On Carnival Sunrise I have sailed the 5 Night Eastern Caribbean itinerary but they have enhanced it a bit. My itinerary from Port Everglades was Grand Turk and Amber Cove. For 2021, she will sail from Miami and visit Nassau, Half Moon Cay and Grand Turk A Beach lovers dream.
Day 1 Leave Miami
On Day 1 you will board Carnival Sunrise in Miami and its your day to explore and settle in to your new home. I always go from deck to deck exploring to find out where all the food is and how to get around. And make sure you attend the Muster Drill when its time, it is mandatory.
​ As you sail away, you can watch the sun lower in the sky over Miami and the ocean welcome you for 5 days. TIP If you are coming from say more than 3 or four hours or flying in, arrive the day before and stay at a hotel close to the airport or port. You can leave your car there and shuttle to the pier. The cost of parking is less, you have an extra day incase of problems traveling and getting the port is less hassle. Day 2 Arrive in Nassau Bahamas
Today you will arrive in Nassau Bahamas for a day of really what every you want. Take a city tour, do some shopping, explore the Queens Staircase or visit a resort for a beach day. There are also some great snorkeling trips that are a short boat ride from the pier. Just across from the port is The Atlantis Resort.
​ And remember, tonight is Elegant Night so dress to impress. Maybe even make reservations to eat at the 555 Steakhouse or Cucina Del Capitano. TIP If you want to go visit Atlantis, take the water taxi. It's a much prettier ride than a taxi. Day 3 Arrive Half Moon Cay
Today you arrive in Half Moon Cay, one of the private islands owned by Carnival Corp. You will take a short water shuttle ride over to the island where you can explore on your own. Free beach chairs are available up and down the beach and if you have a big group, you can rent a cabana on the beach. Enjoy the soft sand a clear blue water or explore the island on a shore excursion including snorkeling, kayaking and tours of the island via bicycle.
​ Lunch is served on the island and its included. Usually features, burgers, hot dogs, chicken and all the sides. After lunch, head over for a drink at the pirate ship bar for music and beach games. TIP If you want quiet go to the right down the beach past the pirate ship. You will find chairs down there and most will not make the walk. Day 4 Arrive Grand Turk
Today you arrive in Grand Turk a port in the Turks and Caicos built by Carnival Corp. Here you can relax on the beach, swim and snorkel. But just a few steps away from the beach is the always fun Margaritaville with a huge pool with plenty of chairs and a bar.
Or, take in some shopping where you will find all the Caribbean staples like Caraloha and Diamonds International. But if you want something a little more adventurous, you can find plenty of shore excursions or rent a golf cart and drive up to the lighthouse where you will find donkeys just wandering around. You could also take a walk down the beach and visit the famous Jack Shack for some jerk chicken and a beverage. ​ TIP When you get to the end of the pier, you will have the choice to go left or right. Going right, you will find chairs and its a little quieter. The beach pretty rocky so its best for those with water shoes and wanting to snorkel. To the left, you will find plenty of chairs but remember, the ones with the green umbrellas are free, the red umbrellas have a cost. Day5 Fun Day At Sea
Ahhhh, a day at sea. Time to sleep in, head to the dining room for Sea Day Brunch and find a chair on Serenity Deck. Or get up early and take in the sunrise along with a cup of coffee from Java Blue. There is always so much to do on a sea day, so just enjoy. But is the last day so be sure to read your debarkation instructions.
For the afternoon, you will likely find some pool games by the Lido Pool or Trivia in the Red Frog Pub. TIP If you want a good seat on Serenity Deck, get up early and grab a chair. But don't be a chair hog, make sure someone is with your chairs at all times. Day 6 Arrive Back in Miami
Well unfortunately the cruise must come to an end and it's time to debark the Sunrise. You will want to be up early so you can grab that last breakfast, get some last minute pictures and prepare for debarkation.
​ Some will stay an extra night in Miami to explore and take in the culture of South Beach. ​ TIP If you are not in a rush and chose self assist, find a comfortable spot and make them force you off. Kidding, when they say its time to go, you gotta go. They get really pushy as time goes by.
This is such a great itinerary getting you a lot of ports in a short amount of time. The sailing leave on Saturdays and Mondays so this gives you time on either end for travel and extra stops. For more information on this and other itineraries, contact me today.
