Monday, 2 May 2016

Included return flights to Asia with Celebrity Cruises


FREE return flights to Asia with Celebrity Cruises #traveldeals




Celebrity Cruises is offering guests free return flights for two repositioning Asian sailings onboard award-winning Celebrity Solstice. This incredible offer will provide free flights for bookings made in Balcony Staterooms or above and is valid for new individual bookings made before 24 May 2016*.

Fares start from $3099 per person in a Balcony Stateroom departing Sydney 8 October 2016. The 14-night cruise onboard the modern luxe cruise ship will make calls to Brisbane, Cairns, the Whitsundays, Darwin and Bali before arriving in Singapore. The free flight offer extends to domestic flights from Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne or Adelaide to Sydney to meet the ship, and home to the same ports from Singapore at the conclusion of the voyage.

Or choose the same 14-night itinerary in reverse, departing Singapore on 31 October and including international flights to meet the ship, and domestic flights to either Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne or Adelaide if guests live outside of Sydney at the conclusion of the cruise; all priced from $3349 per person (Balcony).

For more information about Celebrity Cruises or to book a cruise, visit celebritycruises.com.au, call 1800 754 500 or contact your travel agent.


*Terms & conditions: Applicable to twin share only.  Offer available til 24th May unless sold out prior. Offer is combinable with standard pricing only and will not be combinable with Celebrity Cruises Go Big Better Best promotion or any other offer, price code or promotion. For a list of full terms & conditions please visit - http://www.celebritycruises.com.au/specials/fly-free-asia-deal/

Saturday, 2 April 2016

Mothers Day Special - Cruise with MSC



Make mother's day the gift that keeps on giving and take the whole family on an unforgettable holiday!

Say thank you to your mum, grandmother or wife this year with an MSC Cruise. Spoil your special lady with the gift of luxury, relaxation and indulgence as she sets sail to some of the world's most beautiful destinations.

Take advantage of our special offer leading up to Mother's Day and receive 25% off your second cruise. Call MSC Musica home as you embark on an 11 night adventure to the magical Mediterranean. Departing from Genoa, cruise to Rome, Olympia, Athens, Rhodes, Limassol, Crete and Valletta and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of these magical towns. Plan for the year ahead and book a second cruise to take advantage of this great offer. Why not enjoy the perfect balance of history, culture and relaxation as you discover the stunning sights of Portofino, Barcelona, Casablanca, Canary Islands, Madeira Islands and Civitavecchia. Departing in September 2016, this itinerary makes the perfect school holidays getaway with something for everyone in the family to enjoy. With prices starting from $2,486 per person, for these two spectacular itineraries enjoy great savings while you treat the whole family.  

Our Mother's Day deal is available on range of selected departures throughout summer 2016 and winter 2017 itineraries cruising the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Arabian Peninsula and Cuba.

There is no better way to give Grandma a much deserved break than with our all organised fantastic Fly, Land and Cruise Packages. Surprise Grandma with the trip of a lifetime with a range of packages to choose from. Consider Lawrence returns to Arabia 27 night package, discovering Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Jordan, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain as well as cruising the Suez Canal on board the stunning MSC Fantasia. With transfers, accommodation and return flights already organised for you, this package is the perfect gift to give and an even better one to receive. Starting from $4,799  per person, this Mother's Day, the special ladies in the family will enjoy an experience not to be forgotten.  


www.msccruises.com.au

Tuesday, 22 March 2016

Ovation of the Seas reveals show-stopping entertainment




OVATION OF THE SEAS TO DEBUT WITH SHOW-STOPPING ENTERTAINMENT

New and Imaginative Shows Headline Australia's First New-Build Cruise Ship

Royal Caribbean International has today revealed the show-stopping entertainment line-up on board Australia's newest, biggest and most technologically advanced cruise ship Ovation of the Seas. A product of the largest entertainment production operation at sea, Ovation's entertainment will continue the innovative brand's standard of combining talent, technology and special effects with a spectacular selection of stage shows, productions and events that will exhilarate guests' senses and leave them spellbound. On board Ovation of the Seas, unique technologically advanced venues and exceptionally talented performers will come together to deliver unparalleled entertainment experiences each day of a guest's adventure.

