Resort at Singer Island…

Distinctive residential sophistication and chic contemporary style meet on the tranquil white sands of Singer Island. Set amidst the aquamarine waters of Florida’s heralded Gold Coast, The Resort at Singer Island redefines oceanside elegance – and is the newest gem in The Luxury Collection.  Savor the distinction of the hotel’s 239 one- and two-bedroom all-suite accommodations that combine classic décor with rich dark wood tones, stainless steel appliances in each kitchen, marble baths, and majestic views that are indigenous to South Florida. An 8,500-square-foot world-class spa, exquisite dining options, two sparkling pools, cabanas, and a kid’s club enrich guests’ experiences.

Atlas Exclusive Amenities:

• Full breakfast for two daily / $50 spa credit per booking / Welcome amenity
• Upgraded room category at check-in when available
• Early check-in and late check-out when available

We have 2 retail locations about 10 minutes away from the resort, and can give you great ideas for sightseeing, shopping and dining in Palm Beach County.

Crystal Cruises 2009

Crystal Recently Announced “All Inclusive – As You Wish“  Europe Promotion

In conjunction with its Celebration Fares, Crystal Cruises is announced its most dramatic promotion for Europe 2009: a $2,000 per couple or $1,000 per person – shipboard spending credit for discerning travelers who want to design their own vacation experience.

The generous “All Inclusive – As You Wish” spending credit can be used toward:

* Any Crystal Adventure shore excursion
* Any spa treatment
* Any wine
* Any cocktail
* Any boutique purchase
* Any gratuities
* Any Vintage Room experience
* And anything else on board except Casino gaming.

The $2,000 per couple spending credit is available with:

* Every Mediterranean cruise aboard Crystal Serenity in July through November
* All 11-day Baltic and British Isles cruises aboard Crystal Symphony between June 19 and August 23, and
* Crystal Symphony’s Northern Europe Transatlantic cruise from London to Boston

Guests on Crystal’s seven-day Baltic cruise departing August 5 will enjoy a $1,000 per couple, or $500 per person, spending credit. In all, there are 17 Mediterranean and Northern Europe cruises eligible for the “All Inclusive – As You Wish” promotion.

Europe Celebration Fares

In addition to the custom onboard spending bank, Crystal Cruises is celebrating its 15 years as the highest rated cruise line with European Celebration Fares. The luxury line is offering up to $1,500 per person off most European cruises. Celebrating value, Crystal’s European fares for 2009 are lower than comparable cruises in 2008.

Save Now, Save Later – until March 31, 2009!

Travelers sailing on any 2009 Europe, Transatlantic or Crystal Symphony Asia cruise can enjoy 20 percent savings on almost every cruise in every category in 2010. The 2009 cruise must be booked by March 31, 2009, and the 2010 cruise must be booked by November 30, 2009.  Crystal Assurance Plan features Price Protection.

If someone books a 2009 Crystal cruise and the fare for that stateroom category is later reduced, the guest will be protected at the reduced fare. Additionally, in 2009 Crystal reduced cruise fare deposits – as low as 5% – deadlines and cancellation periods.

The Crystal Difference

Aboard the ultra-luxurious Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, refined elegance meets casual simplicity. With an emphasis on innovative product differentiation, the renowned Crystal experience is distinguished by classic service, abundant space, extensive choices and superior quality, providing worldwide vacations of seven to 100+ days that bridge the best of land and sea. Grounded in more than a decade of accolades, Crystal has been voted “World’s Best” by the readers of Travel & Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler more than any other cruise line, hotel or resort in history.

A and K Tours – Incredible Sale

Unbeleivable Abercrombie and Kent sale. One day only – Thursday, February 19th at 9 a.m. CST  Save up to 60%

Beginning at 9 a.m. Thursday and while availability lasts, prices on the following journeys will drop every 30 minutes until they reach a final savings of 60% off the original price. This offer expires at 3 p.m. CST, and these select departures are offered on a strictly first-come, first-served basis, so book early on Thursday to reserve the vacation of your dreams… at a once-in-a-lifetime price.