Mike Miller
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Royal Caribbean also has their Cyber Week Sale coming up soon. so this is a great time to book. 2021 will be here so so time to plan. I can be reached at the information below to help plan your cruise vacation.
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Mike Miller
Freedom to Roam Travel
(904) 534-4318
mike@freedomtoroamtravel.com
Rocky Mountaineer Railways has been operating their luxary trains in Canada for years. Routes between Vancouver and Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper take you through the scenic Canadian Rockies. But now you can enjoy the Rocky Mountaineer service here in the US.
Rocky Mountaineer has brought their luxury trains to the US beginning with the Denver to Red Rock 2 Day Rail Journey. This trip will take you from Denver CO to Mohab UT with a stop in Glenwood Springs CO for an overnight stay.
Your journey will include views of the scenic Rocky Mountains, Ruby Canyon Mount Logan and you will cross the Continental Divide. Enjoy the unobstructed views from your domed rail car.
Your journey will include views of the scenic Rocky Mountains, Ruby Canyon Mount Logan and you will cross the Continental Divide. Enjoy the unobstructed views from your domed rail car.
Silver Leaf Service and Silver Leaf Plus
A signature with Rocky Mountaineer is the Silver Leaf Service includes a culinary experience featuring a southwest cuisine. Enjoy the domed car views in comfort. Enhance your experience by upgrading to Silver Leave Plus giving you access to the newly renovated lounge car where a mixologist will mix up your favorite beverage.
A signature with Rocky Mountaineer is the Silver Leaf Service includes a culinary experience featuring a southwest cuisine. Enjoy the domed car views in comfort. Enhance your experience by upgrading to Silver Leave Plus giving you access to the newly renovated lounge car where a mixologist will mix up your favorite beverage.
Rail tours run August through October 2021. Packages are available that include stays in Denver, Mohab and more.
For more information or to plan your rail adventure, you can reach me at the contact info below.
For more information or to plan your rail adventure, you can reach me at the contact info below.
Mike Miller
Freedom to Roam Travel
(904) 534-4318
mike@freedomtoroamtravel.com
Today Princess Cruise Line followed Carnival in extending their pause in operations. But Princess extended through March 31, 2021 for all ships departing US ports. Also, since the order restricts any cruises longer than 7 nights, all cruises longer than 7 nights are cancelled through November 1, 2021.
In addition to US Sailings, sailings from Japan have been cancelled through June 25, 2021
This is being done in order to prepare to meet the CDC guidelines set fourth in theFramework For Conditional Sailing Order. Jan Swartz, President of Princes Cruise Line said "We are focused on preparing our ships to meet the CDC health and safety requirements for our eventual return to service. We also appreciate the continued support we have received from our guests, partners and travel advisors, reinforcing for all of us why we do what we do."
Passengers affected by cancellations will have the choice of a full refund or a Future Cruse Credit with a bonus of an additional 25%. Passengers have until December 31, 2020 to choose a refund but for the Future Cruise Credit, nothing to be done.
In addition to US Sailings, sailings from Japan have been cancelled through June 25, 2021
This is being done in order to prepare to meet the CDC guidelines set fourth in theFramework For Conditional Sailing Order. Jan Swartz, President of Princes Cruise Line said "We are focused on preparing our ships to meet the CDC health and safety requirements for our eventual return to service. We also appreciate the continued support we have received from our guests, partners and travel advisors, reinforcing for all of us why we do what we do."
Passengers affected by cancellations will have the choice of a full refund or a Future Cruse Credit with a bonus of an additional 25%. Passengers have until December 31, 2020 to choose a refund but for the Future Cruise Credit, nothing to be done.
Mike Miller
Freedom to Roam Travel
(904) 534-4318
mike@freedomtoroamtravel.com
Although they have not sent out an official announcement, Carnival Cruise Line has cancelled all cruises through January and beyond for most ship. Below is a list of the ships and sailings impacted. OF course this information is subject to change but I will keep you updated.
