Wednesday, September 27, 2006

Sail Away to the Caribbean

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Stroll barefoot in the powdery white sand as you gaze at the infinite turquoise waters. Bask in the warm sun as you enjoy a massage on the beach. Enjoy scenic coastlines while relaxing on deck and breathing in the sheer pleasure of the sea. Have you ever gone swimming with dolphins or hiked up a waterfall? It's about time! Consider the possibilities as you plan your next vacation to the radiant waters of the Caribbean.

Brought to you by
The Vacation Stop
steve@thevacationstop.com
1-888-228-9113

Western Caribbean Cruise - from $449

Most people feel lucky to explore just one Caribbean hide-away, but on this magical journey you have a chance to explore several. Return home with memories of strolling along pristine beaches, watching tropical fish glide by and relaxing all day on the marvelous decks of your cruise ship. With NCL and Freestyle Cruising, there's no better way to experience everything the Caribbean has to offer.

Best Available Ocean View Stateroom - Deal of the Week: Must be booked by Friday 09/29/2006
Western Caribbean Cruise - from $409

Set sail from the jazz capital of the world on a 7-night Caribbean vacation aboard the Grandeur of the Seas. You'll visit the ports of Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Costa Maya. Imagine the experience of cruising over turquoise waters, coming face to face with a blowfish, snorkeling, scuba diving or galloping horseback down a deserted tropical beach. With the year-round tempertures between 70-90 F, the Caribbean is the ideal setting for your next outdoor adventure. You'll find turquoise water and sun-drenched beaches as far as the eye can see. Go snorkeling. Go sailing. Go shopping. Whatever you do, you'll go home smiling.
Western Caribbean Cruise - from $449

The Western Caribbean has many attractions: natural waterfalls, enchanting beaches, sumptuous rainforests and exciting nightlife. Relax on the powder-soft sand of a quiet beach, swim with gentle stingrays, visit local wildlife habitats or explore an ancient Mayan city on horseback. Whichever adventure you choose, this is sure to be an unforgettable vacation experience.
Eastern Caribbean Cruise - from $599

Sun-soaked adventures await on an Eastern Caribbean Cruise. Few places on earth are more conducive to relaxation than the islands of the Caribbean. Perhaps it's the light, tropical breezes that gently soothe the soul. Or the warm waters and warm receptions that await you on every shore. One thing is certain: aboard a Celebrity cruise, a Caribbean vacation offers something for everyone.
Southern Caribbean Cruise - from $849

Warm sun, soft beaches and turquoise waters make Caribbean cruises the perfect prescription for relaxation. Dreams become reality when you find yourself floating through the warm, welcoming waters of the Caribbean on one of our award-winning five-star cruise ships.

Outside Stateroom - Flash Special: Book by Sunday 10/01/2006
Southern Caribbean Cruise - from $1647

How many shades of blue are there? The answer lies throughout Windstar's Caribbean. Sail through stunning turquoise waters: clear and shimmering and deep. Discover the world underneath it, teeming with green-blue angelfish, brilliant blue chromis, violet coral and smoky blue barracuda. Up above, postcard-blue skies are lit up by the occasional puffy, white cloud. There is the post-sunset blue of the evening - time for a cocktail out on the deck. And the shade of blue that comes over you when you realize it's time to leave this tropical paradise. How many shades of blue are there? You're in the Caribbean. Start counting.
Ft. Lauderdale Roundtrip - from $1998

Stretching all the way to South America, a great archipelago cradles the Caribbean, islands where gentle trade winds keep the tropical climate comfortable, and where frothy whitecaps frolic in turquoise bays. Here calypso rhythms and spices scent the air and coral carpets the ocean floor. Each island has a charm all its own. Some are mountainous. Some are desert-like. Some are covered with lush, tropical greenery. And with as many independent nations as there are countries in Europe, the Caribbean traces a heritage from around the world.
Treasures of the Sun Cruise - from $3935

No longer the haunt of pirates, the Caribbean nonetheless retains a seafaring romance that can be claimed by few other destinations. Set sail on a Crystal cruise to this fabled sea of sunny beaches and tropical islands, quaint colonial cities, friendly people and colorful cultures.

Stateroom category C - Value Collection Fare
Miami Roundtrip Cruise - from $2399

From the gentle breezes that kiss its islands to the sun rays that blanket it with warmth, the Caribbean is truly an enchanted place. Experience the magic of the tropics yourself. This 12 day cruise will let you explore the less frequented ports in the Caribbean, for a cruise that soothes the soul as well as the body.