Example of Savings:

Once in a Lifetime Botswana & Zambia    7 days
Witness the drama of predator and prey — along with one of nature’s most glorious spectacles, Victoria Falls — on an independent journey through Southern Africa. Original price $7,765 pp  / Starting price $7,377 pp

Once in a Lifetime Egypt   11 days
Explore the remnants of one of the world’s greatest civilizations on this independent journey in Egypt. View the Pyramids and the Sphinx, see the treasures of Tutankhamun and savor the unique atmosphere of the Nile on a luxurious four-night river cruise.  Original price $8,320 pp  / Starting price $7,904 pp

Once in a Lifetime Spain   10 days
From the days of Muslim influence to the golden age of empire, Spain’s past lives on in its incredible monuments and works of art. Experience centuries of history with private expert guides on this incredible independent journey through Spain.   Original price $10,260 pp  / Starting price $9,747 pp

Once in a Lifetime Kenya   9 days
Enjoy peerless hospitality and unrivaled wildlife viewing in the land of the Maasai on this independent journey.   Original price $5,295 pp  / Starting price $5,030 pp

Once in a Lifetime Voyage to Melanesia   18 days
This ‘Clipper Odyssey’ cruise explores the recent past while celebrating long-held native traditions still practiced today. Visit the sites of epic battles that helped secure victory for the Allies in World War II; delight in a traditional Fijian welcome on the island of Yasawa-i-Rara; and witness the Rom Dance, one of the South Pacific’s most famous celebrations. Offer valid for cabin category 5 reservations.    Original price $11,695 pp  / Starting price $11,110 pp

Terms & Conditions

This Once in a Lifetime Savings offer is valid only on February 19, 2009, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CST. Actual discount is determined by the percentage listed on the web site at the time of reservation and is final upon booking. All prices are per person, based on double occupancy and are quoted in U.S. Dollars. Prices apply only to the departure dates listed. These offers are for new bookings only, are not combinable with any other offer, discount or promotion and are subject to availability.

All bookings must be made through abercrombiekent.com. For departures outside of 90 days, a 25% non-refundable deposit is required at time of booking. For departures within 90 days, full non-refundable payment is required at booking. Any extra services, including international air and insurance, can be booked at a later date and standard terms and conditions apply.

Royal Scotsman Train

Book by March 31, 2009 and save up to $2,720 per person on the Classic, Western, Grand North Western and Grand West Highlighand Royal Scotsman train journeys.

During these journeys, travel past ancient mountains and through highland lochs, golden glens and charming villages. From handsomely crafted wood compartments to elegant dining cars with fine china, Royal Scotsman train travel evokes the gracious hospitality of bygone times.
2009 Journeys include:

• Grand North Western: Save $2,710 per person 
  Code 9030RYSM

This journey combines the favourite Classic and scenic Western journeys.

With seven nights aboard, this is an opportunity to savour The Royal Scotsman and Scotland to the fullest. After following the east coast up to Keith, head west towards Inverness and the Isle of Skye, including a visit to the picturesque village of Plockton. A private tour and tasting at Dalmore Distillery and a personal invitation to visit Ballindalloch Castle, with its magnificent gardens, are just two of the highlights. After some free time in Edinburgh, relax and experience the magnificent West Highland scenery and a private view of Mount Stuart, Britain’s most spectacular Victorian Gothic house.

• Grand West Highland: Save $2,720 per person
  Code 9031RYSM

This 5-night journey combines the scenic Western and traditional Highland journeys

It’s always hard to say farewell to the Scottish Highlands. That’s why we’ve made it possible for you to join us for a longer journey. Enjoy the magnificent scenery of the West Highland Line and an exclusive view of Mount Stuart, a spectacular Victorian Gothic house. Then after some free time in Edinburgh experience the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands as you head north, stopping along the way for a private visit to Dalwhinnie Distillery and to try your hand at some outdoor activities on the Rothiemurchus Highland Estate.

