the family vacation
Transcription
the family vacation
SUMMER 2013 TM Volume 13, Issue 38 6625 Lyndale Avenue South, #104 Minneapolis, MN 55423 612.866.2503 800.800.6508 [email protected] www.carrouseltravel.com THE FAMILY VACATION .... it’s all yours! Inside • A Family Cruise Vacation • Consumer Events VD022-13 AEV_Europe_ad__ 2/14/13 9:31 AM EUROPE IS ABOUT MUCH MORE THAN JUST THE SIGHTS – IT’S ABOUT CAPTURING THE TRUE ESSENCE OF A CULTURE. The sheer variety of experiences in this vastly diverse and alluring continent will create memories that will live with you forever. Carrousel Travel 6625 Lyndale Avenue South, Ste. 104 Minneapolis, MN 55423 612.866.2503 • 800.800.6508 American Express Vacations tours operated by Travel Impressions, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. Details are accurate at time of printing and are subject to changes, exceptions, cancellation charges and restrictions. Not responsible for errors or omissions in the printing of this ad. VCST # 2029006-20, IOWA#758. NEVADA #2004-0029. Washington UBI # 602 425 801. VD022 13_DF_2.12.13 No matter how you define “FAMILY”... there’s simply no better way to celebrate your definition of “family” than to travel! It doesn’t matter if your family vacation will be comprised of family and friends or a family of friends. Regardless of whether your family vacation is made up of a small family with young children, large family with adult children, extended family, or multi-generational family... we can help you plan your upcoming get together to get away – on land, at sea, in the mountains, on an island, or somewhere in between. Wherever you want to go... we can get you there! After all, your family is THE most precious and special family of all. And we want you to relax and enjoy this special vacation and come back home with memories to last a lifetime. The Family Vacation... It’s all yours! In Th is Edition: Cruising...What’s New on the Horizon Travel Agency Highlights Touring...From Here to There page 2 pages 6 & 7 page 9 CRUISING . . . WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON Up to $1,750 per person savings when booked by 6/28/13 The All-Inclusive Coastal Connoisseur 12 nights aboard the Crystal Symphony • August 10-22, 2013 Barcelona/Lisbon (with overnight stays in both cities) Mariner Shoreside Event: Palma de Mallorca (8/17/13) Scandinavian Treats 10 nights aboard the Crystal Serenity • August 9-19, 2013 Stockholm/London (Dover); Overnight stays in Stockholm and St. Petersburg (two nights) Mariner Shoreside Event: Helsinki (8/15/13) Mediterranean Medley 13 nights aboard the Crystal Serenity • November 2-15, 2013 Rome (Civitavecchia)/Lisbon; Overnight stays in Monte Carlo, Barcelona, and Lisbon Mariner Shoreside Event: Gibraltar (11/12/13) For more information on these cruises, call your American Express Travel Agency Cruise-only fares are per person in U.S. dollars, double occupancy, include all promotional savings and do not include cruise port, security and handling charges of $400-$495. All offers may not be combinable with other promotions, apply to first two full-fare guests in stateroom or suite, are capacity-controlled, subject to availability and may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. All itineraries, fares, programs and policies are subject to change. Other restrictions apply. Visit crystalcruises.com for complete terms & conditions. ©Crystal Cruises, Inc. Ships’ Registry: The Bahamas. CRUISE... Whether you’re planning a family vacation for summer or considering a getaway to an exotic destination or starting to think “where” shall we go for the holidays – whatever and where ever you are considering – we can get you there. Your options may include a fun, family vacation on the high seas, a vacation on a Hawaiian island, a holiday river cruise along the festive waterways of the Rhine River and the canals of Amsterdam. Or, if you’re thinking unique and unusual, consider the exotic and intriguing Galapagos or the mystical and unexplored regions of Indo-China and Latin America, or somewhere in between or beyond! Please give us a call or stop by. We’ll help you put your travel plans in motion. AMAWaterways Let’s put “getting away for the holidays” on your “horizon” for 2013! If you have never traveled on the continent during the holiday season, then you are in for a very special – and festive – experience. Hundreds of Christmas markets magically come to life in city and village squares throughout Europe beginning in late November. The history of these beloved street markets dates back to the late Middle Ages, when the winter solstice was a frightening time for the local villagers. Created to help “lighten” not only the dark nights that prevailed, but to “brighten” one’s mood, holiday markets and festive public performances quickly became a welcome tradition. Today, millions of us flock to holiday markets throughout Europe – eager to wander through the vendor’s stalls and inhale the sweet, spicy scents of mulled wine, piping hot cinnamonapple cider, freshly-baked gingerbread and sizzling sausages. In addition to decadent seasonal treats, we can find ornate, hand-made Christmas tree decorations, handcrafted toys, dolls, old-fashioned wooden crafts, 40% OFF EUROPE & MEKONG RIVER CRUISE FARES ON SELECT DEPARTURES IN NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2013 SAVINGS UP TO $3,700 PER STATEROOM CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN EUROPE! TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS MARKETS & OLD-WORLD AMBIANCE 7-night cruises from $1,379 per person Experience the continent’s most enchanting and timeless Christkindlesmarkts along the Danube or Rhine Rivers AN EXOTIC MEKONG RIVER CRUISE ADVENTURE! DISCOVER VIETNAM, CAMBODIA & THE RICHES OF THE MEKONG 7-night cruises from $1,619 per person Optional land program in Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Siem Reap & Ho Chi Minh City available for $1,999 per person plus intra-Asia airfare of $300 per person For reservations, contact your American Express Travel Counselor today Terms & Conditions: Rates listed are in US Dollars; reflects applicable savings; based on double occupancy in Cat. E (Mekong - Cat. C) and vary per departure. Total savings listed is based on double occupancy. Offers are valid on new FIT reservations booked through August 31, 2013; based on availability. 40% discount is based on the cruise only price as listed in the brochure and excludes cat. L suites on the Mekong. Land program, airfare, port charges and gratuities are not included in the price listed. Solo traveler offer includes 40% discount off the cruise fare and single supplement. Promotions are limited to availability and are not combinable with any other offers. Availability is limited on each cruise and the offer is subject to change or discontinuation without notice, offer is capacity controlled. Specific terms and conditions apply to each offer; please ask for details. Other restrictions may apply. CST#2065452-40. 