Thursday, December 30, 2010
Top Features of an All Inclusive Family Vacation:
• climate and beach - of course!
• extravagant pools: waterslides, waterfalls, even private waterparks
• watersports: typically resorts include non-motorized watersports such as kayaks, windsurfing, sunfish sailing. Some all inclusive resorts also include snorkeling boat trips, and a few include scuba too; others charge extra for such "motorized" outings.
• kids programs: many resorts have a basic kids' club for ages four to 12. Others go all out, with separate programs for 4 or 5 different age sets. Teens are a difficult age to please, but some properties try hard, with teen activities and coordinators. Meanwhile more and more all inclusive resorts offer infant care.
• activities: scavenger hunts, pool games, beach parties... Most places offer nightly entertainment too, ranging from cute-but-amateurish to professional caliber. Some all inclusive resorts have a weekly kids' club show staged in a real theater.
• meal-time convenience: multiple restaurants, including casual snacks. Buffets feed kids with no waiting; many have a kids' section. Most resorts have a la carte "fine dining" also.
• drinks on tap: - kids need plenty of cool drinks in a hot country. Swim-up bars are fun.
• grown-up pampering: a fitness center, spa, and at least one fine-dining restaurant are de rigeur. And it goes without saying that golf is available. Spa always costs extra, as does golf in most cases.
Bottom line About All inclusive Family Vacations:
All needs are provided for, fun is abundant, parents can enjoy a beautiful setting and relaaaaax. And with all inclusive pricing, parents never need wonder "How much will this cost?" when kids want more drinks or activities.
• extravagant pools: waterslides, waterfalls, even private waterparks
• watersports: typically resorts include non-motorized watersports such as kayaks, windsurfing, sunfish sailing. Some all inclusive resorts also include snorkeling boat trips, and a few include scuba too; others charge extra for such "motorized" outings.
• kids programs: many resorts have a basic kids' club for ages four to 12. Others go all out, with separate programs for 4 or 5 different age sets. Teens are a difficult age to please, but some properties try hard, with teen activities and coordinators. Meanwhile more and more all inclusive resorts offer infant care.
• activities: scavenger hunts, pool games, beach parties... Most places offer nightly entertainment too, ranging from cute-but-amateurish to professional caliber. Some all inclusive resorts have a weekly kids' club show staged in a real theater.
• meal-time convenience: multiple restaurants, including casual snacks. Buffets feed kids with no waiting; many have a kids' section. Most resorts have a la carte "fine dining" also.
• drinks on tap: - kids need plenty of cool drinks in a hot country. Swim-up bars are fun.
• grown-up pampering: a fitness center, spa, and at least one fine-dining restaurant are de rigeur. And it goes without saying that golf is available. Spa always costs extra, as does golf in most cases.
Bottom line About All inclusive Family Vacations:
All needs are provided for, fun is abundant, parents can enjoy a beautiful setting and relaaaaax. And with all inclusive pricing, parents never need wonder "How much will this cost?" when kids want more drinks or activities.
Top 10 Fun Facts about a Canada/New England Cruise
Besides fall leaf-peeping, which of course can be spectacular, whale-watching excursions in New England are the number one draw during the late summer and fall months. The most common sightings are humpbacks, but other species are seen as well, including minke whales, finback whales and right whales. Whales and dolphins can also be seen while at sea; maybe you'll be lucky enough to spot a narwhal, a unique species with one tooth piercing its upper lip. It is believed that the narwhal is the inspiration for the mythical unicorn.
Visiting the cities in this region can offer a wealth of cultural opportunities, but almost all of them have a quirky, off-the-beaten-track museum or two that might be fun to visit. Take the kids to the only Toilet Museum in the world, in Worcester, for example, or to see the witches' stocks in old Salem, or to the Green Animals Mansion in Newport, wherein an entire zoo's worth of topiary awaits. The legendary L.L. Bean store in Freeport, Maine, stays open 24 hours a day, and you can see Lenny, the 1,700-pound moose sculpted entirely from chocolate, at Len Libby's in Bar Harbor. In Prince Edward Island, you can visit Avonlea, home of "Anne of Green Gables."
Most people don't realize that New England and eastern Canada is a great wine producing region, with several wineries in Massachusetts, Maine, Quebec and Nova Scotia. You can make an entire day trip out of visiting local wineries; in fact, some cruises highlight that in their itineraries.
