Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Give Back While Traveling With These Voluntourism Hotel Packages And Programs]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/28/give-back-while-traveling-with-these-voluntourism-hotel-packages/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/28/give-back-while-traveling-with-these-voluntourism-hotel-packages/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/28/give-back-while-traveling-with-these-voluntourism-hotel-packages/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

limelight hotel Just because Earth Day has passed doesn't mean we should stop doing our part. In the spirit of goodwill, these hotels are offering voluntourism packages and programs for guests.

Limelight Hotel
Aspen, Colorado

Throughout the summer, the Limelight Hotel is helping guests get their hands dirty and help the environment. In partnership with the Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers, guests will be able to do trail work in the beautiful White River National Forest, which spans millions of acres. Volunteer tasks include trail maintenance, trail construction, invasive species removal and more. Hotel guests who participate will receive transportation, a packed lunch and beverages and a complimentary beer in the hotel lounge when they return.

Eight hour day volunteer projects are available, as well as sunset volunteer times from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Rates start at $150 per night during the summer. Call 970-544-6259 or click here to book.

Continue reading Give Back While Traveling With These Voluntourism Hotel Packages And Programs

Give Back While Traveling With These Voluntourism Hotel Packages And Programs originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 28 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accommodationbudget travelBudgetTravelecotourimenvironmenthotelsvoluntourismSat, 28 Apr 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxury spring break options for the budget traveler]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/10/luxury-spring-break-options-for-the-budget-traveler/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/10/luxury-spring-break-options-for-the-budget-traveler/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/10/luxury-spring-break-options-for-the-budget-traveler/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

beachhDo you wish you could afford to relax on a beach in the Caribbean with private butler service, or watch the sunset from the veranda of a luxury villa this spring? Thanks to Jetsetter Home's spring break sale, now you can.

Jetsetter Homes boasts properties all over the world, and during select dates this spring, some of their most affluent properties will be on sale. The private villas are each hand-selected, visited, and approved by Jetsetter travel correspondents, so you know the recommendations you're getting are coming from a travel professional.

There is no fee to signup - simply go to the website and register for free.

To get some affordable, last minute vacation ideas for spring break, check out the gallery below.

[flickr photo via lyng883]

Gallery: Luxury Spring Break Travel on a Budget

Villa Luna Nueva, Cabo San Lucas, MexicoVilla Luna NuevaSweet Spot, Runaway Bay, JamaicaSweet SpotSweet Spot

Luxury spring break options for the budget traveler originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 10 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelBudgetTravelcabocaribbeanfloridahome rental villasHomeRentalVillasjamaicajetsetterluxury travelLuxuryTravelmexicospring breakSpringBreakSat, 10 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Would you get married in the nude?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/18/would-you-get-married-in-the-nude/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/18/would-you-get-married-in-the-nude/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/18/would-you-get-married-in-the-nude/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

hedonism How would you like to win a free wedding in Jamaica and be on national television? Well, now you can. The only catch is you have to exchange vows in the nude.

Hedonism II, a resort that is well-known for "shattering inhibitions and provoking the kind of behavior people don't talk about in polite circles", is currently looking for 10 couples to get married in the buff for a major network documentary on Valentine's Day, 2012 (don't worry, your parts will be blurred on air).

Not only will couples receive a complimentary 4-night stay at the all-inclusive resort, but also a "Dream Wedding". Funny, every time I've pictured my dream wedding I'm wearing a dress. The resort does have a lot of perks for couples, like the on-site Blue Mahoe Spa, beach and garden view rooms, en suite Jacuzzis, private terraces, 5 bars, and onsite entertainment and dining.

If you'd like to be considered as a contestant, fill out of the form here and submit. The deadline for applications is January 6, 2012.

Would you get married in the nude? originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 18 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelBudgetTravelcontestcontestsfree weddingFreeWeddingget married in the buffget married in the nudeGetMarriedInTheBuffGetMarriedInTheNudehedonismjamaicanaked weddingNakedWeddingnude weddingNudeWeddingtravel contestTravelContestSun, 18 Dec 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Brits behaving badly abroad]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/04/brits-behaving-badly-abroad/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/04/brits-behaving-badly-abroad/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/04/brits-behaving-badly-abroad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

brits behaving badly

Today the Foreign Office released British Behaviour Abroad 2011, with detailed figures on British nationals in trouble overseas (read: Brits behaving badly abroad). The period surveyed: April 1, 2010 through March 31, 2011.

There are lots of interesting tidbits in the survey. British nationals request consular assistance in greatest numbers in Spain and the United States, though since both of these countries are very popular destinations for people from the UK, this is perhaps not all that surprising.

