's talk a little bit about Travel... When it comes to planning a cruise vacation, one of the key decisions you’ll have to make is whether to book shore excursions through the cruise ship or explore the destinations on your own. Let’s explore the advantages of booking cruise ship shore excursions: Convenience and Peace of Mind: Booking through the cruise ship offers convenience. They handle all logistics, including transportation, guides, and timing. No need to worry about coordinating details or navigating unfamiliar places. Relax and enjoy your day ashore stress-free. Safety and Security: Cruise line-approved excursions provide peace of mind. Activities and providers are vetted, adhering to strict safety regulations. Being part of a group tour adds security, especially in unfamiliar or potentially risky destinations. Local Expertise and Unique Experiences: Local guides share their knowledge of history, culture, and highlights. You gain deeper insights into the places you visit. Cruise ship excursions often offer unique experiences not easily accessible to independent travelers. Think exclusive tours, private attractions access, and immersive cultural activities. In summary, booking cruise ship shore excursions ensures convenience, safety, and expert guidance. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, these excursions enhance your overall travel experience.