Tech-focused Entertainment in Two70

The leading cruise line will deliver an endless landscape of one-of-a-kind entertainment in Two70, a multi-level great room that seamlessly fuses entertainment and technology. The venue affords audiences vast possibilities, with immersive experiences taking place all around the room. With the integration of Vistarama – expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that can be set into any scene, real or imagined, by combining 18 projectors to create an ambient surface over 30 metres wide and over 6 metres tall. In addition, a troupe of six, agile Roboscreens combined with highly trained live performers, music and special effects, gives guests front-row seats to stunningly visual shows that can only be seen while sailing on board Royal Caribbean's Quantum-class ships, including the spectacular Spectra's Cabaret.

Spectra's Cabaret is a completely original production, created by Royal Caribbean International and Moment Factory exclusively for Two70. This wildly popular show, already a fan-favourite on Anthem of the Seas, features the Maestro and his Agents of Rhythm as they invite the audience to an electric, multi-dimensional cabaret that transports them to invisible realms. Each night, the portal opens for a limited period of time and immerses guests' imaginations into a multimedia show brimming with kaleidoscopic sounds, effervescent colours and dazzling movement. "Spectra's Cabaret" blends live performance and experiential cinema with music from contemporary pop culture. It creates a world seen through the lens of music and technology, all while exploring the deepest recesses of the heart.

Headlining the Main Theatre

Seating 1,300 guests, the magnificent Royal Theater is home to Ovation of the Seas' two new production shows:

The Dream – This thrilling production chronicles the story of a man who is visited by his departed soulmate in a very special dream. His long-lost love has come to help him rediscover his passion for life and gives him the will to pursue his wildest dreams and to find love again. In his slumber, he will confront his deepest and most secret fears and journey on a rite of passage towards his eventual awakening. The unique combination of wonderful storytelling, soulful performances and spectacular production values will surprise and delight audiences time and time again.  This is the biggest adventure of this man's life, and Royal Caribbean audiences are invited to join him on a wild and audacious journey of discovery.
Live. Love. Legs. – The same highly-acclaimed creative team behind the wildly popular "Sequins & Feathers" on Quantum of the Seas has brought its signature combination of talented artists, high-energy performances and remarkable beauty, to deliver another unforgettable theatrical experience. "Live. Love. Legs" brings a collection of incredible aerial acrobatics, next-gen choreography and superb vocal performances that come straight from the Broadway stage. Infusing all the hallmarks of the Sequins & Feathers experience, featuring lavish costumes, jaw-dropping video effects, special musical arrangements, and a dedicated group of international artists, this all-new production on board Ovation of the Seas will reward audiences with a full sensory overload.

With Royal Caribbean, the entertainment doesn't end on stage. Ovation offers guests a line-up of fully produced late-night events and parties. In the ever popular Music Hall, guests are treated to the most exciting live music venue at sea, where travellers can dance till the wee hours of the morning as well as enjoy theme parties such as Groovy Town. Two70 hosts late-night themed parties such as Twist & Shout and Fireworks Party along with the Roboshows that perfectly incorporate live performers and technology.

Australia's very first new-build ship will also deliver entertainment experiences for its youngest guests, with events and activities featuring DreamWorks Animation's popular film characters. From DreamWorks character breakfasts in the main dining room, impromptu 'meet-and-greet' experiences to photo-ops throughout the day and exclusive DreamWorks merchandise – families will have a plethora of options to keep kids of all ages engaged. Guests can also watch the latest DreamWorks Animation films in the ship's movie theatre or on the dedicated DreamWorks TV channel in their stateroom.

Ovation and her sister ships, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas belong to the Quantum class of ships and are built with the most advanced technology. Ovation of the Seas will introduce unprecedented first-at-sea experiences and amenities to Australia when she arrives in December, including the North Star, an observation capsule that gently rises more than 92 metres in the air to treat guests to breathtaking panoramic views as high as the Harbour Bridge; thrilling skydiving and surfing experiences; Two70 a daily social space which transforms into a multifunctional entertainment place in the evening; and SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea, which includes basketball, roller-skating, bumper cars, a circus school and more. Dining has also been redefined on board, with each ship offering Dynamic Dining - 18 distinct restaurants with a variety of cuisines to choose from - as well as the industry's most relaxing and luxurious accommodations at sea with the unique Loft Suites and groundbreaking Virtual Balcony staterooms, interior accommodations that feature large digital screens displaying real-time views, ensuring that every room has a view.

