Hating to admit summer is almost coming to an end, there's still a few more weeks to try to get away. Why not take a drive to Boston, DC, Niagara Falls or Baltimore? Contrino Travel can recommend and book your hotel stays.
Don't want to drive? Take the train--Amtrak can get you to most places and so can we by helping you book your Amtrak tickets too!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
NCL's Epic - Inaugural from NYC
Contrino Travel would be remiss not to comment on its privilege to be sailing on The EPIC's inaugural from NYC. On Friday, July 2nd it was christened by Reba McIntyre at 2 pm. The ship set sail from Manhattan, but not before reattaching five safety boats that had to be taken off in order for the ship to fit to dock.
Upon embarking, we immediately went to our stateroom, #12275 which was aft and starboard of the ship. In order to differentiate the starboard from port sides, the creators used blue rugs for the starboard side and red rugs. It was pretty easy to navigate except that our set of elevators in the aft didn't stop on Deck 5. Otherwise, you could pretty much go Decks 4 through 15 (pool deck). Decks 16, 17, 18 and 19 were navigatable by going to the aft and taking yet another elevator, or for the more energetic, one could gain access by using the stairs.
After checking out our stateroom which was a balcony (there are only balconies and/or inside cabins available), we began touring the vessel and were able to view the Studios (cabins for singles sailing alone), along with a visit to the Studio Living Room (a two-story lounge with bar and coffee station). This was a winner in my books, in that singles could meet other singles in their own very special place.
In addition to the Studios, we were able to view a Deluxe Owner's Suite, the Courtyard Penthouse with Balcony, a Courtyard Villa, Family Deluxe Balcony and the Connecting Family Balconies. While the design was pleasing to the eye, it is this writer's opinion that there are mixed reviews regarding the bathroom facilities. Rather than stepping into a bathroom which is customary to other ships, the Epic staterooms have a separate toilet area, separate shower area and the sink is also separate. While this writer enjoys a sink which is separate from the bathroom area, I thought it a bit odd that once an occupant showers, they would have to step out and be exposed to the cabin area. There is, however, a curtain that one can pull across the stateroom for privacy, but you'd better make sure that you put the security lock on, so that your stateroom attendant doesn't barge in and find you in a provocative position!
There are 20 dining venues aboard ship, 11 of which are included in the price of your cruise. Otherwise, you will have to make reservations for the specialty restaurants. You can only make reservations on the morning of the day you want to dine there, so you'd better be up early and make your reservations when they open at 7 am; otherwise, run the risk of being shut out for the day.
In addition to the dining venues, there are a number of bars located throughout the ship. Our favorite was the Ice Bar on Deck 7. It is a must to visit as it is one of a kind at sea. It only holds 25 persons, so again one must make reservations to get to see it. There is an additional charge to enter, but it does come with a 2-drink coupon (Svedka vodka is served here).
The Ice Bar is totally unique in that you have to "suit up" otherwise risk being frozen to death. The temperature is at 17 degrees F and there are specific entry times so as to save the ice from melting! (Check out our photos by Valarie in our Photo Gallery).
In addition to the dining venues there's a lot of activities to partake in; the Aqua Park on deck 15, bowling* (there are six alleys) on decks 6 and 7; the casino; the Plunge; the Epic theater featuring Blue Man Group; Fat Cats Jazz Club and Blues; Headliners Comedy Club; the i-connect Internet Cafe*; Mandara Spa and Salon*, fitness center, sports complex, Tradewinds Tax and Duty Free Shops*. *costs an additional fee.
Passengers have the opportunity to attend a Murder Mystery Luncheon and/or the Speigal Tent (dinner/show), or Breakfast with Nickelodeon family. All these command an additional fee as well. Reservations are required for all shows, including the Blue Man Group which can be made approximately 30 days in advance of your sailing. If you get shut out, you can try visiting the Box Office to see if you can get on a waiting list, or just show up at the venue, as there will always be cancellations and perhaps you can get it. Another show to view is Legends in Concert and this is included in the price of your cruise.
All in all, the ship is really fantastic and its design pleasing to the eye. For a more detailed description, feel free to call Contrino Travel.
Upon embarking, we immediately went to our stateroom, #12275 which was aft and starboard of the ship. In order to differentiate the starboard from port sides, the creators used blue rugs for the starboard side and red rugs. It was pretty easy to navigate except that our set of elevators in the aft didn't stop on Deck 5. Otherwise, you could pretty much go Decks 4 through 15 (pool deck). Decks 16, 17, 18 and 19 were navigatable by going to the aft and taking yet another elevator, or for the more energetic, one could gain access by using the stairs.
