Monday, August 9, 2010

Carnival Splendor

New updated information for Carnival Splendor

Carnival Splendor 7 night Mexico Rivera, visiting ports of Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos and Mazatlan, departing Sundays from Long Beach, California
Inaugural Cruise July 02, 2008
Guests Occupancy 3734
Passenger Decks:13

7 stateroom categories, ranging from inside upper/lower staterooms, to Balcony Grand Suites

All staterooms offer telephones, 110AC Current, climate control, Carnival Comfort Sleep Systems, hair dryer, safe, minibar, and flat screen TV

I have wanted to see the Carnival Splendor for a while now, so I was definitely excited when the opportunity came along for me to do just that. Because of security delays, I was only able to spend a couple of hours onboard before being having to disembark on a beautiful summer's day in Long Beach, California. During our delay, I was able to explore some new things about Carnival that I had not noticed before, such as the Vip Lounge for special guests for priority check-in. I have always noticed a "table" that is set up in the pick-up/drop off area, however there is actually a lounge located right outside the terminal when Vip Guests can get checked in prior to anyone else. Very Impressive!!
I also noticed that no cameras of any sort are to be used within the terminal, including all phones and other electronics.

Once on board I had exactly 45 minutes to completely tour the ship before our lunch meeting. I was first impressed with what I'll call the Art Deco decoration of the ship. Lots of color and excitement filled the air as I rushed to see all the staterooms that were opened especially for our viewing. I have always loved the bathrooms in the staterooms. They are larger than other cruise lines that I have sailed on and toured, and I love that Carnival gives you the "extra amenities" making your stay more comfortable, such as packaged razors, along with the standard bathroom amenities by Elemis. Each stateroom that I toured offered only showers but large enough to accommodate any size passenger. Being a tall woman, I don't want to take a shower where I have no room to move around. I even took notice that the handicapped bathrooms are equipped with every thing needed such as wider showers with "benches" to sit.

Each room had bathrobes and beach towels. Nicely appointed with a king or twin bed, I noticed how the sofa sleeper actually would be comfortable for a third adult or small children. At 175 square feet, I thought that the inside staterooms seemed to be a bit smaller than the outside or balcony staterooms. Balconies looked small with clear Plexiglas for sitting back and enjoyment. Even in some of the obstructive view staterooms, there was plenty of sunlight filtering in without the large lifeboat directly in front of the window. Each stateroom offer ample drawer and closet space, with a private safe, located in it's own " counter top closet'

Carnival also offers Spa staterooms in inside, outside, and balcony staterooms. These staterooms offer you a private elevator that takes you directly to the Cloud 9 Spa, located on deck 11. In each Spa Stateroom you will find bathrobes, and slippers, with Deluxe Spa Products and special spa amenities and privileges. Unfortunately during my limited time onboard, Cloud 9 spa was closed to inspections.

One of the staterooms viewed was decorated for some type of celebration. I was very impressed with this, something more than just balloons outside your door.

After viewing the staterooms, I had 15 minutes to tour the public areas abroad the Splendor. I did not realize that Carnival offers Movies and Concerts outside on the Lido deck. With a "drive-in" type of screen, on board guests will have plenty of space to kick back and enjoy a good concert or movie. I enjoy watching from the pool or Jacuzzi, definitely something different.

Camp Carnival offers 5,550 sq ft of pure fun for children of all ages, including a section for teens only. The DJ was already at her booth and it was only 2:00 pm. I over heard one parents "introducing his teens to the Teen Club, reminding me how many times I have been on a cruise myself and noticing how within days, I noticed how quickly the teens onboard make friends with one another. My own daughter had "her crew" within what seemed like hours on our first day of cruising. With an impressive 2 story water slide, located on Deck 14, I thought of the "happy' adults that would have a ball decks below. There is definitely a adult only pool sandwiched between Deli/Grille and Pool Bar.

There are 3 main dining rooms, the Black, Gold, and Pink Pearl restaurants. I had lunch in the Pink Pearl and loved that the chandeliers seemed to be made with wooden balls in a spiral formation. I heard one of the agents comment that Carnival had come a long way in terms of their food on board. I must admit that everything that was on our menu was not only quite appetizing, but also served in large portions. I regret not having to be able to take my lunch home in a doggie bag, because there was no way I could finish everything in one seating. We were also entertained by the waiters, with one of the songs from Slumdog Millionaire. Lunch was excellent. My main course was Medallion Beef with mashed potatoes and mushrooms.........mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm mmmmmmmmm Good!

Other Public areas consists of a Sushi Bar, Duty Free shops, A Piano Bar, 1 large Theatre with about five other on board venues for your entrainment pleasure.
I noticed a picture of a past guest that had won several thousand dollars on board in the Royal Flush casino. Wouldn't that be nice to take a Carnival Cruise and win big like that as a take home life time memory.

The Pinnacle Steakhouse on board at 30.00 per guest offers everything from 3 different cuts of beef, to lamp chops, chicken, lobster and sea bass. Boarding guests can see actually steaks and lobster sizes as they make reservations for dinner. There are 32 culinary delights to choose from on the menu, including starters and deserts with a large selection of International Wines and After dinner drinks

Starting in February 2011, Carnival will take over as the only Cruise line, offering 3, 4, and 7 night Mexico sailings from the Port of Long Beach

Overall Carnival Splendor should deliver the fun and excitement for families and singles of all ages. I'll still miss the other Cruise line that departs in January of 2011, but still love the fact that between Sand Diego and Long Beach departures, the West coast still offers something convenient without having to fly to another departure state or country.

