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Guadeloupe, the Beautiful Butterfly Island

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

A Caribbean cruise is about more than just kicking back and relaxing under warm sunny skies on breezy beaches. This type of vacation also involves exploring the vast array of island landscapes, languages, and cuisines at various ports of call. Practically all cruise enthusiasts are familiar with the most popular destinations like Jamaica, St. Thomas, and Cozumel. However, the rich diversity of culture in the Caribbean means that an ocean vacation adventure often includes a stop or two off the beaten path, as well.

One such place is Guadeloupe, an island that even many experienced North American cruisers have rarely visited. Located among the Lesser Antilles at the easternmost reaches of more exotic cruise itineraries, this lush butterfly-shaped land is where the powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean meet the placid azure waters of the Caribbean Sea. As possession of France, the island contains a rich blend of Caribbean and French cultures.

Tourist officials recently announced a new bicycle taxi service in the island city of Pointe-a-Pitre. On these three-hour excursions, visitors see many of the city’s famous open-air markets, high-end French boutiques, historic sites, and architectural attractions. The town—often called the Caribbean Marseilles—is a bustling one, so tourists should come prepared for a busy sightseeing tour!

Visitors who’d like to get a bit farther afield can rent a car to tour the rest of the island. The coast, of course, is strung with lazy beach towns and gorgeous stretches of sand and sea, perfect for snorkeling and beach-bumming.

Perhaps the most popular draw to Guadeloupe is its active volcano, La Soufriere, which stands over the beautiful Guadeloupe National Park. Here, hikers can enjoy a vigorous walk to the top of the tallest peak in the Lesser Antilles, and refresh themselves in one of the charming villages on the way back into town.

Another famous attraction on the island is the rocky outcropping known as Point des Chateaux. For many, the locale is reminiscent of France’s Brittany, a place where ocean waves crash thunderously upon jagged rocks. Things are a bit more relaxed in a local cove, where sunbathers can relax and enjoy delicious food from local vendors.

Beautiful Guadeloupe offers dedicated cruisers the perfect opportunity to experience a truly exotic port of call that is sure to make any ocean vacation that much more memorable!

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Health Agency Recognizes Ships for Keeping Passengers Safe

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Although uncommon, outbreaks of illness aboard cruise ships do occasionally happen. One of the main reasons such occurrences are so rare is because cruise lines and the governments of the countries they visit work hand-in-hand to ensure passengers’ health and safety.

Incidents of illness in the cruise industry are minimized through national guidelines that have been developed to protect cruise lines’ guests. One of the most intensive cruise health and safety programs in the world is administered by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which conducts surprise cleanliness inspections twice a year in order to verify cruise ships’ adherence to health standards. Every ship that calls in a US port is required to undergo these tests. To pass the inspection, ships must achieve at least an 86 out of a 100-point grading scale. The CDC has already carried out inspections on 55 vessels so far this year.

A few weeks ago, the CDC announced the results of inspections completed to date in 2015. The vast majority of these ships have passed their inspections, and only two ships—neither of which is a Royal Holiday affiliate—have failed. The best news is that 11 ships earned perfect grades. Of these top scorers, most are ships run by Royal Holiday-associated cruise lines, including the following:

– Carnival Miracle and Carnival Pride

– Celebrity Infinity

– Island Princess and Ruby Princess

– Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Sky

Congratulations to all the ships that passed their inspections with flying colors!

Next time you are relaxing on a gleaming cruise ship while looking forward to your next exotic destination, be sure to offer a word of thanks to the hardworking crews that constantly strive to keep their guests safe and healthy.

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CruiseCruise TipsDestination Tips

Cruising the Ancient Lands of the Eastern Mediterranean

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

By far, the most popular cruise destinations for North American vacationers lie in the gentle blue waters of the Caribbean. The islands’ close proximity to the continent and great variety of shore excursions, cultures, and cuisines offers more than enough to draw cruisers to the region year after year. Many experienced cruisers, however, might choose to look a bit further afield this year, in order to enjoy an unforgettable ocean voyage among the sun-drenched islands and shores of the Eastern Mediterranean.

The Eastern Mediterranean is the place where western civilization began—the setting of innumerable stories and histories from Ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, and the Holy Land. A cruiser sailing the region can expect a memorable trip full of breathtaking ruins, spectacular vistas, and sophisticated European culture.

Of the many beautiful destinations in the region, a few stand out above the rest, especially for the cruiser for whom such a trip might be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Mykonos, for example, is a hot party destination known around the world for its nightlife. Perhaps the most renowned port in the Greek islands is Santorini, an island that’s home to an ancient volcano, jaw-dropping cliff-side ruins, black sand beaches, and a thriving local culture. On Turkish shores, visitors can explore Kusadasi, which is a short ride from spectacular Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.