The more interesting chart in the report is of which countries see the highest numbers of requests for consular assistance per visitor and resident abroad. The top five, in descending order: The Philippines, Thailand, Pakistan, Cyprus, and India. British nationals abroad are most likely to be arrested in Thailand, followed by the United States.

Another interesting detail: The Foreign Office claims that 43 percent of the 18-24 set know someone who has taken illegal drugs while abroad. Aggregate drug arrests are highest for British nationals abroad in Spain (171), the United States (100), Jamaica (63), Norway (55), and Thailand (51).

The good news is that the number of British nationals arrested is down, 10 percent overall and 20 percent for drug-related offenses.

The report also tabulates deaths, hospitalizations, rapes, and sexual assaults abroad. Each of these categories saw slight movement up or down in 2010-2011, with deaths, hospitalizations, and sexual assaults slightly up and rapes down.

[Image: Flickr | La Citta Vita]

Brits behaving badly abroad originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britishbritish peopleBritishPeoplebrits behaving badlyBritsBehavingBadlycyprusforeign officeForeignOfficeIndiajamaicanorwaypakistanPhilippinesspainthailandunited kingdomunited statesUnitedKingdomUnitedStatesThu, 04 Aug 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[25 Haunting Shipwrecks Around the World]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/20/25-haunting-shipwrecks-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/20/25-haunting-shipwrecks-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/20/25-haunting-shipwrecks-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

25 haunting shipwrecks
Twisted Sifter is a web site with three simple goals. Provide content that is interesting, funny or creative, use BIG pictures whenever possible and to keep their readers up-to-date with what's popular online. Gadling found this gallery of 25 haunting shipwrecks at Twisted Sifter who tells us
"Fellow blogger Tom Moran from Urban Ghosts inspired this post. His excellent article on 'Ship Graveyards: Abandoned Ships, Boats and Shipyards' sent me on a quest to find some incredible photographs of shipwrecks around the world.

The United Nations estimates that there are more than 3 million shipwrecks on the ocean floor [Source: Wikipedia]. These once mighty vessels, both sunken and beached, are a haunting reminder that nothing lasts forever. These beautiful ships used to rule the seas they traveled. Now they serve as a window into our past."

In the gallery below, 25 Haunting Shipwrecks From Around The World, there are shipwrecks everywhere from the Canary Islands to Grand Cayman to Portugal in all shapes and sizes.

Gallery: 25 Haunting Shipwrecks Around the World


Continue reading 25 Haunting Shipwrecks Around the World

25 Haunting Shipwrecks Around the World originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25 haunting shipwrecks25HauntingShipwrecksship galleryship wrecksShipGalleryshipwreck galleryshipwreckedShipwreckGalleryshipwrecksWed, 20 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Caribbean Tsunami test hopes to save lives]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/25/caribbean-tsunami-test-hopes-to-save-lives/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/25/caribbean-tsunami-test-hopes-to-save-lives/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/25/caribbean-tsunami-test-hopes-to-save-lives/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Caribbean Tsunami test
It was planned long before the earthquake-turned-tsunami event in Japan to test the readiness of 33 Caribbean countries in the region's first full-scale tsunami warning exercise. On Wednesday, March 23, a fictitious earthquake of 7.6 magnitude occurred off the coast of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Bulletins were issued by the West Coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Island and by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Ewa Beach, Hawaii for the rest of the area and the test was underway.

The Caribbean tsunami test, named Caribe Wave 11 did not involve communities but aimed to test the effectiveness of alert, monitoring and warning systems among all the emergency management organizations throughout the region. The test was designed to determine whether Caribbean countries are ready to respond in the event of a dangerous tsunami. Results will be reported in April.

"The earthquake and tsunami that have devastated Japan have shown how essential alert systems are," said Irina Bokova, UNESCO's director general.

Continue reading Caribbean Tsunami test hopes to save lives

Caribbean Tsunami test hopes to save lives originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Caribbean Tsunami TestCaribbeanTsunamiTestNOAATsunamiTsunami warningtsunami warning systemTsunamiWarningTsunamiWarningSystemUNESCOFri, 25 Mar 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jamaica port open for business]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/24/new-jamaica-port-open-for-business/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/24/new-jamaica-port-open-for-business/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/24/new-jamaica-port-open-for-business/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

New Jamaica port open for businessIt's been a long time in the works, plagued by construction delays and setbacks, but the new cruise port in Falmouth Jamaica is finally open for business.

To celebrate the much-anticipated event, area schools were closed, local dignitaries and cruise line executives were on hand, Reggae star Shaggy performed and a marching band ended the day giving cruise passengers a royal send-off. The star of the show though was Royal Caribbean's giant new ship, Oasis of the Seas, making its first call at the new port.