After checking out our stateroom which was a balcony (there are only balconies and/or inside cabins available), we began touring the vessel and were able to view the Studios (cabins for singles sailing alone), along with a visit to the Studio Living Room (a two-story lounge with bar and coffee station). This was a winner in my books, in that singles could meet other singles in their own very special place.
In addition to the Studios, we were able to view a Deluxe Owner's Suite, the Courtyard Penthouse with Balcony, a Courtyard Villa, Family Deluxe Balcony and the Connecting Family Balconies. While the design was pleasing to the eye, it is this writer's opinion that there are mixed reviews regarding the bathroom facilities. Rather than stepping into a bathroom which is customary to other ships, the Epic staterooms have a separate toilet area, separate shower area and the sink is also separate. While this writer enjoys a sink which is separate from the bathroom area, I thought it a bit odd that once an occupant showers, they would have to step out and be exposed to the cabin area. There is, however, a curtain that one can pull across the stateroom for privacy, but you'd better make sure that you put the security lock on, so that your stateroom attendant doesn't barge in and find you in a provocative position!
There are 20 dining venues aboard ship, 11 of which are included in the price of your cruise. Otherwise, you will have to make reservations for the specialty restaurants. You can only make reservations on the morning of the day you want to dine there, so you'd better be up early and make your reservations when they open at 7 am; otherwise, run the risk of being shut out for the day.
In addition to the dining venues, there are a number of bars located throughout the ship. Our favorite was the Ice Bar on Deck 7. It is a must to visit as it is one of a kind at sea. It only holds 25 persons, so again one must make reservations to get to see it. There is an additional charge to enter, but it does come with a 2-drink coupon (Svedka vodka is served here).
The Ice Bar is totally unique in that you have to "suit up" otherwise risk being frozen to death. The temperature is at 17 degrees F and there are specific entry times so as to save the ice from melting! (Check out our photos by Valarie in our Photo Gallery).
In addition to the dining venues there's a lot of activities to partake in; the Aqua Park on deck 15, bowling* (there are six alleys) on decks 6 and 7; the casino; the Plunge; the Epic theater featuring Blue Man Group; Fat Cats Jazz Club and Blues; Headliners Comedy Club; the i-connect Internet Cafe*; Mandara Spa and Salon*, fitness center, sports complex, Tradewinds Tax and Duty Free Shops*. *costs an additional fee.
Passengers have the opportunity to attend a Murder Mystery Luncheon and/or the Speigal Tent (dinner/show), or Breakfast with Nickelodeon family. All these command an additional fee as well. Reservations are required for all shows, including the Blue Man Group which can be made approximately 30 days in advance of your sailing. If you get shut out, you can try visiting the Box Office to see if you can get on a waiting list, or just show up at the venue, as there will always be cancellations and perhaps you can get it. Another show to view is Legends in Concert and this is included in the price of your cruise.
All in all, the ship is really fantastic and its design pleasing to the eye. For a more detailed description, feel free to call Contrino Travel.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
New York City - Safe AND Fun!
Who better to speak about New York City, but one who has been born, raised and worked here all her life! Valarie of Contrino Travel, that's me!
While I do my fair share of traveling, ergo why I'm a travel advisor, I still do love to visit Manhattan as often as I can. There's so much to do and see, STILL!
A big fan of the theater, most recently saw The Adams Family and Promises, Promises. Even though both were quite entertaining, if I had to choose between the two, I'd opt for the latter because I like Burt Bacharach's music, the story was a take on "The Apartment" (which I'm embarrassed to admit I've never seen), but the Sean stole the show! Kristen wasn't too shabby either! Amazing range of vocals. Couldn't get over how tiny she is! Sorry I digress.
Having not been in the City prior to that for some time, I enjoyed my stroll along Broadway at Times' Square. I actually felt like a tourist, walking from one store to the next. What a nice seating area the Mayor created for its tourists and residents to enjoy, even given the controversy it stirred at its inception.
Had a lot of time to kill as I was meeting a friend for dinner and then the theater, so I walked past Radio City to the rink. There is no greater pleasure than taking this walk--doesn't cost you anything. For GMA fans, you see where they shoot production of the show, also something I think is quite exciting.
There is so much to see and do in NYC with its different neighborhoods (i.e. SoHo with its great shopping and restaurants, Chinatown and Little Italy, lower Manhattan and more!).