The cruise season here roughly runs from spring through fall, with high season falling in late summer, when hordes of Europeans typically take their vacations. Because the region has so many picturesque ports, bustling cities, and gorgeous islands to visit, cruise lines typically offer several itineraries. Many Eastern Mediterranean cruises start in Istanbul or Athens, and work their way through the countless islands in the vicinity. Other, longer cruises might embark in Venice or Rome, or include stops in Israel, Egypt, or Cyprus.

Before packing for an Eastern Mediterranean cruise, keep a few things in mind. The region is scorching in the summertime, so remember your sunscreen, shades, and hat, and be sure to bring along plenty of water during shore excursions. Also keep in mind that many popular tourist attractions such as ancient churches, synagogues, and mosques have modest dress codes, so research appropriate attire before visiting these sites.

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Cruise Industry Continues to Reduce Its Impact on Environment

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

A few weeks ago, Earth Day came and went with the usual fanfare as organizations and businesses touted their contributions to sustainable practices and a cleaner environment. While some industries, however, begin and end their green efforts during their Earth Day observances, the cruise industry takes its commitment to preserving the environment seriously.

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is an alliance of the world’s largest and most influential cruise companies. For Earth Day on April 22 this year, CLIA published a press release outlining some of the environmental initiatives its member cruise lines have embraced.

Cruise ships are enormously complex vessels that effectively serve as floating cities devoted to entertainment. With thousands of people on board, it’s no surprise that a lot of waste is produced. Despite the enormity of the task, CLIA member cruise lines managed to recycle 80,000 tons of aluminum, glass, paper, and plastic over the last year. In addition, cruise ships increasingly use ingenious new technologies to produce fresh water, provide heating, and treat waste water. Moreover, with every new launch and refurbishment, more and more energy-saving lightbulbs and appliances are installed on ships, from bow to stern.

CLIA is also committed to air quality. Many of its member companies’ vessels are powered by efficient engines and utilize scrubbers to clean exhaust. The newest ships take advantage of advanced coatings, hull designs, and piloting practices to further improve fuel efficiency.

In addition, cruise lines have a long history of partnering with well-respected non-profits to promote conservation of the world’s sea life and marine habitats. Last year, for example, Carnival Corporation announced a $2.5 million donation to The Nature Conservancy, which will use the gift to fund coral reef restoration projects.

The countless crew members, travel agents, engineers, and business people who make up the cruise industry have a vested interest in keeping the oceans clean and beautiful for the enjoyment of their passengers. For this reason, cruisers can kick back and relax during their vacations, knowing that their favorite cruise line is working to make their vacation not only memorable, but environmentally friendly as well.

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Alaska – Things to Do and What to Pack

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

One of the most popular cruise destinations in North America is the majestic coastline of Alaska. Now that summer is practically here, countless cruisers are getting ready for a cool, relaxing ocean voyage.

Alaska isn’t exactly known for its sandy beaches and rum drinks, so what compels so many travelers to visit these northern shores year after year?

Itineraries along the western shores of Canada and Alaska offer innumerable opportunities to experience some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world. Rugged, forested mountains and imposing glaciers define the entire the coastline, while wildlife such as moose, bears, and whales can be spotted all along the way. In addition, ports of call present a surprising degree of cosmopolitan sophistication, fascinating native culture, and plenty of sporty outdoor fun.

It goes without saying, then, that preparing for an Alaskan cruise is a bit different than getting ready for a trip to the Caribbean!

The bikinis and Bermuda shorts can stay home, but you should still bring the sunscreen. The long northern days still can give quite a burn, especially after a day’s shore excursion to a bright glacier or an afternoon fishing expedition.

Much of Alaska’s allure is its natural beauty, so most people who travel there find themselves taking at least one or two hikes or other outdoor adventures. For this reason, be sure to take along some hiking boots, a small backpack, and plenty of bug repellent to keep the mosquitoes at bay. The Pacific Northwest is also very wet. Therefore, it’s a good idea to bring a poncho.

Binoculars are a must for anyone wanting to get a close-up view of wildlife on the coast, or whales among the waves. They’re also perfect for a little stargazing while at sea, far from the city lights back home. Of course, don’t forget the camera—and enough memory cards to store all those vacation photos!

Finally, remember to bring along an extra bag or two in which to pack all your souvenirs. Practically all the stops along the way have shops and museums where visitors can purchase beautiful native crafts, fine works of art, and an array of antiques and local products.

