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Is ISRAEL Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2023
TODAY'S ADVENTURE
Is ISRAEL Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2023Israel is an epicenter of culture, art, science, and history. The history and people of Israel have had a far-reaching influence on the world stage, especially over the last 150 years. What’s more, the region has been historically significant since before early Biblical events.
A natural consequence of being a historical and cultural crossroad on the global scene is conflict, and Israel has certainly seen its share of that. Still, many people will travel to Israel for a wide range of reasons. They need to know how safe they can expect to be.
Here, we will discuss the latest Israeli travel advisories with the hope that your next trip to Israel will be a safe one.
2023 Update: Is Israel Save for Travel?
Most locations in Israel are reasonably safe by American standards. While concentrated areas of terrorism and armed conflict do exist, they will largely be avoidable. Your guide, the authorities, and the local people will likely make certain that you are made aware of the location visitors should and should not go to.
The nation has a remarkably low crime rate, which can be partially attributed to the ongoing conflict with Palestinians. Because of the 70-year conflict, there are ever-present surveillance systems in place as well as multiple heavily militarized zones and security personnel. As long as tourists remain clear of the West Bank and Gaza, they should be very safe.
It should be borne in mind that tensions are generally high. Tourists are advised to avoid confrontation with the locals. Israelis tend to be quite friendly to tourists, so this should not be a problem.
It should be said that crime is always a factor, no matter where in the world one travels. So it is best to be alert in areas where tourists are expected to congregate. Finally, because of persistent conflict and terrorism, it is always possible that violence will cross over established boundaries.
This means that, while it is unlikely that tourists will experience direct exposure to serious danger, absolute safety can never be guaranteed.
LATEST UPDATES / NEWS from ISRAEL:
February 14: Two Palestinians killed in latest Israeli raids in West Bank
On the 14th of February, 2023, two Palestinian individuals were killed by Israeli forces in the village of Deir Abu Mash’al. This is yet another tragic incident in the ongoing conflict that has plagued the region for decades.
The incident occurred in the early morning hours
when Israeli forces entered the village and engaged in a confrontation with the local residents. According to witnesses, the forces used live ammunition, tear gas, and sound bombs, leading to the death of two individuals and the injury of several others. The deceased individuals were identified as 22-year-old Mohammad Al-Barghouthi and 19-year-old Abdel-Rahman Al-Barghouthi.
February 13: Thousands protest Netanyahu’s plan to weaken Israel’s judiciary as president warns of ‘social collapse’
On February 13th, 2023, Israelis took to the streets to protest against Knesset’s actions towards the judiciary. The protests were sparked by the recent developments in the legal case against former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Tel Aviv – Israel
Crime in Israel: Violent & Non-Violent
As mentioned above, there will always be a crime. While crime, in general, is remarkably low in Israel, vigilance is warranted, especially for tourists. The overall rate of crime remains stable at 1.49% for every 100,000 people.
Violent Crime
The most common cause of violent crime in Israel by far is terrorism. Attacks are usually concentrated in the West Bank, the Sinai peninsula, and Gaza. Civil unrest is a real concern, but Israeli intelligence tends to do a very good job of protecting civilians.
Non-Violent Crime
Non-Violent crimes like petty theft and automobile theft are significant concern. Vehicle break-ins and petty theft are the most frequent forms of non-violent crime in Israel. Visitors should take care to park in the most visible places possible and always secure their vehicles and belongings.
Avoid carrying all of your documentation on your person and travel in groups whenever possible.
Terrorism
Due to the 70+ years of constant conflict in the region, terrorism is always a threat. While it is concentrated in certain areas, sudden, unexpected terrorist events can take place anywhere.
Palestinians were promised a 60/40 split by the United Nations. But when the deal was finally struck, it was 80/20 in favor of Israel. This has caused serious unrest which remains to this day.
For this reason, terrorist acts outside conflict zones, while relatively rare, can happen at any time or location.
Location Advisories
Tourists are advised to avoid Gaza, the Sinai peninsula, and the West Bank in most cases.
The Gaza Strip encompasses 141 square miles bordering the Mediterranean Sea and is a contested territory. American tourists are subject to travel restrictions and US government officials are not permitted to travel here except under special permission.
The West Bank encompasses roughly 3500 square miles. It is controlled jointly by Palestine and Israeli forces. Conflict is common here and can arise unexpectedly.
The Sinai peninsula belongs to Egypt and shares the southern border of Israel. Israelis and Americans are generally unwelcome here and travel to this location is not recommended.
The post Is ISRAEL Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.
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By: Viktor Vincej
Title: Is ISRAEL Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2023
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/is-israel-safe-travel-advisory/
Published Date: Tue, 14 Feb 2023 17:11:20 +0000
How to save money with an annual Delta companion ticket
HOSTED BY: 1 AIR TRAVEL
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
Everyone loves a BOGO deal (aka buy one, get one) and believe it or not, you can sometimes get those deals on airline tickets if you hold the right credit cards.
Several credit cards in my wallet are there because they offer some form of an airline companion certificate for when we need to buy tickets with cash and want to ensure a good deal.For example, the lineup of Delta American Express cards includes several that come with an annual companion certificate at each renewal. On top of that, these cards are currently available with increased welcome bonuses — making this the perfect time to learn what they can do to help you travel more for less.Related: Best credit cards for flying Delta
Which Delta cards have a companion ticket?
JOHN GRIBBEN/THE POINTS GUY
Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Reserve consumer and small-business cardholders receive an annual Delta companion ticket at each renewal of the card.
Here’s the full line-up of cards and their current welcome bonuses, all of which end March 29, 2023:
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express CardEarn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months of cardmembership.Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card: Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months of cardmembership.Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card Earn 95,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new card in your first three months of cardmembership.Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card: Earn 100,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new card in your first three months of cardmembership.Since this companion voucher benefit is extended to both the consumer and small business versions of the card, you can earn more than one companion voucher if you have multiple eligible Delta cards.
However, it’s worth noting that these companion tickets are not granted in the first year. You must renew your card (and pay the annual fee) to get the perk.
Delta companion ticket rules
Of course, there are a few rules and restrictions when it comes to using these Delta companion tickets. For example, companion tickets can only be used on certain round-trip tickets within the contiguous United States. Residents of Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands can originate from those destinations to travel to the 48 contiguous states, but you can’t live in the lower 48 and use the tickets to get a flight to Alaska or Hawaii, sadly. You must have an eligible address on file with SkyMiles in those locations to use the vouchers in that way.
If you have the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex, the companion ticket is only eligible for economy-class flights, while the Reserve companion ticket can actually be used for first class, Comfort+ or the main cabin.
Seats on a Delta flight. DARREN MURPH/THE POINTS GUY
The Delta companion ticket award you receive by renewing your Delta Platinum Amex is valid in the Delta economy L, U, T, X and V fare classes. This excludes Delta’s basic economy fares (E class) and some higher coach fare classes. In my experience, this means you can use the Delta companion ticket on a wide variety of dates and routes, but certainly not on every single flight. And the more you plan in advance, the better.
The companion certificate on the Delta Reserve Amex is valid in all those economy fare classes listed above and in I and Z (first class) and W (Comfort+).
This annual award is automatically deposited into your SkyMiles account the month you pay the card’s annual fee, and it’s typically valid for a year from the date it was issued. The ticket must be booked and the trip must be taken before the certificate expires. You still need to pay the taxes and fees on the second ticket, but otherwise, it’s a buy one, get one flight deal.
Related: Every Delta premium seat ranked best to worst
How to use the Delta companion ticket
The mechanics of how to use a Delta companion ticket are thankfully pretty simple.