"I was here for the inaugural cruise ship visit by Voyager of the Seas one month ago and (Jamaicans) were amazed at the size of Voyager" said cruise industry expert Stewart Chiron CEO of CruiseGuy.com adding "but they were blown away by the larger size and unique design of Oasis of the Seas."

On hand too was Jamaica's Prime Minister Bruce Golding noting "Today is truly a remarkable day, the realization of a dream." reports Seatrade Insider.

Continue reading New Jamaica port open for business

New Jamaica port open for business originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CruiseCruise portCruisePortcruisesFalmouth JamaicaFalmouthJamaicaJamaicaNew Jamaica port open for businessNewJamaicaPortOpenForBusinessRoyal CaribbbeanRoyalCaribbbeanThu, 24 Mar 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take another look at these ten top cruise ports]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/23/ten-top-caribbean-islands-and-cruise-ports/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/23/ten-top-caribbean-islands-and-cruise-ports/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/23/ten-top-caribbean-islands-and-cruise-ports/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Ten top caribbean islands
If you travel by cruise ship, there's not a lot of choice in the matter. Cruise lines have a variety of islands to visit but the choices are limited with many itineraries virtually the same from ship to ship. Still, you are not required to get in line and go along with the crowd. Consider the cruise ship no more than the way you got there when thinking of what to do ashore. Planning as though you took a flight, not a cruise ship, puts things in a way better perspective. Think of yourself as a traveler who came by sea. No, really. Think that way and even ports you may have been to several times will have a fresh, new look and feel.

If you travel by air, flying can get you to islands not serviced regularly by cruise lines or maybe islands you might have sampled on a cruise and said "I think I could come back and do this again, without the ship". If you have ever been on a cruise you probably said that at one time or another.

Sure, a cruise vacation is often a best value for travel. Good, glad to hear it. Now let's take that a step further and get more out of your cruise by thinking a bit differently about common cruise ports visited by most every cruise line. Let's look at ten top Caribbean islands and cruise ports.

Continue reading Take another look at these ten top cruise ports

Take another look at these ten top cruise ports originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 23 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jamaica cruise port gets their act together]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/21/new-jamaica-cruise-port-gets-their-act-together/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/21/new-jamaica-cruise-port-gets-their-act-together/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/21/new-jamaica-cruise-port-gets-their-act-together/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jamaica new portLong-delayed new cruise port Falmouth, Jamaica welcomed it's first Royal Caribbean ship this week as Voyager of the Seas became the first ship to visit. It's a custom-built port designed to handle mega-ships Oasis and Allure of the Seas. Both have been patiently waiting for months as construction has been dragging on. Early reports from the nearly-complete port indicate full speed ahead on construction and a positive, welcoming mood.

"Today was truly priceless! The people of Jamaica made today an experience I'll never forget. Their early morning anticipation of the ships arrival was quite impressive. Buildings, rooftops, streets and any open spaces were filled with people awaiting Voyager's arrival. The first passengers to disembark were well organized for tours and met by various performers. They created nice distractions to avoid noticing the construction around them. The ship did a superb job ensuring expectations by passengers were set at a proper level" said cruise expert Stewart Chiron CEO CruiseGuy.com, one of the first visitors to the nearly-complete port.

Continue reading New Jamaica cruise port gets their act together

New Jamaica cruise port gets their act together originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheap cruisesCheapCruisescruisecruise vacationcruise vacationsCruiseGuy.comCruiseVacationCruiseVacationscurise portsCurisePortsFalmouthJamaicanew cruise portsNewCruisePortsRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Caribbean InternationalRoyalCaribbeanRoyalCaribbeanInternationalStewart ChironStewartChironMon, 21 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Troubled Falmouth, Jamaica cruise port finally welcomes first cruise guests]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/17/troubled-falmouth-jamaica-cruise-port-finally-welcomes-first-cr/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/17/troubled-falmouth-jamaica-cruise-port-finally-welcomes-first-cr/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/17/troubled-falmouth-jamaica-cruise-port-finally-welcomes-first-cr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Falmouith Jamaica cruiseRoyal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas became the first cruise ship to visit the new port of Falmouth, Jamaica which unofficially opened today, months behind schedule.

"We are delighted to see Voyager of the Seas make the first-ever ship call at Historic Falmouth," said Craig Milan, senior vice president of Land Operations, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "By partnering with the Port Authority of Jamaica, we are working to deliver our shared vision of Falmouth's rebirth. Together, we are bringing the town's historic sites to life and integrating the culture and authenticity of this destination into a superior guest experience."