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Cruise NewsRoyal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has more for you

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

A cruise vacation is without a doubt an amazing experience that everyone should have the opportunity to experience at least once in life. Royal Caribbean knows this, which is why it is now offering more routes and types of cabins for Royal Holiday members.

If you want to go on a cruise, but you think it is very expensive, we have good news: Royal Caribbean offers many options at different costs that are ideal for all budgets. Want a few good examples? Take a look:

  • Bahamas: Escape on an express 3-night cruise to the Bahamas from 3,368 Holiday Credits. Set sail on August 7 from Miami aboard the Majesty of the Seas and enjoy the complete cruise experience.
  • 7 nights of adventure await you aboard the Rhapsody of the Seas. Leaving from Rome on August 16, you can enjoy this adventure from 15,504 Holiday Credits.
  • Caribbean: What do 9 nights of Caribbean paradise aboard the Liberty of the Seas sound like? The price sure sounds incredible: from 5,277 Holiday Credits departing November 13, from Galveston, Texas.
  • South America: Sail 3 nights from Santos Brazil aboard the Rhapsody of the Seas from 7,598 Holiday Credits.

These and many other Royal Caribbean routes are available to travel on impressive ships like Adventure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, which feature complete amenities and spectacular facilities for you to enjoy your time on board.  Also, with Gold Anchor Service, the crew will do everything possible to make your vacation unforgettable.

As if that were not enough, on board activities are plenty and varied, you will not have time to get bored even for a moment. Sign into the website, book your cruise and enjoy your vacation aboard.

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Boston Celebrates Opening of 2015 Cruise Season

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

On its way to Bermuda, the Norwegian Dawn stopped at the Black Falcon cruise terminal in Boston, Massachusetts, on May 1. Holland America Line’s newest ship, Veendam, set sail on her maiden voyage to Bermuda the following weekend. As the first ship to arrive and the first ship to depart from the terminal, the two ships marked the opening of the 2015 cruise season in Boston, a popular embarkation point for sailings to the US Atlantic seaboard, Bermuda, and Canada.

In honor of the new cruise season, officials at the cruise port decorated Terminal 2 with island-themed paintings created by elementary school-aged children and their families during a “Family Art Day” event on May 2. A number of port and cruise line officials also attended the event.

A major American port, Boston easily holds its own against other top seaside cities like Miami, New York, and San Diego. Therefore, cruisers departing from or arriving in the city should consider spending an extra couple of days before or after their ocean vacations to experience a little of what exciting “Beantown” has to offer.

Tourists in Boston have plenty to see and do. For example, the city’s Museum of Fine Arts boasts one of the most impressive collections in the US. Cruisers looking for a traditional aquarium experience will want to visit the New England Aquarium’s serene marine life exhibits. For those who’d like to get out on the sea, the aquarium organizes whale-watching tours. Shoppers can peruse high-end boutiques on Newbury Street, antique shops on Beacon Hill, and the bustling marketplace at Faneuil Hall.

Boston is also the home of a number of professional sports teams, including baseball’s Red Sox, football’s Patriots, basketball’s Celtics, and hockey’s Bruins. Visiting fans shouldn’t miss a game while in town!

Of course, Boston is also widely recognized as the epicenter of Revolutionary War-era attractions. The city offers a well-planned 2.5 mile Freedom Trail that takes tourists on a tour of 16 important historical sites, starting in beautiful Boston Common. However, it’s an extensive walk, and real history buffs may need a few days to take it all in.

The enormous variety of activities in Boston means there is something sure to delight every cruiser fortunate enough to visit!

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Before you cruiseCruiseCruise NewsCruise TipsDestination Tips

Are Big Changes Coming to Cruise Room Service?

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Cruisers have been paying close attention to Carnival Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line this April as the two companies have rolled out charges for select room service items.

Traditionally, one of the most widely appreciated perks of taking a cruise has been the availability of room service 24 hours a day, at no extra charge. The biggest and most affordable lines have always offered somewhat abbreviated selections on their room service menus, limiting these stateroom meals to sandwiches, soups, salads, continental breakfasts, and other simple fare. It’s also common to see late-night fees on service between, for example, the hours of midnight and 5:00 am. And, of course, tips are always appreciated by room service staff.

Despite these minor restrictions and policies, countless passengers over the decades have enjoyed the convenience and pampering that comes with room service. It goes without saying, then, that frequent cruisers today are watching the news of Carnival’s and Norwegian’s pilot programs with interest—and maybe a little concern.