Montreal has a notable jazz festival, film festival and comedy competition every year, but it is also gaining repute as one of the leading fashion design cities in the world. Take a stroll through Old Montreal and the converted buildings around the old port; you can visit the designers' studios and, who knows, you might just meet the next Versace or Vera Wang. And by the way, making a purchase from one of these soon-to-be-famous designers may not be as big a bargain as it used to be due to a less powerful U.S. dollar but the exchange rate still offers a good value.
Here's a fun fact that rarely sees print: There are more bars and pubs per capita in the city of Halifax than in any other city in North America. As a result, the pub-crawling excursion is one of the most popular on any cruise ship.
St. John's is located on the Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland, an area rich with the lore of fairies. Yes, fairies -- in fact, many of the towns around the peninsula are named Fairy-something-or-other, and locals still tell fairy stories in the pubs and bars around the region.
The Ben and Bill's Chocolate Emporium in Bar Harbor serves lobster ice cream. Now that's something to write home about.
Fjords aren't limited to Norway and Chile; North America has them too. A bizarre geographical confluence created the Saguenay Fjord, in that it's located in the heart of the province of Quebec and is fed by both the Atlantic Ocean and the St. Lawrence Seaway. It's unique, the only one of its kind in the world. It's not as spectacular as the European or South American fjords, nor as pristinely beautiful as those in Alaska, but if your cruise itinerary has a day of cruising the Saguenay, you are lucky indeed.
The old quarter of Quebec City is the only fortified city in North America. You can wander the ramparts and look down into the maze of cobblestoned streets below. There's a funicular a few blocks away that descends to Lower Town, not far from the docks, a very steep (but very short) ride that delights children.
You can spend a day walking The Freedom Trail in Boston, the very route that Paul Revere took to warn of the British invasion of the city. It's two and a half miles long, so wear good shoes. Plan to stop in some of the bakeries in Little Italy (on the trail) for sustenance.
Visiting the cities in this region can offer a wealth of cultural opportunities, but almost all of them have a quirky, off-the-beaten-track museum or two that might be fun to visit. Take the kids to the only Toilet Museum in the world, in Worcester, for example, or to see the witches' stocks in old Salem, or to the Green Animals Mansion in Newport, wherein an entire zoo's worth of topiary awaits. The legendary L.L. Bean store in Freeport, Maine, stays open 24 hours a day, and you can see Lenny, the 1,700-pound moose sculpted entirely from chocolate, at Len Libby's in Bar Harbor. In Prince Edward Island, you can visit Avonlea, home of "Anne of Green Gables."
Most people don't realize that New England and eastern Canada is a great wine producing region, with several wineries in Massachusetts, Maine, Quebec and Nova Scotia. You can make an entire day trip out of visiting local wineries; in fact, some cruises highlight that in their itineraries.
Montreal has a notable jazz festival, film festival and comedy competition every year, but it is also gaining repute as one of the leading fashion design cities in the world. Take a stroll through Old Montreal and the converted buildings around the old port; you can visit the designers' studios and, who knows, you might just meet the next Versace or Vera Wang. And by the way, making a purchase from one of these soon-to-be-famous designers may not be as big a bargain as it used to be due to a less powerful U.S. dollar but the exchange rate still offers a good value.
Here's a fun fact that rarely sees print: There are more bars and pubs per capita in the city of Halifax than in any other city in North America. As a result, the pub-crawling excursion is one of the most popular on any cruise ship.
St. John's is located on the Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland, an area rich with the lore of fairies. Yes, fairies -- in fact, many of the towns around the peninsula are named Fairy-something-or-other, and locals still tell fairy stories in the pubs and bars around the region.
The Ben and Bill's Chocolate Emporium in Bar Harbor serves lobster ice cream. Now that's something to write home about.
Fjords aren't limited to Norway and Chile; North America has them too. A bizarre geographical confluence created the Saguenay Fjord, in that it's located in the heart of the province of Quebec and is fed by both the Atlantic Ocean and the St. Lawrence Seaway. It's unique, the only one of its kind in the world. It's not as spectacular as the European or South American fjords, nor as pristinely beautiful as those in Alaska, but if your cruise itinerary has a day of cruising the Saguenay, you are lucky indeed.
The old quarter of Quebec City is the only fortified city in North America. You can wander the ramparts and look down into the maze of cobblestoned streets below. There's a funicular a few blocks away that descends to Lower Town, not far from the docks, a very steep (but very short) ride that delights children.
