Iceland: Westman Isles and the West Coast

4/11/20125:46:33 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2012, Arctic, cruise, expedition, Iceland, vacation

In Westman Isles, Iceland mighty forces have shaped the land. The Westman Islands were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5 and 10 millennium years ago. They are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos.

In 1963, the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey. It was declared a UNECO World Heritage Site for its importance as a pristine natural laboratory.

In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off its harbor. Visit the crater, where the earth is still hot, and have amazing views of areas that had been engulfed by lava.

Exploring the West Coast Of Iceland, sail past the immense Latrabjarg cliffs, the westernmost point of Iceland and home to a huge population of razorbills. The cliffs are an area famous for egg collecting: the men were tied to ropes and lowered like spiders down onto the ledges.

Next, visit Flatey Island, a trading post for many centuries, for walks around the charming hamlet that grew here.

Continue to Isafjordur, located in the western fjords and a great place for a hike. Visit a working eiderdown farm, where the farmer shows you how the feathers are collected from the huge number of nesting eider ducks here.

Learn More in our Travel Blogs: Tranquil Mykines Island, Faroe Islands, Denmark, Torshavn, Faroe Islands, Denmark, Shetland Islands, Scotland, Impressive Runde & Selje Islands, Beautiful Isle of Hitra, Enchanting Lofoten Islands, Dramatic Trollfjord and Circumnavigate the Arctic.

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Torshavn, Faroe Islands, Denmark

4/6/201212:01:58 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2012, Arctic, cruise, Denmark, expedition, vacation

The legacy of the Vikings persists in the Faroe Islands. Though citizens of Denmark, the rugged Faroese are proud of their Viking ancestry, reflected in their ancient language and love of the sea. Visit the tiny capital of Tórshavn. Beautiful wooden boats bob at anchor in the harbor, their curling stems and sterns proudly proclaiming their Viking ancestry. Explore the historic town, mingling with the modern-day Vikings. For things to do visit the surprising little natural history museum, 12th-century St. Olav’s Church; and the archaeological site of Kirkjubøur, a medieval farming and religious center.

Learn More in our Travel Blogs: Shetland Islands, Scotland, Impressive Runde & Selje Islands, Beautiful Isle of Hitra, Enchanting Lofoten Islands, Dramatic Trollfjord and Circumnavigate the Arctic.

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 ^{Our number is: (321) 632-5610 or (800) 950-5610}

Impressive Runde & Selje Islands

4/4/20123:02:12 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2012, Arctic, cruise, Norway, vacation

Runde is home to an estimated 500-700,000 seabirds. Cruise near the nesting cliffs and enjoy the cacophony of hundreds of thousands of screeching personalities.

Stop by Selja Island to see the ruins of Selja Abbey, situated by the cave of Saint Sunniva, the guardian saint of Western Norway.

According to legend, Sunniva, daughter of an Irish king, fled when her country was conquered by heathens and the new king wanted to marry her. She came ashore on the island of Selja and, holed up with followers in her cave, was beset by pagan locals. She prayed that they not fall into heathen hands, whereupon rocks fell, sealing the cave’s entrance. Sometimes the cure is worse than the disease!

Up a steep hill, from her cave we enjoy Saint Sunniva’s last view — an impressive vista of island and sea. Then stop by Selja Island to see the remains of Selje Abbey, situated by Saint Sunniva’s cave. We hear the legend of the saint and from her cave we enjoy Saint Sunniva’s last view — an impressive vista of island and sea.

Learn More in our Travel Blogs: Beautiful Isle of Hitra, Enchanting Lofoten Islands, Dramatic Trollfjord and Circumnavigate the Arctic.

^{Call Travel By Ginny to book today!}

 ^{Our number is: (321) 632-5610 or (800) 950-5610}

Enchanting Lofoten Islands

3/23/20121:24:52 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2012, Arctic, cruise, expedition, Norway, vacation

The Lofoten Archpelago is an enchanting area of picturesque villages. The mountains were shaped from glaciers, which carved their faces making them jagged. You get a feel for the beauty and splendor of Lofoten in these pictures.