Earlier this April, Norwegian added a $7.95 “convenience charge” for room service on its newest ships, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway. Similarly, a handful of Carnival ships are experimenting with adding service charges ranging from $4 to $7 on certain room service menu items, including personal pizzas, sushi, and wings. Many other items from Carnival’s traditional room service menu remain free.

While some cruisers are worried about rising costs on their vacations, others have pointed out that these fees come along with expanded offerings. Previously, for example, hot meals were rare on room service menus, while the new systems appear to offer a number of these kinds of heartier options, albeit at an extra charge. Moreover, the service fees typically don’t apply to suite passengers. In addition, cruise lines are always adding new dining, relaxation, and entertainment options all throughout their ships.

It should also be noted that this is not the first time that cruise companies have experimented with charging for room service. When Princess Cruises’ Regal Princess launched, the company added a $3 room service fee across the board. That program quickly ended, though, when passengers complained.

Cruise lines are generally known for listening to their loyal customers’ input, so this likely isn’t the last we’ll hear on this story. For now, it’s time to wait and see how cruisers respond to the changes.

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Jamaica’s Youngest Port is Growing Up

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

Just a few years ago, the Port Authority of Jamaica announced the opening of its fourth cruise port at Falmouth, built in conjunction with Royal Caribbean. When it opened in 2011, Falmouth’s port could accommodate two cruise ships: one for 4,000-passenger vessels, and one for the world’s largest cruise ships, which carry as many as 6,000 passengers.

In the time since the port’s grand opening, Falmouth authorities have seen an increase in opportunities to draw more cruisers to the town. For this reason, they have just announced plans to increase the size of the port so that both berths can host the largest, 6,000-passenger vessels. Expected to be completed by the end of the year, the project is just one of several improvements being planned for the beautiful Jamaican coastal town.

As the newest of Jamaica’s cruise ports, Falmouth is not as widely known or developed as its famous sister-ports at Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Conveniently situated right between those two venerable ports-of-call, Falmouth offers visitors a slightly different look into the “real” Jamaica and is just a short taxi-ride from some of the most popular destinations on the island.

Like the other Jamaican ports, Falmouth is home to a number of restaurants, friendly guides, and artisans selling traditional crafts and gifts. In addition to the modern port, the town also boasts a beautiful and walkable downtown area full of Georgian architecture. Falmouth is also in close proximity to a variety of interesting shore excursions, including the Good Hope Great House, one of the island’s most impressive historic plantations. Falmouth’s relatively small size also gives visitors unique opportunities to experience island life as the locals do, without wandering more than a few blocks off the beaten path. In addition, several beaches are easily reachable via a short cab ride from the port.

For visitors who want to explore farther afield, all the popular party hotspots of Montego Bay and its famous Hip Strip are only a 30-minute taxi-ride away. In the other direction, Ocho Rios provides gorgeous outdoor attractions like Dunn’s River Falls and Mystic Mountain, where cruisers can experience the best of Jamaica’s natural beauty.

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Anthem of the Seas Takes to the Seas!

by Royal Holiday
written by Royal Holiday

On April 20, one week after German shipbuilder Meyer Werft delivered it, Anthem of the Seas was christened in Southampton, England. During her maiden season this summer, she will service a handful of itineraries, primarily in northern Europe and the Mediterranean, according to recent press releases. Around 80,000 passengers—mainly from the UK and Ireland—are expected to enjoy the new ship’s much-anticipated features in the next several months.

Anthem will later relocate to Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey. Starting in October this year, she will sail from her new homeport to destinations such as Bermuda, the Bahamas, New England and Canada, as well as destinations throughout the Caribbean.

The second of Royal Caribbean International’s (RCI’s) advanced new Quantum-class vessels, Anthem weighs in at a massive 167,800 tons, and can accommodate 4,180 passengers. Her sister ship, Quantum of the Seas, launched last year, and is being repositioned to Asia in advance of the summer sailing season. The two new vessels are among the largest cruise ships in the world.

Like her sister ship, Anthem offers a range of technological innovations and forward-looking features, including some that are being introduced for the time ever. Today’s tech-savvy cruisers will appreciate the quick digital check-in, as well as ultra-fast onboard internet.

Anthem also boasts North Star, an experience that hoists cruisers in glass-enclosed capsule to a height of 300 feet above the waves for spectacular panoramic views. The ship also has bumper cars (a first on the high seas!), the huge SeaPlex sports and entertainment complex, a skydiving simulator, and many other exciting entertainment options.

There is also a bar featuring robotic bartenders that serve up precision cocktails. Those looking for more traditional fare, needn’t worry, though: they can enjoy superb meals in one of celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s signature restaurants.

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