One would suspect that a trip to NYC would be quite expensive and while I would agree with that to a degree, there is plenty to do and see on the cheap! Creating travel packages, some to include a show on Broadway, or a meal or ride carriage horse ride, does defray the cost. A smart travel advisor knows!
While I do my fair share of traveling, ergo why I'm a travel advisor, I still do love to visit Manhattan as often as I can. There's so much to do and see, STILL!
A big fan of the theater, most recently saw The Adams Family and Promises, Promises. Even though both were quite entertaining, if I had to choose between the two, I'd opt for the latter because I like Burt Bacharach's music, the story was a take on "The Apartment" (which I'm embarrassed to admit I've never seen), but the Sean stole the show! Kristen wasn't too shabby either! Amazing range of vocals. Couldn't get over how tiny she is! Sorry I digress.
Having not been in the City prior to that for some time, I enjoyed my stroll along Broadway at Times' Square. I actually felt like a tourist, walking from one store to the next. What a nice seating area the Mayor created for its tourists and residents to enjoy, even given the controversy it stirred at its inception.
Had a lot of time to kill as I was meeting a friend for dinner and then the theater, so I walked past Radio City to the rink. There is no greater pleasure than taking this walk--doesn't cost you anything. For GMA fans, you see where they shoot production of the show, also something I think is quite exciting.
There is so much to see and do in NYC with its different neighborhoods (i.e. SoHo with its great shopping and restaurants, Chinatown and Little Italy, lower Manhattan and more!).
One would suspect that a trip to NYC would be quite expensive and while I would agree with that to a degree, there is plenty to do and see on the cheap! Creating travel packages, some to include a show on Broadway, or a meal or ride carriage horse ride, does defray the cost. A smart travel advisor knows!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Airline pricing on the Rise
Passengers are complaining about luggage fees and other ancillary costs, while airlines are striving to turn their customers' attention to other charges, namely government taxes and fees. Revenue generated through the taxes and fees generally go toward airport projects, although some have nothing to do with the flight. This is particularly true for those leaving from JFK airport as they have closed the main strip for maintenance (4 months)--ugh!
Monday, March 1, 2010
Hawaii Reports No Damage Due to Earthquake Generated Tsunami
No one can be more excited than this writer from Contrino Travel to advise that there was no reported damage to infrastructure within the state from any tsunami due to the 8.8 earthquake off the coast of Chile and travelers heading to the destination can do so without any concern and need not cancel any vacation plans. At approximately 1:40 p.m. Hawaiian time on Sunday, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center canceled the tsunami warning in Hawaii. Hotels and other visitor-related facilities are open and operating normally. Most flights to and from Hawaii were reported on schedule, but there may be some delays and travelers should check with their airline before going to the airport.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Vancouver - An Off Peak Destination to Visit
Spring is typically the low and shoulder season for Vancouver, but this year is an especially sweet time to head to British Columbia because of the Winter Olympics, which end on February 28. Host cities typically suffer from post-Olympic syndrome, when would-be visitors avoid the area because they believe it is too expensive or too crowded. But savvy travelers can find plenty of deals for Vancouver (and even for nearby Whistler, which is in high season through March.
Happenings in Vancouver this spring include the Vancouver International Biennale, a free, open-air art event that lasts through June 30, 2011. International Dance Day will be celebrated on April 29 in Vancouver, and free events such as a flamenco dance class and hula-hooping lessons make the event an entertainment bargain.
There's so much to see and do in Vancouver and Contrino Travel can help you decide, making it a great destination to visit.
Happenings in Vancouver this spring include the Vancouver International Biennale, a free, open-air art event that lasts through June 30, 2011. International Dance Day will be celebrated on April 29 in Vancouver, and free events such as a flamenco dance class and hula-hooping lessons make the event an entertainment bargain.
There's so much to see and do in Vancouver and Contrino Travel can help you decide, making it a great destination to visit.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Euro to US$Ratio Improves Greatly
Planning a trip to Europe? Now's the time to start planning with Contrino Travel. For every Euro, the current exchange rate to U.S. dollars is 1.36. It has been reduced dramatically.
Royal Caribbean Lauches Online Dining Reservations
Contrino Travel reports that Royal Caribbean International is launching Daily Reservations, an online reservation system for guests enrolled in the My Time Dining program. Through Daily Reservations, My Time Dining guests can make nightly reservations in the main dining room for themselves and guests at their table. Guests can access, request and review their Daily Reservations in advance of their sailing through the Pre-Cruise Planner or Cruise Enhancements section of www.RoyalCaribbean.com. Daily Reservations is currently available for Oasis of the Seas sailings and will be deployed fleetwide throughout the spring.
