Posts Tagged ‘Cruise’

A Bare Necessities Mediterranean Nude Cruise

Step aboard the Royal Clipper for a once-in-a-lifetime voyage on the sparkling seas of the ancient Mediterranean! From the masts in full sail to the solid wood railings and polished brass accessories, the tall ship itself will surely take your breath away. But, that’s not all! Modern amenities, deluxe cabins and international cuisine, all combine to make the Royal Clipper a true sailing adventure, with the luxuries of a five-star resort. The voyage begins in Cannes, France and ventures along the Italian coast, visiting ancient ruins in modern Rome and the picturesque harbor towns of Sorrento, Livorno, and Potorfino. Join us as we sail in full harmony with the open seas!

Time To Cruise!

If you’re one of the shrinking number of people who has yet to try a cruise and don’t know what all the fuss is about picture this: You arrive at the ship, where you are shown to your nicely appointed stateroom. Your bags are delivered and you unpack – once for the entire holiday! Then you wander down to the dining room for dinner, where you produce no cash and sign no tab because meals are included in the price of your cruise. After dinner, you take in a Broadway revue in the ship’s showroom — free of charge, of course! On board, families can dine and do some activities together, then separate to pursue individual interests. The old cruise model – eat a big meal, then sit in a deck chair until you dock somewhere interesting – has been replaced by parties for teenagers, games for kids, play spaces for toddlers, and spas, gyms and seminars for adults. Cruises represent excellent value for money. When you’re onboard almost everything is included – your accommodations, gourmet meals, snacks throughout the day, all activities and all entertainments. Even 24-hour room service is included!

Near to home and value for money, Mediterranean holidays are a magnet for first-time cruisers dipping their toes into the water and active types seeking offbeat adventure. Onboard there’s entertainment when you tire of the sun and sea. Ashore you’ll discover a different destination every day – from shopping in Marrakech’s spice markets to cruising cafés in Cannes. Mediterranean cruises sail from late April to October. If you choose to cruise off-season you may get a bargain and escape the crowds, though temperatures will be lower.  European cruises generally take place in the summer and itineraries include the Greek Isles, the Mediterranean Sea and the Baltic Sea. There are hundreds of ports to choose from and a wide variety of ships to take you there. So, decide on the countries you would most like to visit, and then find a cruise ship that encompasses those ports.

For honeymooners the Caribbean is recommended. On top of the beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and interesting sightseeing, the Caribbean offers a plethora of duty-free shopping where you can find tons of trinkets to decorate your home. Every cruise line has at least one ship in the Caribbean (many year-round), so you won’t have trouble planning your dream escape.

So, if you’re looking for incredible value, look no further – this is the holiday for you! Check out hundreds or cruises worldwide at www.BeaconCruises.ie

Top 10 Attractions of Cruise Holidays

When you look into a cruise holiday, the prospect of wakening every day to a new location is very exciting. Cruises are a great way to have multiple mini-holidays without having to worry about hiring a car or packing up your belongings each day to travel to a new destination. The cruise ship is your floating hotel room, leaving you free to enjoy the new adventures of every day.

1. The Caribbean – if fun, sun, and tropical breezes are what you seek, you can’t go wrong with a Caribbean cruise. The Caribbean cruise is perhaps the most-pictured location when someone thinks of cruising. Caribbean destinations on your cruise can include: Dominica, Barbados, Grand Cayman Island, the Bahamas, Saba, St. Bart’s, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Grenada, or Puerto Rico.

2. The Mexican Riviera – also full of sandy beaches and refreshing water, the Mexican Riviera is comprised of several cities and ports on the west coast of Mexico. Cruise ships may visit three or four of the following spots along the Riviera: Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo, or Acapulco.

3. Alaska – the majestic and icy vistas of Alaska are a sight to behold. There’s simply nothing else like it, unless you visit the poles. Alaska’s temperatures are far milder and the landscapes will leave you in absolute awe. Destinations can include: Juneau (the capital of Alaska), Skagway, the Yukon Territory, Ketchikan, Sitka, and Glacier Bay.