The port construction is a joint effort between between mega-ship maker Royal Caribbean International and the government of Jamaica. Originally scheduled to open last May, ongoing construction delays pushed opening the troubled port back, rerouting giant sisters Oasis and Allure of the Seas to Costa Maya, Mexico instead. It looks like the port is on track for an official grand opening in March though when Oasis of the Seas will make her first stop at the new facility.

On the ground today in Jamaica, cruise expert Stewart Chiron CEO, CruiseGuy.com tweeted "Crowds massing on rooftops, churches, roadways as town about to enter new Millennium. Feels like Christopher Columbus' arrival."

Continue reading Troubled Falmouth, Jamaica cruise port finally welcomes first cruise guests

Troubled Falmouth, Jamaica cruise port finally welcomes first cruise guests originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheap cruisesCheapCruisescruise bargainscruise portscruise vacationCruiseBargainsCruisePortscruisesCruiseVacationFalmouthJamaicaJamaica portJamaicaPortports of callPortsOfCallRCCLRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Caribbean InternationalRoyalCaribbeanRoyalCaribbeanInternationalThu, 17 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxury At Sea: Royal Caribbean Suites]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/20/luxury-at-sea-royal-caribbean-suites/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/20/luxury-at-sea-royal-caribbean-suites/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/20/luxury-at-sea-royal-caribbean-suites/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Royal Caribbean SuitesThey come in all sizes. They are the top of the line accommodations. Those who book them pay a premium price. Along with them come exclusive amenities and on-board benefits. Let's take a look at the suites of Royal Caribbean International, their layout, design and what to expect should you book one.

The size and number of suite accommodations vary from one class of ship to another. To get a good idea of a typical suite fleet-wide, today we look at a Grand Suite on Freedom of the Seas, a popular ship that sails from Port Canaveral in Florida. This is not the newest ship and surely not the oldest but pretty typical of what one might find in these exclusive accommodations although sizes and configuration do vary across the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Grand Suites in Freedom of the Seas are 432 square feet in size. That's considerably larger than a standard balcony cabin on that ship which comes in at about 200 square feet. So right off the bat you have more space, accommodating up to five guests.

But it's not so much the extra space that matters with a Grand Suite as it is what comes with it.

The first stop on the luxury train is the restricted-access Concierge Lounge, exclusively for Suite guests and top-level members of the line's Crown and Anchor Society past-guest program. Inside this special area suite guests will find
  • A dedicated Concierge who is available to assist with anything they might require
  • Twenty-four-hour a day use of the Concierge Club Lounge
  • Continental breakfast every morning and open bar & hors d'oeuvres every evening available in the Concierge Club Lounge
  • Assistance with reservations for Portofino Italian restaurant & Chops Grille Steakhouse
  • Assistance with booking shore excursions, Salon or Spa treatments and Priority tickets for the ice skating show
  • Assistance with the arrangement of private parties, pre-ordering dinner wine and more

Gallery: Freedom of the Seas- Grand Suite

Continue reading Luxury At Sea: Royal Caribbean Suites

Luxury At Sea: Royal Caribbean Suites originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 07:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Concierge clubConciergeClubCrown and Anchor benefitsCrownAndAnchorBenefitscruiseCruise Stateroomscruise vacationscruisesCruiseStateroomsCruiseVacationsRoyal Caribbean InternationalRoyalCaribbeanInternationalThu, 20 Jan 2011 07:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Cruise line scams: Shore Excursions]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/15/cruise-line-scams-shore-excursions/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/15/cruise-line-scams-shore-excursions/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/15/cruise-line-scams-shore-excursions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Cruise line shore excursions

Going ashore can be one of the best parts of a cruise and one of the reasons many travelers choose a cruise vacation in the first place. From the comfort of your floating hotel, you can see multiple destinations but only have to unpack once. Cruise lines offer a wide variety of excursions at each port of call and encourage passengers to join. Some are over-priced but carry an implied level of safety that might not be entirely accurate.

The potential scam-like claim here is "Oh, you don't want to go out on your own on a shore excursion. If they're late getting you back, the ship will leave without you"

Yes, they could do that. Will they? Probably not. How likely is that to happen? Not likely at all.

Often, the same companies and people that do shore excursions for the cruise lines also do them independently. Still, the cruise lines say they do investigate and follow up on excursion providers to see how they are doing, holding them to high standards.

Alternatives to ship-sponsored excursions. Shoretrips.com, is a third-party service that provides excursions world-wide. Owners Julie and Barry from Milwaukee, Wisconsin travel to each of the destinations and insure that their tours are safe and interesting. Often, Shoretrips.com excursions are less expensive and less crowded too. Booking more than 200,000 people a year, they have yet to leave someone behind.