You can spend a day walking The Freedom Trail in Boston, the very route that Paul Revere took to warn of the British invasion of the city. It's two and a half miles long, so wear good shoes. Plan to stop in some of the bakeries in Little Italy (on the trail) for sustenance.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
It's the Holiday Season!
Hello Travel with Lisa Fans! It's almost 2011! Time to start thinking about what kind of trip you are going to treat yourself to next year! To tempt you, I am going to showcase an adult-only all inclusive in Cancun, the Excellence Playa Mujeres. This is one of the nicest resorts I have been to...Everything is top notch. Read on to see what I mean. But remember! You don't have to be at an adult-only resort to have THIS much fun!
Conveniently located just north of Cancun, on a 20-mile peninsula complete with a remote two-mile stretch of white sand beach, and 25 minutes from the international airport, the all-inclusive adults only resort is close to a variety of Mexico’s top tourist attractions; the fishing island of Isla Mujeres, the Mayan archeological sites of the Yucatan Peninsula and the ruins at Chichen Itza, and the Playa Mujeres Golf Club, which features an 18-hole championship Greg Norman-designed golf course.
Gone are the days of wristbands and buffets. In their place are double-story suites, each with a private terrace and hydro pool.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted curbside with champagne and refreshing towels, fragranced with a hint of lavender. In the lobby, onyx pillars jet from two-toned marble floors, overshadowed only by a massive stained-glass mural illuminated from above.
Excellence Playa Mujeres offers 450 suites; all feature mahogany wood, an extra-wide, L-shaped sofa, private terrace or balcony, private Jacuzzi with indoor and outdoor access, fully equipped marble bathroom, a 42-inch, flat-screen television, complimentary wireless Internet access and concierge stations on every floor.
Dotting the seven swimming pools are hammocks and cabanas, and a man-made river winding throughout the entire property.
For those seeking a break from the sun, there are classes available in cooking, Spanish language, dancing, archery, and air-rifle shooting. For the adventurous, a wide array of activities and sports are readily at hand, including scuba diving excursions, exercise classes and jogging and swimming, making it a luxurious playground for the fit adult traveler.
The finishing touch at the resort is the spa. Surrounded by water,and reminiscent of a Greek temple, it is an island of health and well being. The wellness spa features private relaxation rooms, heated waterbeds, a 12-step hydrotherapy circuit, Swedish saunas, Roman caldariums, steam rooms, ice therapy and a full menu of massages.
http://www.excellence-resorts.com/all-inclusive-resorts/playa-mujeres-mexico/playa-mujeres-mexico.htm
Conveniently located just north of Cancun, on a 20-mile peninsula complete with a remote two-mile stretch of white sand beach, and 25 minutes from the international airport, the all-inclusive adults only resort is close to a variety of Mexico’s top tourist attractions; the fishing island of Isla Mujeres, the Mayan archeological sites of the Yucatan Peninsula and the ruins at Chichen Itza, and the Playa Mujeres Golf Club, which features an 18-hole championship Greg Norman-designed golf course.
Gone are the days of wristbands and buffets. In their place are double-story suites, each with a private terrace and hydro pool.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted curbside with champagne and refreshing towels, fragranced with a hint of lavender. In the lobby, onyx pillars jet from two-toned marble floors, overshadowed only by a massive stained-glass mural illuminated from above.
Excellence Playa Mujeres offers 450 suites; all feature mahogany wood, an extra-wide, L-shaped sofa, private terrace or balcony, private Jacuzzi with indoor and outdoor access, fully equipped marble bathroom, a 42-inch, flat-screen television, complimentary wireless Internet access and concierge stations on every floor.
Dotting the seven swimming pools are hammocks and cabanas, and a man-made river winding throughout the entire property.
For those seeking a break from the sun, there are classes available in cooking, Spanish language, dancing, archery, and air-rifle shooting. For the adventurous, a wide array of activities and sports are readily at hand, including scuba diving excursions, exercise classes and jogging and swimming, making it a luxurious playground for the fit adult traveler.
The finishing touch at the resort is the spa. Surrounded by water,and reminiscent of a Greek temple, it is an island of health and well being. The wellness spa features private relaxation rooms, heated waterbeds, a 12-step hydrotherapy circuit, Swedish saunas, Roman caldariums, steam rooms, ice therapy and a full menu of massages.
http://www.excellence-resorts.com/all-inclusive-resorts/playa-mujeres-mexico/playa-mujeres-mexico.htm
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Happy Fall! Travel with Lisa Fans!