Ovation of the Seas will officially launch in April 2016, when she departs Southampton, England for Tianjin, China on a 52-day "Global Odyssey" voyage. On 30 November 2016, she will set sail on a 15-night Singapore to Sydney voyage via Fremantle, Adelaide and Hobart, repositioning to her new home down under for her maiden season.

Ovation spans 18 decks, encompasses 168,666 gross registered tons, carries 4,180 guests at double occupancy and features 2,091 staterooms. Media can find more details, images and videos at www.RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com/Ovation.

For further information or to make a booking, visit www.ovationoftheseas.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or see your local travel agent.


MSC Cruises Fly, Land, Cruise Packages


Pack your bags and get ready for the ultimate holiday with MSC Cruises fly land packages

MSC Cruises amazing fly, land and cruise packages are always a popular hit with holiday lovers, so why not take advantage and secure your spot on one of the hottest itineraries of the season!

Let MSC Armonia take you from the Mediterranean to Cuba on a spectacular 34 night adventure that is sure to be a holiday of a lifetime. Departing from Genoa on the 2nd of November 2016, guests will have the chance to explore the romantic cities of Marseille, Barcelona, Malaga, Funchal and Santa Cruz de Tenerife before entering the Caribbean waters. Immerse yourself in the laidback lifestyle and visit some of the world's most exotic destinations as you discover Barbados, St Lucia, Barbuda, Virgin Islands, Cuba, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Mexico, Belize and Honduras. With transfers, accommodation and return flights already organised for you, this package is hard to resist. Starting from $7996 per person, this inclusive package leaves the work to us and the play to you.

Those looking for a shorter trip can find it with our 25 night Northern Europe to Magical Mediterranean cruise. This popular itinerary will see MSC Splendida depart from Hamburg in October 2016 before making her way through France, United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar, Italy and Morocco. Experience the boundless architecture, history and authentic foods in one easy, all-inclusive cruise. With prices starting from $4995 per person, guests can enjoy the ultimate holiday and amazing savings at the same time.

With flexible return flights available for time to explore before you return home, the possibilities are endless! These value packages are selling fast, so be quick to snap up these unmissable deals!
Visit www.msccruises.com.au or call 1300 028 502 to book your package

Friday, 4 March 2016

Adventure Steers Royal Caribbean 2017 European Summer Itineraries



Global Cruise Line Announces Ship Itineraries for Travellers Seeking New Destination Experiences

Royal Caribbean International sails into Europe for summer 2017 with itineraries that bring global experiences to the forefront of cruising. Widely regarded as the world's most awarded cruise line, Royal Caribbean will transport adventure-minded travellers to some of the globe's most iconic destinations via six of the brand's distinct ships, together stacking up to deliver the ultimate European summer getaways. Bookings for Europe season are now open

Travellers will venture through the majestic isles of the Eastern and Western Mediterranean on Jewel of the Seas sailing from Italy on seven- and nine-night voyages that visit Greece and Turkey, as well as seven-night sailings through the Western Mediterranean – offered more frequently with additional departures dates in 2017 – visiting France, Spain and Italy. Among the ports-of-call will be Santorini, Greece's live volcanic island cluster that summons visitors to explore its cliff-top whitewashed towns, indulge in its gastronomic splendours, and daydream from its red, white, and black sand beaches. The Greek capital city of Athens will offer a taste of life in the ancient world with exploration through legendary landmarks such as the citadel Acropolis and the temple Parthenon. Turkey's ancient town of Ephesus, dating back to the 10th century BC, will beckon history-lovers with a glimpse at the largest collection of Roman ruins in the eastern Mediterranean. An international capital of faith, art, and history, Rome will treat its guests to an unmatched blend of archeological treasures with modern appeal. While Venice's Grand Canal will guide voyagers through this floating city's bevy of architectural masterpieces and religious sanctuaries, and welcome a mid-day siesta on the steps of its waterfront structures.

Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas will host guests on seven-night sailings through the Western Mediterranean, while Brilliance of the Seas navigates eight European destinations with a 12-night itinerary, both departing from Barcelona, Spain. A stroll through this vibrant city will present a lesson in architectural mastery, thanks to Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, while Barcelona's flare for the arts will be highlighted by the country's native Picasso in his namesake museum. Food and wine lovers will take note of the ship's call in Naples, Italy – the birthplace of pizza and ever-popular lemon liquor, limoncello.

A peak inside the city's celebrated royal castles will intrigue the historically-curious, while Royal Caribbean's walking tour will journey through a 19th century underground tunnel, over to the San Carlo Opera House, and to the 17th century Carmignano aqueduct. To the east of Naples, the walled medieval town of Kotor, Montenegro will await exploration, with its plentiful shops, restaurants, piazzas, and palazzos. The cruise line's new Budva Riviera and Beach experience will offer a tranquil getaway to the country's coastal towns and villages, with a stop at Montenegro's award-winning Becici Beach.

Independence of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas will sail the Mediterranean and the Spanish Canary Islands from Southampton, England with itineraries that extend from seven- to 14-nights. Southampton's location allows for an easy city getaway to London, an excursion to the historic Stonehenge site, or the famed Downton Abby estate from the hit BBC television show. Those looking for an adrenaline-inducing experience can seek out the GoApe adventure in 440-acre Itchen Valley Country Park, complete with tunnels, suspended bridges, and zip lines through the treetops. Also on the agenda: Nice, France, the seaside town on the glamourous French Rivera, will bring sun, surf, and the sophistication of the French lifestyle. The local Cours Saley market will present a selection of fresh fruit and vegetable snacks before a hike up the city's Colline du Chateau (Castle Hill), where visitors will find a picturesque point for outdoor picnics and a children's playground amid sweeping views of Nice and its Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels). The North African country of Morocco will add an exotic touch with its cultural kaleidoscope that blends Berber, Arabian and European influences. A landing in the resort town of Agadir will grant visitors a relaxed day on the far eastern shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

Serenade of the Seas and Vision of the Seas will head to northern Europe with a checklist of ports that includes Copenhagen, Denmark, home to the 100 year old Tivoli Gardens amusement park; Tromso, Norway, located north of the Arctic Circle with an unexpectedly milder climate and peaks for soaking in seasonal views of the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun; sightseeing in the Swedish capital of Stockholm via Royal Caribbean's new paddleboard excursion, taking travellers on a water-based tour along the scenic Karlberg Canal; as well as a day spent cruising the Arctic region laden with magnificent glaciers and unique wildlife.

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#livelifebig


Sunday, 28 February 2016

Brand New Calls In Chile, Peru And Guatemala Set For Crystal 2017 World Cruise



Annual epic journey charting new courses through South America, offers guests comprehensive exploration of the region

The world's most awarded luxury cruise line continues to explore the world in new ways, calling in new locales, even for its 22nd annual World Cruise in 2017.  Four new ports, to be precise, are part of Crystal Serenity's "Southern Celebración" voyage (which sails in full, 94 days round-trip from Miami on 10 January 2017). The marathon journey travels an intensive route through some of the most historically and culturally rich cities and ports in Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, the Caribbean and even Antarctica, offering travellers an ideal opportunity to explore the storied region thoroughly, calling the luxurious award-winning Crystal ship "home base" along the way.

"Whether one is venturing to a region for the first time or is seeking new ways to explore long-beloved destinations, there are always new places to see and new cultures to encounter," says Crystal president and CEO Edie Rodriguez. "The 2017 World Cruise voyages offer guests the valuable opportunity to experience a diverse and holistic journey, with the varied history and traditions among the countries visited, while also fully engaging with the customs and beauty of South America as a region."



Crystal's maiden call destinations on the 2017 World Cruise are:

Santo Tomás de Castilla – Set along the Caribbean coastline between Honduras and Belize, this relatively remote spot boasts a down-to-earth atmosphere that will give travellers a glimpse of the authentic Guatemalan lifestyle, complete with rugged adventures, ancient UNESCO-listed Mayan ruins, and exotic foliage and wildlife at one's fingertips. Among the ways to immerse oneself in the local culture are snorkelling, horseback riding on the beach and kayaking in the warm coastal waters.