Let's talk price. A pretty easy-to-compare excursion in Cozumel, Mexico, Swimming with the Dolphins is $129 for adults or children on Carnival Cruise Lines. Shoretrips.com has that dolphin swim for $79 for adults and $77 for children. That's about 40% less than the cruise line. Prices vary among lines too. Royal Caribbean has that dolphin swim for $99. Their price is better than Carnival but not as good as Shoretrips.com.

Another option is to go with someone recommended by a trusted friend or a travel blogger you've come to know. Reliable independent operators know what they are competing with on the cruise line excursion offerings and almost always offer a better value. That might come in the form of a lower price or a similar price with a better experience.

Get good information. A good source for reliable travel information about specific ports of call is AOL travel guides. Good discussion and very current, personal information can be found at CruiseCritic.com. Your good travel agent/expert should have recommendations also.

I'm really not trying to talk you out of the ship-sponsored shore excursions. They're good. Nothing wrong with them. But there are alternatives that are just as safe (or not) as third-party vendors.

Cruise lines have their share of problems with excursions.

Continue reading Cruise line scams: Shore Excursions

Cruise line scams: Shore Excursions originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 15 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carnival cruise lineCarnivalCruiseLinecheap cruisesCheapCruisescruise linecruise tourscruise vacationsCruiseLinecruisesCruiseToursCruiseVacationsroyal caribbean cruise lineRoyalCaribbeanCruiseLinesafety at seaSafetyAtSeashore excursionsShoreExcursionsshoretrips.comSat, 15 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[5 tips for people who really don't want to go on a cruise]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/14/5-tips-for-people-who-really-dont-want-to-go-on-a-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/14/5-tips-for-people-who-really-dont-want-to-go-on-a-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/14/5-tips-for-people-who-really-dont-want-to-go-on-a-cruise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

don't want to go on a cruiseMaybe hiking, biking, backpacking or pretty much any other minimizing endeavor is more what you have in mind for traveling but someone is dragging you along on a cruise. There's just no way you're getting out of it. Is there hope for you? Yes. A little. Not much. But some.

Pace yourself- Food will always be available 24 hours a day on board. You might not be used to that with your triathlon training and all so do some stomach stretching exercises prior to boarding. You will need the extra room. Stop pouting that there are no granola bars or energy drinks. There are. On cruises they are called "shots" and you find them at the bars. You'll enjoy the walk to get them and recent studies suggest those extra steps will help prevent diabetes.

No barfing- You are concerned about the possibility of becoming sea sick because the little path on your normal mountain hike doesn't really move around much. Think of it like that and yeah, you probably will be. Prepare for shooting the rapids in Colorado with somebody who doesn't know what they're doing and you'll be fine. It could be worse. You could have been invited along for a taping of Paris Hilton's new reality show.

Know where you are going- Take time before the cruise to check out a travel guide on the places you will visit. Duh. Just because you don't have any say in where the ship goes doesn't mean you can't meet fun and find interesting people. You probably won't find any of them on the ship but maybe when you go ashore.

Careful with spending- The food is included in the price of your cruise but that's about it. Beverages, both alcoholic and sodas are not included. Want a sip of water? You'll pay $23.54 for that. This is why people smuggle booze on the ship. They do have beds so leave your sleeping bag at home with your tent. Bring your flashlight though, cruise passenger are fascinated by shiny things.

Relax. That may seem like a silly tip but you would be surprised how many people try to pack so much into every day that they need a vacation after they get back from their cruise to recuperate. Know this as a fact: There are way too many things to do and you can not possibly do them all. To be more accurate, there are too many things to do that you will think are stupid so bring a telescope and memorize the sky. Maybe you can find a 14th sign of the zodiac.

Flickr photo by Robbie Howell

5 tips for people who really don't want to go on a cruise originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cruisecruise tipscruise vacationscruisesCruiseTipsCruiseVacationsi hate cruisesIHateCruisesFri, 14 Jan 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jamaica cruise port to open, finally, sort of]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/31/new-jamaica-cruise-port-to-open-finally-sort-of/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/31/new-jamaica-cruise-port-to-open-finally-sort-of/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/31/new-jamaica-cruise-port-to-open-finally-sort-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

jamaica port to openThe first cruise ship will call at the new port of Falmouth, Jamaica next week, months behind schedule and not fully operational.

The port construction is a joint effort between between mega-ship maker Royal Caribbean International and the government of Jamaica. Originally scheduled to open last May, ongoing construction delays pushed opening the port back, rerouting giant sisters Oasis and Allure of the Seas to Costa Maya, Mexico instead. In fact, neither Oasis or Allure of the Seas will be stopping by until a currently slated March grand opening of the port as construction.