Did you miss me? It's been a while, I know! BUSY BUSY BUSY! October is upon us; how can that be??? This month, I have a great slideshow featuring Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica. I had taken a quick trip back in July to Jamaica, and we spent one night at the original Sandals property...Montego Bay! We missed our friends Liz and Joe by one day, but they were awesome enough to share some photos!
The very first Sandals is a masterpiece in design by one of America's preeminent architects, Edward Durell Stone. Creating the optimum plan for the unspoiled coastline, he edged the entire resort along Jamaica's longest private white-sand beach. Minutes from Sangster International Airport, Sandals Montego Bay is one the island's most playful and captivating hideaways. Where the fun never ends and the party never stops…until you do!
The casual mood here will relax you. The upscale setting will impress you. Most of all, the warm and wonderful hospitality––where everyone knows your name and your favorite drink––will bring you back again and again. It's why this high-spirited retreat has more returning guests than any other Caribbean resort. Your journey along the unending shoreline takes you from the powdery beach through a maze of tropical gardens that surround four pools––including the area's liveliest swim-up bar. Seven restaurants match every culinary mood from the Far East to the East Indies. Five bars invite you to toast freely, including a cheerful English Pub where the Guinness is as authentic as the camaraderie. When you prefer romantic tranquility, escape to the Bay Roc Estate Beachfront Villa Suites.
Tucked into a secluded part of the resort, these spectacular on-the-sand villas put the beachfront at your front door and butler service at your beck-and-call. Sandals Montego Bay is where the beach––and the fun––goes on and on!
The very first Sandals is a masterpiece in design by one of America's preeminent architects, Edward Durell Stone. Creating the optimum plan for the unspoiled coastline, he edged the entire resort along Jamaica's longest private white-sand beach. Minutes from Sangster International Airport, Sandals Montego Bay is one the island's most playful and captivating hideaways. Where the fun never ends and the party never stops…until you do!
The casual mood here will relax you. The upscale setting will impress you. Most of all, the warm and wonderful hospitality––where everyone knows your name and your favorite drink––will bring you back again and again. It's why this high-spirited retreat has more returning guests than any other Caribbean resort. Your journey along the unending shoreline takes you from the powdery beach through a maze of tropical gardens that surround four pools––including the area's liveliest swim-up bar. Seven restaurants match every culinary mood from the Far East to the East Indies. Five bars invite you to toast freely, including a cheerful English Pub where the Guinness is as authentic as the camaraderie. When you prefer romantic tranquility, escape to the Bay Roc Estate Beachfront Villa Suites.
Tucked into a secluded part of the resort, these spectacular on-the-sand villas put the beachfront at your front door and butler service at your beck-and-call. Sandals Montego Bay is where the beach––and the fun––goes on and on!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Review by TRAVIS REED, The Associated Press
Until now, Harry Potter fans could merely imagine the sensation of quaffing a butterbeer, finding a magic wand at Ollivander's or escaping the steam from a snarling dragon's snout.
But finally, 13 years after the first of seven books began chronicling the boy wizard's adventures, imagination has become reality at Universal Orlando.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ( www.universalorlando.com/harrypotter), a minipark inside Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park, opened for general admission in June.
Past a stone archway and the steam-belching Hogwarts Express, the fictitious city of Hogsmeade unfolds amid snowcapped, dingy rooftops and storefronts packed like row houses with shops straight from the books and movies. Zonko's joke shop offers Sneakoscopes and extendable ears.
The confectionery Honeydukes has chocolate frogs and Bertie Bott's Every-Flavour Beans (pear and fish are among the delectable assortment). At the Owl Post, guests can stamp mail with a genuine Hogsmeade postmark.
Towering over it all is Hogwarts, a reproduction of the imposing, many-spired castle where Harry and his magician friends are students.
"Once we locked in and knew what we were doing, what we thought would be the most iconographic moments of the fiction to bring to life," the challenge was to strive for authenticity and detail, said Mark Woodbury, head of Universal Creative.
Park construction was overseen by the production manager from the Potter movies, and as Warner Bros. filmed the series' sixth movie, Harry Potter and the Half- Blood Prince, scenes were shot for the park's crown jewel, a ride called Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
The cutting-edge ride seamlessly combines the sensation of flight with tactile experiences – smoke, droplets of water – as it takes guests through a hodgepodge of encounters in Potter's chaotic life, from the Quidditch field to the mouths of giant spiders and dragons. While waiting in line, patrons can see lifelike projections of film characters such as Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore.