2 CRUISING . . . WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON and other one-of-a-kind gifts. There are two holiday itineraries we especially want to share with you. The Christmas Time Cruise is a festive 7-night voyage (with optional 2-night land package in Prague), highlighted with visits to Christmas markets in Vienna, Budapest, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, and Linz. The cruise is Nuremberg to Budapest or reverse. The Christmas on the Rhine is a 7-night cruise (with an optional 4-day land package with 2 days each in Zurich and Lucerne), cruising from Basel to Amsterdam. On board either of these cruises, you and your family and friends can enjoy holiday celebrations, beautiful decorations, special holiday meals and beverages – culminating with AMAWaterways fabulous and festive Christmas Gala Dinner. Call us soon for details and to make reservations. We look forward to helping you make your 2013 holidays a celebration to remember! CRYSTAL CRUISES There is a reason Crystal Cruises has been voted “World’s Best more than any other cruise line, hotel, or resort in history”! From the moment you step on board, you feel the difference: An ambience of refined and attentive service – yet unobtrusive; spacious and perfectly-furnished public areas, the delightful opportunity to explore and experience a variety of venues – from casual to classy – to enjoy your favorite foods and beverages. And that’s just the beginning. The hallmark of Crystal’s award-winning reputation is their engaging onboard enrichment program – inviting you to “leave the daily routines of life behind and open your mind to new possibilities.” Regardless of your interests – be it art, photography, cultural awareness, world affairs, digital film making, culinary and wine interests, the world of magic, golf, or establishing a new fitness routine – Crystal’s Creative Learning Institute® invites you to challenge yourself Lisbon. Overnight stays in Monte Carlo, Barcelona, and Lisbon. To take place in Gibraltar, your Mariner Shoreside Event will offer an Afternoon Tour with Lunch and will include an exclusive visit on the HMS Pickle and a private visit at the Mayor’s Parlour for champagne, canapes, and conversation. Early booking discounts apply – with savings up to $1,750 per person – if you book by JUNE 28th, 2013. We look forward to making all your arrangements to sail with the “World’s Best.” Please call or stop by soon! and learn something new! There truly is “something” new and exciting offered Tips, Trends & Updates every day. And, right now... we have three HOLLAND AMERICA LINE exceptional itineraries to share with you – From Alaska to Europe, with Canada & featuring exclusive amenities for our New England in between, there is lots to American Express clients. Each of these see and do when you cruise with Holland itineraries is an American Express Mariner America this year. First ALASKA... In Club sailing with amenities to include an addition to HAL’s award-winning 7-day onboard host, a private cocktail party, and itineraries that showcase Alaska’s breathtaking special shore excursion opportunities. glaciers, Holland America offers a variety of • Coastal Connoisseur – 12 nights family-friendly shore excursions that include aboard the Crystal Symphony – August light hiking, sea kayaking, a float adventure 10-22, 2013, Barcelona/Lisbon (with and cycling. Plus, their award-winning overnight stays in both cities). With this Junior Ranger Program will ensure that your itinerary, your special Mariner Shoreside youngsters get to take part in educational Event takes place in Palma de Mallorca and includes a morning sightseeing tour, wine continued on page 4 tasting in the lush gardens of LaGranja, Holland and a delightful America 3-course luncheon. Line • Scandinavian Treats – 10 nights 7-day Round trip Vancouver aboard the Crystal August 30; September 13, 2013 aboard ms Amsterdam Serenity – August Vancouver, British Columbia and Alaska 9-19, 2013, Interior $699 • Ocean view $799 • Verandah $1,599 Stockholm/London Amenity – $25 shipboard credit per person (Dover). Overnight 7-day Canada & New England Discovery stays in Stockholm September 14; October 5, 2013* aboard ms Veendam and St. Petersburg Quebec City, Quebec to Boston, Massachusetts (two nights). Your Interior $949 • Ocean view $1,099 • Verandah $2,499 Amenity – $25 shipboard credit per person exclusive Mariner Group Amenity – May include $25 shipboard credit per person; Pinnacle Grill lunch Shoreside Event is in Additional Amenity – Free or reduced cruise fare for 3rd/4th guests; Free Motorcoach Helsinki and includes transfer between Montreal and Quebec when you book any stateroom Ocean-view a morning tour of and above; Receive a free night at Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac when booked in a Verandah Suite or Deluxe Verandah Suite Architectural Delights *Ports of call are in reverse order and City Highlights, 11-day Mediterranean Explorer with refreshments September 17, 2013 aboard ms Noordam served enroute. Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy to Barcelona, Spain • Mediterranean Interior $1,699 • Ocean view $1,899 • Verandah $2,199 Medley – 13 nights Amenity – Complimentary photo aboard the Crystal For more information, call your Serenity – November American Express Travel Agency 2-15, 2013, Rome Sample fares are per person, cruise and cruisetours only, based on double occupancy in the minimum categories. Airfare is additional. Fares are in US dollars. Taxes are additional and range from $116-$191. Holland America Line reserves the right to re-instate the fuel supplement for all guests at up to $9 per person per day should the price of light sweet crude oil according to the NYMEX increase to over $70 per barrel. Fares (Civitavecchia)/ based on Westerdam 05/25/2013, Nieuw Amsterdam 06/08/2013, Maasdam 06/01/2013 sailings, promo RH. Additional sailings and rates available. Amenities based on double occupancy and may vary per ship & sailing date. Offers are subject to availability and may be altered or withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands. 3 CRUISING . . . WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON 11-day Fijian Jewels SEA PRINCESS ® Round trip Brisbane, Australia 12/17/13 From $2,799 Plus: $85 shipboard credit 10-day East Caribbean Voyager EMERALD PRINCESS ® Round trip Ft. Lauderdale 12/19/13 From $2,199 Plus: $60 shipboard credit 7-day Western Caribbean CARIBBEAN PRINCESS ® Round trip Houston, TX 12/21/13 From $1,699 Plus: $50 shipboard credit 7-day Eastern Caribbean ROYAL PRINCESS ® Round trip Ft. Lauderdale 12/22/13 From $1,699 Plus: $50 shipboard credit Call your American Express Travel professional to book your Princess cruise! *Pricing based on USD, per person, double occupancy, cruise only, group space availability and inventory controlled. Shipboard credits are per stateroom. Government fees of up to $125 are extra. Balcony fares based on sailing category BD (Royal Princess BW). Princess reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement of up to $9 per person per day on all passengers if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel, even if the fare has as already been paid in full. Amenities may vary per sailing. See applicable Princess brochure for terms, conditions and definitions that will apply to all bookings. ©2013 Princess Cruises. Ships’ Registry: Bermuda. 