That's not surprising as the port's history and existing infrastructure date back to the late 18Th and early 19Th century when it was a central hub of the slave trade.

First to call at Falmouth will be Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, a smaller ship with fewer guests on board starting January 7, 2011.

Once complete, the port's master plan calls for 120,000 square feet of retail shopping and two berths capable of servicing the line's Oasis-class ships. Located on the islands North side between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, most tours and excursions currently offered at either port will be available from Falmouth.

When asked if popular tours from Ocho Rios would be possible from Falmouth tour operator Lincoln Stewart told me in November "Oh yeah mon, no problem but don't hold your breath, no don't hold your breath."

We won't.

New Jamaica cruise port to open, finally, sort of originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cruisecruise vacationCruiseVacationFalmouthFalmouth JamaicaFalmouthJamaicaJamaicaMontego BayMontegoBayOcho RiosOchoRiosPort of FalmouthPortOfFalmouthRoyal CaribbeanRoyal Caribbean InternationalRoyalCaribbeanRoyalCaribbeanInternationalFri, 31 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One great cruise port: Ocho Rios, Jamaica]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/25/one-great-cruise-port-ocho-rios-jamaica/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/25/one-great-cruise-port-ocho-rios-jamaica/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/25/one-great-cruise-port-ocho-rios-jamaica/#commentsFiled under: ,

OCHO RIOS JAMAICAIn the Caribbean, many ports of call feature turquoise-blue water, sandy beaches and a year-round temperature that makes traveling there attractive, especially in the Winter months from cold-weather climates. Some islands are better than others for scuba-diving or snorkeling, some have more history-related features than others and some are known for specific attractions that only they have. Ocho Rios, Jamaica is one of those ports that has it all.

Starting with Ferngully, the rainforest within driving range of the cruise port, Ocho Rios has some of the most lush, tropical foliage of any island. Jamaica has more than 500 species of ferns. 300 of them can bee seen in Ferngully, the dark and shaded gorge that is about 3 miles long.

It's on Jamaica that we'll find Dunns River Falls, one of the signature Caribbean attractions. Many visitors climb the waterfalls from the beach to the top stopping along the way to enjoy one of the plunge pools that form naturally in the surrounding rock.

Repeat visitors know that one of the best parts of doing Jamaica is doing nothing at all. A fortunate few are able to kick back and enjoy the island lifestyle. Cruise passengers often miss that part by taking busy shore excursions. While safety is a concern and ship-sponsored shore excursions are a smart bet to effectively keep you out of trouble, other independent tour options are available that can make for a truly memorable on-shore experience.

A private tour by cab is a popular and cost-effective option that allows customization if time ashore is short. Tip: Don't go home without some Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee, available at most gift shops on the island.

One great cruise port: Ocho Rios, Jamaica originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 25 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue Mountain CoffeeBlueMountainCoffeeCoffeecruisecruise vacationCruiseVacationDunns RiverDunns River FallsDunnsRiverDunnsRiverFallsFerngullyJamaican Blue MountainJamaicanBlueMountainOcho rios jamaicaOchoRiosJamaicasafety at seaSafetyAtSeashore excursionsShoreExcursionsSat, 25 Dec 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 3 stupid things to do on a cruise]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/18/top-3-stupid-things-to-do-on-a-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/18/top-3-stupid-things-to-do-on-a-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/18/top-3-stupid-things-to-do-on-a-cruise/#commentsFiled under: , ,

stupid tings to do on a cruiseA cruise vacation can be a great way to travel. Once on the ship, you're in a closed environment that is protected from many of the potential dangers that await those traveling some other way. But while cruise lines say things like "Do whatever you want to, it's your cruise", or "You are free to do...whatever!" there are limits. While there are a lot of stupid things to do on a cruise, here's the top three:

1. Get in a big argument with somebody and call them names. If you happen to have a short fuse or are really impatient, check that at the gangway. Once you are on board the ship how you behave can have a real impact on the experience. You'll hear the captain referred to as the "master of the vessel" and with good reason. He has the authority to throw you off the ship at the next port with no refund and no way to get back home except on your own if you cause trouble. Not long ago, a drunken brawl on Carnival Dream resulted in 10 guests waving good bye to a ship that left them behind.

2. Practice your swan dive over the side of the ship. This will most likely kill you and is something to avoid. You really have to try to make this happen too. Falling off the ship is a lot like falling off a 10-story building; your odds of survival are not good. If the impact of hitting the water doesn't kill you, strong currents created by the ship's movement will.

