Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas. Built in 2003, Serenade has a passenger capacity of 2501 passengers. Part of Royal Caribbean's Radiance Class of ships, this ship is smaller than the Monarch of the Seas (2744 passenger) and much smaller than the fleet's Freedom class of ships(4370 passengers). Guests were happily awaiting a 15 night Hawaii cruise that departed from the Port of San Pedro. I started my self-guided tour with the Staterooms, starting from the inside category to the Deluxe Suite category. Even though boarding was permitted before noon, the staterooms were not available to the general public until after 1pm. I was surprised to see that the staterooms were larger than when I sailed on the 3 night Baja Mexico Cruise back in July 08. The staterooms are beautifully appointed with fine woods and flat screen televisions. Not much for bathroom amenities other than soap in the lower category categories. I did find shower gel, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, and both bathtubs and showers in the Royal suites with separate bedrooms from the living room area with spacious balconies for one's enjoyment. The public areas were impressive with several different venues to entertain all of her guests. I was surprised though at the size of the library, small in comparison to others that I have seen. I had read in a previous review that someone had complained about the artwork onboard that was displayed for the upcoming Art Auctions by Park West. In the Review someone had complained that the artwork on board was offensive to families with children. I did not see that, even though the artwork did reflect the same artwork that I have seen on all of my other cruises regardless of the line. Everything on this ship is built with beautiful woods throughout the ship. Even on the pool decks that had plenty of lounges chairs and areas for your enjoyment. If you are athletic then there is plenty to do while on board from the Rock Climbing Wall ( yes good for adults too) to miniature golf for the kids and a golf simulators for all of you golfers out there. There is also a full state of the arts Fitness Center on board, upstairs from the spa that offers all types of spa treatments including Thermal Suites (including private ocean view couple rooms) that are available for an additional cost 219.00 per person of 119.00 each. This rate is based upon a 15 night cruise. The Spa treatment rooms were also spacious offering treatments from facials to full-bodied massages individually or as a couple. There is also a hair salon on board for that "fresh hair-do" on formal nights. Manicures and pedicures are also available at an additional cost On board is also a adults only Solarium that is completely alluring for those adults looking to get away from all the noise at the main pool. Filled with plants and comfortable lounges chairs, I knew that this is where I would have been had I not had to disembark from the ship by 3pm. I loved the way that this ship is set up for dining. There was a large variety of food choices in the Windjammer Cafe that had several different sitting areas for enjoying your meals. Ice cream is available on board at no additional charge. Passengers had the choice of eating inside or outside with comfortable dining tables, chairs, and sofas. There are two Specialty Restaurants on board that are available for alternate dining options at an additional per person cost. You have a choice of steaks at Chops Grill (25.00 per person) or Italian at Portofino (20.00 per person) Reservations are advised. The Formal dining rooms were also impressive with breath taking views of the ocean and fine woods. The food was alright, but I was only there for lunch and did not like our selections for that day. I am sure that with the variety of dining options while on board all passengers will be happy. You have several different dining options that is sure to please. One of the things that I do like when it comes to cruising if you don't like what's on the menu you have several other options for your dining desires. Food is served daily until 2:00am everyday. Unlimited soda is available for a small fee of 60.00 for kids and 90.00 for adults plus 15% gratuity (price depends on length of sailing). There is always a "drink or coffee" of the day available at additional costs For Families Royal Caribbean still impressed me with their children programs for kids ages 6 months (Aquababies) to The Voyagers ages 9-11. There is a programs designed for teens with their own hang out " the Living Room". Royal Caribbean has partnered with Fisher-Price and Crayola, so parents can really feel secure with leaving their kids. Parents for younger children are encouraged to "play along" and many programs are set up just for that. With educated and experienced staff members, parents can feel secure that not only are their children safe but learning while having fun. There are lots of activities for the children including the Adventure Theater by Camp Broadway, Adventure Science, and the Build and Grow programs that allows both parents and children to participate in the activity of building a small wooden ship together. There is also a water park on board with wraparound slides and real sand on the Adventure Beach, and teens have their own disco at the Optix disco ( Parents are to KEEP OUT) Public areas were also impressive. With duty-free gifts shops to champagne bars, you will never find a time where there is nothing to do. There are 2 pool tables in the BomBay Billiard Club and flat screen televisions monitors in the Pit Stop Sports Bar located close enough to the casino so that sport fans can enjoy the slots and favorite games at the same time. Even though this was a Hawaii sailing the casino would be opened on all sea days, with slots starting from 2 cents, blackjack and card tables. There are Slot and Texas Hold'em Tournaments on board..who knows lady luck may sail with you and come home a first place winner. Lots of entertainment on board from a cinema for newly released films to live entertainment in the Tropical Theatre. No matter........ what there is always as much or as little to do on board. The Radiance Class of ships are Royal Caribbean are for cruises young and old that don't like the "Mega Ships" such as the Freedom or Liberty of the Seas. For those that do enjoy the Mega Ships, rates are now available for the new "Oasis of the Seas" by Royal Caribbean. The only ship with Central Park and under the stars entertainment for cruisers old and new. The Oasis of the Seas makes her debut in December 09. Group space is also available Happy Sailing!!!! Sandra