- Carnival Splendor sailings through and including March 2, 2021
- Mardi Gras sailings November 14, 2020 through and including January 30, 2021
- Carnival Breeze from Ft. Lauderdale sailings November 7, 2020 through and including March 7, 2021
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Carnival Sunrise
- Ft. Lauderdale, New York and Norfolk sailings through and including October 19, 2020
- Miami 7 and 8 day sailings from October 9, 2021 through and including April 30, 2022, excluding the March 5, 2022 sailing
- Miami 5 day sailing January 3, 2022
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Carnival Radiance
- Sailings through and including November 1, 2020
- 9, 12, and 14 day sailings from May 2, 2021 through and including April 29, 2022
- 5 day sailings December 23, 2021 and December 28, 2021
- Carnival Paradise sailings through and including February 22, 2021
- Carnival Pride, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Glory, Carnival Miracle sailings through and including February 28, 2021
- Carnival Legend sailings through and including March 26, 2021
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Carnival Magic
- Ft. Lauderdale and Miami sailings through and including March 6, 2021
- Transatlantic & Barcelona sailings April 10, 2021 through and including May 3, 2021
- Carnival Imagination and Carnival Inspiration sailings through and including April 19, 2021
- Carnival Valor sailings through and including April 24, 2021
- Carnival Spirit sailings through and including May 16, 2021
- Carnival Fascination sailings through and including January 9, 2022
- Carnival Sensation sailings March 3, 2022 and March 7, 2022
- All Other Ships sailings through and including January 31, 2021
I would expect announcements from other cruise lines if not later today, later in the week. More to come.
Mike Miller
Freedom to Roam Travel
(904) 534-4318
mike@freedomtoroamtravel.com
Despite the fact we are in a pandemic, the desire and need to travel still exist. I know I am itching to get out of town and go almost anywhere really. When you do take off to those destinations, there are things you want to do before, during and after in order to protect your self and stay out of trouble.
Before you go
Make sure you are aware of the rules and regulations from not only the vendors you are using to get to your destination but your destination.
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These are important because the last thing you want to do is visit a destination and have to turn around.
Make sure you know the rules on cancellation for hotel and air reservations. Most hotels and airlines have modified their cancellation policies but they may not include a refund rather a credit. I was looking at flights recently on American Airlines. A once non refundable fare was still non refundable but had no fee for changing dates.
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As an agent, I can help guide you through these hoops.
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- Are they requiring a Negative PCR Test upon arrival?
- Do they require a quarantine upon arrival?
- What are the mask rules?
- What is open and not open. Attractions, dining and more
- Know the rules. If you are traveling out of the country, you might encounter some harsh punishments for not following restrictions
These are important because the last thing you want to do is visit a destination and have to turn around.
Make sure you know the rules on cancellation for hotel and air reservations. Most hotels and airlines have modified their cancellation policies but they may not include a refund rather a credit. I was looking at flights recently on American Airlines. A once non refundable fare was still non refundable but had no fee for changing dates.
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As an agent, I can help guide you through these hoops.
Packing
Remember the items we use at home to take with you feel the need. This might include:
- Hand Sanitizer
- Travel packs of Clorox or Lysol wipes
- Extra mask incase one gets dirty or lost
Taking a Road Trip?
My parents recently went on a road trip and did something I really had not thought of until now. Probably one of the activities people do the most on the road is eat. If you do not feel comfortable stopping in restaurants, simply pack some food in a cooler and then stops at a rest stop for the restroom can be a great time to enjoy lunch outside. Most stops have a picnic area close to the parking.
Now of course you might have that restaurant you have been dying to try or just simply want to sit down and enjoy a nice meal. Call a head and make sure the dining room is open and what if any rules they have. Using apps like IExit will tell you what is on each exit on the interstate.
Now of course you might have that restaurant you have been dying to try or just simply want to sit down and enjoy a nice meal. Call a head and make sure the dining room is open and what if any rules they have. Using apps like IExit will tell you what is on each exit on the interstate.
I am confident we will get through this and all of these tips will become obsolete but for now, this is what we need to do if we want to travel.
Mike Miller
Freedom to Roam Travel
(904) 534-4318
mike@freedomtoroamtravel.com
Celebrity Cruise Line Goes All In
By Mike Miller
People have been looking for a more all inclusive approach to cruising usually only found on the luxury lines. Well exciting news, Celebrity Cruise Lines has listened and introduced All Included Pricing.
All including pricing is a pricing structure allowing you to choose what you want included in your cruise. It starts with All Celebrity Cruises get Free Classic Beverage Package Free Surfing Wifi and Free Gratuities.
After that, you have the opportunity to upgrade to two other packages adding to the amenities. This includes upgraded WIFI, Premium Beverage Package and On Board Credits. See the list below for details.
Upgraded Packages
All including pricing is a pricing structure allowing you to choose what you want included in your cruise. It starts with All Celebrity Cruises get Free Classic Beverage Package Free Surfing Wifi and Free Gratuities.