• Classic: Save $1,370 per person 
  Code 9032RYSM

The 4-night Classic Journey is the quintessential Royal Scotsman experience and certainly one of our most popular journeys. After following the east coast up to Keith, head west towards Inverness and the Isle of Skye, including a visit to the picturesque village of Plockton. A private tour and tasting at Dalmore Distillery and a personal invitation to visit Ballindalloch Castle, with its magnificent gardens, are just two of the highlights. Along the way, there is time for golf, fishing, clay pigeon shooting or a guided walk though stunning landscapes.

• Western: Save $1,640 per person
  Code 9033RYSM

The West Highland line is stunning, one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys. On your 3-night travels through the dramatic backdrop of Rannoch Moor to Mallaig, The Royal Scotsman’s stately pace allows for plenty of time to reflect and fully appreciate the beauty outside your window. Heading south, you cross from Wemyss Bay to the Isle of Bute for a private view of Mount Stuart, Britain’s most spectacular Victorian Gothic house. The weather can be magical in the Western Isles and, when it is, we can never resist stopping for a walk on one of the glorious West Coast beaches.

Terms & Conditions

For all Special Offers noted above, all prices are per person, based on double occupancy, unless otherwise stated. All prices are quoted in U.S. Dollars. Prices listed for each offer may pertain to specific departure dates. Restrictions and blackout dates may apply. Special Offers are for new bookings only, are not combinable with any other offer, discount or promotion and are based on availability.

Sustainable Travel: Adventure Trips

Adventure Center is a One-stop source for world-class sustainable adventure travel experiences at affordable prices. Choose from a range of over 1,000 adventure vacations worldwide including hiking and biking trips, cultural tours, African safaris, Antarctica expedition cruises, and much more. The environmental effects of a trip are key considerations during the itinerary design process. Everyone involved with the organization of a trip, from tour leaders to office staff, promote and adhere to sustainable travel principles, which travelers are encouraged to embrace.

Backroads, Country Walkers, National Geographic and Mt. Travel Sobek are all adventure companies offering unique itineraries including hiking, biking and walking trips to lessen the environmental impact and allow travelers to be culturally unobtrusive.

Would you be more likely to travel with a company that promotes environmentally friendly practices over one that doesn’t?

Support Climate Change Research in Antarctica

Antarctica is currently the fastest warming area on the planet, with temperatures & related ice-melt increasing at an even faster rate than had been predicted. The effects of global warming will have an impact on marine, animal & human life around the planet.

Join a mission with luxury tour operator, Abercrombie and Kent aboard MV ‘Minerva’ with award-winning scientist Dr. James McClintock to an Antarctic research station, where they present equipment critical to the monitoring of Antarctic climate change. Along the way, travelers journey in Zodiacs and on land to explore the region’s coastline and wildlife.

Book now, and you also save $1,000 per person on this voyage, as well as other 2009-10 Antarctica trips.

Ensemble Grand Journeys

Ensemble announced it would have their first-ever charter program. The 10 day luxury Caribbean vacation will be aboard the Seven Seas Navigator, sailing round trip from Ft. Lauderdale, January 12 – 23, 2010. 

Take part in the first voyage from Ensembles Grand Journeys and experience the seclusion and beauty of 6 exclusive Caribbean islands – including St. Martin, British Virgin Islands (Spanish Town), St. Barthelemy, Cayo Lavantado (Dominican Republic), St. Croix, and Turks and Caicos. Ten days of memories will last you a lifetime on a 6-star luxury liner voted “World’s Best Large Ship Cruise Line” by the readers of the Vonde Nast Traveler. Join celebrity chef Lynn Crawford, renowned journalist Forest Sawyer, and 400 other like-minded travelers. We’ll be the only ship scheduled in each port of call, ensuring an exclusive and private voyage that only Ensemble Grand Journeys could offer. Book your passage now to ensure the accommodation you desire. Suites start at $4,699 USD per person, including food and beverages, comprehensive non-medical travel insurance and all shipboard gratuities.