Sandra WeaverSenior Travel Consultant

Palace Resorts Cancun

Cancun Palace Resorts February 25, 2009 When I found out that I had the opportunity to travel to Cancun, Mexico I was so excited. I had not seen Cancun since Hurricane Wilma and wanted to see all of the new developments that had taken place after the hurricane. My co-worker Lila Correa and I were both assigned to go to Cancun Mexico for 6 days. In those six days, we toured several Palace Resorts, Club Med Cancun, and Dreams Tulum. The first thing that we must comment on is the issues of security in Mexico. Here at All-Travel, our first concern goes out to you, our clients. Your safety is important in any destination that you are in. May it be in Eastern Europe or your favorite Palace resort. We are here for more than taking your order for travel. Our e-mails and phones are always on, 24/7, keeping us on top of everything from great destination choices, to the safety of every part of the world. Our company CEO is on several travel committees that also keep him up to date. We appreciate your trust in us as travel professionals to lead you in the right direction. We work daily with our suppliers, always kept up to date on all aspects of your vacation. During the time we were in Cancun, there was never a time I felt threatened and unsure of my safety. Other than the airport hustlers for transportation or time shares, I never saw anything to be concerned with. My only fear came when I talked myself into standing on that bathroom scale. Arriving in Cancun, I was really amazed at how quickly and effortless my arrival went. I had heard that the Cancun airport has suffered major damage from Hurricane Wilma and had to be renovated, but there were places I still remembered. Very nice, though! There are plenty of shops, some with the same items that we had seen during our time there, but more pricey. Our transfer went really smooth. We arrived when there was not a lot of traffic. We were staying near the hotel zone so our transfer was only 25 minutes. 45 to 60 minutes should you stay in the Rivera Maya, or Playa del Carmen. We stayed at the Cancun Palace, where the first thing we were taught was that each Palace has a personality of its own. With 660 rooms, we stay on the ninth floor, ocean view. Wow so nice and comfy - we had the double room still with the Jacuzzi bathtub. Everything that we could possibly need was there, from bathroom amenities that included a toothbrush and shaving kit (it's the little things that mean the most) to a fully stocked mini-bar with premium liquor dispensers (American sodas, coke and diet coke, plenty of juice, and bottled water). There was also a fruit basket with bottles champagne and red wine. We had robes and slippers, iron and ironing board, and alarm clock radio and a cd player. Even turn down service with chocolates on your pillow! The beds were perfect. On the concierge’s level, you have a selection of nine different pillow types. I was comfortable on all three of mine. We also had beautiful views – we could see everything from the pool to the ocean. Not much of a beach to swim, but beautiful crystal blue. At night we could count the stars. Even though we had more Spanish than English speaking programs there was a flat screen TV, a safe large enough for my laptop, hair dryer, Wi-Fi, and 24 hour room service at no additional cost. Yeah real nice. There are 6 main restaurants, open from breakfast to late. One of the things I was impressed with at the Palace resorts was the variety of food. Reservations or time restrictions are not required for their a la carte restaurants. One night we dined outside at The Steak, there I had a t-bone. Another night we were serenaded at Leonardo, where we were introduced to Italian dishes and fine wines. We also dined at Miyako where we had our own Master Chef, preparing our meal before our eyes. Wow Factor all the way. The service was always top notch. Even at El Mercado, Cancun Palace's main buffet, there were hosts to meet, greet, and escort you to your table (either inside or out). I've seen plenty of all inclusive resorts that are more seen then heard. After filling ourselves with all of the delicious food, we were able to schedule a 25 minute spa treatment located in a small corner near the main pool. There was a waiting area with refreshing drinks and peaceful tranquility. My massage was very relaxing, making me want more when my treatment was finally over. You can schedule numerous spa treatments for both him and her. There are also meeting spaces for any groups. The resorts are also perfect for families because they have children’s programs for ages 4 to 17. While the children program offers much, including a small water park on site, I did not see a lot that would keep my teenager content. There was a room for teens with play stations but I didn’t see the teens hanging out there for too long… Why book with Palace Resorts? Their all-inclusive offers include exchange privileges with other Palace Resorts, there’s a Wet n' Wild Water park, Dolphin Experiences, unlimited local and long distance calls to the USA, select unlimited tours, golf and spa packages, unrestrictive dining, nightly entertainment, tennis courts, animal zoos, excellent service, and special amenities for any presidential suite or concierge's level rooms. Overall I had a ball updating my knowledge on all there is to know about Palace Resorts. Want to know more? Please feel free to call or e-mail me for more information Sandra Weaver SandraW@All-Travel.com.