3. Stock up on drugs while ashore. If you want to buy drugs ashore you can on pretty much any Caribbean island. Just look for the cool guy with the Bob Marley look and you'll get hooked up fast. Odds are you can get them back on the ship pretty easy too. They don't strip-search embarking passengers. Where you will run into problems is back home when it's time to get off the ship. Drug sniffing dogs that check luggage coming off the ship will find your "souvenirs" and you will go to jail.

If you follow the golden rule of cruise ship conduct "Don't do anything that would require talking to security or having your body identified" you should be OK.

Top 3 stupid things to do on a cruise originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 18 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brawl on Carnival DreamBrawlOnCarnivalDreamCarnival Cruise LineCarnivalCruiseLinecruisecruise vacationsCruiseVacationsfalling off a cruise shipFallingOffACruiseShipFight on Carnival DreamFightOnCarnivalDreamJamaicaSafety at seaSafetyAtSeastupid people at seaStupidPeopleAtSeaSat, 18 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cruise lines slash prices, buyers cash in]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/15/cruise-lines-slash-prices-buyers-cash-in/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/15/cruise-lines-slash-prices-buyers-cash-in/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/15/cruise-lines-slash-prices-buyers-cash-in/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cruise lines slash pricesMaybe its a bad news spotlight or maybe just some last-minute bargains but cruise lines are slashing prices on everything from short 2-night sailings to longer 7, 10, and even 16-night cruises . Make it a quick getaway or long, relaxing escape, cruise lines have some of the best vacation values around right now.

"With a bit of flexibility, you'll likely be able to snag a good rate, and maybe even a few added bonuses, such as onboard credits, prepaid gratuities and cabin upgrades" reports CruiseCritic.com.

Short sailings to the Bahamas like 2 nights on Celebrity Century from Miami on January 15th go for as low as $115 per person or do 4-nights January 21 starting at $279. In the Caribbean, 7 nights on Crown Princess from Fort Lauderdale January 15 start at $379 per person and Ruby Princess starts at $449 on the January 16th sailing.

Longer sailings are available too like Princess Cruises Ocean Princess 16-day South China Sea Holiday sailing December 22nd with prices starting at $899 per per person or a 10-day sailing to the Mexican Riviera on Sapphire Princess from Los Angeles for $599 per person on January 5th.

Check with your travel agent for additional savings which might include discounts for residents of certain states, active or retired military members, seniors, past guests, Canadians, or other special promotions which could get you reduced airfare, onboard credit, complementary upgrades or special gifts.

Flickr photo by Tom Mascardo

Cruise lines slash prices, buyers cash in originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best vacation valuesBestVacationValuesCarnival Cruise LineCarnivalCruiseLineCelebrity CruisesCelebrityCruisescruisecruise bargainscruise holidaycruise shoppingcruise vacationscruise valuesCruiseBargainsCruiseHolidayCruiseShoppingCruiseVacationsCruiseValuesPrincess CruisesPrincessCruisesRoyal CaribbeanRoyalCaribbeanWed, 15 Dec 2010 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Feds threaten: cruise line pollution must stop]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/09/feds-threaten-cruise-line-pollution-must-stop/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/09/feds-threaten-cruise-line-pollution-must-stop/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/09/feds-threaten-cruise-line-pollution-must-stop/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

feds threaten cruise linesNew emission rules for cruise ships and other large vessels are set to go into effect in late 2013.

A United Nations plan to control emissions from ships sailing within 200 nautical miles of the U.S. and Canadian coasts initially excluded the U.S, Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico which pretty much left the Caribbean wide open for uncontrolled cruise line pollution.

Ships often use lower costing fuels with high sulphur levels outside of U.S. government jurisdiction, changing to cleaner fuels as they approach U.S. ports.

Under the plan, which would now include the U.S Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, ships would be required to use cleaner fuel or install special pollution reducing equipment to reduce air pollution. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that asthma and cancer-causing pollutants could be cut by about 90% in a decade.

Under the plan, which needs approval from the United Nations' London-based International Maritime Organization, EPA officials could randomly show up at ports to inspect ships and enforcement will be tough. The penalties have not yet been established, but impounding ships has been suggested as one option, said Elias Rodriguez, an EPA spokesperson.

Flickr photo by lecates

Feds threaten: cruise line pollution must stop originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air pollutionAirPollutioncancer-causingclean airCleanAircruisecruise line fuelcruise line pollutioncruise linesCruiseLineFuelCruiseLinePollutionCruiseLinesenvironmentalepaepa officialsEpaOfficialsprotection agencypuerto ricoPuertoRicoregulationssulphur emissionsSulphurEmissionsunited nationsunited statesUnitedNationsUnitedStatesThu, 09 Dec 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hotels.com offers three and four-star hotels for $99 or less]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/19/hotels-com-offers-three-and-four-star-hotels-for-99-or-less/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/19/hotels-com-offers-three-and-four-star-hotels-for-99-or-less/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/19/hotels-com-offers-three-and-four-star-hotels-for-99-or-less/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hotels.com(R) just launched their $99 or Less promotion, which offers many travelers an awesome break on three and four-star hotel prices.