Dinner reservations can be requested for a table for two to 10. Guests can request reservations for the same time with the same people nightly or a different time every evening with different companions. If a particular time is unavailable, Daily Reservations will suggest an alternative time that is closest to the request. Guests can then review their daily dinner reservation details in a calendar view, as well as request changes.
Dinner reservations can be requested for a table for two to 10. Guests can request reservations for the same time with the same people nightly or a different time every evening with different companions. If a particular time is unavailable, Daily Reservations will suggest an alternative time that is closest to the request. Guests can then review their daily dinner reservation details in a calendar view, as well as request changes.
Monday, February 15, 2010
DR -- A Golfer's Paradise!
Dominican Republic is well known for its great beaches, but one shouldn't discount all it has to offer to golfers. Cap Cana, catering to high end clients and the luxury sector, has it's fair share of golf course offerings too! Contrino Travel has been sending their clients to DR, well before and even after the occurrence of the tragic earthquake in Haiti.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Princess Cruises Brings Back an Old Tradition -- Bon Voyage!
Contrino Travel learned today that Princess Cruises is reviving a signature tradition from the early days of cruising, the opportunity for passengers to have non-sailing friends and family come aboard on embarkation day to wish them a "bon voyage."
The only catch: It'll come with a charge.
The "Bon Voyage Experience," as Princess is calling it, will cost $39 per person.
As Princess notes in an announcement of the program today, friends and family of cruisers once routinely came aboard vessels to see them off, but the practice disappeared more than two decades ago as security procedures tightened.
The only catch: It'll come with a charge.
The "Bon Voyage Experience," as Princess is calling it, will cost $39 per person.
As Princess notes in an announcement of the program today, friends and family of cruisers once routinely came aboard vessels to see them off, but the practice disappeared more than two decades ago as security procedures tightened.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Celine Dion Returns to Vegas in 2011 !
Celine returns to Caesars Palace beginning March 15, 2011. Tickets for the first 54 shows go on sale this coming Friday. Contrino Travel can assist with your air/land package; however it's still a tad early to do so for next March, given the airline seats haven't become available. FYI--tickets range in price from $55 to $250 per person BEFORE taxes and/or fees.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Norwegian makes the news AGAIN with bigger ships to Bermuda
Norwegian Cruise Lines will sail newer, more elaborate ships to nation of Bermuda starting in 2011.
Norwegian says the two-year-old, 2,400-passenger Norwegian Gem will take the place of the seven-year-old, 2,224-passenger Norwegian Dawn on its Bermuda run out of New York starting in May of 2011.
The Norwegian Dawn, in turn, will replace the smaller, older Norwegian Spirit on the line's Bermuda run out of Boston.
Currently, NCL is running a promotion with discounted deposits. Contact Contrino Travel for more details.
Norwegian says the two-year-old, 2,400-passenger Norwegian Gem will take the place of the seven-year-old, 2,224-passenger Norwegian Dawn on its Bermuda run out of New York starting in May of 2011.
The Norwegian Dawn, in turn, will replace the smaller, older Norwegian Spirit on the line's Bermuda run out of Boston.
Currently, NCL is running a promotion with discounted deposits. Contact Contrino Travel for more details.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Norwegian Epic - NCL's newest and biggest
Psssst....OK, so by now you've heard of Royal Caribbean's newest and biggest, the Oasis of the Seas and now all eyes and ears are getting ready for the inaugural of NCL's Epic. It's going to have an ice bar, solo single cabins on decks 10 and 11 and NCL has now partnered with Nickelodeon for the kiddies.
Current promotions ongoing until 3/15 for the year of the Freestyle, providing upgrades and more! Let Contrino Travel travel help you @ 718-761-4846.
Current promotions ongoing until 3/15 for the year of the Freestyle, providing upgrades and more! Let Contrino Travel travel help you @ 718-761-4846.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Greek Islands- Epitome of Romance
A Greek Islands honeymoon is gaining popularity. Why? Not because it isn't cheap! However, it's easy to island hop from by high speed ferry after arriving in Athens. Both small luxury hotels and the leading hotels of the world are located here. Why not plan your romantic getaway with Contrino Travel today? I wouldn't recommend piecemealing an itineraryyourself as you will get an automatic discount for packaging your air/hotels/ferries/transfers.
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