Sandra WeaverSenior Travel Consultant

Puerto Rico

Facts of Puerto Rico:
Languages: Both English and Spanish are spoken
Capital: San Juan which is the main entry way for Puerto Rico, however I learned that there are actually 3 airports to can be used depending on the location of your hotel
Geography: 100 miles long and 35 miles wide... think of the shape of your car's rearview mirror...
Travel times: 2 1/2 hours from Miami 3 1/4 hours from Atlanta and New York, and 7 1/2 hours from Washington and Los Angeles (no direct flights from Los Angeles).
Climate: Even though it did rain frequently while I was there you have an average temperature of 83F (22.7C) in the winter and 85F (29.4C)
NO PASSPORT REQUIRED
My Review:
Okay now that I have gotten some of the important facts out of the way I will give my review of Puerto Rico. Let's start with the bad news first......... Whereas a lot of my clients prefer all-inclusive vacations, it is to my disappointment to have to tell you that there are no all inclusive resorts in Puerto Rico, San Juan, Ricon - no not a one, not even in the far away parts of the island – it has something to do with staffing and government laws. Another disappointment for those smokers out there is that all of Puerto Rico and San Juan is non-smoking in ALL enclosed areas - hotels will charge you a 250.00 penalty if housekeeping finds any sign of smoking in the rooms. So smoker's if you must and you have a balcony, just make sure the door leading to the balcony is closed very, very, tightly. Also remember to take all evidence with you...no ashes, no butts, no empty cigarette packs. Non-Smokers I know that you are cheering but us smoker's have rights too and I am here to give all important information to all of our valued clients, both non smoker's and smokers.
With that done I will continue on.......I love PUERTO RICO!!!!!! We did so much from touring the Bacardi Distillery (did you know that their mascot is a black bat) to the El Yunque Rain forest (don't get lost and yes it does rain) to the Rio Camuy Cave Park (yes there were bats there too) to the Bioluminescent Bay where microorganisms glow in the dark. There was so much to see and do. Did I mention the cobblestone streets in Old San Juan? - that's where you will find the port of San Juan offering sailings to the Caribbean, and duty free shopping for your favorite trinkets.
There is so much to tell that I really don't know where to start. Puerto Rico has a lot to offer. If you want to be ten minutes away from the airport you have to stay in Isla Verde at either the Intercontinental or even the Holiday Inn. I was completely charmed by the El San Juan hotel and casino. With breathtaking views all over, you will enjoy being in the mist of pure paradise. Lots of restaurants and nightlife to make one's soul happy, that's for sure. There was also a big Culinary Arts festival going on with all of the local restaurants - I tried to meet all of the chefs just to get some cooking tips I could bring back home.
I also went to the "other side" of Puerto Rico, south to Porta Caribe Ponce where you will find a "less busy" part, to Porta Del Sol - the Western region.
I stayed in Resorts and Hotels from the 6 apple ratings down to 2 apple ratings, and you know even the 2 apple rating were comfortable, depending on location.
All-in-all I am your Puerto Rico specialist - whatever questions that you may have, I am here. Even with the non-smoking policy and no all-inclusive resorts, I am sure that old or new, single or married with children, you too can have a ball in Puerto Rico, with all of its beauty and charms, history, and natural wonders.
Walk along the cobblestones of Old San Juan and re-live history, golf in the hills of Porta Del Sol, catch the waves on some of the best surfing beaches in the Caribbean or sit back and just relax.
Whatever and whenever Puerto Rico would be a good change from the ordinary.
-Sandra Weaver