4 continued from page 3 activities and events with Glacier Bay National Park rangers while in Glacier Bay. For the ultimate Alaska family vacation, we encourage you to include a land vacation to Denali National Park. New for 2013 is their exclusive “Triple Denali” itineraries that add three days in Denali National Park to maximize your wilderness experience. Optional activities may include river rafting, fly fishing, or flightseeing. Next, we’re on to CANADA & NEW ENGLAND... Featuring 7-15-day cruises along the stunning coastlines of Eastern Canada and New England, you’ll experience and enjoy (depending on selected itinerary) such marvelous ports as Boston, Montreal, Quebec City, Sydney, Halifax, Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), and Bar Harbor. Numerous sailings are offered from convenient home ports including Boston, Montreal, Quebec City, New York, and Fort Lauderdale. Perfect for a late summer family cruise vacation, you and your family will relive history along Boston’s Freedom Trail as you trace the path of America’s independence. Marvel at the beauty of Saguenay Fjord and spectacular scenery along the St. Lawrence River, and savor all the French delights of Quebec City and Montreal. And, EUROPE... Europe is not just another destination for Holland America Line – it’s their heritage. From the Baltic region to the Bordeaux wine country, from the romantic and intriguing Mediterranean and Black Sea to the British Isles and the Celtic kingdoms – this is an incredible continent that truly offers something for everyone. Cruise itineraries range from 7-42 days through December, with options that include convenient roundtrip sailings from such popular ports as Rotterdam, Dover ( London), Civitavecchia (Rome), Venice, Barcelona, Copenhagen, and Amsterdam. If you have the fortunate opportunity for a longer sailing, we encourage you to consider their leisurely Collectors’ Voyages of 14-35 days that combine the best of several itineraries for a truly in-depth European experience. In addition to marvelous itineraries and shore excursions, Holland America Line features many exceptional onboard programs, such as Digital Workshops, an outstanding Culinary Arts Center, and one of the industry’s best youth programs for ages 3-17. Please give us a call. We can answer all your questions and make all your arrangements. NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE Norwegian Cruise Line touts that they “create the best family vacation moments – ever,” and when we tell you all the activities and fun that’s available – we’re confident you will agree with their promise. Truly offering activities and events – throughout the ship – that will appeal to all ages and interests, it will be very easy to make this a real Family Vacation. And true to Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Freestyle” philosophy, things change continually throughout each day and range from activities such as a circus school to parties for teens. Offered through their Splash Academy Youth Program, activities are geared to four age groups. First, Guppies (6 months - 2 years). This age group features interactive and sensory activities where parents and infants/toddlers play together. Next, Turtles (ages 3-5). Activities range from Cirque du Jour Circus School to arts & crafts and painting to developmental and family activities. For ages 6-9, it’s the Seals group. Here youngsters can take part in Wii™ games, Super Hero and Pirate Night fun, sports and family activities, movie, and teambuilding challenges; while the Dolphins are 10-12 years old and will enjoy Icebreaker parties, scavenger hunts, sports and family activities. For your teens – ages 13-17, Norwegian offers the Entourage Teen Program. Divided into groups 13-14 and 15-17, activities run the gamut from Wii™ and video arcade, sports events, to a teen aged Cirque du Jour Circus School, a White Hot Party, workshop, arts, music, pool games and night-time parties. But there is also a special Family Time program that includes activities the entire family can enjoy – together – such as sports games and shipboard challenges, pizza making, charades, and CRUISING . . . WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON family rock climbing, as well as Breakfast with Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob and Dora the Explorer, live stage shows, and fun poolside events. What makes this family cruise vacation even better – Norwegian Cruise Line offers family accommodations (with extra bedrooms for your youngsters, connecting staterooms, and more) with close proximity to the Splash Academy. Please call us or stop by. We’ll help you pick the perfect itinerary and ship that will be perfect for your family vacation this year. We have all the details. OCEANIA CRUISES Whether your choose to visit “Kings and Kingdoms” on your Baltic cruise from Stockholm to London, be immersed in “Venetian Vignettes” when you sail the glorious Mediterranean from Venice to Barcelona – or prefer to sail somewhere in between on your European cruise... with Oceania Cruises it really is “Your World. Your Way.” And just what sets Oceania apart from its formidable competition? Most notably are its extensive and in depth 1-3-day-pre/post land excursions (with luxury accommodations), carefully-planned itineraries that feature in depth and unique shore excursions – combined with extensive overnight stays on most sailings – that encourage you to delve into the history, culture, art and cuisine of the city or town you’re visiting. And to further enhance your shore excursion experience, two new excursion packages have been added for 2013: Your World Collection and Unlimited Passport Collection. Your World allows you the flexibility to custom design a personalized, valued-packed collection of excursions from Oceania’s portfolio that is just right for you and at a special savings of 25%. The Unlimited Passport Collection is just that: Unlimited, and at a savings of 40% off a la carte pricing. In addition, Oceania Cruises also offers the ultimate in shore excursion options with their Oceania Choice and Exclusive (minimum 10, max 16 guests) excursions that offer “extraordinary experiences – some so outstanding and awe-inspiring that they merit special recognition.” For example, during a 3 days/2 nightstay in