Oceanview Stateroom, Category E
Bridgetown Roundtrip Cruise - from $2846

The most easterly of the Caribbean Islands, Barbados stands as a welcoming sentinel at the gateway to the West Indies. The island has for centuries been the first landfall for any sailors venturing westward, beginning with Spanish and Portuguese adventurers who came to Barbados in the 1500s in search of gold and riches.

Vista Stateroom, Special APB price

Friday, September 22, 2006

Enchanting European Cruises for You

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What does a European vacation mean to you? For some, Europe is rich in culture and the product of great civilizations, replete with castles and museums and centuries of treasures. For others, it is a place of relaxation and pampering as found on the many beaches of the Mediterranean and experienced in the spas of exotic cities. Then there is the cuisine...Maybe it's time to answer the question for yourself. Explore the cruise options below and discover what Europe can mean to you.

Brought to you by
The Vacation Stop
steve@thevacationstop.com
1-888-228-9113

Western Mediterranean Roundtrip from Barcelona - from $999

NCL's new Norwegian Jewel offers the biggest, most luxurious and most innovative suite complex at sea. She shines from bow to stern with an incredible array of outstanding amenities including 10 distinct restaurants, 13 bars and lounges, 3 swimming pools, spa and more. This is the crowning jewel to our incredible fleet of Freestyle Ships.
Eastern Mediterranean Cruise Roundtrip from Venice - from $1060

Ancient civilizations and brilliant beaches beckon. Depart from romantic Venice to Bari, where diverse eras of domination have left their mark on the architecture. Visit the spectacular Greek islands where sparkling sand beaches are offset by sweeping landscapes. Bargain for perfect souvenirs in Instanbul's open-air marketplaces of woven rugs and Turkish silver goods. Capture the cultural mixture that makes this region so alluring.
Grand Mediterranean Cruise - from $1349

Our Grand Mediterranean cruises sail to seven of Europe's most beautiful destinations. Each port has its own must-see attractions, including: the Sistine Chapel in Rome, the ancient ruins of Pompeii in Naples, the famous Adriatic fortress in Dubrovnik and the romantic canals of Venice. Your dream vacation is here. Don't put it off any longer.
Norwegian Fjords Cruise Amsterdam Roundtrip - from $829

Experience what cruising is really about in Celebrity's Europe. Sail through the Oslo Fjord, and you sail back in time to 1050. Journey to the beautiful small town of Flam nestled deep in a tributary of the world's longest and deepest fjord. Explore Bergen, once the very seat of the medieval kingdom of Norway, Bergen is a former Viking stronghold encircled by deep fjords, towering mountains, and sweeping glaciers.
Italian Enchantment Venice Roundtrip Cruise - from $1672

Whether you seek Italian enchantment, an Aegean odyssey, or an exploration of the Mediterranean's ancient empires and romantic Rivieras, Holland America Line's Mediterranean cruise itineraries deliver an unequalled European cruise vacation. Dance to Andalusia's flamenco music, breathe air infused with the lavender and wild thyme of Provençal fields, and still your senses as you step into the cool, comfortable shade of Corfu's spectacular cathedrals.
Airfare from $99* per person - OR FREE* - Select European Cruises

Choose from the following itineraries and dates and receive Free Airfare!* Wine Heritage Along the Danube, European Jewels, or Blue Danube.

OR get Airfare as low as $99* per person on European Holiday Grand River Cruises! Rhine Holiday Markets or Danube Holiday Markets.

Click "More Details" to see complete itineraries.



Waltzing the Danube - from $1399

This seven-night deluxe cruise begins and ends in Budapest. Fly into Hungary's capital and transfer by motorcoach to Esztergom, where your river cruise vessel awaits you. Cruise upriver as far as Passau, enjoying city sightseeing in Bratislava. Visit Melk's spectacular Benedictine Abbey and the charming resort town of Grein along the way. Returning downriver, stop in Dürnstein for a walking tour before reaching Vienna.

