| |
Contents
TOUR LEADER'S REPORT
GOING GREEN
RIVER CRUISING
FAMILY REUNIONS AT SEA
NEW BROCHURE
40TH ANNIVERSARY CONTEST
LIMITED SPACE
SPECIAL OFFERS
TOUGH TIMES?
OBERAMMERGAU 2010
PRESIDENT'S CRUISE
|
'EXPERIENCE OUR WORLD' BROCHURE NOW AVAILABLE!
By
now, you have received our new brochure, if you are on our mailing
list. Let us know if you would like us to mail a copy to your family or
friends!
TOUR LEADER'S REPORT
Danube cruise May 2007
Everything
onboard our AMA Waterways ship was first class- the cabin staff, the
wait staff, the quality of the meals, the wine, the cabins, the
showers, the entertainment, the lectures and particularly the cruise
director, Thomas Huber. Thomas was available for us whenever we needed
him. He was available at the Hilton, on the cruise and in Prague,
seeing us off on Wed. a.m. He arranged for us to have our own bus
whenever we were together as a group. It appeared that we had the most
experienced guides. Others outside of our group were also of that
opinion. He made arrangements with the Maitre'd for our special
celebrations and with the Hotel Manager for our cocktail party. He
arranged for a passenger & I to take a cab in Budapest to get a
prescription filled on Sunday. He even went out in Passau to get a hair
brush for another group member one evening. In short, he went out of
his way to make our cruise enjoyable. He gave good information on the
daily schedule of events, currency exchange rates, background
information on countries and cities, hints on where to shop, get money
and what to avoid. Unquestionably, this was the smoothest departure we
have ever taken! Peter McCarroll
40TH ANNIVERSARY CONTEST
2009 marks the 40th anniversary of Craig Travel!
Celebrate with us by taking part in our 40th anniversary contest. Visit
our website for all of the details. Then answer our March question "In
what building would we find the world's greatest collection of
antiquities from the time of the Pharaohs?" Enter for your chance to
win valuable REWARD POINTS!
A CAR OR...A VACATION
In
a recent article in the Ottawa Sun, one Ottawa travel professional
summed it up like this: "Canadians may be putting off getting a new car
or moving, but they're keeping their vacations. It's as important as
buying groceries; it's therapy for our souls."
PRESIDENT'S CRUISE - GRAND ORIENT ODYSSEY
What
an odyssey it will be! Whether you choose to join David and Roslyn for
their Southeast Asia Explorer from Hong Kong to Singapore, Nov 6 - 23
or their Indonesia & the Great Barrier Reef, Singapore to Sydney,
November 18 - December 8, or choose to take both, you are in for the
cruise adventure of your life! This special cruise on Holland America's
ms Volendam features pre and post hotel stays with sightseeing in
addition to all of our usual inclusions plus many extra surprises!
Space is selling quickly so call us today! Learn more
ISRAEL-LAND OF CONTROVERSY
It
appears that my article in our January e-newsletter praising the many
fine activities available in Israel gave some people a very wrong
impression of our feelings regarding the situation in that country. Let
me be very clear, we do not support the recent activities of the
Palestinians and we do not condone any form of terrorism. In fact we
abhor the use of violence in any circumstances. Our comments concerning
Israel apply just as strongly against the Palestinians for their
ongoing aggression against Israel. While I was definitely not trying to
be controversial with the article, I obviously was just that. I want to
extend my sincere apologies to those who felt that I was anti-Israel
and pro Palestinian.
D Craig
| |
| | RIVER CRUISING AT ITS FINEST!
AND THIS IS THE YEAR TO EXPERIENCE IT!
In
just the last few years, river cruising has become one of the most
popular ways to travel in Europe. It's really no surprise since it is
one of the most carefree, stress-free, convenient and value-packed
travel experiences available today. And because of its popularity,
ships sail "full" and "deals" are not usually offered. This year is
just slightly different and it's why we encourage you to give river
cruising a try this year. In particular, our September 17 Romantic
Danube and Grand Danube October 14, which now feature special early
booking offers. Book by June 1, 2009 and save $400 per person on the
Romantic Danube and $300 per person on the Grand Danube.Learn more
GOING GREEN
With
all of the focus on improving the environment, it is good to know that
many of the cruise lines are taking advantage of new technology to
produce environmentally-friendly vessels. Read more
WHO SAYS TIMES ARE TOUGH?