Club Med Punta Cana

Recently I had the opportunity to explore and discover the newly renovated Club Med Punta Cana Village. Since several of us were able to go to Club Med Punta Cana, I decided to write about the food.
Club Med Punta Cana offers you three different restaurants and eating areas: Two buffet style restaurants and one specialty - with a beautiful oceanfront dining area.
This Hispaniola is beautifully appointed on the oceanfront, with large open air windows. In all the restaurants there is a section for moms with small children, called the Baby Corner. Here, moms can find everything needed for infants and toddlers. There are microwave ovens, small refrigerators stocked with baby food and milk and bottle warmers. Club Med makes it so easy for parents to have everything at their fingertips for feeding their little tots – I was amazed at the various food selections for babies. The Baby Corner is offered at both La Samana and Hispaniola Restaurants.
The buffet restaurant offers several different serving stations with everything from Salad bars, to hamburgers and fries, to local delights such as Dominican rice and pastas for lunch, and fruits, hot and cold cereals, several styles of eggs, sausage links and crispy bacon for breakfast. I was amazed to see how families were enjoying themselves, from toddlers on up, at the dining tables.
For Dinner we went to La Samana and I can't say enough about Club Med's buffet presentation. There were several different food stations from salads to bread (Club Med is famous for their white chocolate bread). The first station you stumble upon at Samana is the dessert one. Now typically I am not one that does a lot of desserts. I like looking at them but seldom will I indulge. But at Club Med Punta Cana, let me tell you, the desserts were to die for! I took one dessert back to my room and munched on for a couple of days! Another night we found a Chocolate fondue section with bananas, strawberries, melons, and pineapple. MMMM---delicious. One of my co-workers mentioned how there was this one little boy that sitting by the fondue station covered with chocolate – I bet that was a sight to see. House wine, soft drinks, juices, beer, and ice cream were all also available at no extra cost. Dinner was offered between 6:30pm and 10:00pm. La Samana is located right next to the main lobby and pools and truly has an endless amount of meal options.
Last but not least would be Celeste Grill casual service – a snack bar that serves small snacks. My favorite was the Greek and Caesar's salads and the chicken kabob. It’s located on the oceanfront, right next to the water sports, allowing guests to just sit, relax, and watch guests participate in Club Med’s non-motorized water sports. Right next to the grill is the beach bar, always serving up some favorite beverages.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – Club Med delivers. The food was delicious and the GO's were always there with a smile. Did I mention that there were even Gracious Organizers eating with the guests – how's that for excellent customer service!? The restaurants were in prime locations and had awesome views. I had a ball and would go back in a heartbeat. I have absolutely no complaints and trust that you won't either…