Brennan Included Value: Outside cabin with hotel-style beds; Private deluxe motorcoach with air-conditioning while on shore excursions; $10 Million Consumer Protection Plan; and much more!
London to Rome Cruise - from $3599

Take a trip up to London and get a bird's-eye view of the city from the London Eye. See sights like Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Piccadilly. Stroll along Lower Regent Street or visit the British Museum. Shopping: Start at Harrods and visit the famous Food Halls before moving on to other shops for linens, cashmere, woolens, porcelain, crystal, fine clothing and jewelry. Relax over an elegant meal or a charming pub lunch.
Alexandria to Port Said Cruise - from $5036

Since the earliest days of sail, there has been something special about traveling by ship. It's about fresh air and sunshine. Breaktaking vistas and 360-degree views. New cultures and delightful discoveries. It's unhurried and relaxing; the opposite of just getting from point A to point B.

What kind of traveler are you? What's your style - active, relaxed or somewhere in between? We believe in providing opportunities and letting our guests design their day as it suits their mood and personal style. We never force an agenda. That's simply not our style. Veranda Stateroom, Silver Sailings rate.

Thursday, September 14, 2006

Romantic River Cruises for You

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River cruising offers an intimate atmosphere as you take to the waterways of the world. Get closer to the spectacular cityscapes, and cruise through canals and rivers that are impossible for the larger ships to sail. With comfortable accommodations, excellent meals, and the convenience of a floating hotel, a river cruise is a practical and enjoyable way to explore fascinating destinations throughout the world.

Brought to you by
The Vacation Stop
steve@thevacationstop.com
1-888-228-9113

Holiday Season Cruises with Airfare as low as $99* USD per person

Few journeys are more endearing than our Holiday Cruises along the Rhine, Danube and Main Rivers. Sailing through these winter wonderlands, you'll uncover storybook villages and majestic cities adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and stars, grand Christmas trees decorated from top to bottom, melodious carolers and choirs with sweet sounding voices, awe-inspiring cathedrals, opulent palaces and medieval castles - all from the comfort of the most luxurious Grand River Cruise Ships in Europe. And relax, you'll only unpack once as you sail from one festive celebration to another. *This offer is valid on multiple itineraries, click "More Details" to see all the options!
Romantic Rhine - 9 nights from $1599 USD

This leisurely 9 day journey takes you down the Rhine from Basel in Switzerland to Amsterdam in Holland. Enjoy guided sightseeing in Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region, the ancient imperial city of Speyer, Coblenz and Cologne. Visit Heidelberg and its red-walled castle, Rüdesheim in the heart of the wine-growing area, and cruise through the canals of Amsterdam. There is plenty of free time to explore on your own or just to relax on your luxurious river cruise vessel.
9 Day Holland & Belgium River Cruise Starting at $1499 USD

April means "Tulip Time" in Holland and Gutsy Women Travel can get you a front row seat for one of the most beautiful spectacles in the world! This 7-night cruise through Holland and Belgium aboard the MS Bolero enables you to experience the most spectacular sights, historical attractions, cultural spots, and cuisines of these delightful countries. You'll tour Amsterdam and cruise its canals, visit the world-famous Riijksmuseum to view Rembrandt's work among others, and see a cheese factory in Edam. Other stops include Antwerp - famous for its Diamonds; the 19 windmills of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site; and Utrecht where you disembark to drive to the Keukenhof Gardens, famous throughout the world for dazzling fields of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. There is no doubt this will be a picture-perfect vacation for all who choose to participate! Renowned artist Giancarlo Impiglia will be a guest lecturer on board to give insight into the Dutch Masters and their masterpieces.
Istanbul & the Black Sea - 11 nights from $5990 USD

Antiquities and art treasures of ancient civilizations fill this new cruise with awe and wonder. Spend four days exploring Istanbul, with sights like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Dolmabahce Palace. Then take a 7-night Black Sea cruise aboard Le Levant to exotic ports-of-call in Bulgaria, Romania, and Ukraine.
Beijing to Shanghai - 9 nights from $1979 USD

This itinerary gives you China's key highlights in just 9 or 10 nights. You'll have time to explore cosmopolitan Shanghai, China's most cutting-edge, modern city. Next, you'll cruise the legendary Yangtze from Maoping, starting with a visit to the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam and then sailing through the wildly beautiful Three Gorges and Lesser Gorges before you reach Chongqing. You'll visit Xian, home of the Terra Cotta Warriors. Finally in Beijing, you'll explore historic imperial treasures like The Forbidden City, Great Wall and famed Summer Palace.
2007 River Cruising - Early Booking Discount

Cruising the Waterways of Europe & Russia Save up to $500* per cabin on select air-inclusive 2007 River cruising programs! OR Save up to $200* per cabin on 2007 ms Tolstoy, ms Amadagio & ms Amalegro River cruising programs!