Both Westjet and Air Canada have reported record load factors for the month of January (yes, the one that just passed!) Read more
MULTI-GENERATIONAL CRUISING AND FAMILY REUNIONS AT SEA
There
is a definite increase in the number of families who are taking cruises
to celebrate family reunions, anniversaries, special birthdays and a
host of other events. Not only are busy parents taking children on a
cruise vacation to simply have the opportunity for some quality time
with their kids, but more and more grandparents are taking their
grandchildren on memory-filled cruises and leaving the parents behind.
The evidence of families cruising together is increasing not only
within the mass market lines, but also in the luxury and specialty
markets, including coastal and river cruises. Families consistently
site outstanding value as their reason to take a cruise. And some
cruise lines offer special amenities for family reunion groups. Holland
America, for instance, offers a complimentary upgrade for the "Head of
Family" based on a minimum of 10 cabins, plus a complimentary 8 x 10
group photo, a soda fountain card good for 20 sodas and a choice of a
Half Moon Cay package or an unforgettable dining exprience in the
Pinnacle Grill.
In a world where it is increasingly difficult to get
the whole family together at the same time, this could be a wonderful
opportunity!
LIMITED SPACE - 2 Cabins Only!
Magnificent Europe River Cruise May 1 – 16, 2009
Our
40th Anniversary Celebration! Escorted by David & Roslyn Craig and
Family! 2 cabins have become available on our special full ship charter
on the beautiful ms Amalegro cruising the Rhine, Main and Danube
Rivers! Call today! Learn more
OBERAMMERGAU 2010
Several of our Oberammergau departures are now either sold out or have very limited space. Confirm your space by March 31, 2009 and save $100 per person.
Experience
some of Europe's most beautiful regions plus the famous Passion Play at
Oberammergau. This historic event happens only once every 10 years! For
complete details on all Oberammergau itineraries and datesClick here
Heart of Europe & Oberammergau
-- We have a single lady looking for a female share on any of our
remaining Heart of Europe departures - May 12, Jun 23, Aug 4, Sep 1,
Sep 22. Call us today!
TIME RUNNING OUT ON SPECIAL OFFERS
BEST OF IRELAND
May 8 & September 4, 2009 - 16 Days Learn more
SAVE! $100 per person! Must book by March 17, 2009
ICELAND – LAND OF FIRE & ICE
May 26, 2009 - 11 Days Learn more
SAVE! $600 per person! LAST CHANCE TO BOOK! THESE PRICES WILL NOT BE REPEATED!
NORWAY - LAND OF THE MIDNIGHT SUN
September 3, 2009 - 17 Days Learn more
SAVE! $200 per person! Must book by March 31st!
Single lady looking for female to share a room.
ROMANTIC DANUBE ms Amandante
September 17 - 28, 2009 Cruise details
SAVE $400 per person! Must book by June 1, 2009
EAST AFRICA – Kenya & Tanzania
September 18, 2009 - 18 Days Learn more
SAVE! $500 per person! When you book and pay in full by June 1, 2009
GRAND DANUBE ms AMADANTE
October 14 - 28, 2009
Learn more
SAVE $300 per person! Must book by June 1, 2009.
MEDITERRANEAN LEGACIES with OCEANIA CRUISES
October 19, 2009 - 16 Days Learn more
Save! $1,200 per person! Book by March 31, 2009! Space is limited!
HOLLAND AMERICA CRUISES
SPECIAL OFFERS EXTENDED ON MANY GROUP DEPARTURES. SAVE AS NEVER BEFORE! HERE ARE SOME SAMPLES...
All offers are subject to availability and sale conditions and may be rescinded at any time without notice. Call today!
Sale prices are also available on many other Holland America cruise departures. Ask for details!
GEMS OF THE BALTIC ms Eurodam
May 11 – 23, 2009 Cruise details
SCANDINAVIAN ODYSSEY ms Eurodam
May 11 – June 2, 2009 Cruise details
FJORDS & HIGHLANDS ms Eurodam
May 21 – June 2, 2009 Cruise details
Single lady looking for female to share a cabin.
ALASKA YUKON ms Zuiderdam
May 26 – June 6, 2009 Cruise details
GAELIC LANDS ms Prinsendam
August 20 – September 6, 2009 Cruise details
Single lady look for female to share a cabin
BLACK SEA & MED EXPLORER ms Prinsendam
September 19 - October 4, 2009 Cruise details
ANCIENT MYSTERIES ms Prinsendam
October 3 – 18, 2009 Cruise details
font>
RIVER CRUISING....cont'd
Of
course, some cruise lines do a better job at river cruising than
others. For the past several years, we've chosen to work with AMA
Waterways for our Danube and other legendary European river cruises
including the Ukrainian Waterways (September 2, 2009)and our clients
have not been disappointed. Renowned for their innovative,
award-winning ships, personalized service and signature features not
found aboard any other cruise line, AMA WATERWAYS offers an array of
unparalleled cruise vacations, bringing European river cruising to a
whole new level.