First, log in to your online Delta SkyMiles account, and after you select “Profile” (located as a drop-down when you click on your name on the upper right hand side), you’ll find your companion certificates listed in the “Certificates, eCredits & Vouchers” section.
Profile page on a Delta SkyMiles account. DELTA.COM
From there, you can select a certificate to use and then proceed to search for eligible Delta flights by hitting “Continue” at the bottom of the page.
Companion Certificate choice. DELTA
You can only search for flights for the two people on the trip who are using the certificate, so any additional children or travelers may have to be booked separately. You can then have their itineraries linked to yours by calling Delta at 1-800-221-1212.
Saving hundreds of dollars with the Delta companion ticket
To show you the real value of the Delta companion ticket, let’s use a real-world example of a national parks-focused trip we took to Utah as an example.
The round-trip, nonstop flights from Houston (IAH) to Salt Lake City (SLC) cost about $466 on Delta. That wasn’t a great deal, but it was during a school break so deals were hard to come by.
SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY
The Delta companion certificate is a great way to save money when prices are high, as one round-trip ticket costs $466 but you’ll get the second for only an additional $20 in taxes and fees when using the companion certificate (this total will be higher with connecting flights).
Traveling from Houston to Salt Lake City for two passengers for $486 with the companion voucher was a much better deal than one ticket for $466. Multiply that number for the other two members of our family because we had two eligible vouchers, and we saved around $900 on the trip, thanks to these Delta companion vouchers from our Amex cards.
Flight costs including Delta companion tickets. DELTA.COM
If you use the Delta companion ticket in a similar manner as we did, it can easily be worth more than the $250 annual fee it costs to keep the Delta Platinum Amex in your wallet (see rates and fees).
The Delta Reserve consumer card has a $550 annual fee (see rates and fees) but comes with a variety of additional benefits beyond the companion ticket, including Sky Club access, American Express Centurion Lounge access on same-day Delta flights paid for with the card and a pair of Sky Club guest passes. So presuming you use the Sky Club benefits and place an increased value on sitting in first class with the companion ticket, the math can check out for that card, too.
Another cool feature of the Delta companion ticket is that it’s transferable. So if you can’t personally use the voucher, you can let someone else benefit from the savings. That makes it flexible for families who don’t always travel together, as the cardholder doesn’t have to be on the flight.
The primary (paid) ticket on the reservation using the Delta companion ticket will accrue SkyMiles, but the companion ticket won’t. Therefore, the tickets are eligible for upgrades consistent with the SkyMiles program. However, keep in mind that if you cancel your itinerary after purchasing your ticket, you usually won’t be able to reuse your companion certificate.
Bottom line
I have the Delta Platinum SkyMiles Card, which I’d rank as one of the best travel credit cards for my family. I got it for its increased welcome bonus at one point many years ago. Still, I keep it in my wallet for the annual companion ticket and other perks that make flying Delta more comfortable and affordable.
If you’re new to The Points Guy, check out our beginners guide to learn more.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex, click here. For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex, click here. For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business Amex, click here. For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Amex, click here.
Additional reporting by Benét J. Wilson.
Title: How to save money with an annual Delta companion ticket
Sourced From: thepointsguy.com/guide/save-family-money-delta-companion-ticket/
Published Date: Thu, 16 Feb 2023 17:00:38 +0000
Monday, February 27, 2023
Not even Google's cleaning robots are safe from the tech industry's layoffs and cost-cutting efforts
Google layoffs not based on performance: Sacked Indian employee | Business Insider India
Help! Why Can’t I Combine My PDF Files?
TODAY'S ADVENTURE
Help! Why Can’t I Combine My PDF Files?
Combining PDF files can be a frustrating experience for many individuals who rely on this format for their personal and business needs. Despite the widespread use of PDFs, combining these files into a single document remains a challenge for many users. This is because PDFs are designed to preserve the formatting and structure of the original document, making it difficult to merge multiple files without affecting the quality and integrity of the final product. In this article, we will explore the reasons why combining PDF files can be a difficult task and the common issues that arise during the process. We will also provide tips and solutions for effectively merging PDF files, so that you can easily combine multiple files into a single, cohesive document. Whether you are a student, professional, or just someone who needs to combine PDFs for personal use, this article will help you understand the challenges and provide you with the tools and resources you need to get the job done.
Why would I need to combine files?
There are many reasons why someone would need to combine PDF files. For example, you may be working on a large project and have a set of PDFs that make up a larger document,, or you may have multiple PDF files that you want to send as a single attachment. In these cases, combining the PDFs into a single file makes it easier to manage, share and store the information.
Another scenario could be that you have multiple PDF invoices or receipts that you want to combine into one document for better organization and reference. Similarly, if you have multiple PDF documents with similar information, you can combine them into a single file to avoid having multiple copies of the same information.
What if the PDF is secured?
Merging secured PDFs can be a challenge as these files are protected by passwords and restrictions that prevent unauthorized editing or manipulation. If you have a secured PDF and want to merge it with other PDF files, you need to first remove the security measures. This can be done using a PDF password remover tool, which allows you to unlock the protected PDF and remove the password or restrictions. Once the security measures have been removed, you can use a PDF merger tool to combine the unlocked PDF with other files.
It’s important to note that removing security measures from a PDF may not be allowed by its owner, so before removing security from a PDF, it’s important to check whether the owner has given permission or whether it’s legally allowed. Once the security measures have been removed and the PDF is unlocked, you can use a variety of free or paid PDF merger tools to combine the file with other PDFs. These tools typically offer an intuitive interface and simple process for merging files, making it easy for even novice users to combine multiple PDFs into a single document.
How to merge unsecured PDF files with Lumin?
An easy solution for merging unsecured PDF files is to use an online PDF tool, such as Lumin. Lumin is a free, easy-to-use tool that allows you to merge multiple PDF files into a single document by simply uploading the files and selecting the “merge” option. The tool then combines the files into a seamless document that you can download and save for future use.
Lumin also provides other useful features, such as the ability to annotate and edit PDF files, as well as the option to split and extract specific pages from a PDF document. Additionally, the tool allows you to compress your PDF files to reduce file size, making it easier to share large PDF files via email or online storage platforms.
How to merge secured PDF files in Adobe Acrobat?
Alternatively, for merging secured PDF files, you could use Adobe Acrobat. Acrobat is a powerful PDF editor that allows you to merge secured PDF files by creating a copy of the secured file and then removing the security features. Once the security features have been removed, you can then use the “Combine Files” option in Adobe to merge the files into a single document.
Just like Lumin, Adobe Acrobat also provides additional features, such as the ability to edit, annotate, and convert PDF files to other formats. Adobe also offers the option to split PDF files into multiple smaller files, making it easier to manage large PDF documents. Keep in mind though that if the combined size of the PDF files exceeds 2 GB, Adobe Acrobat cannot combine them. To get around this restriction, we advise using Lumin.
Another option for merging secured PDF files is to use a third-party PDF merger tool. There are several tools available that allow you to merge secured PDF files, some of which are free and some of which are paid. When choosing a third-party tool, it is important to make sure that the tool is reliable and secure to protect the sensitive information contained in your PDF files.
In conclusion, merging PDF files can be a challenge, but with the right tools, it is possible to combine both secured and unsecured PDF files into a single document quickly and easily. Whether you use a free online tool like Lumin or something like Adobe Acrobat, the process of merging PDF files typically involves uploading the PDF files to the tool, selecting the “merge” option, and then downloading the combined document. The process can be more complicated for secured PDF files, as these files require the security features to be removed before they can be merged. Regardless of the method used, the goal of merging PDF files is to simplify the management and sharing of information by having all the necessary data in a single document.