Potter author J.K. Rowling is a stickler for details, and Universal worked hard to get her OK. So many recipes were offered to find the perfect look, texture and taste for the heretofore fictitious butterbeer that Woodbury says he lost count. "We had to package up all the ingredients and rent a hotel kitchen in Scotland [where Rowling lives] so that we could put it all together," he said.
The result? A tasty, nonalcoholic brew reminiscent of cream soda that has proven wildly popular with fans.
Besides the Forbidden Journey, Wizarding World has just two other rides: Flight of the Hippogriff and Dragon Challenge, both of which are older roller coasters repurposed with Potter themes.
There's no additional admission for Wizarding World once you pay to enter Islands of Adventure and shopping opportunities are extensive – from broomsticks ($250 to $300) to magic wands ($28.95) to Gryffindor scarves ($34.95).
But finally, 13 years after the first of seven books began chronicling the boy wizard's adventures, imagination has become reality at Universal Orlando.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ( www.universalorlando.com/harrypotter), a minipark inside Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park, opened for general admission in June.
Past a stone archway and the steam-belching Hogwarts Express, the fictitious city of Hogsmeade unfolds amid snowcapped, dingy rooftops and storefronts packed like row houses with shops straight from the books and movies. Zonko's joke shop offers Sneakoscopes and extendable ears.
The confectionery Honeydukes has chocolate frogs and Bertie Bott's Every-Flavour Beans (pear and fish are among the delectable assortment). At the Owl Post, guests can stamp mail with a genuine Hogsmeade postmark.
Towering over it all is Hogwarts, a reproduction of the imposing, many-spired castle where Harry and his magician friends are students.
"Once we locked in and knew what we were doing, what we thought would be the most iconographic moments of the fiction to bring to life," the challenge was to strive for authenticity and detail, said Mark Woodbury, head of Universal Creative.
Park construction was overseen by the production manager from the Potter movies, and as Warner Bros. filmed the series' sixth movie, Harry Potter and the Half- Blood Prince, scenes were shot for the park's crown jewel, a ride called Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
The cutting-edge ride seamlessly combines the sensation of flight with tactile experiences – smoke, droplets of water – as it takes guests through a hodgepodge of encounters in Potter's chaotic life, from the Quidditch field to the mouths of giant spiders and dragons. While waiting in line, patrons can see lifelike projections of film characters such as Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore.
Potter author J.K. Rowling is a stickler for details, and Universal worked hard to get her OK. So many recipes were offered to find the perfect look, texture and taste for the heretofore fictitious butterbeer that Woodbury says he lost count. "We had to package up all the ingredients and rent a hotel kitchen in Scotland [where Rowling lives] so that we could put it all together," he said.
The result? A tasty, nonalcoholic brew reminiscent of cream soda that has proven wildly popular with fans.
Besides the Forbidden Journey, Wizarding World has just two other rides: Flight of the Hippogriff and Dragon Challenge, both of which are older roller coasters repurposed with Potter themes.
There's no additional admission for Wizarding World once you pay to enter Islands of Adventure and shopping opportunities are extensive – from broomsticks ($250 to $300) to magic wands ($28.95) to Gryffindor scarves ($34.95).
DID YOU KNOW?
...that Celebrity Cruise Lines now offers UNLIMITED DRINK PACKAGES? Make your vacation more relaxing and enjoyable by paying one set price for a wide variety of beverage choices! Combined with a fabulous cruise ship and interesting itinerary, you've got an all-inclusive vacation! Oh, you need a tempting example? OK, try this one....
Starting in November 2011, The Celebrity Silhouette will sail from Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey, offering cruisers throughout the Northeast easy driving access to a vacation on the newest ship in the line's award-winning fleet. After Celebrity Silhouette makes her debut in Europe, she will be homeported in Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey during the winter of 2011-12, with a series of 12-night Caribbean voyages. That covers the entire holiday period, AND spring break!!
St. Kitts! St. Lucia! Antigua! FROM NEW JERSEY? YES!!!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Resort Review: Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Behold, Travel with Lisa fans, a full report (plus slideshow) of the FABULOUS Royal Plantation Resort in Ocho Rios, Jamaica! Tom and I were lucky enough to get away for a few nights for our anniversary. Royal Plantation exceeded EVERYTHING I was hoping for in a quick, extremely pampering, very relaxing getaway. I HIGHLY recommend this all-oceanview, all-inclusive, all butler-service suite resort the next time you and someone special want to get away for a bit. If you only knew a travel agent....