Matarani – The small fishing port of Matarani is your gateway to one of the most stunning spots on the Peruvian map: Arequipa, the UNESCO-listed town surrounded by three volcanoes, each towering at heights of around 20,000 feet. An adventurous, architectural and intellectual hub, Arequipa boasts a pretty town centre featuring brilliant white buildings made of volcanic stone called sillar, and famously draws thinkers and diplomats, along with climbers and adventurers to its iconic sites.

Iquique – Iquique's mining history evokes a vibe reminiscent of the American Old-West, while restored Georgian and Victorian architecture, duty-free shopping, wide swaths of beach and a sea with terrific surfing and paragliding, balance the atmosphere with that of a classically welcoming Latin beach community.
Castro Island (Chiloé) – Situated on the island of Chiloé, Castro is Chile's third oldest city in continued existence. Castro's history is tangible and resplendent UNESCO World Heritage Sites, its palafitos, or traditional wooden houses built on stilts, and renowned archaeological and contemporary art museums showcasing the island's diverse and innovative culture.

Crystal's 2017 "Southern Celebración" World Cruise is also available for booking in six segments of 10 to 26 days, with all-inclusive segment cruise fares starting at US$4,190* per person double occupancy including all taxes when booked by 29 February 2016. All-inclusive full World Cruise fares begin at US$38,645** per person double occupancy including all taxes when booked by 29 February 2016 Full World Cruisers also enjoy special amenities, including exclusive events on board and ashore, specially selected gifts, private chauffeured transfers between the ship and airport, and US$1,000 per person in "As You Wish" shipboard credits. Additional savings are also available for first-time Crystal guests, as well as returning Crystal Society members.


For More Information

For a brochure or additional information, contact Wiltrans International on:
1800 251 174 (Australia) or 0800 446 376 (New Zealand)

Wednesday, 20 January 2016

Crystal Serenity 2017 Voyages Reposition to North & South America



Luxury line to introduce new roster of luxury itineraries for Crystal Serenity

Crystal Cruises, the world's most awarded luxury cruise line, will reposition one of its luxury ocean vessels in 2017, unveiling an entirely new lineup of itineraries.  Following the 2017 "Southern Celebración" World Cruise round-trip from Miami, Crystal Serenity will sail throughout North America for the remainder of the year, offering routes along the east and west coasts, through Alaska, New England and Eastern Canada, as well as the eastern seaboard into the Caribbean. Historically, Crystal Serenity has spent the majority of her 12 years at sea cruising the Mediterranean, Western Europe and the Black Sea but the line's tremendous expansion plans afforded an opportunity for change.

"The Mediterranean and surrounding regions have long been favourite destinations for our guests, and will continue to be, with the launch of Crystal Yacht Cruises and Crystal River Cruises," says Crystal's president and CEO, Edie Rodriguez. "These new ventures allow us to expand our offerings for our guests, so they can continue to experience their favourite Crystal holidays in new ways."

Crystal Serenity's new roster of ultra-luxury cruises includes a repositioning voyage from Miami to Los Angeles via the Panama Canal; convenient seven-day explorations of California's coastline; a 14-day intensive Mexico itinerary; a 16-day route through the Hawaiian Islands; seven-, 9- and 10-day cruises through the ports and glaciers of Alaska and British Columbia; seven- and 10-day itineraries through the charming ports of New England and Eastern Canada; and warm-weather fall and winter cruises along the Southern East Coast into the Caribbean.

Bookings for the newly unveiled 2017 Crystal Serenity voyages are now available with "Book Now" fares starting at US$2,625* per person double occupancy including all taxes through 29 February, 2016.

Crystal's newest vessel, luxury yacht Crystal Esprit, as well as its upcoming five luxury river yachts, will focus primarily in the waters of the Mediterranean region nearly year-round.  Crystal Esprit will sail to and from long favoured cities such as Venice, Dubrovnik and Athens, with calls to lesser explored gems only accessible by yacht. Likewise, the river yachts will grace the waterways of Europe include the Rhine, Seine, Danube, Main, Garonne, and Dordogne Rivers, visiting charming ports throughout Austria, Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Hungary, and others.


1800 251 174 (Australia)
0800 446 376 (New Zealand)