After Carnival Cruise Lines announced last week that they will be "returning" to Europe in 2011 with the launch of Carnival Dream, a trend seemed to be set in motion. Holland America Line then unveiled their 2011 Europe season, which will feature the newest Signature-class ship, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, on Mediterranean sailings, plus more round-trip and 7-day itineraries than ever before. Seven ships—Nieuw Amsterdam, Eurodam, Noordam, Rotterdam, Prinsendam, Maasdam, and Ryndam—will be based in the region. Not to be outdone, Norwegian Cruise Line will send its largest ship to date, Norwegian Epic, debuting this July, to the Mediterranean as part of her 2011 deployment to join other NCL ships based in Europe for the summer, as well as those in the Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises fleets. I haven't even scratched the surface of ships heading across the Atlantic—Princess also sends a flotilla of their vessels every year and there are numerous smaller lines that roam the Med and Baltic seasonally.As Rick Meadows, Holland America Lines' executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs says, “In 2011, we are catering to a broader range of interests as the appeal of cruising Europe continues to grow. By expanding our cruise opportunities—both in new ports and varied itineraries—we expect to entice both first-time and seasoned cruisers.”
But will the ships attract enough North Americans willing to fly to European homeports to fill them? Is there that much pent up demand? The jury's out, but if a "grand tour" of European ports is on your bucket list, it's a good time to make plans.
As for Caribbean cruises in summer 2011, sadly the choices will be more limited.
Lots of beautiful places to see on a cruise ship in Europe, that's for sure. Nice blog by the way.
ReplyDeleteEurope is very beautiful and so if you all want to discover the beauty of Europe then this Europe cruise is for you people.
ReplyDeletePrague is considered one of the most romantic cities of the world which will also be included in this cruise.
europe cruises
Point Break - A Perfect Bar Experience in NYC
ReplyDeleteA local friend recommended and took my Cali group to this amazing bar. He said that mostly locals came here so I didn't really know what to expect ambiance wise... but screw it, the view at this bar was absolutely breathtaking! No joke. I felt like a celebrity w/ superstar treatment as the staff are friendly and amazing to say the very least.
I don't know who the house DJ was but he definitely was playing music right up my alley. It would've been my dream for people to start dancing, but it's all good.
It's a bit sceney for my taste, but it really didn't bother me much. the bartenders knew their stuff, although their 1st cocktail was a little weak, when he saw i understood cocktails the next 2 were stronger. I also liked that even though the place was really hopping the bartender remembered what i was drinking when i came to order another. (he also understood how good a gin hendricks is, and not to overpower it with the mixer). It was amazing to see their “das boot” which is shaped like a boot filled with beer. Don’t get me wrong, I am not drunk…it’s an actual boot shaped beer container ready to be emptied..try it ..you will love it!! Oh..how can I forget, they even have a wheel o' shots where you just have to spin it and have to drink whatever shot it lands on!! Now call that bar creativity at its best!!!
We ordered the Veal and Fish Tacos. They were delicious. Mm! We ended up asking for spoons to polish off whatever remained in the platter. (Faux pas? Who cares as long as it gets in my tummy.) The fries were crispy, but not overcooked, just the way that I like them.
So take in this scene: You walk in to what seems like an overly crowded place, but soon fine an empty table. Time seems to stop and the only indicator of the night moving on is the moon and your brain cells slowly going to bed forever. The music is not to loud and the people around look good, the only thing left for you to do is to enjoy that drink you paid ridiculously low for and laugh at the joke your co-worker just told.
The vibe of the place just never seems to die out and if you happen to spot some NYC socialite, sports player, or star, don't let it get to you... because for that moment, this night they are no long more important than then you. In fact go up to them and introduce yourself!
All in all just a great place to meet new people, or just have drinks with people you already know. I've been to numerous bars in the city but i would say this place is just great. Very welcoming staff, very laid back ambiance. I’ve been here twice after my first visit with my Cali group . I would say its worth the every penny you spend!!