The post Help! Why Can’t I Combine My PDF Files? appeared first on Travel Experta - Travel, Lifestyle, Freedom.
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By: Marina 'Travel Experta'
Title: Help! Why Can’t I Combine My PDF Files?
Sourced From: travelexperta.com/help-why-cant-i-combine-my-pdf-files/
Published Date: Wed, 15 Feb 2023 18:26:07 +0000
How to match your World of Hyatt status to MGM Rewards for free perks in Las Vegas
HOSTED BY: 1 AIR TRAVEL
Editor’s note: We’ve updated this post with new information.
It’s certainly possible to do Las Vegas on a budget. However, a trip to Las Vegas can quickly become more expensive than expected thanks to extra charges for items like parking and resort fees.
Luckily, you don’t have to waste money on parking in Las Vegas if you have World of Hyatt elite status. Even the low-level Discoverist status that comes with the World of Hyatt Credit Card and the World of Hyatt Business Credit Card is enough to score you complimentary self-parking and other perks when visiting MGM Resorts properties in Las Vegas.
And, if you have Explorist or Globalist status, you can avoid resort fees on your trip to Las Vegas. That’s right: The MGM Rewards program offers waived resort fees for members at select tiers.
The secret is to match your World of Hyatt status to MGM Rewards. Here’s how and why you should link your World of Hyatt and MGM Rewards accounts each year.
Related: Las Vegas is about to have a banner year — here’s why you should book a trip right now
Benefits of matching Hyatt status to MGM Rewards
Bellagio Resort & Casino. MGM RESORTS INTERNATIONAL
Entry-level World of Hyatt members match to MGM Rewards’ base-level Sapphire status. World of Hyatt elite members can match to MGM Rewards tiers as follows:
Discoverist: MGM Rewards Pearl.Explorist: MGM Rewards Gold.Globalist: MGM Rewards Gold.MGM Rewards has two higher status tiers — Platinum and Noir — that you can’t unlock with your World of Hyatt status, but there are still some tangible perks at the Pearl and Gold status levels.
MGM Rewards Pearl status allows you to use a dedicated line at buffets, avoid self-parking fees and get a 10% discount at select retail shops. And, as long as you hold Pearl status or higher, your MGM Rewards points and Slot Dollars won’t expire due to inactivity.
MGM Rewards Gold status offers all the same perks as Pearl but also provides the following:
Waived valet parking charges (at select MGM Rewards).Waived resort fees when booking hotel rooms directly with MGM.Access to a priority check-in line at the front desk of MGM Resorts.Access to a dedicated line at participating restaurants.VIP line access to select nightclubs in Las Vegas.Some perks, such as waived resort fees for MGM Rewards Gold members, require you to book directly with MGM Resorts International under your name. Other perks, such as waived parking fees and the discount at select retail shops, should be available as long as you have your MGM Rewards member card. You can pick up your member card the next time you visit an MGM destination.
Related: 21 things to know before staying at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas
How to match Hyatt status to MGM Rewards
MGM Rewards status resets annually on Feb. 1. Unfortunately, this annual reset means you’ll need to rematch your Hyatt status to MGM Rewards each year on Feb. 1 or later.
Fortunately, matching your World of Hyatt status to MGM Rewards is easy and can be done via the Hyatt website. Once there, scroll down and click the “Learn more” button.
HYATT.COM
If prompted, sign in to your Hyatt account and click “Opt in.”
HYATT.COM
Log in to your MGM Rewards account. You’ll see the following message if your match is successful. Although the message notes it may take 24 hours for MGM to update your account, some members have seen their tier be updated immediately.
MGMRESORTS.COM
Ensure you aren’t logged in to the MGM Rewards website when initiating a match on Hyatt’s website, as this can sometimes generate an error. If you get an error while matching, double-check that you’re logged out of the MGM Rewards site and try again.
Related: Hyatt members, listen up: Use this simple tip to avoid resort fees at 13 Las Vegas casinos
Bottom line
There are many ways to skip the line and get some VIP treatment in Las Vegas, but many involve spending lots of money on lodging or gambling. However, you can leverage your existing hotel elite status by matching it to Las Vegas casino loyalty programs to avoid some lines and fees on your next trip to Sin City.
Additional reporting by Katie Genter.
Title: How to match your World of Hyatt status to MGM Rewards for free perks in Las Vegas
Sourced From: thepointsguy.com/news/match-your-world-of-hyatt-status-to-mlife/
Published Date: Tue, 21 Feb 2023 14:30:04 +0000
Google Maps App For Android Adds Business Profile Tab - Search Engine Roundtable
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10 Best Inexpensive U.S. Destinations For Affordable Travel In 2023
TODAY'S ADVENTURE
10 Best Inexpensive U.S. Destinations For Affordable Travel In 2023Want to spend a cheap vacation in the United States?
According to a new ranking from U.S. News, these are the cheapest vacation spots in the United States, ranging from national parks to mountains to beaches.
Many of these places offer inexpensive accommodations (including camping) and inexpensive meals and activities. It also includes some of the most beautiful national parks and underrated gems in the United States.
1. Destin
Destin is one of the state’s most convenient beach towns in Florida, known for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters on the Florida Panhandle.
Avoid traveling during peak spring and summer vacation periods to get the best rates.
2. Grand Canyon
Depending on how you choose to spend your vacation, the Grand Canyon, one of the most famous sights in the United States, can also be a relatively inexpensive destination.
You can visit the Grand Canyon any time of year, even in the winter, and you can save money by camping and preparing your own meals.
3. Moab
If you want to take an inexpensive outdoor vacation, Moab, Utah, is a good choice. This community is located near the entrance to Canyonlands and Arches National Parks.
Both offer breathtaking scenery and invite hiking, camping and other outdoor pursuits.
4. Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor, Maine, is the only affordable vacation spot in the Northeast you should consider.
There are several lodging options in this laid-back beach town, including budget ones. The best time to visit is during the shoulder season (May or September), when there are fewer tourists.
5. Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park in Montana is another inexpensive vacation spot in the United States.
This is the ideal national park to visit if you enjoy hiking amid stunning mountain scenery and clear blue alpine lakes. Summer is the ideal time of year to visit, but since that’s also when it’s busiest, plan your vacation well in advance to avoid paying peak prices.
6. Grand Teton National Park
Another fantastic national park that is great for a budget vacation is Grand Teton National Park.
This national park in Wyoming is known for its stunning mountain scenery and wildlife that includes bison, elk, black and grizzly bears.
7. Sequoia National Park
If you’re searching for inexpensive vacation destinations in the United States, Sequoia National Park in California is another option.
As the name implies, this national park is well-recognized for its enormous sequoia trees.
8. Cannon Beach
In the Pacific Northwest, Cannon Beach, located about 80 miles northwest of Portland, is a fantastic vacation spot.
This oceanfront community is a great base from which to visit the rest of the Oregon coast.
9. Asheville
Asheville, North Carolina, is a fantastic place to vacation. This expanding community, nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, has much to offer.
For your next holiday, Asheville, known for its craft breweries, fantastic restaurants, art galleries, and the magnificent Biltmore Estate, is the ideal destination.
10. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park in northwest Washington is home to some of the region’s most beautiful sights.
There are reasonably priced hotels nearby, or you can camp and save even more money. The park is busiest in July and August, as the weather is at its best during these months. To get the best prices, you should book well in advance.
The post 10 Best Inexpensive U.S. Destinations For Affordable Travel In 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.