Featuring nearly 2,000 hotels in the U.S., Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean, travelers who book by November 1 and travel by November 15 can enjoy deluxe accommodations on a limited budget.

Need some enticing? No problem...

How about the Palms Resort in Negril, Jamaica. The three-and-a-half-star property is situated near a beach and offers guests ocean or garden view rooms. Rooms start at $85 a night.

Head to the San Juan Water and Beach Club Hotel in Carolina, Puerto Rico for just $95 a night. Recommended by 79% of past guests, this three-and-a-half-star property is pet friendly, has an outdoor pool, a spa, and is within walking distance to the San Juan beach.

If Sin City is more your style, rooms at four-star properties like Treasure Island Hotel and Casino start at $60 a night.

At the Hotel Allandale, in Austin, Texas, not only will you relax in comfort and style but you'll only pay $85 a night for this three-star Southern hospitality.

Hotels.com offers three and four-star hotels for $99 or less originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BudgetHotelshotel salehotelsHotels.comHotelSaleLuxuryHotelsTue, 19 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Three extraordinary Caribbean hotels for under $150]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/21/three-extraordinary-caribbean-hotels-for-under-150-per-night-of/http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/21/three-extraordinary-caribbean-hotels-for-under-150-per-night-of/http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/21/three-extraordinary-caribbean-hotels-for-under-150-per-night-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Yes, the Caribbean is awfully hot right now. And yes, faithful watchers of weather, hurricane season is indeed upon us. But for the next several months, visitors to the Caribbean will benefit from low-season rates that make the region a great value for cost-conscious travelers. With very few exceptions, low season in the Caribbean lasts until mid-November at the earliest and mid-December at the latest.

Here are three very special Caribbean hotels that are set apart from the pack. All offer double rooms in low-season for $150 per night or less. Uncommon care is taken by the proprietors of these three hotels to create remarkable, unique, and locally-grounded environments. All are hugely successful at their mission.

1. Hotel Mocking Bird Hill, Port Antonio, Jamaica.

Tucked into the hills above Port Antonio, Hotel Mocking Bird Hill feels like a hidden treasure. It's surrounded by fabulous greenery and operates along comprehensively eco-friendly principles, with local staff, reliance on solar energy and rainwater harvesting, anaerobic wastewater treatment, and the absence of in-room air-conditioning. (On the last count, don't worry. At this altitude air-conditioning is not essential.) There's a swimming pool here for guests who don't want to schlep down to the coast's beaches. The hotel's restaurant, Mille Fleurs, which sources much of its bounty locally, is unequivocally fantastic. Doubles begin at $138 per night in the off-season. Mocking Bird Hill may close for a week or two in September.

2. Papillote Wilderness Retreat, Roseau, Dominica.

On Dominica, quite possibly the greenest and least exploited island in the Caribbean, another exquisite eco-resort can be found: Papillote Wilderness Retreat, a true labor of love. The resort stretches over a hillside that doubles as a well-maintained botanical garden. The grounds boast mineral springs (one hot and one cold) for soaking. Rooms are simple but cheerful, and make the most of Papillote's natural setting. The hotel's restaurant is top-notch and stocked more often than not with local produce. Hotel staff teem with knowledge about the island's history and ecology. They can assist in organizing hikes and other tours of the island led by able local guides. Doubles begin at $115 per night. Note that Papillote will be closed in September and the first three weeks of October.

3. Auberge Les Petits Saints, Terre-de-Haut, Guadeloupe.

This beautifully furnished hotel, with an aesthetic somewhere between ornate country estate and neon-pastel riot, offers lovely views over the island of Terre-de-Haut (see above) in Guadeloupe's Les Saintes archipelago. There really is a feel of antique abandon here, which is delightful through and through. There is a pool on the property, as well. This is France, albeit overseas France, and the in-house restaurant is of course very good, with a mouthwatering Basque tasting plate and fanciful cocktails as standouts. The cozy restaurant terrace twinkles with lights and conversations at night and is without question a really special place to spend an evening. Doubles begin at €110 (currently $141) per night during low season.

(Image: Alex Robertson Textor)

Three extraordinary Caribbean hotels for under $150 originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget-traveldominicaGuadeloupejamaicales saintesLesSaintesport antonioPortAntonioRoseauWed, 21 Jul 2010 14:30:00 EST