Even though Lofoten is north of the Arctic Circle, winter temperatures in Lofoten are very mild. This is a result of the Gulf Stream, whose warm waters and its extensions the North Atlantic Current and the Norwegian Current keep the islands warmer than normal temperatures for other regions at the same latitude.

Lofoten translated means lynx-foot, perhaps because the islands look like one.

Experience the Midnight Sun during May 25th - July 17th, where the sun doesn't set below the horizon ever.

The Sun doesn't rise from Dec 4th - Jan 7th, leaving the islands in constant darkness.

Visit Reine, a tiny village of red houses built on stilts perched above the sea with a colorful harbor. Scattered over the rocky shores are racks still used for drying the abundant codfish that occur in the waters during late winter and spring.

Learn More in our Travel Blogs: Dramatic Trollfjord and Circumnavigate the Arctic.

^{Call Travel By Ginny to book today!}

 ^{Our number is: (321) 632-5610 or (800) 950-5610}

Circumnavigate the Arctic

3/21/201211:10:46 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2012, Arctic, cruise, expedition, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, vacation

From the bottom of the world to the top of the world explore the beauty of the polar regions of the globe. Take an expedition to circumnavigate the Arctic, follow in the wakes of the great Viking Explorers, and see the wonders of Norway, Greenland, the Shetland Islands of Northern Scotland, Denmark's Faroe Islands, and Iceland as they are meant to be seen. 

In a single voyage you will get to experience 3 exhilarating life adventures! Sail through Norway's fjords and then the North Atlantic Drift, glimpse history's enduring continuity through Viking lineage in Iceland, and marvel at Greenland's pristine wilderness and permanent ice cap dating back to the last ice age and so much more over this 26 day/24 night expedition cruise.

Sets sail in July, 2012. Hurry now and book to receive free airfare - an $1,800 value. (Based on group flights NY/Oslo/NY and charter flights Oslo/Tromso, Longyearbyen/Oslo.) Subject to availability at time of booking, valid for new bookings only and may not be combined with other offers.

^{Call Travel By Ginny to book today!}

 ^{Our number is: (321) 632-5610 or (800) 950-5610}

Polar Alert - Elephant Island

3/14/20122:06:42 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2012, 2013, Antarctica, cruise, vacation

Where is Elephant Island?

Elephant Island is an island off the coast of Antarctica in the outer reaches of the South Shetland Islands.

Coordinates: 61°08′S 55°07′W

Why is it called Elephant Island?

Its name was given by early explorers sighting elephant seals on its shores.

Why should you see it?

Elephant Island is the island where Ernest Shackleton, a famous polar explorer landed with the crew from Endurance during the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914–1917). His heroic tale is legendary and involved overcoming impossible odds. His entire team survived due to his unflagging efforts to rescue them from Antarctica's brutal winter.

Photos of Elephant Island taken by one of our own team:

JOURNEY TO THE WHITE CONTINENT  !

See also: Travel Blog: Floridans are You Missing Winter? Try a Polar Expedition!

^{Call Travel By Ginny to book today!}

 ^{Our number is: (321) 632-5610 or (800) 950-5610}

Hubbard Glacier -- Why You See It Now!

2/15/20121:13:53 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

Alaska, Alaskan fjords, Alaskan Vacation, cruise, USA, vacation

The Hubbard Glacier is the largest calving glacier on the North American continent.

Ice Calving - (of a glacier, an iceberg, etc.) to break off or detach (a piece): The glacier calved an iceberg.

Calving Glaciers are Unresponsive to Climate. Hubbard Glacier is the largest of eight calving glaciers in Alaska that are currently increasing in total mass and advancing. The glaciers that are currently growing and advancing in the face of global warming were retreating throughout the Little Ice Age when most glaciers were growing.