So, where to begin? The non-stop flight is 3 and a half hours from Newark. You go through customs and then head to the swanky Sandals Lounge. Tastefully elegant, there are three comfortable sitting areas with refreshments. You are quickly (less than 10 minutes) called to meet your driver, where you are privately transferred to the resort in an air conditioned Toyota Picnic. Red Stripe, water and soda are provided in a cooler for the 1 hr and 20 minute ride down a freeway to Royal Plantation. Upon arriving at Royal Plantation, you are warmly greeted with a cold lavender scented towel and a drink of choice. Check in is quick and done in a quaint sitting area near the main entrance. Your butler comes to meet you and escorts you to your suite. We were in Suite 253, one of the more moderate level suites, and it was SPECTACULAR. Your butler will offer to unpack for you, stock the in-suite bar with your drink preferences, make dinner reservations, and give you a tour of the property. He also gives you a cell phone that rings him direct 24/7. There is a flat screen TV with full satellite programming from Miami, excellent air conditioning, two ceiling fans, double vanity, walk in closet with safe, sitting area, and french balcony with direct ocean views.
Next up was a quick tour of the property; we saw the cute pool area with 2 jacuzzi's, 2 beach areas, the spa, gym, tennis courts, beach bar, main lobby bar and two restaurants inside. It was time for lunch and beach! The ocean was amazing, with mixed colors of blue. There are two beach attendants who see to it that no seaweed stays on the beach! We went to the Royal Cafe on the beach and had some freshly muddled mojitos, lobster BLT's and Jerk Chicken, and then onto the loungers!
The beach scene is tranquil; no crowds or difficulty getting the beach spot you want. The beach guys, or your butler, will set it up for you. If you want big pillows under your plush mat for more comfort, they add them. You get a flag to wave when you need Adrian to bring you anything. Here's the deal with Adrian..he makes your beach day one to remember. He arrives at 10am sharp, counts the people on the beach, and brings out the "Mangosas" to start your day. He also cleans your sunglasses, mists you with spray, brings you fresh fruit, and serves you outrageous drinks ALL DAY LONG. If you want lunch right there on your lounger, he serves it to you. I also could not believe that if you get off your lounger and go swimming, the beach guys come and shake all the sand off of your towel before you come back! There are also 15 minute foot massages in a beach cabana.
Non-motorized water sports are also included.
We met Gladstone at the Appleton Lounge that night and he made me his signature drink: a G-stone martini. I LOVED this drink and have the recipe, but YOU have to go here to try it! Camara, the hostess, will come and find you and escort you to your dinner reservation. She is delighful! We had dinner in Le Papillion, the very best in exotic french cuisine. Romaine took excellent care of us! Chilled my red wine just right! Loved when he lifted the big silver domes at the same time! The next night, Jamaican night, we enjoyed a fantastic buffet inside the Terrace Restaurant and our last night we ate outside at the Terrace. The coconut risotto I will never forget! There is also nightly entertainment. Can you tell I love this place?
We had room service delivered promptly two mornings and ate a full, deluxe breakfast the last morning at the Terrace. The coffee! YUM! Fresh squeezed OJ! Orayne, our butler, came in and set up our sitting area like a restaurant! He also knew we LOVED the organic pomegranite ice tea in the fridge and filled it up each day for us. The weather was really spectacular; the sunsets were amazing, no bugs, and lovely sounds of the cicada's each night. They offer internet in the room via a data port for just $38.99 per week. Tom was a happy camper being able to work while on vacation, as only he would love to do! There were MANY excursions we could have chosen to do; Island Routes offers excellent tours and activities in the area. We were just too much in love with Royal Plantation to get up and leave the beach! We did head to the spa for massages and that was very nice!
The service here really is like no other. At lunch, they serve these chips that are made from breadfruit. I asked Marvetta, our waitress, if they had any guacamole to serve with it. She said no, but they would make it for me...and they did!
I would love to tell you more about this wonderful place! Please view my slideshow below and know I have many other pictures as well. I was given a tour of some of the other suites by the beautiful PR Manager Winsome Chambers. It will certainly help me find just the right suite for you! There is also a 3 bedroom villa on the property, if you wanted to travel with friends. Please consider Royal Plantation when thinking about your next vacation!
Monday, August 2, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
Happy Summer Travel with Lisa Fans!