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By: Maria Valencia
Title: 10 Best Inexpensive U.S. Destinations For Affordable Travel In 2023
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/best-inexpensive-u-s-destinations-for-affordable-travel-in-2023/
Published Date: Sat, 25 Feb 2023 18:31:36 +0000
I love luxury hotels, and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht was made for people like me
HOSTED BY: 1 AIR TRAVEL
It was a tough day (wink wink) being a TPG reporter Tuesday when leaders from Marriott International welcomed me and a few colleagues aboard Evrima, the first vessel to hit the seas under The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection brand.
It was also my first time on any cruise ship — yes, really. They hired me to write about hotels, after all!
However, I certainly might be the kind of person who keeps this new enterprise from Marriott International afloat (well, if I could afford to shell out a hefty penny for one of these trips).
While you can find rates as low as $5,000 per person for some excursions, View Suites on an upcoming Evrima voyage from Barcelona to Rome start at $52,100 per person based on double occupancy.
That’s one significant tab, even for luxury hotel travelers. The target audience is consumers who don’t blink an eye about rates like those at the Aman in New York City, which can exceed $3,000 a night.
It’s increasingly important that hotel companies such as Marriott have something to offer their customers across various travel sectors. Marriott already does this with a number of land-based luxury hotels — the sky and sea are the limits for what might be next.
EMILIA WRONSKI/THE POINTS GUY
“I think we’ll look at anything that helps us achieve our objectives of ensuring our customers don’t need to look outside our ecosystem for what they seek for virtually any trip purpose anywhere in the world,” Marriott CEO Anthony Capuano told me during a lunch with reporters aboard Evrima this week while it was docked in Fort Lauderdale.
I felt relaxed walking aboard Evrima. It felt less like my preconceived notion of a sprawling cruise ship with a massive reception area. Instead, it was more like stepping through a chic side entrance of a glamorous hotel or resort.
Admittedly, we were there during a quieter turnaround space before passengers arrived. Still, when passengers did begin to trickle in later in the day, it appeared to be more of a calm arrival with Champagne and smiles.
CAMERON SPERANCE/THE POINTS GUY
Bonvoy fuels the sea-faring ‘Bon voyage!’
Capuano and Douglas Prothero, the founder and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, noted 75% of passengers that made a reservation aboard Evrima had never been on a cruise before. Also, 70% are members of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, they added.
As someone who knows a thing or two about luxury hotels, I walked away thinking there’s a reason this ship, er, yacht, is attracting so many non-cruise folks. The glitterati isn’t doing a full buyout of Evrima because they want to experience a buffet line.
“Because of the brand, [the passengers] knows they can expect the quality of the property, the quality of the service and the quality of [food and beverage],” Prothero said. “That’s why they’re coming, because they trust [The Ritz-Carlton brand].”
CAMERON SPERANCE/THE POINTS GUY
Marriott Bonvoy has more than 177 million members. Not all of those are ultra-luxury travelers, but winning over just a small fraction of that will keep The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection afloat for years to come. Evrima holds 298 passengers, and the next yacht in the works, Ilma, is slated to hold 456 passengers.
Intimacy is the name of the game when a hotel company comes to swim in the sea.
The CEO of Accor made a recent announcement about Orient Express launching its own line of superyachts; the announcement even included a light jab at Evrima by noting the Paris-based company’s yacht will be longer, hold half as many passengers and be twice as expensive.
From atrium hotels to seclusion at sea
These days, the luxury hotel crowd increasingly favors seclusion, intimate settings and curated experiences.
Atrium hotels aren’t the must-have design trend as they were in the 1970s and 1980s. Instead, the luxury and lifestyle hotel trend gripping the industry now is all about breaking up expansive lobbies into more individualized spaces.
This was the vibe across much of Evrima. The ship was full of bookcase-lined cocktail lounges and entertainment spaces, as well as a cozy humidor for enjoying a hand-rolled cigar, cognac or a bottle of wine that might rival the cost of a suite. The Ritz-Carlton Spa on board was similarly outfitted; it offered spaces surprisingly roomy for a cruise ship but intimate enough for a relaxing day of self-care.
CAMERON SPERANCE/THE POINTS GUY
“We all hope we have a friend with a yacht — maybe we all hope we have one with a yacht this large, but it feels like a yacht much more than a cruise ship,” Capuano said.
The Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection team members aboard Evrima this week frequently pointed out that the design resembled what you’d find in a Ritz-Carlton hotel. There’s even an art concierge aboard who can arrange gallery visits for passengers to meet local artists or make purchases when the ship makes stops during a voyage.
While there were some larger dining areas, they weren’t cavernous restaurants. Instead, everything felt more like high-end offerings you’d expect in a tony area of a major city.
There were more intimate dining options, like S.E.A. — an offshoot of chef Sven Elverfeld’s Aqua, the Michelin three-starred restaurant at Germany’s The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg. Even the indoor-outdoor Pool House restaurant felt more like a high-end hotel (thanks to its leather-accented couches and 10-seat bar) than a seafaring space you’d pass through en route to catch some sun.
CAMERON SPERANCE/THE POINTS GUY
Suites similarly appeared to target travelers looking for a more curated experience rather than just exploring activities en masse with their fellow passengers.
I expect that on many cruise ships, travelers want to spend more time away from the cabin or suite than inside it. I would be more than happy, however (in fact, I might now be travel-lusting) to spend the day reading, writing and luxuriating in an Evrima suite.
CAMERON SPERANCE/THE POINTS GUY
The spacious en-suite bathrooms with soaking tubs and the spacious workstation in front of the window in the Loft Suite’s downstairs bedroom really sold me.
The travel lust may also have had to do with the fact that we were touring suites during turnover: An Evrima staffer was dropping by with a bottle of Champagne to place in each room, and other staffers were polishing the grand pianos.
While I didn’t experience Evrima at sea, it appears to be winning over the hotel crowd.
“We’ve had people who’ve come for a week and stayed for a month, and we’ve had a bunch of that — not just a few,” Prothero said.
Marriott’s other option for the cruise crowd
It’s not just the luxury cruising sector that Marriott is courting these days. The company’s strategy expands to land-based offerings when it comes to attracting another kind of cruise traveler.
The company’s — and its competitors’ — recent ascent in the all-inclusive resort sector is likely taking a bite out of the cruise business. All-inclusive resorts bundle costs into a single nightly rate, and guests don’t have to worry about hidden fees or soaring bills during a stay. A similar pricing strategy is what draws many travelers to the cruise sector.
While Marriott hasn’t done a specific analysis here, Capuano sees similarities between the two travel options.
CAMERON SPERANCE/THE POINTS GUY
“When we look at macro-consumer trends and travel trends, the simplicity [and] the lack of surprises in an all-inclusive pricing strategy is increasingly compelling, which is why we’re seeing that all-inclusive portfolio grow exponentially,” he added. “And I think this is a natural extension: It’s that same predictability [as a cruise].”
Keep in mind there are a few elements of Evrima that cost extra on top of your base fare: Meals at S.E.A. restaurant and bottles found on the reserve wine list are on an a la carte pricing model.
“We have people spending far more than they paid for the cruise on wine — every voyage,” Prothero said.
The future of pricing power
Voyages on Evrima aren’t cheap, but neither are hotel rates on land these days.
Hotels were a leading cause of inflation into the summer of last year. While things have cooled off, there has been chatter among industry analysts that it provided the luxury sector with long-needed price differentiation above more affordable sister brands.
The thinking went that a room at a St. Regis or a Ritz-Carlton should go for several hundred more dollars a night than a Westin or a Marriott. Hotel owners maintaining higher rates through the pandemic helped achieve that goal.