Calving of glaciers is often preceded by a loud cracking or booming sound. This sound can be heard very well in the peace of the Yukutat Bay and you will often hear large splashes.  Hubbard Glacier routinely calves off icebergs as high as 10-story buildings.

It takes about 400 years for ice to traverse the length of the glacier, meaning that the ice at the foot of the glacier is about 400 years old.

Before it reaches the sea, Hubbard is joined by the Valerie Glacier to the west.

Pretty cool for the longest river of ice in North America!

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8 Things to Do in Alaska

2/3/20129:25:45 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2012, Alaska, cruise, vacation

1.) See the Northern Lights - We talked about this in more detail here.

2.) Go Dog Sledding - Dog sledding is also known as mushing. There are also races, which you could attend.

3.) Sail through Alaska's Inner Passage - For a wonderful trip we can't speak highly enough of taking a cruise through the Inner Passage. The best rates and times to cruise are May and September.

4.) Journey above the Arctic Circle - Do something few will ever do and travel into the arctic circle. It is a thrill!

5.) Ride the "Scenic Railway of the World" - Take a ride out to see White Pass Summit and enjoy the scenery along the way.

6.) Visit the Ice Museum - In Fairbanks there's a year round museum built out of ice showcasing ice sculptures!

7.) Whale Watch - Go on a whale quest to see these amazing underwater creatures and have a fast shutter camera on you so you can capture them!

8.) Fish for Halibut - For the fisherman, booking a full day halibut charter fishing trip is just the thing to relax and enjoy Alaska like a local.

Call Travel By Ginny to learn more and book today!

 Our number is: (321) 632-5610 or (800) 950-5610

Aulani Offers Quick-Dining Locations for All Tastes

11/22/20111:53:08 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

cruise, Disney, disney certified travel agency, disney travel agent, family vacation, holidays, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, resort, travel with kids, USA, vacation

Using the finest local ingredients, the chefs at Aulani have created a variety of dining options for your Clients – not only for the Resort’s signature full-service restaurants, but also for each of the quick-service dining options at Aulani. Whether your Clients are searching for a fast mid-afternoon snack, a cozy breakfast or lunchtime fare, everyone can find the perfect meal for their vacation.

One Paddle, Two Paddle – Located adjacent to ‘AMA‘AMA, the signature restaurant at Aulani, One Paddle, Two Paddle is open daily and serves a variety of quick-service favorites. From freshly-made sandwiches, tasty wraps and house-made desserts to a tasty keiki (children’s) menu, this casual dining location offers good food fast … at affordable prices.

The Lava Shack – Located near the Rainbow Reef snorkel lagoon, The Lava Shack is the perfect place to pick up a Hawaii-inspired plate lunch, that generally consists of a main entrée, rice and a side. Here your Clients can choose from complete meals featuring entrees like Cold Fried Chicken, Cured Meats, Cheeses, and Chilled Miso-glazed Salmon, as well as grab and go snacks. 
 
Papalua Shave Ice – Conveniently located next to the pool deck, Papalua Shave Ice offers the chance for your Clients to cool off with fruity and refreshing shave ice.  Choose from a variety of tropical flavors.



Rip Swirl – This yogurt bar, located in Painted Sky (teen spa), provides yummy, healthy treats: tangy yogurt with fresh fruit and toppings.

For those Clients looking for a full, hearty breakfast each morning they can also purchase a breakfast add-on package at Makahiki, Bounty of the Island, buffet-style restaurant. This package includes breakfast each day of their stay, including a full buffet and one non-specialty beverage for each member of their travelling party.

Call Travel By Ginny today to book today!

