Archive for June, 2009
Enjoy The Enchantment History Of Venice Italy
by Roy Witman
One of the most romantic cities in the world Venice is primarily dependent on the water that intertwines throughout the town for transportation. You could easily spend days on end just sightseeing courtesy of a gondola. This is the only city in the world built entirely on water. As you look around youll quickly notice an abundance of gondolas but no cars! Filled with nightlife Venice is famous for its masquerade parties. Take time to attend local festivals including the Venice Film Festival and the everpopular Carnival Masquerade Ball. While youre there be sure to visit St. Mark’s Square the hub of the city.
St. Mark’s Square
Early in the morning St. Mark’s Square is completely empty with the exception of those who clean this majestic wonder. Even then in the quiet of the dawn it is an aweinspiring place to visit. An openair square set before ancient domed architecture topped with numerous spires St. Mark’s Square is positioned on the Grand Canal by a gondola pier “molo”. Its majestic Campanile watchtower takes center stage with a height of 314 feet. With the quiet crashing of the waves and the beautiful scenery you could simply sit and stare for hours.
However once the crowds rush in the square is filled with sightseers who wander about eat and feed the famous pigeons. But don’t be content to sit outside in the square. Take the time to explore some of the buildings.
Basilica di San Marco
Best viewed early in the day before the lines become too exasperating Basilica di San Marco also known as St. Mark’s Cathedral is simply stunning. Those visiting via cruise ship are advised to book the earliest tour possible at your excursion desk. Cruise lines including Royal Caribbean offer a variety of tours departing at different times.
The exterior alone is exceptional but the interior is not to be missed. With over 39000 feet of gold mosaics and artworks by Italian masters Titian and Bellini this church is spectacular.
Gondola Tours
Of course no trip to Venice is complete without a romantic gondola ride. Check with your tour guide or the excursion desk of your cruise ship for details. Royal Caribbean among others offers day and evening gondola rides. These narrow handpainted boats maneuver through the canals giving you a private tour of Venice up close and personal. If you’re lucky you’ll also have the pleasure of a serenade!
Carnival Masquerade Ball
After a day of sightseeing you might choose a change of pace. Get dressed to the nines and participate in one of Venice’s most celebrated events: Carnival! Held in midFebruary each year many cruise lines put on their own versions of Carnival. If you’re visiting Venice in wintertime get in on the real thing. Otherwise flirt with your neighbor onboard ship for an equally good time!
Curious fun enchanting and aweinspiring Venice is a city most never forget once they’ve experienced its wonder. When making your plans to visit splurge! Take in as many of the sights as time allows. You’ll cherish these memories forever!
About the writer:nbsp;nbsp;Roy Witman is VicePresident of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including
European cruises. 2007 All Rights Reserved
DragonS Pearl Cruise On Ha Long Bay
Dragon’s pearl Cruise on Ha Long Bay
In keeping with the tradition of wooden boat building this 32 meter long 8meter wide masterpiece is constructed of the finest quality materials by the hands of skilled craftsman. Designed after the Chinese sailing Junks of old there are three traditional sails; a 13meter main sail a 14meter front sail and a 7meter cross sail. As you enter the Dragon’s Pearl you come to the reception counter on the first of the two lower decks which have a total of 18 twin/double fully equipped cabins.
Each 9m2 airconditioned cabin boastsnbsp;its own bathroom with hot water shower a closet and night table. In each cabin you enjoy the elegant design of the fine woodwork that is evident throughout. For your convenience there are also 3 shared bathrooms onboard including on the dining deck. On the 3rd floor you’ll find the elegant dining room and bar exquisitely designed with handcrafted Teak and Oak. This spacious area has 36 seats and is perfect for either a romantic dinner for two or family dining. To the rear of the deck is a cozy covered lounging/dining area where you can enjoy the stunning views of Ha Long Bay through the elegant archways. On the forward deck is the captain’s wheel house and a large outdoor lounging area perfect for taking in the views while enjoying a refreshing drink or just sitting back Early risers can enjoy a morning view of bays landscape with a cup of tea or coffee with breakfast. Sitting on the upper deck you can relax while taking in the breathtaking beauty of the rocky islands rising from the crystalclear water of the bay. After breakfast explore Sung Sot cave 8:00 to 9:00 swim and relax at Soi Sim beach. At 9:30 boat starts cruising back to the jetty while brunch is served from 10:30 to 11:30. We continue cruising through the bay along the way seeing more of the fascinating formations. Checkout is at 11:45. Boat arrive at harbor by 12:00 for the drive back to Hanoi. B L
with your favorite book.On top is the spacious 150 square meter tanning deck with 15 comfortable lounge chairs for you to laze away in. 8 meters above the water you’ll have a panoramic view of the limestone karsts towering from the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay.
Fully equipped for Safety!
To ensure your safety and peace of mind the Dragon’s pearl is fully equipped with all the necessary equipment to meet today’s safety standards. Onboard there are 80 life vests 40 life buoys and 4 lifeboats. In case of fire the boat is equipped with 4 firefighter water hoses and 14 public fire extinguishers. We are also equipped with a GPS system VHF radio and an automated alarm system with 27 speakers throughout.