CAMERON SPERANCE/THE POINTS GUY
Long story short: The luxury crowd can handle these prices on land or at sea, so don’t expect them to decrease anytime soon.
“No guest ever in the history of travel likes to pay a higher rate, but I think particularly as you move up in the quality tiers, there is a pretty good appreciation for supply-demand dynamics,” Capuano said.
Title: I love luxury hotels, and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht was made for people like me
Sourced From: thepointsguy.com/news/ritz-carlton-yacht-hotels/
Published Date: Thu, 23 Feb 2023 14:00:41 +0000
Saturday, February 25, 2023
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FOUR SEASONS RESORT MAURITIUS | 5-star luxury in the Indian Ocean (hotel tour in 4K)
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TODAY'S VIDEO
Join me on a full tour (in 4K) of Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, one of the best 5-star resorts on the island of Mauritius.
Subscribe to my YouTube channel if you like my videos (one million followers so far). Each Saturday, I upload a new video about my travels around the world.
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Title: FOUR SEASONS RESORT MAURITIUS | 5-star luxury in the Indian Ocean (hotel tour in 4K)
Sourced From: www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcBhL0YYm_0
Beachcomber Cottages in Vilano Beach, St. Augustine – A Nifty Idea for Families
TODAY'S ADVENTURE
Beachcomber Cottages in Vilano Beach, St. Augustine – A Nifty Idea for FamiliesConfession time – Staying on the beach for our St. Augustine, Florida trip was not my idea. Interestingly enough, when I contacted The Bayfront Marin House the owner, Sandy, recommended her new beach cottages, Beachcomber, on Vilano Beach Florida as a fun option for my family.
Originally, my goal was to stay closer to the Historic District of St. Augustine in a B&B. That’s how I found Marin House in the first place. But when I was told that the cottages have two bedrooms and living room with amazing views of the ocean, plus I had full use and benefits (free parking in the historic district and breakfast) of the main house, I was sold.
Why Beachcomber Cottages Are A Better Choice for Families
Coziness and spacious living room with full entertainment system
Full kitchen – I barely cook when we are at home, and when traveling I prefer not to even look in the direction of a kitchen. But it really does make a difference. Simply to be able to warm something up for the kids quickly. Make a cup of tea. Pop some popcorn. And store leftovers from eating out and munching on it for an evening snack.
Comfy and firm beds – tested by my son
Sleeping arrangements for everyone. The cottage had two bedrooms with two queen-sized beds. My kids are violent sleepers. Means, that they move around so much that even a king bed is too small for them at times. So we prefer to have them sleep apart, and the couch in the living room was perfect for my oldest.
Views – I don’t know about you, but I prefer to wake up to an amazing sunset over the sea than historic buildings. This was one of the best parts of staying here.
Video Fun
When we arrived in December, Beachcomber only had two cottages open for guests. It is a new property for them, so they are working hard at getting it fully fixed up. Now they have three cottages, one with a jacuzzi and a porch to lay out on. We had a small porch to sit on.
We visited the main house for breakfast, but being able to have freedom and space knowing that my kids and we weren’t making too much noise was liberating. And the best part was it was so close to downtown St. Augustine and all attractions – never longer than a ten-minute drive to anything.
Find more Hotels in Saint Agustine, Florida
St. Augustine Beach Rentals – A Nifty Idea for FamiliesThe post Beachcomber Cottages in Vilano Beach, St. Augustine – A Nifty Idea for Families appeared first on Travel Experta - Travel, Lifestyle, Freedom.
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By: Marina 'Travel Experta'
Title: Beachcomber Cottages in Vilano Beach, St. Augustine – A Nifty Idea for Families
Sourced From: travelexperta.com/beachcomber-cottages-vilano-st-augustine/
Published Date: Fri, 24 Feb 2023 11:00:51 +0000
10 things to do when you get the Amex Platinum
HOSTED BY: 1 AIR TRAVEL
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information.
The Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the best premium rewards cards on the market thanks to its extensive benefits, from lounge access to monthly statement credits. These perks come at a cost, though — the card’s annual fee is $695 (see rates and fees), making it among the most expensive of all consumer cards to carry.
If that has you second-guessing whether to get the Amex Platinum Card, remember that the potential value of its many benefits can far outweigh that fee if you take full advantage of them.
If you open the Amex Platinum Card or already carry it, here are the 10 best ways to take advantage of all of its perks.
ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Official application link: The Platinum Card from American Express with 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.
Use the $200 hotel credit
FAIRMONT SAN FRANCISCO
One of the principal benefits of the Amex Platinum is the up-to-$200 annual statement credit on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings (the latter has a minimum two-night stay, enrollment is required). The FHR program gets you the following perks:
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available at check-in.Daily breakfast for two people.Guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout and noon check-in, when available.An experience credit that usually consists of a property, dining or spa credit.You’ll receive a daily credit when a property includes Wi-Fi in a mandatory resort fee.The Hotel Collection’s perks include a room upgrade at check-in when available, up to a $100 hotel credit for qualifying dining, spa and resort activities, and the ability to use Pay with Points on prepaid bookings.
Register for your annual airline fee credit
KATIE GENTER/THE POINTS GUY
You’ll get an annual up-to-$200 airline fee statement credit for the airline of your choice. Select your desired airline on the Amex website before making a purchase, and you’ll get to use the credit for fees such as lounge passes, seat assignments, onboard snacks and checked bags. Note that the airline credit won’t apply for new reservations or taxes and fees on award bookings. Enrollment is required.
Since you only get to pick one airline annually, we recommend choosing one with which you don’t already hold elite status. An airline you often fly — but not enough to have elite status — will be a strong contender.
pply for your Priority Pass membership card
ZACH GRIFF/THE POINTS GUY
One of the greatest travel perks of the Amex Platinum is its unparalleled lounge access — the best on any premium card available. Here are the lounges that participate in the Amex Global Lounge Collection (enrollment is required):
Amex Centurion Lounges.Priority Pass Lounges (request your membership card here).Delta Sky Clubs (when flying on Delta the same day).Airspace Lounges.Escape Lounges.Plaza Premium Lounges. dd your card to your Uber wallet
HRACH HOVHANNISYAN/SHUTTERSTOCK
Amex Platinum cardholders get up to $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus an additional up to $20 in December. While Uber Cash doesn’t roll over month to month, that adds up to $200 in Uber Cash each calendar year (for U.S. services). Enrollment is required
To get your Uber Cash, you need to link your card(s) to your Uber account. To do this, head to your wallet on the Uber app and add your card as a payment method.
pply for Global Entry and TSA Precheck
KATHERINE FREY/WASHINGTON POST/GETTY
When you enroll in these trusted traveler programs with your Amex Platinum Card, you’ll get a statement credit for up to $100 to your account to cover the application cost (and again upon renewal) once every four years. Global Entry also gives you automatic access to TSA PreCheck, making it much easier to go through airport security checkpoints.
Sign up for Clear
SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY
The Amex Platinum also offers a statement credit for a Clear membership, normally costing $189 annually.
Clear has a separate line to handle travelers’ identity verification and security screening via a fingerprint or iris scan. Once approved, you’re escorted by a Clear employee to the head of the TSA PreCheck line (or regular security line if you don’t have PreCheck) to an agent for final approval. As TSA checkpoint lines continue to lengthen, having both Clear and TSA PreCheck can save you a lot of time at the airport.
Request hotel gold status
NOAM GALAI/GETTY
Having the Platinum Card means you are eligible for Gold status with both the Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalty programs, which give you perks such as bonus points and potential room upgrades. You can enroll for these on the Amex website.