4. European Cruises on the Atlantic – European cruises is a category so large it has to be divided into regions! Destinations on the Atlantic may include: Gibraltar, Spain, Lisbon, Madeira, Porto Santo, and Paris. These cruises are fun for everyone, but intellects and fashionistas will have a real treat!

5. European Cruises of the North – excluding ports-of-call along the Baltic Sea, destinations for these cruises can include: Belgium, Amsterdam, Dublin, London, Glasgow, and various spots in Norway. With this range of tourist spots, the whole family is sure to get an education in one way or another.

6. European Cruises of the Baltic Sea – European cruises in this region may include these great destinations: St. Petersburg, Poland, Finland, Stockholm, Oslo, and Copenhagen. So much heritage and tradition, so little time.

7. Western Mediterranean Cruises – also a part of Europe, these cruise destinations can include the following: Barcelona, Ibiza, Cannes, Marseille, Provence, Monaco, Monte Carlo, Florence, Pompeii, the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel, Rome, and Malta. Beauty, art, religion, and majesty are yours for the taking.

8. Eastern Mediterranean Cruises – this region may include cruise destinations of: Venice, Murano, Dubrovnik, the Greek Islands, Istanbul, and Turkey. There’s a good reason many have been inspired to write songs and make art featuring these locales!

9. Hawaiian Cruises – another popular cruise for those looking for warmth and water! Destinations can include these hotspots: Maui, Kona, Kaneohe Bay, and Diamond Head. Surf, swim, sun, and gorgeous nature – how can you go wrong?

10. Australia and New Zealand – in the land of Down Under, your cruise may visit these top places: Sydney, the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef (Hamilton in the Whitsunday Islands), Cairns, and Kuranda. The Land of Oz is better than a fairy tale!

Top European Cruise Vacation Destinations

Europe has long been an alluring destination because of its natural beauty and ancient history. European cruises are quite unlike Caribbean cruises that provide endless days of sun soaked fun, or splendid Arctic cruises that offer unspoiled, majestic natural beauty. Europe offers its own brand of spectacular landscapes along with superb cuisine and historically rich culture. On a European cruise, look forward to experiencing fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes and diverse culture.

European destinations can be divided into four regions: The Eastern and Western Mediterranean, Western Europe, which encompasses the British Isles, and Northern Europe, along with ports of call in the Baltic Sea. Each region offers its own unique features.

With so much intriguing culture, captivating history and breathtaking natural beauty, it can be hard to choose which part of Europe to visit. To help make your decision easier, take a look at the highlights and attractions of each region.

Eastern Mediterranean Cruises

The Eastern Mediterranean encompasses Greece along with the iconic Greek isles, romantic Venice and Italy as well as beautiful Turkey with its famed bazaars. You will be treated to a combination of rich history and culture as well as beautiful beaches and bays.

Croatia is fast becoming a favorite port of call, as are ports along the Black Sea and Cyprus. The ancient archaeological sites situated in Israel, Egypt and Lebanon offer a glimpse of long lost cultures, while the sun drenched and pristine islands of Greece provide a vacation highlight for many. Italy, on the other hand, offers vacationers a chance to sample world famous cuisine and unique upscale shopping.

Western Europe Cruises

For art and architecture lovers, Rome, Florence and Barcelona are breathtaking places to explore and indulge their senses. Visitors can see world famous paintings and sculptures, and visit the homes of some of the most significant and prolific artists of all time.

The French and Italian Riviera with its ports of call in Mallorca and Monte Carlo feature beautiful, mild sun drenched beaches. These ports also provide a chance to mingle and rub elbows with the worlds rich and famous. World famous casinos and international shopping make the Riviera a very popular cruise destination.

Northern Europe Cruises

This region offer vacationers a perfect alternative to Mediterranean cruises. With its fjords and fairytale like cities, towns and villages, Northern Europe cruises give travelers a chance to experience the diverse cultures, languages and traditions of Norway and the Baltic. Ports such as St. Petersburg or Riga feature beautiful architecture and friendly locals. Summer cruises in Northern Europe provide ideal, calm sailing conditions and warm days that last long in the evening.