The cruise will be sold exclusively by Ensemble agencies, and the itinerary has been designed so that the Seven Seas Navigator will be the only vessel at all seven ports of call.

Ensemble’s long range strategy includes a series of luxury land and cruise departures 3 to 5 times per year. Venues may range from a personal wine journey of off-limit wineries in Napa, to a private NASCAR adventure hosted by a giant in the auto-racing world.  Check back for future posts, as more details on these Ensemble Grand Journeys are released.

Luxury Cruise vs. Premium Cruise

Being a premium cruise traveler and having just experienced Celebrity’s Solstice, what is all the hype about stepping up to a luxury cruise, and are the finer things worth their asking price?

Silversea is known for their All-Inclusive program, which is comprised of Gourmet Meals, Fine Wines (25 Red / 25 White), Champagne, Spirits, and Bulgari Toiletries. However, when comparing caviar with lobster, I found there to be a major difference, yet insufficient data to substantiate the answer to my question: are the finer things really worth their asking price? I did some research and I compared the proverbial apples to oranges in order to give this question proper consideration. In my research, I compared the Silversea Wind’s 240 square foot ocean view Vista Suite with the 323 sq. ft. Sky Suite aboard the Azamara Quest.

Here are my findings:

Silversea Wind:                                           Azamara Quest:
                                  10-Night Mediterranean
June 16, 2009                                                 June 4, 2009
$6,716.00 pp                                                 $4,386 pp

                                     What You Get…
314 Passengers                                              694 Passengers
Decks 4 & 5                                                     Deck 8 – Balcony
Sitting Area                                                    Daily European bedding
Unlimited Pommery Champagne                  Butler Service
Mini Bar Stocked                                       Bottled water
Acqua Di Parma Bath Amenities                 Pillow menu
Plush Robe & Choice of Pillow                   Hansgrohe shower head
Personalized Stationary                            Daily fruit basket
Marble Bath / Full Bath                             Fresh cut flowers
Gratuities Included                                  Daily hors d’oeuvres
Viking cooking school at sea                    Soft drinks from mini-bar
Beverage cabin in suite                           3 Nights at specialty restaurants
Complimentary newspaper daily                Silk wrapped hangers
1 complimentary shore excursion               Hansgrohe showerhead
Transfers to town/city center in port         Welcome champagne
                                                          4-6 pm specialty coffee in suite

                                             Difference: $2,330 Per Person

Alright! We have a significant price difference. Both cruise lines have an excellent reputation, and consumers would be happy would either choice.  The question is, with the current economic condition would you be more inclined to consider a premium cruise line, or are you willing to pay for luxury?

Top Ten Reasons to Cruise on the Celebrity Solstice

1.  Unique Aqua Class staterooms, premium veranda accommodations with dedicated specialty  restaurants and complimentary use of Persian Garden & AquaSpa relaxation room.

2.  Larger staterooms with added storage spacious bathrooms.

3.  85% of staterooms are veranda cabins

4.  First ever hot glass show at sea by Corning Glass Museum

5.  First ever Lawn Club offering a putting green, bocci ball & even picnics while at sea.

6.  Ten unique dining venues

7.  New bars include: Crush, Cellar Masters, Ensemble Lounge, Quasar, Galleria Tastings & Sky  Observation Lounge.

8.  Expansive retail area offering 18 unique venues onboard

9.  Three new production shows created specifically for the Solstice

10.  Celebrity renowned gourmet cuisine

You can read my previous posts with a detailed review of the Solsitce, & can access over 200 photos of the Solstice, by visiting my Flickr account

Cunard One Month Sale

You still have time to take advantge of our Cunard one month sale. Book a Europe or Transatlantic voyage from Nov 10-Dec 10, 2008 and receive up to $300 per cabin onboard credit in addition to a 50% reduced deposit.

Promotion details: Ship board credit offer is $100 for inside/ocean view cabins; $200 for balcony cabin; $300 for Grill. Some restrictions may apply. Call for details.