We can say from experience that there is no better
way to experience the essence of the European heartland than gazing out
at the picture book scenery as you ply the waters of some of the most
infamous rivers and canals in the world. It is a wonderful feeling to
experience the fascinating history and local traditions simply by
cruising past tranquil landscapes, alluring hamlets and magnificent
hilltop castles. And arriving in port each day, what could be better
than slowly sailing literally, right into the heart of town! And right
from that heart of town, you are invited to take part in a wonderful
shore excursion program where you are given an in-depth and authentic
view of the culture and history of that city. And not only will you see
the city highlights, but you will discover the places only the locals
know about. What could be better!
Cuisine is always a big part of
any vacation and another reason why we can place another feather in
AMA's cap! Their sophisticated menus are comprised of wonderful soups,
fresh produce, high quality cuts of meat and fresh fish and seafood.
You'll start your day with a lavish gourmet breakfast, choosing from a
rich assortment of breads, croissants and pastries, a variety of fresh
fruit, yogurt, cereals, and smoked salmon. You'll sample delicious
cheeses, cold cuts and local sausages, as well as daily regional
specials. Returning from your morning shore excursion is a delight
because a delicious luncheon awaits. And in the evening, you are
treated as an honored guest for an elegant dinner with a feast of
regional specialties. And unlike most other cruises, wine is
complimentary with dinner and it's all part of your river cruising
experience.
What a lovely experience it is to stroll the deck and
watch as the stars shine overhead and the moon casts its reflection
along the riverbank. What an awesome experience to toast your new
friends with a lovely regional wine, all the while sharing the
discoveries and highlights of the day. Or perhaps head into the lounge
to listen to some wonderful classical music or dance the night away.
And since the ship is docked close to the heart of each town and city
it is easy to venture ashore to delve into the spirit of each city's
exciting evening culture, traditions and activities. Tempted yet?
Romantic Danube
Grand Danube
GOING GREEN....CONT'D
Even
the older ships are being refitted to conserve resources and recycle.
The latest technology includes such initiatives as advanced wastewater
purification, air emission reductions, LED lighting, solar power, high
efficiency appliances, energy efficient windows, products made from
recycled materials, 'ecospeed' and other environmentally-friendly hull
coatings, low sulphur fuels, solid and liquid waste procession, water
pollution education programs, fuel conservation and food byproduct
management. Cruising continues to be one of the fastest growing areas
of tourism according to Cruise Lines International Association, an
industry group that represents 95 % of the worldwide cruise market and
includes 23 cruise lines that total 200 ships. Terry Dale, CEO of the
organization states "As a leader in travel, we feel we have to be
industry stewards of the environment. We are not sitting back, but
rather trying hard to be proactive and meet the challenges. All of our
members must have environmental policies and practices in place. Many
cruise companies now have an environmental officer on board all ships
to monitor compliance."
Also on the rise are new technologies for
smaller vessels. Ecoventura, a family-owned company in Ecuador that
offers cruises in the Galapagos, recently unveiled one of the first
hybrid-energy motor yachts. Sponsored by Toyota, a supporter of the
World Wildlife Fund, the yacht, which sleeps 20, has 40 solar panels
and two wind turbines on the upper deck, which should provide enough
power to support roughly 17% of the energy formerly produced by two
carbon fuel-based generators. So, some positive environmental news is
beginning to emerge from these murky waters. Thanks to increased
pressure from the Environmental Protection Agency as well as various
environmental campaign groups, stricter state and federal regulations
are being passed and this bodes well for the future.
TOUGH TIMES?...CONT'D
The
former reported filling more than three-quarters of its seats and Air
Canada was even better, filling almost 80% of its seats on the mainline
carrier. While the latter noted that its capacity had decreased 8.8%,
the figures still clearly show that Canadians are still travelling and
that, even amongst the general doom and gloom portrayed in the media
every day, all is not lost!
Canadians made 739,000 trips to
countries other than the United States in December, up 4.4% from
November and, for the year as a whole, Canadian travel to overseas
countries increased by 9.7%. In total, Canadians made more than 51.7
million trips outside the country last year, a 3.4% increase. Canadian
residents made 2.3% more trips to the United States in 2008. Travel to
Canada from countries other than the United States was up 1.8% in 2008.
| |