St. Petersburg, you could look forward to such excursion opportunities as The Hermitage – A Wealth of Art & History (Exclusive) and “An Evening of Russian Ballet, Moscow by High Speed Train, or a Musical Evening at The Hermitage. (Choice.) In addition to outstanding excursion options, Oceania’s onboard enrichment programs ensure that your total cruise experience truly is Your World. Your Way. Their highly-successful and popular Bon Appetit Culinary Center is a prime example. As the world’s “only hands-on culinary studio at sea,” you will gain knowledge and technique – working side-by side with Master Chefs in a professional kitchen setting. Equipped with twelve individual cooking stations (two guests per station), you will have the enviable opportunity to Your World On Sale Phenomenal Savings and Amenities if booked by May 31, 2013 – call us for details! Or book by August 15, 2013 and receive a special $200 per stateroom shipboard credit. continued on page 7-Day Western Mediterranean Roundtrip Barcelona Norwegian Epic Sailing: 6/2/13 – 10/13/13 Barcelona, Spain; Naples, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Provence (Marseille), France; Palma de Majorca, Spain; Barcelona, Spain Balconies starting at $999 per person Call your American Express Travel professional to book your Norwegian cruise today! Ship’s Registry: Bahamas 8 Treasures & Monuments | Istanbul to Rome | 12 days onboard Riviera | August 16, 2013 from $4,499 Ultimate Panama Canal | San Francisco to New York | 21 days onboard Regatta | August 22, 2013 from $4,299 Romance & Riviera | Lisbon to Monte Carlo | 12 days onboard Riviera | September 29, 2013 from $4,799 Paths of the Byzantines | Venice to Istanbul | 12 days onboard Riviera | October 25, 2013 from $4,299 Glorious Shores | Venice to Barcelona | 12 days onboard Marina | October 29, 2013 from $4,299 Classic Mediterranean | Barcelona to Barcelona | 10 days onboard Nautica | November 4, 2013 from $2,799 Continental Quest | Istanbul to Barcelona | 12 days onboard Riviera | November 6, 2013 from $3,999 Treasures of the Ancients | Barcelona to Barcelona | 10 days onboard Marina | November 10, 2013 from $2,999 Empires of Antiquity | Barcelona to Dubai | 24 Days onboard Nautica | November 14, 2013 from $8,240 South American Holiday | Rio De Janeiro to Valparaiso | 20 days onboard Marina | December 8, 2013 from $5,999 Pacific Paradise | Valparaiso to Papeete | 18 days onboard Marina | December 28, 2013 from $4,999 For more information on these cruises, call your American Express Travel Agency today! *Shipboard Credits are not available for use in the casino and not redeemable for cash. All advertised fares, other offers and applicable shipboard credits, upgrades or special amenities shown are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise indicated, are subject to availability at time of booking, may not be combinable with other offers or loyalty program benefits, are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn without prior notice or remain in effect after the expiration date. All fares listed are in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy and include Non-Commissionable Fares. Cruise-related government fees and taxes are included. For itineraries shown with multiple departures, sailing prices may vary and any “Fares From” pricing is based on Category G unless otherwise indicated. Single rates and rates for 3rd and 4th guests are available upon request; call for details. Cruise Ship Fuel Surcharge may apply for new bookings and, if applicable, is additional revenue to Oceania Cruises. Oceania Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete Terms and Conditions may be found in the Guest Ticket Contract. Ships’ Registry: Marshall Islands. 5 Travel Agency Highlights Carrousel Travel American Express When you travel with us, we’ve got your back covered 612.866.2503 800.800.6508 [email protected] Visit us on the web at www.carrouseltravel.com Carrousel Travel American Express is a full-service travel agency and an integral part of the American Express Travel Services network – the #1 and most trusted name in travel throughout the world. Tango Quickstep Waltz Paso Doble or just sit back and watch the Stars do it ABC’s smash hit “Dancing with the Stars” sizzles on board Holland America Line on 5 theme cruises in Alaska, New England and the Caribbean! June 22, 30 and July 7, 2013 January 5 and January 12, 2014 6625 Lyndale Ave. S., #104, Minneapolis, MN 55423 612.866.2503 • 800.800.6508 [email protected] • www.carrouseltravel.com If you want to be removed from our mailing list, please call 800.800.6508 or 612.866.2503 or advise us in writing via email at: [email protected] A CRUISE VACATION: A HIGH SEAS ADVENTURE – PERFECT FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY! It’s paramount that the entire family has fun on vacation, and cruise ships make this possible. Family-friendly ships are teeming with services and facilities that keep kids of all ages engaged, including amenities such as movie theaters, rock climbing walls, skating rinks, golf lessons, cooking classes, art and photography classes. A family cruise also gives your youngsters a chance to learn about the world first-hand. Perhaps you have a budding marine biologist, artist, archaeologist, historian or geologist in your family. You can encourage that passion by snorkeling the reefs of Cozumel, touring the Sistine Chapel in Rome, or climbing the steps of the Mayan ruins near Cancun. We’ve highlighted some of the activities and programs available on different cruise lines. Please give us a call or stop by. We look forward to helping you and your family plan this year’s perfect “Family Cruise Vacation.” CRYSTAL CRUISES Both Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony offer fully-supervised junior activities for kids/teens 3-17 on holiday voyages and nearly all summer sailings, each with dedicated areas for both children and teens. • FANTASIA welcomes youngsters ages 3-7 and 8-12 with games, crafts, popular Sony PlayStation® and Xbox 360™ kiosks and large-screen televisions, board games, and personal computers with entertainment and education. • WAVES features an array of activities and programs for children and a video arcade for teens. The library offers a selection of children’s books and videos for in-room viewing as well as recently-released family films in The Hollywood Theatre. Depending on their age, younger guests will receive their own newsletter – Surf Runner or Teen Scene – highlighting the next day’s activities. HOLLAND AMERICA LINE Holland America offers activities for youngsters and teens ages 3-17. All Club HAL® activities are supervised by permanent, full-time staff and are designed to be kid-friendly and age-appropriate. • CLUB HAL® Kids. Children ages 3-7 can participate in such activities as pirate treasure hunts, hands-on pizza making, storytelling, “Little