Our number is: (321) 632-5610 or (800) 950-5610

Holland and Belgium Floriade 2012 River Cruise

8/5/201110:46:14 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2012, Belgium, cruise, Europe, Floriade, Holland, River Cruise, Tauck

HOLY LAND CRUISE - Mykonos, Greece

7/5/20111:57:21 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2011, Celebrity, cruise, Europe, Greece

Learn about our special 12 Day Holy Land Cruise where you get to spend 4 Nights in the Holy Land. Experience the luxury of Celebrity Cruises and embark on a pilgrimage you won't soon forget.

City/Country: Mykonos, Greece

When You're There: Sep 12 

About:  Few places in the world compare with Mykonos. Here you'll find whitewashed houses clinging to cliffs against a backdrop of indescribably blue sea. Follow a maze of tiny streets, visit one of the world's most superb beaches, or see the mythical birthplace of Apollo, the island of Mykonos.

1 Possible Excursion: Ancient Delos

The small, uninhabited island of Delos was once the religious center of the entire Aegean area. Today, its archaeological ruins stand as an important historical site in Greece. According to mythology, Delos was the birthplace of Apollo, the god of sun, light, music, harmony and beauty. According to revelations of 19th century excavations, Delos prospered for centuries due to its strategic position within the trade routes of the Aegean.

A local boat will transport you on the 30-minute ride to the west side of Delos island, which leads directly to the entrance of the archaeological site. You will walk into the heart of the sanctuary where you will see the Temple of Apollo, monuments famous for their history and architectural style, the famous dried lake with the palm tree and the unique marble lions of Delos. After a short rest stop, continue towards the terrace of the foreign gods. The view of the archipelago from there is unforgettable. You will pass through the theater and walk into the famous Hellenistic mansions of Delos with their superb mosaics decoration the floors and walls. You will then return by boat to Mykonos harbor.

Learn what you could be doing in Haifa and Galilee, Jerusalem, Israel and Ephesus, Turkey..

HOLY LAND CRUISE - Jerusalem, Israel

6/28/20112:08:39 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2011, Capernaum, Celebrity, cruise, Dead Sea, Europe, Greece, Haifa, Holy Land, Israel, Jerusalem, Land Tour, Nazareth, River of Jordan, Sea of Galilee, Turkey

Learn about our special 12 Day Holy Land Cruise where you get to spend 4 Nights in the Holy Land. This cruise is a phenominal deal and one you shouldn't miss out on as it affords you all the luxury of Celebrity Cruises and a wonderful pilgrimage.

City/Country: Jerusalem, Israel

When You're There: Sep 08 | Sep 09

About: A young, vibrant port city, Ashdod is nevertheless rich in history. From Biblical sites to Yam Fort, a tenth century fortress, you’ll find historic relics from all eras. However, recent growth has given this city a much more cosmopolitan feel. Visit the brand new Ashdod Cultural Center, Yad LaBanim Concert Hall, and MonArt Performing Arts Center for an impressive display of modern culture in this ancient land.

 

1 Possible Excursion: Dead Sea & Masada Overland

For those who wish to maximize their call in Israel; visit the main sights in the Old City of Jerusalem, join in a unique experience of greeting the sunrise from an amazing viewpoint of Masada and swim in the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Then, travel to the Galilee - Israel's luscious region and the scene of Christ's youth. Here Jesus was baptized, preached and performed many of His miracles. Visit these sacred sites.

The drive from Ashdod to Jerusalem is approximately one hour.

You'll visit the following  sites:  Day One

VIA DOLOROSA - You will walk along the Way of Suffering and observe  some of the Stations of the Cross through the city's narrow and crowded cobbled streets towards Calvary and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher which is the site of the final Stations of the Cross.

CHURCH OF THE HOLY SEPULCHER - The church is believed to enshrine the sites of Christ's crucifixion, entombment and resurrection. The 12th century church is shared by several Christian denominations. Steep steps lead to the second level where a shrine is situated in Calvary or Golgotha.