Sign up for car rental elite status
@ISR4EL/TWENTY20
Elite status can sometimes be the difference between being able to reserve a vehicle or not, depending on where you’re trying to rent. In addition to hotel elite status, carrying the Amex Platinum means you are also eligible for status with the following car rental programs (enrollment is required):
Avis Preferred Plus.Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President’s Circle.National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive.You can enroll for each program on the Amex website.
Sign up for a Walmart+ membership
TENNESSEEPHOTOGRAPHER/GETTY
The Amex Platinum also offers an annual up-to-$155 Walmart+ statement credit, which covers the entire cost of a Walmart+ membership ($12.95 plus applicable sales tax) each month. Plus Ups are excluded. Just charge the membership fee to your card and you’ll receive a statement credit each month.
If you live near a Walmart store, this membership will get you free delivery from that store as quickly as the same day on orders of $35 or more, plus steep discounts on prescriptions. You can also save 5 cents per gallon at Walmart and Murphy gas stations and access member pricing at Sam’s Club fuel centers — a great perk with fuel costs steadily rising. Even if you’re not a frequent in-store Walmart shopper, you’ll enjoy free next-day and two-day shipping on eligible items from Walmart.com with no minimum purchase required.
Consider these other small-but-mighty benefits
PETER BRANDT/GETTY
While we’ve outlined nine of our favorite benefits from the Amex Platinum, there are plenty of other enticing perks worth looking into:
Scoop up your digital entertainment credits
The Amex Platinum offers an up-to-$240 digital entertainment statement credit, broken down to up to $20 in monthly statement credits when you pay for participating subscription services. They include Audible, The New York Times, SiriusXM, Peacock, Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ and the Disney Bundle. Enrollment is required.
Treat yourself with an annual up-to $100 statement credit for Saks Fifth Avenue
This Saks Fifth Avenue benefit is broken down to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 from July through December. Enrollment is required.
Fitness lovers, grab this annual $300 statement credit for Equinox
This Equinox credit applies to monthly Equinox All Access, Destination and E by Equinox membership fees as well as for the Equinox+ fitness app. Enrollment is required.
Want an at-home fitness bike? Get a $300 SoulCycle statement credit
If you’re in the market for an at-home bike, you can get up to a $300 statement credit when you purchase a SoulCycle bike. While it’s unlikely that you would ever buy more than one bike, this statement credit is applicable to up to 15 bikes per year. You must have an Equinox+ membership to purchase a SoulCycle bike. Enrollment is required.
dd up to three authorized usersYou can add up to three authorized users to your Platinum Card for a total of $175 per year (see rates and fees), which can really help you maximize the value you’re already getting from being a cardholder. Authorized users are eligible for many of the same benefits as the main accountholder, including lounge access, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck reimbursement, hotel elite status and Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits. However, authorized users don’t get their own Uber credit or separate airline incidental credits.
Not just Amazon: Get free two-day shipping at thousands of stores with ShopRunner
You’ll get free two-day shipping and free return shipping when you pay for eligible items with your Amex Platinum at participating online stores through the ShopRunner program. You can enroll for the service here.
Bottom line
Sure, there’s a colossal $695 annual fee on the Amex Platinum. But after you take a deep dive into all of the card’s benefits, the annual fee isn’t so intimidating. If you can maximize every statement credit on the Amex Platinum, you’re looking at a value of easily more than $1,400 annually. Even if you can’t use every credit on the card — and nobody expects you to — accessing the Amex Global Lounge Collection alone is key for frequent travelers.
Official application link: The Platinum Card from American Express with 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.
Check the CardMatch tool to see if you’re targeted for a 125,000- or 150,000-point Platinum Card offer. These offers are subject to change at any time.
Additional reporting by Ryan Wilcox and Stella Shon.
For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum Card, click here
Title: 10 things to do when you get the Amex Platinum
Sourced From: thepointsguy.com/guide/10-things-to-do-amex-platinum/
Published Date: Thu, 23 Feb 2023 17:30:14 +0000
Ridgeline Roofers Columbia Is Offering Highly Rated Emergency Roof Repair Services in ...
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Thailand To Start Implementing Its Long-Awaited Tourist Tax In June
TODAY'S ADVENTURE
Thailand To Start Implementing Its Long-Awaited Tourist Tax In JuneAccording to the government, the tax, which takes effect on June 1, will range from 150 to 300 baht, depending on how visitors arrive.
The fee will be spent “for expenses linked to taking care of tourists,” as determined by Thailand’s cabinet.
Travelers arriving by air will be required to pay 300 baht ($8), while those arriving by land or water will only be required to pay 150 baht ($4).
According to Bloomberg, the government anticipates receiving around 3.9 billion baht in fees overall this year. These funds will be utilized to improve regional tourist destinations as well as provide travelers with health and accident insurance.
For travelers arriving by air, the tax will be included in the price of their ticket. Officials still have not determined how they will collect the tax from those arriving by other means.
Without any pandemic-related entry restrictions in place, Thailand welcomes visitors from throughout the world, including those from the United States, and no longer requires them to present proof of vaccination or proof of any testing in order to enter.
According to the U.S. Department of State, American visitors do not need a visa in order to enter Thailand as long as their intended stay is less than 30 days. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, it has been extended to 45 days through March 31.
The government will begin collecting a tax as the country enters its low tourism season, which runs from July to September. That period, known as the rainy season, is often the ideal time to find cheap flights, hotels, and tours, as well as the best time to avoid crowds.
The post Thailand To Start Implementing Its Long-Awaited Tourist Tax In June appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.
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By: Maria Valencia
Title: Thailand To Start Implementing Its Long-Awaited Tourist Tax In June
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/thailand-to-start-implementing-its-long-awaited-tourist-tax-in-june/
Published Date: Sat, 18 Feb 2023 16:22:42 +0000
The best time to go on a cruise
HOSTED BY: 1 AIR TRAVEL
Sorry to disappoint you, but the best time to go on a cruise is not a fixed week or month, as you might hope. The best time to take a cruise varies based on your travel preferences, including where you wish to travel.
First, you’ll need to consider the weather at your destination. The best time of year to visit is typically when warm, sunny days are plentiful and rain is scarce.
If you’re not a fan of crowds, you’ll want to pass on traveling when everyone else is vacationing during popular vacation weeks. That might mean embracing cooler weather and a little precipitation.
For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.
If price is a major factor in choosing the perfect cruise travel date, you’ll also want to look at cruises in the shoulder season, when fewer people are traveling and fares are typically lower. But don’t rule out prime travel dates; you might be able to find cheaper cruises on older ships or in less desirable cabin categories, especially if an abundance of ships sails to your preferred destination.
In the end, the best time to cruise may come down to where you can go for the right price when your schedule allows a vacation. We’ve compiled the best times to cruise to the most popular cruise destinations based on the weather, lowest prices and fewer crowds. But the decision of when to travel is ultimately up to you.
laska
Hiking in Alaska. LUCIA GRIGGI/SILVERSEA CRUISES
The cruise season in Alaska runs from mid-April to September, with a few cruise lines extending the season into early October. Nearly every month has something to recommend it, depending on what you’re looking for.
When to cruise to Alaska for the best weather
If you want to avoid rain, May is typically the driest month, with plenty of sunshine and highs in the 50s. It’s a great month for nature lovers to cruise to Alaska because May is when you’ll see much of the wildlife emerging, including migrating gray whales, Dall sheep, moose and migratory birds.