British Isles and Western Europe

This region is perfect for those who want to experience the island heritage of England. Explore the iconic landmarks of London, the famous markets of Brugge in the Netherlands or the charm of Ireland. The natural beauty and legendary history of these islands mix well with fast paced London to provide a dynamic cultural experience. And along the way you will find time to relax, take an invigorating hike or explore the local markets for that perfect souvenir.

The Appeal of European Cruises

European cruises are perhaps one the most sought after vacations. They provide a wonderfully relaxing way to see Europe in style and luxury. In one short trip, you can explore a host of beautiful countries like Italy, Greece, Morocco and France. Not to mention the hundreds of idyllic islands along the way. European cruising offers a sailing experience like none other. And since European city ports are so close to one another, cruising is a fast and convenient way to travel between countries.

The beautiful and worldly ports of Nice and Cannes, and the glamorous port of Monte Carlo’s royal heritage can all be at your fingertips. London and Britain, Athens too with its historical ruins are easily accessible, as is the natural splendor of Icelandic countries.

Each region of the Mediterranean offers its own unique perspective of Europe. Besides its famous city ports, Europe also offers vacations for those who you enjoy island hopping. Cyprus and the Balearic Islands, or classic Greece renowned for its wonderful islands are just a few cruise destinations to consider.

Yet destinations such as Barcelona, Berlin or Norway offer the traveler a choice between majestic palaces or dramatic mountain peaks.

European Mediterranean cruises attract not only the adult traveler, but families and groups too. With all Europe has to offer, it is no surprise that it is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world. No matter which region you choose to explore, you will inevitably have one of the best cruise vacations of your life.

I am planning to study abroad in Cannes and would like to have a little boat to cruise the sea in?

Does anyone know where to look online to see about buying/renting a small dinghy/skiff that can be tied up or kept somewhere cheap in Cannes?

Thanks!

I am taking a cruise next year to the Mediterranean (Barcelona, Rome, Florence/Pisa, Malta and Cannes). ?

Can anyone tell me how the weather is in this area during mid-October?

Some enchanted cruise: hopping around South Pacific

Some enchanted cruise: hopping around South Pacific
We were in Christchurch, the oldest established city in New Zealand, when we boarded a free tram that circles the downtown.

Read more on Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

What To Do And See On A Western Mediterranean Cruise

Planning a Western Mediterranean cruise? Lucky you. While most of your friends are stuck laboring at their 9-5 jobs you’ll be sailing the sunny seas, eating world class food and visiting some of the most fabulous destinations on the planet. In fact, there is so much to see and do, coming up with an itinerary can be quite a challenge. With magical destinations like France, Italy, Spain and Portugal to choose from there are enough options to fill half a dozen vacations. I’ve compiled a list of some of the best of the region to help you plan your Western Mediterranean cruise.

If you’ve always wanted to tour the magnificent French Riviera then a cruise is just about the most perfect way to do so. Take a shore excursion to the town of Villefranche-sur-Mer and see the beauty that inspired the art of Matisse and Picasso. In Marseille you can see the Notre-Dame-de-Guarde. Take a journey to Cannes, the home of the world renowned international film festival. And in Nice the Opera House and Old Town await your pleasure. There is so much to see and do in this region that it will be hard to drag yourself away to see the delights the other countries on your itinerary have to offer.

In sunny Spain Barcelona is the port where you will almost certainly dock. If you have an appreciation of architecture you will be completely blown away by the stunning Gothic architecture of the buildings here. Again, you have the opportunity to see the works of the legendary painter Pablo Picasso in the Museu Picasso, where one of the world’s most extensive collections of his work are showcased. Another popular Spain cruise destination is Mallorca. Spain’s largest island features the massive Palma Cathedral, and if you want to relax for awhile the island offers upwards of 70 magnificent beaches for you to lay back and soak up the sun.