Queen Mary 2

On January 23, 2008 I had the opportunity to sail on the Super liner Queen Mary 2 for a 10 night Caribbean Cruise, sailing from Brooklyn New York to Road Town Tortola, St.Kitts, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Thomas, returning back to Brooklyn. I wanted to do this sailing because of the history that Queen Mary 2 has behind her. Being a native of Los Angeles, I have been on the original QM, located in Long Beach, several times. I could not wait to board just to visit the largest library on the sea ( 8000 books), to experience Illuminations ( the only Planetarium at sea),and the Aqua Therapy Centre (WOW!) located within the Canyon Ranch Spa. Beautifully decorated in slick woods...... with a museum... Maritime Quest on board showing the true history of the Queens. I loved viewing the awesome photos of past guests dating back to the 1800's. You can listen to informative information with details ranging from celebrities and great men and women that sailed in the early days. I attended a couple of the ballroom dance classes, taught in the Grand Queen's Ballroom........ very popular, very crowded, but excellent in learning those dances such as the swing and tango. Boy did I ever swing! Private dance lessons can be arranged if needed. The G32, (a 2 level dancing venue) Queen Mary 2's disco was also nicely decorated. Smoker's could smoke upstairs with non-smoker's downstairs Vibz the Caribbean band and a DJ entertained guests to the wee hours of the morning with a variety of music themes such as Motown and Country nights....I partied for sure. There is so much to do on board from an entire deck (Deck 7) for just food service, to the sail away parties with live music and plenty of space on deck to take in the breathless views of the Caribbean Islands. During the day the King's court is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a midnight buffet that offers more than just a burger and fries. At night you can experience separate restaurants such as the La Piazza (Italian) or the Lotus(Asian) to the Chef's Galley that offers a unique dining experience. You choose what "meal theme" you would like from French to steaks, and Top Chefs will come in, allowing you to view the preparation your dinner, serving you right there in the "food theatre" Reservations must be made . If not enough guests are signed up for this display, you are subject to cancellation for that night. Staff will contact you to re-schedule though which is proof that Cunard does honor their "white-glove service" One day we had lunch in the Golden Lion Pub that offered the best fish and chips that I have eaten. Other British dishes are available...all of this at no additional costs. At night I listened while the other guests had sing-along and karaoke themes nights. They really enjoyed themselves, more Frank Sinatra or Dean Martin requests than Michael Jackson or Cion. Todd English is the Queen's specialty restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine from the renowned Todd English, a celebrity chef. There was so much to do on board. On about my fifth day on board I had to just relax because we had done so much from touring the HUGE ship, to attending classes ranging from computer lessons to guest speakers, to art auctions ( lowest bid was 10.00 Can you believe that?), to eating and eating and more eating. The entertainment shows were great compared to some other cruise lines (but not all) Some nights you would see a show and other nights there might be a UK performer that was flown in for a performance. I always like to make all of night performances....it just goes with cruising I guess. That or my love for Simon of the American Idol I loved the Aqua Therapy Centre. This Centre consists of a thermal pool to die for, sauna and stream rooms, and other therapy sensations. At 40.00 dollars a day you can just relax away from all the hustle and bustle of deciding where you want to eat. QM2 staffers say that we have to eat at least every 15 minutes while on board, and I must say that I definitely got my weight on while cruising. With any spa treatment the Aqua Therapy Centre is complimentary for one day. Special pricing available for more days I must say that this ship is definitely "elegance" to say the least. Most passengers were seniors, coming from the UK or Wales. With over 2000 passengers on board, there were to my understanding only 47 Americans on board. and to my amazement 19 children that I never saw. The Zone/Play Zone with certified British nannies is 100% secure. I could not tour the inside, however I was able to "peek" inside and yes it was also well appointed. Not your Disney or RCCL, but entertaining for young kids. I never saw children and families gathered out on the pool decks. I don't know where they were, however crowded pools areas full of children was not happening on this peculiar sailing..That goes to show just how parents enjoyed the Play Zone Last but not least.the staterooms. QM2 offers several different categories from a Grand Duplex to a standard inside stateroom. If booked within the Queen's Grill, the Princess Grill, or the Britannia Club, guests have their own dining and pool lounging areas that are off limits to other guests. The QM2 definitely has apartments and duplexes on board. now that's a lot of square footage. e, myself I had a Atrium view in category D1. My stateroom was comfortable. The atrium does have a window, however the only thing that we could see outside was the guest rooms on our opposite side.There is a mini-frig in the room. No bathtubs, great bath amenities, flat screen television, and daily bathrobes and slippers (slippers are yours to keep, however there is a charge for more pairs) lots of storage space, and a in room safe. In ending this I probably have not gotten to half of my experiences on board. I still would opt to take my 15 year old on another cruise line that is geared more to families I am proud to say that I have indeed sailed on the GREAT QUEEN MARY 2. Now I too, am part of history! 100 years from now you just may see my picture on their walls Sandra Weaver

Sandra WeaverSenior Travel Consultant