If you want to travel to Alaska a little earlier in the season in April, the weather is cool but pleasant, and the nights are still long enough that you may be able to catch a glimpse of the northern lights.
July is the height of peak season, with the warmest weather of the year and long daylight hours. It’s also the best month for wildlife viewing, especially for humpback whales, brown and black bears and migrating shorebirds and puffins. However, you should know that you’ll have to deal with pesky mosquitos in late June and July, especially in the interior part of the state.
Best time to cruise Alaska for low prices
You can usually find the best prices for an Alaska cruise during the shoulder season months of April, May, September and October. For example, starting rates are as low as $450 per person for a seven-night Inside Passage cruise sailing round-trip from Seattle with Royal Caribbean in late April. In mid-September, the same itinerary starts at $513 per person. However, by the peak summer season in June, the starting price is $1,226 per person.
Best time to cruise Alaska to avoid crowds
The shoulder season months are also the least crowded times to visit Alaska because kids are in school and fewer families are vacationing. Just be aware that if you head to Alaska early in the spring, some of the stores may not have opened yet. Arrive in fall, and you may find that tour operators and shops have begun to cut back hours or have closed.
The advantage of traveling in the shoulder season is that you can experience the towns without the summer crowds and with cooler temperatures. Shoppers can take advantage of end-of-season sales on souvenirs.
Related: Best time to cruise Alaska
Caribbean and Bahamas
MSC Seashore’s first call at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. CONRAD SCHUTT/MSC CRUISES
Almost any time of year is a good time to sail to the Caribbean or Bahamas with year-round sunny skies, warm temperatures and glistening turquoise blue waters.
When to cruise to the Caribbean and Bahamas for the best weather
Some of the Caribbean’s nicest weather is in May, at the start of shoulder season. The weather is particularly pleasant in the Southern Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Barbados, St. Lucia, Dominique, Grenada and St. Vincent, with highs in the 80s and just slightly cooler evenings in the 70s.
January through March also offers picture-perfect weather. January is the beginning of the dry season, so the humidity is lower, and the temperatures are in the 70s and 80s.
Related: Best time to cruise the Caribbean
Best time to cruise the Caribbean and Bahamas for low prices
Shoulder season in the Caribbean is May through November, the months just before peak season, which is December through April. This is the time when you’ll typically find better deals on pricing, especially in May and September to November.
Fares for seven-night cruises in May are as low as $399 per person on an MSC cruise sailing round-trip from Miami, and even less expensive at $349 per person come November.
The official Atlantic hurricane season, June 1 to Nov. 30, falls within shoulder season, so you may need to weigh low prices with the risk of a storm affecting your trip. Also, some fares in the summer months can be higher with many families taking vacations. Prices for similar cruises with MSC between June and August range from $479 to $559.
Best time to cruise the Caribbean and Bahamas to avoid crowds
The best time to cruise to the Caribbean without all the tourists is typically in late fall and between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. You can also avoid the crowds in late April and early May after the spring break rush but before school lets out and summer vacations begin.
Related: Best time to cruise the Bahamas
Mediterranean
Vernazza, Italy. MARC KATZMAN/PRINCESS CRUISES
The cruise season in the Mediterranean usually begins in April and ends in November, with peak season falling between June and September. Some cruise lines also offer sailings into the winter months to southern Mediterranean destinations, such as Egypt, Israel, Morocco, southern Spain and the Canary Islands, because they have warm weather during that time.
When to cruise the Mediterranean for the best weather
The spring (April and May) and the fall (September and October) afford some of the best weather in the Mediterranean, with sunny days and comfortable temperatures. Though the busiest season for Mediterranean cruises is typically July and August, the temperatures can be unbearably hot (85 degrees and higher).
Best time to cruise the Mediterranean for low prices
Look to the shoulder season to find the best deals on Mediterranean cruises. During April and May and September to November, the combination of cooler temperatures, a higher chance of rain and a lack of family vacations leads to more availability and lower prices for cruises.
For example, in April, you can sail on a seven-night Western Mediterranean voyage from Barcelona to Rome with Princess Cruises starting at $703 per person. If you prefer to travel in the fall, you can still find a good deal on the same itinerary for $862 per person in October. In July, at the height of the summer, most of the voyages range from $957 to $1,147. Since you’ll have the greatest choice of ships midsummer, you might luck out and find a one-off deal if you can be flexible about ship and sail date.
Best time to cruise the Mediterranean to avoid crowds
Lower prices also mean fewer crowds. The height of summer is incredibly busy in the Mediterranean, especially in smaller destinations, including the port towns in the Greek islands of Santorini and Mykonos and in popular cities in Italy, France and Croatia. The spring and fall are the optimal times to visit, with fewer tourists, cooler temperatures and lower prices. You’ll also find that most everything is open during that time and easier to see without battling the crowds.
Related: Best time to cruise to the Mediterranean
Hawaii
Cruising the Auau Channel in Hawaii. JEFFREY GREENBERG/EDUCATION IMAGES/UNIVERSAL IMAGES GROUP/GETTY IMAGES
Hawaii is a year-round destination, but you’ll only find one ship that sails the islands throughout the entire year: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America. Other ships sail one-way or round-trip itineraries to the Hawaiian Islands from the U.S. West Coast, typically between September and April.
When to cruise to Hawaii for the best weather
Hawaii has just two seasons due to its tropical climate. Summer is from May to October, and winter falls between November and April. There’s not much variation in temperature between the two seasons, with daytime temperatures hovering around 80 degrees in the summer and not falling much more than that into the high 70s in the winter. Since the temperatures are similar during both seasons, the best time to cruise the islands is when there’s less chance of precipitation, which is during the summer months of June, July and August.
Best time to cruise Hawaii for low prices
Cruises to Hawaii are going to be less expensive in the spring (in April and May) before school is out and everyone heads to the islands for summer vacation.
Summer is peak season with family vacations and honeymooners, so prices will be higher then. Even though January, February and March bring more rain, the winter months are also peak season for tourists … and whales. Case in point: A seven-night round-trip cruise in late April with Norwegian Cruise Line starts at $1,449, while in January it increases to $1,849. At the beginning of July, the lowest fare is $1,979 per person.
If your heart is set on traveling to Hawaii in the summer, or you want to escape the winter’s snow at home in February, look for deals with an early booking. You can also take a chance and wait for last-minute specials if you’re flexible.
Best time to cruise Hawaii to avoid crowds
Springtime will be the quietest time to visit the Aloha State, although you might find an uptick of families traveling for spring break during March and April. The summer is the busiest time for vacationers and the winter months bring whale-watching enthusiasts and surfers. There are also two major sporting events in January, so you’ll want to avoid the crowds on Oahu and Maui during that month.
Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii
Northern Europe
Koningsdam at sea. HOLLAND AMERICA LINE
The cruise season is short if you want to sail to Northern Europe, the Baltic or the Scandinavian fjords; itineraries run from April through October. However, if you love the cold and want to chase the aurora borealis in Norway, several lines offer northern lights itineraries in the winter months.
When to cruise Northern Europe for the best weather
The warmest months in Northern Europe are mid-June to August, making the height of the summer season the most desirable time to cruise Scandinavia and the Baltic region. This is also the Land of the Midnight Sun, where you’ll have nearly 24 hours of sunlight in places like northern Norway from early June to mid-July.
The two shoulder seasons – from April to early June and September to October – offer comfortable temperatures, but you’ll need to dress in layers.
Best time to cruise Northern Europe for low prices
The shoulder seasons may not be the warmest, but they typically offer better pricing than summer cruises. For example, a 10-night sailing with Holland America to Scandinavia and the fjords is $814 in mid-April. A 14-night voyage to the same region with the line in mid-July costs $1,749.