Look for two 15 night round trip San Diego and Long Beach Hawaii cruises starting from Long Beach/Los Angeles on December 2, 2011 and departing from San Diego on April 13, 2012. T
There are Early Saver rates now available for booking, offering rate protection coverage should your rate go down before your cruise. Certain restrictions do apply. additional discounts available for Residents, Seniors, and Military

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Pleasant Holidays Oahu and Maui

By: Sandra Weaver - Senior Travel Consultant

My last trip was to the beautiful islands of Hawaii. I was able to visit both Oahu and Maui. Having never been to Hawaii, I was excited! The first island that we visited was Oahu, staying at the historic Royal Hawaiian, located just steps away from the International Marketplace.
The Royal Hawaiian, better known as the "Pink Palace of The Pacific," was built in 1927, one of the first on the island of Oahu. I stayed in 2 room categories, partial ocean view, and garden. My partial ocean view suite had a king bed, with a welcome gift of banana bread in a decorated box that included the recipe to make my own banana bread from home. The bathroom had every amenity that you could wish for. There were flat screen televisions also in the room with a large desk for any work that you may have to do while on vacation. Wi-Fi was also available for use throughout the resort. There was a small French balcony in my room as well. My garden view room was just as comfortable with a smaller bathroom and less bathroom amenities, however, still comfortable. Walking through the halls I found myself wondering what ghosts roam the halls of this beautiful hotel. With a history that goes back to the early 1900's there was no telling just who had stayed here over the years.
Located right next door to the Royal Hawaiian was the Moana Surfrider, also a historic monument, dating back to 1901. I loved the front porch where you can "sit" and watch the passing parade off the main highway of Kalakaua Avenue, one of the main "strips" in Oahu. Both the Royal Hawaiian and the Moana Surfrider are oceanfront with the rooms being smaller at the Moana Surfrider, yet still as comfortable.
I found Oahu to be full of life, moving at a faster pace than any of the other islands, you will forever have plenty to do and see. Even with the hotels that are located across the street from Waikiki Beach, you will still be able to "see" and play at the beach.
Any of the Aston hotels would work as far as comfort and customer service are concerned. Offering room categories from junior suites, to one and 2 bedroom units, complete with full kitchens. Aston hotels have something to offer everyone at affordable rates. Look for their breakfast on the beach promotions for a memorable experience.
Interested in well known resorts such as Hyatt, Marriott, or the Hilton Hawaiian Village resorts? All 3 chains offer oceanfront resorts filled with signature amenities and spa facilities for all. If you are traveling with children, no need to worry, there are children programs to keep your little ones delighted throughout your vacation.
There are plenty of activities on the island of Oahu, from the Polynesian Cultural Center, where you can truly experience the culture of Hawaii, to the history of Pearl Harbor, or the breath taking views of Diamond Head, a renowned landmark in Hawaii.
If you’re looking for fun and plenty to do, then Oahu would be a good place to start!
Next we flew over to Maui. Our airport check-in went smoothly with our flight being under 60 minutes. By the time I got comfortable, ready to read one of my favorite books, we had arrived. Here I stayed at the Fairmont Kea Lani, located on the southern shores in Wailea. Here I had a 1 bedroom ocean view room with a separate dining and sleeping area. I really loved the bathroom that offered plenty of lighting and mirrors. The bathroom and shower were awesome, with double sinks for those busy families.
In the living room area there was a sofa bed, offering more space for families of four. There was a door that separated the bedroom from the living room area for privacy. All suites had coffee makers, with mini fridges to keep your favorite beverages cold. It also had an I-Pod desk clock with alarm and a dock for your I-Pods. Everyday there was a Wall Street Journal newspaper on my door to keep up to date with daily news.
The Fairmont is located on a beautiful swim able beach with complimentary daily activities both in the water and out to keep you entertained. With three heated pools, golf courses located nearby, Spa Kea Lani, and 4 restaurants, I was in heaven.
The Fairmont Kea Lani also offers 2 and 3 bedroom villas, located oceanfront, with the most amazing views of the Pacific that you could possibly imagine. The kitchens in the villas offered state of the art kitchen appliances, including a laundry facility. If you choose not to do your own cooking, you can hire your own personal chef to come in to prepare your meals.
Next we toured hotels located in the Kaanapali area, not far from the sleepy town of Lahaina. Lahaina is where the cruise ships dock. Here you are surrounded by historic landmarks, shops that offer souvenirs to "document" your vacation, art galleries, and fine restaurants.
My favorite resort was the Westin Maui, offering shops and fine dining venues, located right next door to Whaler's Village. There's also the Sheraton, built into the mountains of Maui. We also enjoyed a Luau at the Hyatt Maui, where we definitely were entertained by Hawaiian dancers and cuisine.
In conclusion, the islands of Hawaii are definite must do's. With non-stops out of San Francisco and Los Angeles, you are hours away from true paradise. My next goal is to do a 7- 10 night cruise to visit all of the Hawaiian Islands. I still miss it and I've been home for a week!