Artists” crafts, ice cream sundae parties and a farewell pajama party. • CLUB HAL® Tweens. Youth ages 8-12 can take part in Xbox and Wii tournaments, relay races, scavenger hunts and the opportunity (on Alaska cruises) to participate in the award-winning National Park Service Jr. Ranger Program while in Alaska. • The Loft and The Oasis Teens. For teenagers ages 13-17, late-night sporting competitions, teen yoga and hip hop classes, guys vs. girls scavenger hunts, cooking demos, tech classes and teen-only night club events Carrousel Travel is on Facebook!!! Please “like” us and we will keep you current with travel trends, packing tips, travel and weather notifications. Discover new, up-and-coming destinations, trivia and deals that only the world’s largest travel company (Amex) can give! www.facebook.com/carrouseltravel 6 are available. The Oasis is located on the Statendam, Ryndam, Veendam, Rotterdam, Zaandam, Volendam, and Amsterdam). NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE Freestyle Cruising® on Norwegian Cruise Line means everyone gets the vacation of their dreams. The Splash Academy for Kids offers activities including juggling, spinning and tumbling in the Cirque Du Jour family circus show; arts and crafts, Wii games and movie screenings. The Entourage for Teens (ages 13-17) offers soccer, basketball, ultimate frisbee, rounders, triangle ball, pool parties, theater or fashion workshops, and over 20 interactive sports. And in the Teen Center, there’s flat-screen televisions, PlayStation®3, vending machines, air hockey, pinball, as well as a video jukebox to dance the night away. PRINCESS CRUISES Youth activities for the Princess Pelicans (ages 3-7) include Kindermusik® at Sea, kids-only dance parties, movies and cartoons, ice cream and pizza parties, T-shirt coloring, pajama parties, theme nights, fun fairs, and art projects. For youth ages 8-12, Shockwaves offers there are kids-only dinners, scavenger hunts, karaoke and talent shows, California Science Center workshops, Jr. CHEF@Sea, and sports. For teens ages 13-17, there is an exclusive teens-only lounge, makeovers, hip hop dance classes, talent shows, formal dinners, DJ workshops, teen-only dance parties, late-night movies and sporting tournaments. REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers the Club Mariner youth program for ages 5-8, 9-12, and 13-17, on selected sailings both during summer months and during school holiday periods. Activities include games, craft projects, movies and food fun and are organized to ensure that every child has a memorable experience. For teens, ages 13-17, activities may include ice breakers, scrapbooking, sports tournaments, Club Mariner Style Casino, and Lounge Lizard Nights. Life onboard a Regent Seven Seas Cruise is sure to be a most memorable experience for your teenager. We at Carrousel Travel American Express know cruising. We’ve sailed on every line and know the best sights in each port. Call us today and let us help walk you thought the plethora of cruise options for just the two of you or your entire family. SAVE THE DATE: Upcoming FREE Consumer Events at Carrousel Travel Open Houses • 1-3pm 6625 Lyndale Ave. S. Mpls. August 14 with Crystal Cruises September 26 with Insight Vacations November 13 with the Globus Family Come to our main office to hear what new products these vendors have for you. We will be talking about the entire globe and how best to explore it. These open houses are informal settings, so questions are encouraged! Invitations will be sent at a later date but mark your calendars for these up close and personal events! Specials will be offered at each open house. Do you have an American Express Green, Gold, Platinum or Centurion Card? There is no better time to use your American Express Membership Rewards Pay With Points to pay for all or part of your next vacation! Call your Carrousel Travel American Express travel professional today for details. Meet Lucy Hicks in our Group & Incentive Department. Have you ever had 10+ people all traveling together? Whether it’s a corporate incentive, family or leisure group, Lucy is the person to speak to. Putting together a group has its own challenges and complexities however many vendors offer group discounts and special amenities for “buying in bulk,” making group travel affordable. Lucy has been in the group and incentive business for over 25 years so we asked her to tell us some of the fun and unique groups she has set up for clients: • My first time to Italy was to escort a group of 50 top franchisees. That is where I discovered Cappuccino and my life has not been the same since. • We organized 300 insurance executives to South Africa for 10 days. The location and safari were absolutely superb and the client was thrilled by how we made each of the winners feel special with little unexpected touches and creativity. • 20 family members flew to Mexico for a reunion at a remote resort. They wanted activities not found in such remote areas so we brought in a vendor who arranged fishing, ATVing and whale watching-all for very little more. Carrousel Travel American Express is proud to be a 3-time winner of the Minneapolis St Paul Business Journal’s “Great Places to Work” award. Voted on by our employees, making the winning even more special! In addition: Carrousel Travel American Express is an 8-time winner of the American Express Representative Excellence Award, making us among the top 25 American Express offices in the country. This is an honor we do not take lightly. 36 years of being world wide & world wise 7 CRUISING . . . WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON continued from page 5 master recipes from regional cuisines – or learn to make homemade pasta in your “Tuscan Treasures” or “Sensuous Sicily” class. For dessert, there is “Crazy for Crepes” and “Decadent Desserts.” And somewhere in between...”Gloriously Modern Greek” and “Healthy Mediterranean.” We have so much to share with you about Oceania Cruises – including details about new fall and winter sailings for 2013. Phenomenal savings and amenities (including free air, $500 shipboard credits, complimentary onboard internet package, prepaid gratuities, and more) are available IF you have us book by MAY 31, 2013. Need more time to select your Oceania cruise? Then we have a special amenity of $200 per stateroom shipboard credit for you if you have us book your Oceania cruise by AUGUST 15, 2013. Please call us or stop by soon and experience for yourself Your World. Your Way. Tips, Trends & Updates Princess Cruises® Offers Festive Holiday Sailings! Now is the time to start planning your family’s holiday cruise! And be assured that with Princess’ ship-wide Celebrations, it will be easy for your family to have a Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, or a Happy New Year as you sail the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Australia & New Zealand, South