In Portugal the ports of Lisbon and Funchal await. Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city has something for the whole family to enjoy. Explore St. George’s Castle, Jeronimo’s Monastery, or Belem Tower. Ancient curiosities abound in the Gulbenkian Museum. If you have kids you must make time for a visit to the Oceanarium where all manner of marine life from sharks to cute Antarctic penguins can be seen. One of the world’s largest aquariums the Oceanarium stands out against the ancient stonework of the rest of the city, and is one of the most state of the art facilities you’ll see anywhere in the Western Mediterranean.

On Funchal you enjoy a different sort of adventure. Arrange a shore excursion to climb Picos de Barcelos. This peak is 1,200 feet high and offers a magnificent view of all of Funchal. If you don’t want quite that much exertion on your cruise vacation (and who can blame you?) why not make a visit to see Colombo’s Statue in Santa Catarina Park or take a relaxing stroll through the botanical garden of Quinta das Cruzes.

Last, but certainly not least we have Italy. The choices here are too numerous to describe at length. Rome will be at the top of most people’s itinerary with The Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica and Vatican City, the Trevi Fountain and the Arch of Constantine just a few of the major highlights of this historic city. If you’ve been to Rome before why not take a trip to Florence instead? Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Museum are must-sees in this beautiful city, and if you are this close you shouldn’t forget to take the tour to Pisa where you can see the world famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in all its glory.

Again, these are just a few of the highlights of a Western Mediterranean cruise. A trip through this spectacular region will only whet your appetite and you will find yourself wanting to return again and again to further explore the culture and history of these magnificent ancient cities.

What is weather like on a mediterranean cruise in July?

We are leaving July 15th, traveling from Barcelona, to sicily, to naples, rome, florence, cannes, then back to Barcelona. I was just wondering if the weather in the mediteranean during summer months was actually like summer weather, which is what we are hoping for. Thanks for any responses!

No. 10 Louis Vuitton Traveller Handbag from 2009 Cruise Collection

Since 1997 Marc Jacobs has been appointed as Creative Director of luxury French fashin house, Louis Vuitton. He is famous for collaborating with many popular artists for his Louis Vuitton collections. For instance, in 2001 he worked in conjunction with Stephen Sprouse to turn the Louis Vuitton logo into graffiti. While more recently, he sent models dressed as nurses down the runway in homage to a Richard Prince painting. As to his 2009 cruise collection, Jacobs collaborated with fashion illustrator Tanya Ling who created a series of illustrations of the range, as well as an exclusive striped print. Shown through the soft focus of Ling’s watercolours, Jacobs’s sharp tailoring and unique design greatly illustrate the theme of this collection, bright, feminine and flirty.

Traveller, a part of the Travel Shopper line from the Cruise 2009 collection by Marc Jacobs, is the ultimate 24 hour bag that can easily go from city to beach and even sea soirees. This handbag features cotton canvas, cotton lining as well as calf leather trimmings. The graphic design in the handbag is inspired by archives dating back to the 1920’s. You may wonder what the exact meaning of the graphic is. 101 Champs- Élysées in Paris, 2 Avenue de Suede in Nice, 22 De La Croisette in Cannes, 7-6-1 Ginza in Tokyo, 18 New Bond Street in London and 57th Street in New York are the addresses of Louis Vuitton stores at that time. Golden brass pieces add some vigorous elements into the grey handbag.

Moreover, 20.4″ x 14.1″ x 8.6″ should be the right size for daily use. The inside is very spacious and it has two internal flat pockets and a phone pocket for easy organization. With safe zipper closure and padlock, you need not worry about your precious essentials or significant documents in this handbag. And the removable leather key bell is designed for your keys or some other accessories. Thanks to the long leather straps the bag can be comfortably carried on the shoulder.

Served as homage to the stores in 1920s, the Traveller handbag has had a great vogue after its birth, thus it is reputed to one of the most popular Louis Vuitton handbags in this year.