DORMITION ABBEY AND KING DAVID'S TOMB - This is the site of the coenaculum, the room where Christ and the Apostles dined at the Last Supper. It was here after the Crucifixion that the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles at Pentecost. The reputed tomb of the great monarch King David is adorned with 22 silver crowns representing the Kings of Israel who succeeded him.

THE WESTERN OR WAILING WALL -  Revered as the sole remnant of the Second Temple  which was destroyed by Rome in 70 AD, the massive Western Wall is actually part of the Temple Mount foundation erected by Herod the Great. The Wall is the most sacred Jewish shrine in Jerusalem. From the plaza you can view the Temple Mount dominated by the El Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, sacred to the Muslims.

THE CARDO MAXIMUS - Built by the Emperor Hadrian when Jerusalem was the Roman city of Aelia Capitolina and see the remains and reconstructed areas.

Lunch with wine will be served in Jerusalem. You will have time for shopping for religious artifacts and souvenirs.

Drive to the Dead Sea. Your evening hotel accommodations and dinner will be in one of the leading hotels.

There will be an early wakeup call (the day starts around 5am) and you will drive to Masada where you will walk up the ramp and await the sun rise. After a tour of the famous mountain you will descend by cable car and drive back to the hotel for breakfast.

You'll visit the following sites: Day Two

MASADA - Herod the Great built a fortress and a palace on this tabletop mountain that towers 1450 feet (442m) above the Dead Sea. It was here that the Jewish Zealots made their last stand against Roman armies during the Jewish revolt. For three years the Zealots held out. With the Romans on the verge of breeching the walls, the zealots chose mass suicide. Ascend the mountain by cable car. Explore the site and see the Ramps, the grain and bath houses, Herod's palace and the synagogue, one of only four known to date from the period of the Second Temple.

DEAD SEA - At 1276 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth. The mineral laden water is undrinkable and supports no life. You will have time to experience a short swim/float in the Dead Sea and then you will drive via the Jordan valley to the banks of the river Jordan where John baptized Christ. Please remember to bring your swimsuit and a towel.

RIVER JORDAN -  You will visit the bank revered by the faithful as the spot where John the Baptist immersed Jesus in the waters of the Jordan.

MOUNT OF BEATITUDES - Christ delivered the Sermon on the Mount from this hill. In 2000, Pope John-Paul II celebrated the Eucharist on its slope. From the terrace of the domed Catholic Church, founded in 1937, there are splendid views of the Sea of Galilee.

TABGHA - The Church of the Multiplication is believed to occupy the site where Christ performed His miracle with two fish and five loaves. Consecrated in 1981, the current shrine protects a beautiful 5th century Byzantine mosaic floor depicting the miracle.

CAPERNAUM - Capernaum is considered to be the "centre" of Jesus' ministry in the Galilee. You will have a guided walking tour visits the ruined synagogue where Christ preached.

You will have a photo opportunity at the Sea of Galilee where an observation platform offers sweeping views of the area.

Learn what you could be doing in Haifa and Galilee, Israel and Ephesus, Turkey.

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Amazing Hotel-Barge Meanderer Deals!

6/14/20111:06:29 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2011, cruise, Hotel Barge, River Cruise

Kids Sail Free to the Mexican Riviera with Disney

6/3/20119:57:39 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2011, cruise, disney, disney certified travel agency, disney cruises, disney travel agent, family vacation, Mexican Riviera, Mexico, travel with kids

Great news! Kids 17 and under sail FREE* when traveling with two full-fare Guests in the same verandah stateroom in Categories 4A-6A on most Mexican Riviera sailings Oct. 30 - Dec. 18, 2011. Government Taxes and Fees not included. From the old world charm of Puerto Vallarta to Cabo San Lucas's dramatic rock formations, this 7-night Mexican Riviera cruise promises unrivaled sun and fun for your Client's entire family. Bookings are open now, so learn more about this special offer today!

Book now with a Disney Certified Travel Agency!