America, or the South Pacific this holiday season. What a great time to gather the entire family and join in all the onboard festivities of this happy, joyful time of year. From strolling yuletide carolers and beautiful decorations to themed-production shows and special religious services (Hanukkah, Catholic mass, and inter-denominational), to traditional Hanukkah meals and Christmas dinners – it’s all this and more this holiday 8 season. For those of us who would rather welcome in the New Year at sea – be assured it will be a memorable and exciting celebration – from casual to Black Tie – the choice is yours. Then get ready to settle in for your favorite College Bowl games – just like at home – only better! We have all the details, itineraries, and can make all your arrangements to get you and your family away this season and to enjoy – all together – a stress-free, “what you want, when you want” holiday away from the usual hustle and bustle of the season. Please call us or stop by soon. Tips, Trends & Updates Regent Seven Seas Cruises It’s ALL Included! Regent Seven Seas’ new theme is “Why Choose? When You Can Have It All.” If you have cruised with Regent in the last few years, you have already answered that question. If you haven’t had the opportunity – but are considering a Regent Seven Seas cruise, let us share with you all the valueadded amenities that are included in your fare: Two-for-one fares, additional bonus savings of up to $8,000 per suite, complimentary roundtrip economy air (with business class upgrades to Europe just $699 pp/each way on select sailings for those guests in Deluxe suites; business class air inclusive in Penthouse suites and above), complimentary unlimited Internet access, $300 per suite ship-board credit, complimentary unlimited shore excursions, complimentary one-night pre-cruise luxury hotel package, all pre-paid gratuities, complimentary ground transfers, complimentary unlimited beverages onboard – including fine wines and premium spirits, complimentary in-suite mini-bar replenished daily, and no additional tariff to dine in the onboard specialty restaurants. As you know, Regent has three vessels: Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Navigator, and Seven Seas Voyager. Guest capacity ranges from just 490- 700. And these smaller, more intimate ships ensure that you will sail into ports not accessible to larger vessels. Whether your travel plans include the Mediterranean this fall, the enticing historic coastline of Canada and New England during the fall foliage season, an exotic getaway from Dubai to Singapore and on to Australia and the Pacific Rim, or to the intriguing ports of call in South America – regardless of your destination... you can be assured that ALL is included. And, for our valued American Express Travel clients, Regent Seven Seas also provides exclusive American Express Mariner Club amenities: An American Express host, a private cocktail party, and an additional special shipboard credit per suite. Please call us now for details and to book your upcoming cruise with Regent. No other cruise line offers such exceptional valueadded amenities. Tips, Trends & Updates Silversea Cruises’ Galapagos Eco-Adventures and More! Planning a family vacation in today’s busy, hectic world requires much more than loading the family in the station wagon, and taking off on a road trip with just a map and full tank of gas. Family travel today often involves multi-generations – with each family member eager to learn, grow, and to connect with one another as each experiences new places, cultures, and opportunities. The world of family travel has become an educational and engaging opportunity to learn how other nationalities, cultures, and creatures exist and thrive. And, in our opinion, one of the best opportunities to grow and learn is through Silversea Cruises’ exciting new 7-day Galapagos Eco-Adventures. Indeed, “an experience like no other,” Silversea will launch the Silver Galapagos this September for yet another fun and educational cruise opportunity. Grandparents and grandkids alike can get “up close and personal” with the Giant Tortoises or Blue-Footed Boobies. Cruising to destinations inaccessible to most, you and your family will encounter wildlife found nowhere else on earth. Excursions include Zodiac cruises, guided nature hikes, snorkeling, and incredible photo ops. The Galapagos voyages can be easily extended Touring Touring .. .. .. From From Here Here to to There There TOURING... to include optional land tours to Machu Picchu and/or The Amazon region. These itineraries sail roundtrip out of Baltra Island. In addition to the new Galapagos year-round sailing, we also have details about Silversea sailings to the Arctic Circle (Summer), and Antarctica (our winter). This is the ultimate opportunity to bring the entire family together and engage in a vacation that will offer memories to last a lifetime. Please call or stop by. We are eager to share these incredible cruise vacation opportunities with you. ASIA and LATIN AMERICA BRENDAN VACATIONS One of the most popular new concepts in group travel is Brendan Vacations Boutique Journeys. For you – our savvy, experienced traveler, we are confident you will find this new collection of premium, expertly-crafted itineraries very appealing. With their “taking you personally” motto, these highlypersonalized journeys depart with never more than 24 guests and with each itinerary you are ensured to always get “more than you expected.” For this summer edition, we will highlight specifically four of their Asia and Latin American itineraries. Here is your unique opportunity to tour the Lost City of the Incas in Machu Picchu or visit Lake Titicaca & the Uros Islands (a collection of 40 small floating islands made entirely of reeds.) Another South American option is Zipaquira – an underground salt cathedral and Taironaka – a nature preserve that hosts traces of a town built by the Tayrona civilization established around 600B.C. (These excursions are part of The Colonial Colombia: From the Highlands to the Coast itinerary.) Asia and Indo-China itineraries may include Mandalay – the last capital of Kingly Burma and Mandalay Hill – a breathtaking shrine and pledge in piece in Myanmar (aka Burma). This excursion is part of The Golden Land of Myanmar itinerary. Another incredible excursion includes the Cu Chi Tunnels – a sprawling complex of tunnels that once protected the Viet Cong and the Pak Ou Caves – a pair of caves that are “home” to some 4,000 Buddha statues in Laos. This trip is included on The Kingdoms of Indo-China itinerary. These options are just four of many Latin American and Asian boutique journeys offered. Others on these two continents include travels to Belize, Chile, Guatemala, continued on page 10 Boutique Journeys Never more than 24 guests. Always more than you expected. With over 35 immersive itineraries to over 