Yes, I know, you were wondering where I was! I was waiting for some fantastic pictures to show you! This issue focuses on the British Virgin Islands...A brand new resort and some photographs to entice you! Really, they should simply inspire you to get out there and go where you want to go and see what you want to see! What are you waiting for??
Scrub Island is open, and is the British Virgin Islands’ first new resort in nearly 15 years.
The 52-room resort, featuring a selection of deluxe oceanview guest rooms, a full-service marina, luxury spa and health club, also has phenomenal service.
The resort is family-friendly. The restaurant has a children’s menu and there is a water slide connecting two pools, one on the upper level of the resort and another on the first floor. The resort is also for couples, as the setting allows for a quiet, romantic getaway. The Ocean View One Bedroom Suite has a balcony overlooking some of the clearest water in the Caribbean, two flat-screen TVs (one in the living room and the other in the bedroom) and two bathrooms, one with a spacious bathtub.
There are also 31 private two, three, four and five-bedroom villas available for rental. These private villa estates provide the ultimate in tranquility and luxury. These Ocean-View Villas are an elegant retreat for those seeking peace and serenity and all of the finest comforts that Scrub Island offers. The villas are discreetly nestled within the contours of Scrub Island, blending beautifully with the natural surroundings. Each one affords endless views of the Caribbean and surrounding islands and is designed with local artwork, custom furnishing, wooden floors, king-size beds with high-thread-count luxury linens, natural stone flooring, bamboo ceiling fans, 42 inch flat panel television, and state-of-the-art multimedia entertainment center. The floors of the gracious living area are finished tropical hardwood and natural stone. Large sliding windows and doors which, when fully open, invite the hypnotizing tropical breeze. Each bathroom is grand in size and splendor, with natural stone flooring, granite-top twin-vanity, rainforest showerhead, water closet and a roman tub. Each villa boasts a large wraparound veranda with infinity edge pool.
Scrub Island is also home to a fully flushing marina. In the heart of the resort, the Scrub Island Marina is a stroll away from restaurants and shops. The marina is also the closest to the North Drop, the hot spot for record-weighing blue marlins. Guests may book full- or half-day fishing excursions complete with a boat, guide and equipment. A variety of craft are also available for group or private charter at the marina.
For an extra fee, clients can hop on a Dive BVI boat for day trips to other islands, snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, be sure to check out The William Thornton Floating Bar & Restaurant commonly known as “Willy T,” on Norman Island. Traditionally, tourists show up and drink some “pain killers” (a local drink made from coconut milk, pineapple juice, orange juice and rum) and jump off the very top of the boat about 30 feet high.
Getting There
The most convenient international airport is in San Juan, Puerto Rico. From here, guests island-hop via American Airlines and Liat to the airport on Beef Island/Tortola. Scrub Island is just a five-minute ferry-ride from Tortola. Additional options include flights into St. Thomas or St. Croix, with a 45-minute ferry ride to Tortola. Scrub Island will also have two heliports available to guests.
Scrub Island is open, and is the British Virgin Islands’ first new resort in nearly 15 years.
The 52-room resort, featuring a selection of deluxe oceanview guest rooms, a full-service marina, luxury spa and health club, also has phenomenal service.
The resort is family-friendly. The restaurant has a children’s menu and there is a water slide connecting two pools, one on the upper level of the resort and another on the first floor. The resort is also for couples, as the setting allows for a quiet, romantic getaway. The Ocean View One Bedroom Suite has a balcony overlooking some of the clearest water in the Caribbean, two flat-screen TVs (one in the living room and the other in the bedroom) and two bathrooms, one with a spacious bathtub.
There are also 31 private two, three, four and five-bedroom villas available for rental. These private villa estates provide the ultimate in tranquility and luxury. These Ocean-View Villas are an elegant retreat for those seeking peace and serenity and all of the finest comforts that Scrub Island offers. The villas are discreetly nestled within the contours of Scrub Island, blending beautifully with the natural surroundings. Each one affords endless views of the Caribbean and surrounding islands and is designed with local artwork, custom furnishing, wooden floors, king-size beds with high-thread-count luxury linens, natural stone flooring, bamboo ceiling fans, 42 inch flat panel television, and state-of-the-art multimedia entertainment center. The floors of the gracious living area are finished tropical hardwood and natural stone. Large sliding windows and doors which, when fully open, invite the hypnotizing tropical breeze. Each bathroom is grand in size and splendor, with natural stone flooring, granite-top twin-vanity, rainforest showerhead, water closet and a roman tub. Each villa boasts a large wraparound veranda with infinity edge pool.