*Booking must be made and under deposit by September 30, 2006, to receive early booking discount.

Thursday, September 07, 2006

Luxury Cruises for You

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Indulge yourself in the sumptuous pleasures of a luxury cruise vacation. Unwind in first class accommodations with top-notch cuisine, head-to-toe pampering, and fantastic destinations. Travel in style, knowing that you're enjoying the best. Use the "More Information" button to get complete details and to begin dreaming about your luxurious cruise today!

Brought to you by
The Vacation Stop
steve@thevacationstop.com
1-888-228-9113

Southern Caribbean Cruise - San Juan Roundtrip




Sun-soaked Adventures Await On A Southern Caribbean Cruise.

Itinerary: San Juan, Aruba, Curacao, Grenada, Barbados, St. Lucia, Dominica, St. Kitts, Tortola, San Juan.

11 nights from $3699
Deluxe Stateroom - Category RS

Monte Carlo to Funchal, Madeira




Capture the exclusive allure of the Italian and French Rivieras, as well as the conquistadors and whirling castanets of Iberian shores.

Itinerary: Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Casablanca, Agadir, Lanzarote, Funchal.

8 nights from $3497 - Category H
Cannes and Grand Prix - Nice Roundtrip




Prepare for an experience that's carefully designed to deliver the things people dream of: freedom, romance, luxury, privilege - all real, all possible, all here under brilliant white sails.

Itinerary: Nice, St Tropez, Cannes, St. Florent, Monte Carlo, Nice.

8 nights from $2849 - Stateroom Category B
Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires Cruise




With two evenings in Brazil, this voyage appeals to your sense of adventure.

Itinerary: Rio De Janeiro, Ilha Grande, Parati, Santos, Itajai (Iguacu Falls), Rio Grande Do Sul, Montevideo, Buenos Aires.

10 nights from $6799
Owners Suite, Category OS

Pacific Riviera Holiday - Los Angeles Roundtrip




Come celebrate the spirit of the season with the World's Best and discover why the difference is Crystal clear.

Itinerary: Los Angeles, San Diego, Cabo San Lucas, Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, La Paz, San Diego, Los Angeles.

14 nights from $5715
Sydney to Perth Cruise




Breathtaking in every respect. Excellence in every detail. Aboard the Silver Cloud one of the most beautiful yacht-like ships ever launched, you will discover a journey beyond your expectations.

Itinerary: Sydney, Hobart, Devonport, Melbourne, Kangaroo Island, Adelaide, Albany, Freemantle.

14 nights from $6821 - Vista Stateroom
Roundtrip St. Thomas Cruise




Yachting provides guests the ability to fulfill their dreams at their own pace without having to stick to a rigid fixed schedule. With yachting it's no clocks, no crowds, no lines, no stress.

Itinerary: Charlotte Amalie, Cruz Bay, Road Town, Peter Island, Anguilla, St. Barthelemy, Virgin Gorda, Jost van Dyke, Charlotte Amalie.

7 nights from $4900 - Yacht Club Deck 2

Friday, September 01, 2006

Carnival Cruises Presidential Wine Club Cruise

This special cruise just became available today to non-wine club
members. There is a very brief period of time to book this cruise,
so I wanted to get this out to you right away, rather than waiting for
our next regular email.
 
Steve Mencik
The Vacation Stop
 
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Carnival is excited to announce the second annual Presidential Wine Club Cruise, sailing December 3, 2006. Carnival's wine club members, along with other wine lovers, will join our President, Bob Dickinson, in a wide variety of exclusive events, seminars, tastings and parties during this 7 Day Eastern Caribbean cruise aboard the Carnival Valor.

Please Note: This is a very limited time offer, and must be booked no later than September 12, 2006! Please call us now to ensure your spot on this great cruise.


7 Day Eastern Caribbean From Miami

You'll have the time of your life when you set sail from Miami and cruise to some of the most beautiful islands in the world, including: Nassau, St. Maarten and St. Thomas.

Activities planned for this special 7 Day voyage include:
  • Welcome Aboard Reception hosted by Bob Dickinson
  • Question & Answer session with Bob Dickinson
  • Fundamentals of Wine Tasting Seminar
  • An introduction to the basics of wine and winemaking
  • Wine Tasting Seminars
  • At least two different wine tasting seminars will be held on the art and science of winemaking, as well as the latest developments in the industry.
  • Grand Tasting
  • A highlight of the cruise, participants will sample fine wines from top wineries throughout the world.