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ItineraryHanoi Halong Bay Hanoi
Duration: 3 days/2nightsDay 1nbsp; Hanoi Ha Long Bay Welcome on board
Leaving Hanoi by private vehicle at 8:30AM and arriving at the jetty around 12:30PM. Our crew welcomes you on board the Dragon’s Pearl Junk enjoy welcome drink checkin to your cabin. Lunch with fresh seafood is served at 1:00pm start a 3.5 hours cruise into mystic Ha Long Bay to see the amazing karsts with different formations: Mat Qui Monsters face islet But Moc islet Cap De islet Trong Drum cave Trinh Nu cave floating fishing village with its unique way of life. Then head to Luon cave enjoy swimming sun bathing at Ti Top beach or climb the peak of the mountain for a breathtaking panorama view of Ha Long bay. Dinner and overnight aboard junk. L D
Day 2nbsp; Ha Long Bay discovery
Early risers can enjoy a morning view of Bays landscape. Sitting on the upper deck you can relax and take in the breathtaking beauty of the rocky islands rising from the crystalclear water of the bay. Breakfast is at 8:00am. After breakfast there are 3 options to choose from. All start from 8:30AM.
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Option 1 Relaxing After breakfast start cruising South to explore Lan Ha Bay along the way seeing nbsp;more of the fascinating Limestone formations like Trong Drum cave Con Coc islet Mieng Giuong islet floating fishing village Ba Trai Dao islet to swim at the quiet beaches of Cat Ba National Park BBQ lunch on the beach or on board the Lagoon Explorer. More time for swimming amp; relaxing. Then cruise back to visit Dark amp; Bright cave and then cruise to the Drum cave area for sunset. Dinner amp; overnight on board.nbsp;
Option 2 Trekking in Cat Ba National Park 3 hours After breakfast start cruising to Cat Ba National Park passing floating fishing villages along the way. Trekking through remote Viet Hai Village on winding trail with limestone cliffs rising from ground beside you will have a chance to discover the traditional life of local residents. Climb up to the peak of the mountain for a panorama view of Ha Long bay and Viet Hai valley the heart of Cat Ba National Park lunch in the village. Trek back to the boat and cruise to the Drum cave area for sunset. Dinner amp; overnight on board.
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Option 3 Sea Kayak Discovery After breakfast cruise south to the kayaking area where you will benbsp; given some primary paddling instruction by our expert on how to paddle safely and comfortably. You and your guide will explore the mystical bay. There will be a lot of swimming visiting hidden beaches or a lagoon cave depending on tidal condition. BBQ lunch on the beach or on board the Lagoon Explorer. Cruise and explore Dark amp; Bright cave before heading back to Drum cave area for dinner amp; overnight on board.
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Day 3 nbsp;Retreat amp; Brunch Hanoi
What to bring
Sun block ; Camera Film;nbsp; Insect repellent; Original Passport; Wide brim hat; Swimming clothes; Sun glassesIncluded
Accommodation on board double/twin sharing
Private pick up and transfer A/C Car or bus
Meals indicated in the itinerary B= Breakfast L= Lunch D= Dinner
Boat trips indicated the tour program
All entrance permits
Excluded
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Personal travel insurance Compulsory
Personal expenses
Gratuities and tips
Any things not mentioned in the itinerary
nbsp;Email us or Call 84 4 22427989 for Reservation
Tour Durationnbsp;nbsp;3 Days/2 Nights Without Carnbsp;nbsp; With Car nbsp;Option 1nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; 240 USDnbsp;nbsp; nbsp; 290 USD Option 2nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; nbsp;250 USDnbsp; 300 USD nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; Option 3 250 USDnbsp;nbsp;nbsp; 310 USD Tour Durationnbsp;2 days/1 night 140 USD 190 USD Note: The rate are valid until 28 April 08 Rates are quoted in USD per personFor group of minimum 2 persons
About the writer: PanViet Travel A Warm Sunny Welcome to ! As a local tour operator PanViet Travel can take you on a custommade tour to destinations throughout Vietnam. From small group tours of historical Vietnam; to ecoadventures in Halong Bay; to cultural communitybased tourism products in Ha Giang we have been a Vietnam ambassador to thousands of travelers Worldwide. Vietnam is rich in culture and tradition. There is a warmth to the people and the layers of culture are diverse. Inspiring landscapes are around every corner. With passion we pride ourselves as being your guide to experiencing the unspoiled Vietnam at your own pace and style. Unique Educational Responsible Inspiring Cherishedhellip;The way travel should be!
Dining Onboard Ventura
Dining onboard Ventura
Stunning superliner Ventura is the newest addition to the PO cruise lines fleet. It is the largest ship built exclusively for the British market with this in mind the features onboard have been carefully created to appeal to the contemporary cruise passenger. With a selection of dining everyone has been catered for; ensuring traditional and flexible options are available giving people a choice and a chance to experience new and exciting flavours.