After that, you have the opportunity to upgrade to two other packages adding to the amenities. This includes upgraded WIFI, Premium Beverage Package and On Board Credits. See the list below for details.
Upgraded Packages
ELEVATED PACKAGE
- Upgrade to premium drinks
- Add shore excursions up to $200 per person
INDULGE PACKAGE
- Upgrade to premium drinks
- Upgrade to streaming speed Wi-Fi
- Add shore excursions up to $200 per person
- Get an onboard credit up to $200 per person to spend almost any way you like
Some important Terms and Conditions
- Applies to bookings made on or after November 17, 2020
- Beverage Package and Gratuities apply to all guest in the stateroom. WIFI applies to two devices per stateroom.
- The Classic Beverage Package includes all Carbonated Drinks, Bottled Water, Juices including Apple, Cranberry, Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, Premium Coffees and Teas as well as beer, spirits, cocktails and wines by the glass up to $9 per serving. Bottles of wine are not included.
- The Premium Beverage Package includes All Carbonated Drinks, Premium Bottled Water, Freshly Squeezed and Bottled/Canned Juices, San Pellegrino, Red Bull, Vitamin water, Honest Iced Teas and Premium Coffees and Teas as well as beer, spirits, cocktails and wines by the glass up to $15 per serving. Bottles of wine are not included.
- The Retreat and Suites get the Indulge Package at no additional cost.
- ​Cruises to the Galapagos are excluded.
- On Board Credit is based on length of sailing.
- Additional Restrictions may apply
​Will this change the face of cruising with other cruise lines following suit? At this point it is hard to tell but its entirely possible. The one difference is Celebrity is a Premium cruise line which brings a different passenger than say Carnival or ever sister company Royal Caribbean. But you might see lines like Holland America and Princess embrace this a little faster. Don't worry, I will keep you updated.
Mike Miller
​Freedom to Roam Travel
(904) 534-4318
mike@freedomtoroamtravel.com
Bahamas COVID 19 Travel Restrictions
By Mike Miller
​Are you itching to head to the Bahamas on vacation? Well if so, you will have some hoops to jump through but I am here to explain. Now this information is as of today 11/12/20 and could change so its best to check for new requirements prior to travel.
The requirement prior to arrival is you will need to obtain a Bahamas Travel Health Visa which is done through the Bahamas and to get that visa, it will require a test.
- Must have a negative COVID 19 PCR test taken no more than 5 Days from day of arrival.
- Once you have the negative test, you must upload the results and apply for the Health Visa paying the fee of $40-$60 Per Person depending on length of stay.
- As of 11/14/20, the Health Visa will cover COVID Related Travel Insurance (see below)
- Once you are approved for the Visa, you will need to print it out and bring it with you to present upon arrival in the Bahamas.
- A positive PCR Test or test taken beyond the 5 days will result in denied entry.
While in the Bahamas – New Providence and Abaco
- Mask must be worn in all public spaces except on the beach or while in the process of exercise.
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Travel is throughout the island is not restricted except for some curfews.
- Weekdays 9PM – 5AM Monday through Friday
- Weekends 6PM – 5AM Saturday and Sunday
- Beaches and Parks are open Monday through Friday 5AM – 9PM, Saturday and Sunday 5AM – 6PM
- Hotel restaurants are allowed indoor dining and shops are now allowed to have in store shopping.
- Any stays longer than 4 days will be required to take a Rapid Antigen test and receive a negative result.
Island of Eluthra
Curfews
Curfews
- Weekday 9PM – 5AM Monday through Friday
- Weekend 24 Hour Curfew is in affect 6PM Friday through 5AM Monday
- Mask Mandate in all public spaces.
Travel Insurance included in the Health Visa
Coverage includes:
Coverage includes:
- Medical expenses incurred on-island due to COVID-19, up to $50,000 (USD)
- Trip interruption/delay for necessary quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19, up to $500 (USD) per day/$7,000 (USD) max
- Medical evacuation due to COVID-19, and subject to medical necessity, up to $50,000 (USD)
As of right now, these are the requirements for arriving by flight or boat for US Citizens. Nothing has been decided when it comes to cruise ships and when and how they will except cruise ship passengers. Prior to planning your vacation to the Bahamas, as an advisor, I will review over the regulations and protocols prior to finalizing plans.