30 countries, Boutique Journeys promises an unparalleled experience in the world’s most interesting cultural and culinary destinations. From emerging and newly-opened destinations, to Slow Food Travel® itineraries in Italy and France, travel with no more than 24 guests and fully guaranteed departures. A sample of our carefully-crafted itineraries Sensational Thailand - 10 Days from $2,725* Maya Legacy - 9 Days from $2,939* Empire of the Incas - 9 Days from $3,175* Vietnam Revealed - 11 Days from $3,259* China Insider - 14 Days from $4,779* Hidden Secrets of the Andes - 16 Days from $6,275* To book, please contact your American Express Travel Professional *Price is per person, land only and based on double occupancy. Valid for travel from 3/11/13 - 4/30/14 (dates vary per itinerary). Advertised price is based on travel dates with the lowest vacation price. Offer subject to availability, seasonality surcharges and other restrictions may apply. Offer and itinerary subject to change. For full terms and conditions, visit BrendanVacations.com. CST# 2084503-20 9 Touring . . . From Here to There continued from page Families | 2013 CLASSIC V A C AT I O N S 9 China, Mongolia/Gobi Desert, and Nepal. In addition to these compelling itineraries and excursions, other amenities include guaranteed departure, all airport transfers included, boutique accommodations (where available), and most important: Each itinerary includes a major focus on culture, nature, culinary, history, and in many locations – you will visit UNESCO World Heritage sites. All in all, Brendan Vacations’ Boutique Journeys offers 35 itineraries in almost 30 countries world-wide. This is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture, bond with your new traveling companions, and to engage more personally with the people you meet along the way. Please call us for details and to make reservations. Highly recommended. OAHU,HAWAII! CLASSIC VACATIONS This year, let us help you plan a getaway to Oahu and Waikiki Beach at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa. Whether for a fun family vacation – or maybe just a getaway this fall for the two of you – regardless, this outstanding resort offers something for everyone. Together with our travel Call your AMEX partner, Classic Vacations, we are featuring this Travel Specialist exceptional offer: Four nights’ vacation from TODAY! $649* per person/double occupancy/land only in a luxurious Ocean View accommodation that includes CLassiC VaCations Cst: 2079429-20 a $125 Booking Credit, Every 4th Night Free, and Daily Buffet Breakfast for Two – complimentary. On property, you can look forward to such amenities as fine and casual dining With its heavenly beaches and scenic natural wonders, there are options, live entertainment, plenty of reasons why Maui has been voted “Best Island.” lessons in hula, lei, and ukulele; The Westin Maui Resort & Spa Call your American Express Travel Counselor great shopping for more information about these three in nearby enticing vacation opportunities:* boutiques, • Early Bird Fall Special Take advantage of reduced fall beach and rates when you book your getaway to Maui and the poolside beautiful Westin Maui Resort & Spa. amenities/ • Suite Life in Paradise This vacation includes nightly rate, services, the Na daily breakfast buffet for 2, $200 resort credit per room Ho’ola Spa for per stay, and a 10% discount on spa treatments. relaxing services • Free Night 1 free night is included when you stay 5 nights or longer. In addition to this Sunsational Savings and treatments, option, you will receive complimentary daily buffet 24-hour fitness breakfast for 2 per room. center, and the chance to take part in Oahu’s fun and traditional Aloha Friday festivities – that open each Friday to the beckoning sound of drum beats! For your youngsters, ages 5-12 there is the incomparable Camp Hyatt that offer not only educational and fun activities on property for your keiki – but field trips to the Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo. We look forward to making your travel plans to getaway to the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa – overlooking Waikiki Beach – one of the world’s most spectacular destinations. (*This offer is valid for booking now through December 15, 2013; with travel available now through December 19, 2013. Offer is valid on new bookings of at least four (4) consecutive nights on Oahu. Other restrictions may apply. Upgrades easily arranged.) Please call us for details and reservations. C r e at e Lasting MeMories together M AUI , H A W AI ’ I 10 Offers subject to change without notice; other restrictions may apply. *Minimum night stays, select travel dates, and other restrictions may apply. MAUI, HAWAII! DELTA VACATIONS®, STARWOOD HOTELS, HAWAII VISITORS AND CONVENTION BUREAU With its heavenly beaches and scenic natural wonders, there are plenty of reasons why Maui has been voted “Best Island” for seventeen years. Whether you choose to stroll the seaside streets of Lahaina and along the lovely beaches of Kannapali, feel the mana (power!) of a spectacular sunrise atop Haleakala (National Park), discover a “world” of arts and culture in Kahului and Upcountry Maui, or stop and visit with the locals in Maui’s small towns – from Wailuku to Makawao... whatever your choose to do, there is a plethora of unique adventures, sightseeing, and outdoor sports and activities for you to enjoy. And, while on Maui, we highly recommend The Westin Maui Resort & Spa. Together with our partner, Delta Vacations, we have three enticing vacation opportunities for you to consider at this exceptional resort property:* • Early Bird Fall Special. Take advantage of reduced fall rates when you have us book your fall getaway to Maui and the beautiful Westin Maui Resort & Spa. The sooner you call... the better the rates! • Suite Life in Paradise. This vacation includes nightly rate, daily breakfast buffet for two, $200 Resort Credit per room per stay, and a 10% discount on spa treatments. Touring . . . From Here to There Family Memories • 1 Free Night Included with Every 5 Nights. In addition to this Sunsational Savings option, you will receive complimentary daily buffet breakfast for two per room. Overlooking the cobalt-blue waters of the Pacific, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is situated on the legendary Kaanapali Beach and offers spectacular views of Lana’i and Moloka’i. With its stunning beachfront location, magnificent aquatic playground, five pools and lush tropical gardens, this superb property appeals to families as well as honeymooners. Outstanding championship golf nearby, watersport adventures, fine and casual dining venues, relaxing spa services, shopping, cultural fun, the Westin Kids Club®, and so much more – are all yours to enjoy on your Hawaiian getaway to Maui. And what makes the Delta Vacations flight and hotel package so exceptional is