The ships three main restaurants offer a selection of a la carte dining with five course menus they are giving a traditional approach to the fine dining onboard:
Bay Tree and Saffron Restaurants
The Bay Tree and Saffron Restaurants are situated on F Deck offering a wide selection of breakfast and lunch menus. Club Dining is offered in the evening operating on a fixed seating basis this gives the option for passengers to sit with the same companions each night dining at the same table and a specified time. There are two options of sittings with the first at 6.30pm and the second sitting at 8.30pm. The menus are inspired by the destinations incorporating Marco Pierre Whites signature dishes; the traditional ambience is designed to add an amazing dining experience to your cruise.
Cinnamon Restaurant
Providing evening Freedom dining Cinnamon Restaurant works on the same menu choices as the Bay Tree and Saffron Restaurants in that you experience an exquisite five course meal you do however have the option of freedom dining allowing you to dine at any time you wish with whoever you would like. This gives you flexibility at the time in which you go to dinner between the hours of 6.00pm and 10.00pm.
For daytime and casual dining there are a number of places to eat offering a relaxed and casual approach for the modern day cruiser:
Beach house family restaurant
With its family friendly meals and its beach themed decor including stripy deckchairs The Beach House restaurant is a casual option for families. Designed by Marco Pierre White The Beach House will serve breakfast lunch dinner and midnight snacks during 24hour buffet dining. In order to provide a relaxed family atmosphere there are high chairs available in the restaurant as well as childrens cutlery bibs and beakers. The menu is fun and creative and has been designed to be a success with people of all ages with childrens favourites such as spaghetti and meatballs designed to appeal to adults and children.
Tazzine
The Tazzine caf offers amazing specialty coffee and teas alongside a mid morning or afternoon snack such as cookies pastries and savory snacks. The Tazzine is the place to go to relax soak up the stylish interiors and indulge in good conversation.
Frankies Pizzeria Grill and ice cream parlour
Situated on the Lido deck you can indulge in a selection of gourmet pizza options created by Marco Pierre White. Based loosely on the Frankies chain of restaurants created by Marco Pierre White and Frankie Detorri you have the choice of hotdogs burgers and pizzas. After these snacks you have the option of ice cream flavours such as indulgent chocolate truffle exotic prune and Armagnac.
Waterside
The Waterside is the ships largest self service buffet situated on the Lido Deck you can get breakfast lunch and afternoon tea. The informal setting is relaxing yet the interiors are chic and stylish. You may enjoy a selection of breakfasts including cereal fruit and hot dishes. With lunches of salads pasta and quiches to name a small selection of what is to offer.
Select Dining onboard gives the passengers a chance to dine at the speciality restaurants experiencing different menu influences and options for the diners these restaurants offer an ambience of exclusivity and stylish dining for special occasions or simply to taste and try new foods:
The White Room
Marco Pierre Whites stylish Italian restaurant offers fine dining onboard the Ventura. The three coveted Michelin star chef has created a restaurant and menu to create a unique experience onboard. With an al fresco option for diners to sit under the stars the Italian influenced food is the Venturas signature restaurant. The White Room has a select Dining cover charge which can depend on the length of the cruise on longer sailings it is currently 20 per person per cover charge on days at sea The White Room offer a lunch menu.
Ramblas Tapas and wine bar
Based on Las Ramblas in Barcelona The Ramblas Tapas bar offers an authentic Spanish tapas food selection including dishes such as shellfish paella and gazpacho. With the sound of a Spanish guitar playing and the traditional Spanish dcor including a fake olive tree this is an authentic and lively setting. There is a chance to dine in the more formal dining area which offers more substantial tapas paella and seafood or to have snacks in the bar area. The tapas and snacks are without a charge during the day. A small charge of 5 Per Person per Cover Charge for a 3 course meal or a select 3 small Tapas snacks from the menu for just 2.50 is charged in the evenings.
East
The Asian infused restaurant offers a selection of contemporary foods inspired by the foods of the east East offers an amazing ambience giving an almost romantic setting. An example of the amazing cuisine is spicy tamarind duck and a fantastic selection of Dim Sum. You can even watch the chef prepare your food in the open kitchen area. There is a surcharge for the East restaurant which is around 15 per person.
Balcony Dining
Ventura is offering you a chance to indulge in the chefs finest foods whilst relaxing in your own cabin; you can enjoy a champagne breakfast or enjoy a romantic sunset dinner. The food is delivered direct to your cabin door. You will pay extra for this service but it is an opportunity to be in your own surroundings and dine under the stars.
With such a variety in dining options onboard The Ventura available 24 hours a day passengers are able to experience a flexible yet traditional approach to their time onboard. Experiencing true authenticity in the specialist restaurants and world class menus with food designed by the Michelin starred Chef Marco Pierre White.
With exceptional service on offer you can experience unique and specialist food in the Ramblas Tapas bar White Room and East restaurants. Whether you like the casual or formal approach within The Bay Tree Saffron and Cinnamon restaurants or the relaxed yet intriguing style of the The Beach House all followed by an ice cream from Frankies Ice Cream Parlour. The choice is part of the cruise experience and one that can make each day onboard a delightful and mouthwatering experience.
About the writer: Website editor and experienced cruiser who writes articles for www.insidecruise.co.uk and on occasions for www.idealcruising.co.uk magazine.