Best time to cruise Northern Europe to avoid crowds
The shoulder seasons will also have fewer passengers and tourists – and you may even have some attractions to yourself in the cities and towns.
Panama Canal
The Panama Canal. CUNARD/FACEBOOK
Transiting the Panama Canal from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean is a bucket list trip for many travelers. Panama and the bordering countries in Central America have a tropical climate with lush landscapes and rainforests, so you can expect wet weather at certain times of the year. The height of the Panama Canal cruise season is between October and April.
When to cruise the Panama Canal for the best weather
You’ll find moderate temperatures (in the mid-70s to low 80s) and drier weather in January and February. During those months, it’s more pleasant to engage in outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking, which are a highlight when visiting places like Panama and Costa Rica.
December, March and April also offer nice weather, although the rainy season sometimes starts as early as mid-March before continuing through the fall.
Best time to cruise the Panama Canal for low prices
Late-season Panama Canal cruises offer the lowest fares. The early season can also be affordable but fares start to skyrocket around the December holidays. For example, you can book a 15-night cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line from Miami to Los Angeles for $784 in April. The same cruise departing in January, at the height of the season, costs $1,395.
Best time to cruise the Panama Canal to avoid crowds
The Panama Canal cruise season picks up at the end of the rainy season, so you’ll find fewer tourists during October and November when the weather is still wet.
To avoid crowds in port, try not to cruise during the Panamanian festivals that take place in early spring and from November into the winter. These festivals can also affect the opening of attractions, restaurants, banks and other venues you might want to visit ashore.
Mexico (Pacific coast)
Cabo San Lucas. CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
The Mexican Riviera (i.e., the Pacific coast of Mexico) is a year-round cruise destination. Most ships sail the itinerary in the fall, winter and spring because those same ships head to Alaska for the summer.
When to cruise to Mexico for the best weather
For the best weather, book your cruise during the dry season, between November and May. The weather can be cool at times along the Pacific coast, so if you’re looking for warmer temperatures, you’ll need to head to cities located farther south, such as Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan.
Best time to cruise Mexico for low prices
The summer months and early fall will have some of the best rates, but you’ll need to take into consideration the hotter temperatures in the summer that can reach into the 90s – and with high humidity. It’s also the rainy season, and it’s possible to have hurricanes during these months.
For example, a seven-night round-trip voyage from Long Beach, California, along Mexico’s Pacific coast with Carnival Cruise Line starts at $629 in June. The same cruise is even less expensive in October at $464 per person.
Best time to cruise Mexico to avoid crowds
The dry season is also the quietest to cruise to Mexico. Family vacations are over, and the kids are back in school. You will, however, want to avoid booking a cruise around the holidays at the end of the year and during spring break (March and early April).
Canada and New England
St. John’s, Newfoundland. BENKRUT/GETTY IMAGES
The cruise season in Canada and New England begins in May and ends in October, with a few ships even making the voyage in April. You’ll find more ships in this region between August and October as it gets closer to peak leaf-peeping season.
When to cruise to Canada and New England for the best weather
The summer offers some of the nicest weather, with daytime highs in Boston and New York between 80 and 90 degrees. Along the coastal areas in Maine and Canada, you’ll find highs in the 70s in July. Be prepared for cooler evenings.
The summer months are also the best time to see several species of whales off the coast of Newfoundland, including humpback whales.
However, many travelers choose to cruise to Canada and New England specifically for the fall foliage. Peak leaf season begins around mid-September and runs through October. If fall colors are your goal, resign yourself to cooler temperatures on your sailing, especially in the evenings.
Best time to cruise Canada and New England for low prices
For the best cruise deals, look at voyages sailing before August. A seven-night sailing from Montreal to Boston in July with Holland America starts at $731 per person. A similar seven-night itinerary from Boston to Quebec in mid-October starts at $1,183 per person.
Best time to cruise New England and Canada to avoid crowds
You’ll have fewer crowds on shore and in the port towns during the shoulder season in the spring, when kids are in school, and before mid-September, which is the beginning of peak foliage season in Canada.
Summertime is busy in Canada and New England because of the optimal weather and family vacations. You can also expect more ships and crowds in town during late September and October at the height of the leaf-peeping season.
Bermuda
Viking Sea near Fort St. Catherine, Bermuda. WHITE RAIN/VIKING CRUISES
Bermuda’s cruise season runs between April and November, with a few ships calling on Royal Naval Dockyard in December. While the pink-sand beaches and glistening, turquoise waters offer a slice of paradise, the archipelago in the western North Atlantic Ocean does not stay warm year-round. The subtropical climate of these British islands has winter temperatures that dip down into the low 60s and high 50s.
When to cruise to Bermuda for the best weather
April is one of the best months to sail to Bermuda as the temperatures are pleasant and in the 70s, and it’s one of the driest months of the year, along with May. May and early June are great options for cruises to the archipelago, and you can expect highs in the low 80s by June.
July and August are the hottest months with high humidity, but it’s a great time to hit the beach with water temperatures around 81 degrees.
Best time to cruise Bermuda for low prices
April through early June and September to November are typically when you’ll find the cheapest prices. Norwegian Cruise Line has a seven-night itinerary sailing round-trip from Boston in April that starts at $589 per person. The same itinerary is $714 in June and $809 per person in July.
Best time to cruise Bermuda to avoid crowds
If you want the beaches to yourself, book a cruise in April. Even though there are festivities during the month (including Easter and the Peppercorn Ceremony), it’s still early in the tourist season.
By late spring, summer and fall, there are more festivals, sporting events and golf tournaments that bring visitors to the islands. In the summertime, you’ll have family vacations and people with vacation homes in Bermuda returning for the season and warmer weather.
Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?
ustralia and New Zealand
A ship in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand. SILVERSEA
The height of the cruise season in Australia and New Zealand begins in early October and runs through the end of April because these months are spring and summer in the Southern Hemisphere. You will find a few lines sailing an extended season Down Under.
When to cruise to Australia and New Zealand for the best weather
The summer months of December through February offer some of the best weather for cruising in Australia and New Zealand. Major cities will have high temperatures in the 70s and 80s during that time.
In Australia, summer is the perfect season to enjoy the country’s beautiful beaches, especially in the south near Sydney. However, if you plan to head north to destinations like northern Queensland, know that summer is that region’s wet season. Most days are sunny, but you’ll likely encounter an afternoon or evening storm.
In New Zealand, summer brings long, sunny days with mild evenings. New Zealand’s beaches are also a top attraction in the summer, along with outdoor activities and water sports.
Best time to cruise Australia and New Zealand for low prices
Look for the best prices during the shoulder seasons, from September to November (spring) and from March to May (fall). Avoid the December holidays when prices can be high.
For example, Celebrity Cruises has an 11-night cruise sailing round-trip from Sydney in March for $594. As you get closer to the holidays in December, a 13-night round-trip itinerary from Sydney with the line costs $3,026.
Best time to cruise Australia and New Zealand to avoid crowds
The shoulder seasons, when temperatures are warming up or cooling off, are a less busy time to cruise Australia and New Zealand and offer slightly lower fares.
If you don’t enjoy big crowds with lots of partying, avoid a cruise to Australia during the New Year’s Eve festivities, as it’s one of the busiest times of year for tourists, especially in Sydney. Australia Day celebrations can also draw crowds, so be aware if your itinerary includes that January holiday.
Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:
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Sourced From: thepointsguy.com/guide/best-time-to-cruise/
Published Date: Thu, 23 Feb 2023 17:00:45 +0000