Online or Call (321) 632-5610 * (800) 950-5610

Cruise with Holland America Fall 2011

5/3/20111:51:25 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2011, Canada, cruise, Fjords, HAL cruise, Holland America, Holland America Line, ms Eurodam, New England, travel with kids

Holland America's ms Eurodam will be sailing around Canada and New England in October 2011. Let's do a quick recap and share again what we've been talking about for this amazing cruise.

Click on these links to learn more:

• Explore the historic shores of Canada and New England.
• Whale watch in the Saguenay fjord.
• Discover the best kept secret in Canada.
• 10 Things to do in Bar Harbour, Maine, US.

We have a group space reserved for sailing. Travel with your church, friends, family, and clubs! Call us now to book your cruise.

Online or Call (321) 632-5610 * (800) 950-5610

10 Things to do in Bar Harbour, Maine, US

4/22/20111:14:03 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2011, Canada, cruise, HAL cruise, Holland America, Holland America Line, ms Eurodam, New England

There are a great many things you could do in Bar Harbour, Maine when you stop there on your Canada and New England cruise with Holland America Line. Some of the highlights include:

1. Acadia National Park: Did you know that Acadia is one of the most visited National Parks in the United States?

2. Victorian Mansions: These mansions built at the turn of the century have survived the Great Fire of 1947.

3. Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: Enjoy an hour long scenic tour of Day Mountain on broken stone trails built by John D. Rockefeller.

4. Downeast Lobster Bake: Eat at a true Downeast lobster bake with fresh Maine lobster drizzled with butter, all the trimmings, and a blueberry dessert.

5.Cadillac Mountain: Take pictures of the 1,530 foot summit, the highest point on North America’s eastern seaboard.

6. Frenchman Bay: Sail on the bay and tour by water the Porcupine Islands, seaside village of Bar Harbor, and Acadia National Park.You could see porpoises, seals, ospreys and bald eagles.

7. Jordan Pond House: Take tea on the lawn, a tradition of the restaurant for more than a century. Eat popovers, poached Atlantic salmon with dill sauce, chicken salad, green salad, New England clam chowder, and homemade ice cream.

8. Oceanarium: Learn about the life cycle of the lobster and hear from a lobster expert on catching these yummy creatures.

9. St. Saviour's Church: Sight see around town and stop at this lovely church which sports magnificent Tiffany stained-glass windows.

10. Mount Desert Island: See the island as so few get to see it by exploring it in a height of luxury with a uniformed chauffeur who will pick you up at the pier area in a stretch limousine or a deluxe limo van to visit the Ocean Drive.

Online or Call (321) 632-5610 * (800) 950-5610

See whales, explore history where it happens, and more on Holland America Line ms Eurodam

4/15/201112:02:06 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment

2011, Canada, cruise, Fjords, HAL cruise, Holland America Line, ms Eurodam, New England

Have you ever visited the French area of Quebec City? Explore the beautiful city in a way you never have before by cruising with Holland America Line ms Eurodam.

Get the chance to whale watch in the Saguenay fjord. This region is where beluga whales breed. Beluga whales are small white whales that live in the Arctic. They are sometimes called sea canaries because of the pitch of their sonar which sounds like twittering. Even without whales the views of the fjord are simply majestic.

See for yourself at Baie-Comeau majestic landscapes formed by glaciers. Do you know how scientists can tell how far and how deep glaciers were in an area? They study rocks and examine them for consistent scratch marks. From these marks they can also figure how which direction and angle the glacier went.

Visit the famous lighthouse at Peggy's Cove in Halifax.

Take in the beauty and splendor of Acadia National Park and see Victorian era summer cottages in Bar Harbor.

Meet history where is happens in Boston. Go to Paul Revere's home and see the Old North Church.

Newport, the summer playground for the rich, has some of the grandest mansions you could ever see.

What are you waiting for? Book today on the Holland America Line ms Eurodam. 

Online or Call (321) 632-5610 * (800) 950-5610