that you will benefit from the lowest airfare available on Delta Air Lines®, plus earn up to 7,500 bonus miles, in addition to credited miles. Please call us for pricing and more details. Indeed… a whole new, exciting, and fun world awaits you on Maui! (*Minimum night stays, select travel dates, and other restrictions may apply. Offers subject to change without notice.) Tips, Trends & Updates Micato Safaris’ Private Invitation Safari... The Perfect Family Vacation! Imagine your family’s response when they view the magnificent vistas of Africa for the first time. Imagine how special it would be to see and experience this majestic destination with people who have spent their entire lives exploring the sweeping savannahs, studying the wildlife, learning the secrets of this vast land, and who know Africa like no one else. Imagine your family being very special guests who have been afforded this once-in-a lifetime opportunity to experience what a “real” safari is; to see and hear and feel what most of us could only imagine. This is Micato’s Private Invitation Safari. As Travel+Leisure Magazine’s 9-Time #1 Winner as the “World’s Best Safari Outfitter,” Micato has no equal – and this superb custom-designed itinerary is a prime example why Micato sits alone at the top for outstanding service, itineraries, accommodations, and “everything” else that goes into planning and executing the perfect safari experience. You will have no schedule, so you and your family and traveling companions are free to arrange mealtimes and activities as you choose. As a special feature of this exclusive program, you will have your own personal guides (camp owners and staff ) for each segment of your walking safari in the bush – each highly-knowledgeable about the wildlife and area you are seeing. Highlights of this unique itinerary (which commences and ends in Nairobi), include a visit to the Daphne Sheldrick Wildlife Sanctuary where orphaned elephants live, a trek through Hemingway’s legendary “Green Hills of Africa” in the Chyulu Hills, a stay at Kicheche Bush Camp – an intimate six-tent retreat on the Maasai Mara – where early-morning game drives may bring sightings of the big cats – common in this area; and a stay at Dunia Camp in Tanzania – a magnificent venue that is situated between the prime wildlife areas of the central and southern Serengeti. It’s all this and more. Please call us for details, pricing, and departure dates. If ever you have considered a family vacation that would truly be a once-in-a lifetime opportunity – this is it. HAWAII’S BIG ISLAND! PLEASANT HOLIDAYS The least-explored of the Hawaiian Islands, The Big Island (aka Hawaii) “has the highest peaks in the Pacific, the most volcanoes of any Hawaiian island, and the newest land on earth.” So, if you are eager for a Hawaiian getaway that will really get you away – we recommend the Big Island. continued on page Book the Micato Private Invitation Africa between May 1 and August 31, 2013 and receive a $300 Gift Credit per person in the Micato Safari Shop. TRAVEL TO BE COMPLETED BY MARCH 31, 2014 Call your American Express Travel professional today Travel+Leisure World’s Best Nine-Time Winner PROMO CODE: ADN314 12 11 Standard US Postage PAID Capitol Direct Carrousel Travel American Express 6625 Lyndale Avenue South, #104 Minneapolis MN 55423 Email: [email protected] Phone: 612.866.2503 • 800.800.6508 www.carrouseltravel.com www.facebook.com/carrouseltravel Touring . . . From Here to There continued from page 11 Together with our partner Pleasant Holidays, we’re featuring a relaxing, awe-inspiring vacation at the Mauna Lani Point. This deluxe property situated on the Kohala Coast, offers 116 spacious, well-furnished guest villas on the Francis Hill I’i Brown Golf Course (South Course) in Waikoloa, Hawaii and all located within the 3,200-acre Mauna Lani Resort. Each villa has full kitchen and private lanai, separate living and dining areas – with spectacular views of the gardens or ocean from most units. This exceptional 5-night vacation includes one-bedroom accommodations, roundtrip air from Los Angeles (air from other gateways can be easily arranged), with complimentary parking at the resort and is priced from $1,148* per person/double occupancy. (*This price is valid for travel on October 23, 2013. Please call for land/air rates for travel on other dates.) This is a destination where – within less than an hour’s drive – you will go from snowy winter to sultry summer. Travel Your Way…Use Membership Rewards® Pay with Points* to travel your way. You can pay for all or just part of your trip with your points, and there are no seat restrictions or blackout dates for flights. You can also use your points for your next cruise or tour vacation. *To use Membership Rewards Pay with Points, you must charge travel with an enrolled Card at American Express Travel. Points will be debited from your program account and a credit for the corresponding dollar amount will be issued to the Card account you used. If the points redeemed do not cover the entire amount of the charge, the balance of the purchase price will remain on the enrolled American Express Card. Minimum redemption of 5,000 points. Membership Rewards program Terms and Conditions apply; see membershiprewards.com/terms. H awaii ’ s B ig I sland M auna L ani P oint 5 nights from $1,148 per person Vacations Include: • Round trip airfare • 5 nights accommodations • All taxes • And more! Based on travel 10/23/13 Additional travel dates available. Rates are based on round trip travel to/from Los Angeles, CA (LAX), and are per person, based on double occupancy. Advertised vacation rate(s) valid for select travel on 10/23/13. Rates, terms, conditions and itinerary are subject to availability. Certain restrictions apply. Rates shown include government-imposed fees and taxes. Additional airline restrictions, including, but not limited to fees of up to $25 per bag for the first checked bag and up to $30 per bag for a second checked bag, standby policies and fees, non-refundable tickets and change fees with pre-flight notification deadlines may apply. Baggage fees are current as of 3/21/2013. Fees and policies vary among airlines and are subject to change without notice. Please contact the airline directly for details and answers to specific questions you may have. Valid on new bookings made after 3/21/13. Minimum 5-night hotel accommodations at participating property and round trip airfare required. Discount is per booking and reflected in the rate(s) shown above; discount is taken at the time of booking. Rates may not include International Departure, Immigration or local city taxes that are collected upon departure from select destinations. Not responsible for errors or omissions. [Pleasant Holidays acts only as an agent for the various travel providers shown above.] CST# 1007939-10. Copyright © 2013 Pleasant Holidays, LLC. All Rights Reserved.