Scrub Island is also home to a fully flushing marina. In the heart of the resort, the Scrub Island Marina is a stroll away from restaurants and shops. The marina is also the closest to the North Drop, the hot spot for record-weighing blue marlins. Guests may book full- or half-day fishing excursions complete with a boat, guide and equipment. A variety of craft are also available for group or private charter at the marina.
For an extra fee, clients can hop on a Dive BVI boat for day trips to other islands, snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, be sure to check out The William Thornton Floating Bar & Restaurant commonly known as “Willy T,” on Norman Island. Traditionally, tourists show up and drink some “pain killers” (a local drink made from coconut milk, pineapple juice, orange juice and rum) and jump off the very top of the boat about 30 feet high.
Getting There
The most convenient international airport is in San Juan, Puerto Rico. From here, guests island-hop via American Airlines and Liat to the airport on Beef Island/Tortola. Scrub Island is just a five-minute ferry-ride from Tortola. Additional options include flights into St. Thomas or St. Croix, with a 45-minute ferry ride to Tortola. Scrub Island will also have two heliports available to guests.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas
Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas debuted November 30, 2009 as the biggest cruise ship in the world ever built. The Oasis is not just another cruise ship. It is a completely new design in ships unlike anything ever built before! The Oasis of the Seas has seven neighborhoods: The Royal Promenade, Central Park, the Boardwalk, the Entertainment Zone, the Youth Center, the Sports Zone and the Spa and Fitness center. Look on the left hand side of this blog for a cool video! 
The two new open air neighborhoods, Central Park and the Boardwalk, are what make the ship truly unique in design. Central Park is wrought with living trees and rambling vines - surrounded by cozy shops and cafés. The Boardwalk is a mini-Coney Island; a busy fun-zone with a real carousel, free donuts, a candy store, ice cream parlor and two restaurants... Johnny Rockets and The Seafood Shack. The free carousel is a lovely, authentic merry-go-round from the early 1900s; it has a classic menagerie of wooden animals to ride...frogs, zebras, ostriches, lions and bears. Towards the aft end of the Boardwalk is the ultra-impressive AquaTheater - the venue for the water-based shows featuring water acrobatics, (including extreme high dives), a trampoline and even synchronized swimming. There are two AquaTheater shows offered; the more highly choreographed and interpretational "Oasis of Dreams," and "Splish-Splash", a comedy diving show. They will also occasionally show "fountain shows" featuring several computer controlled fountains with colored lighting effects that are programmed to "dance" to various songs.
The two uppermost decks comprise the sports zone; with two flow-rider surfing machines, a complete kid's water park, a "beach-entrance" pool, a miniature golf course, ping pong and basketball, rock-climbing, two swimming pools and an adults-only serenity area with two hot tubs cantilevered over the sides of the ship. One of the most unique features is the zip-line with takes you for a 5-second ride over the boardwalk. This is a free activity, as are all sports activities on Oasis.
During the day, the Solarium at the forward end of the ship offers health-conscious cuisine with no serving over 500 calories. At night, the same space becomes a health-conscious full-service specialty restaurant, charging $20 per person. It is fully possible to eat vegetarian or even vegan on Oasis of the Seas.
The Royal Promenade is longer, taller and wider than the Freedom and Voyager-class ships. Here you'll find the the Mondo Coffee Bar ($2.50 per cappuccino but plenty of free regular coffee plus delicious free pastry and sandwiches); Sorrentos for free pizza and pastries anytime; a champagne bar, and various gift shops. The English-style Globe and Atlas Pub for beer lovers features a live acoustic guitarist playing favorites, and the On Air Club which at times is a karaoke bar, a sports bar, and live music lounge. Up above the Royal Promenade is another level for strolling with additional shops and nooks. Here you will find the traditional Royal Caribbean Schooner Bar. The main feature of the Royal Promenade, however, is the Rising Tide Bar, a lounge that is also an elevator between the Royal Promenade and Central Park, two decks above it. It boards every 15 minutes and takes about five minutes to complete the ride to the other level.
Central Park, the other large outdoor area other than the Boardwalk, features the Parkside Art Gallery, the Vintage Wine Bar, specialty restaurants such as Giovanni's Table, Chops Grille and 150 Central Park. There are cozy walkways around the skylights for the Royal Promenade below with live trees and vines. Tiers of staterooms with verandahs line both sides of the Boardwalk and Central Park.
Entertainment options abound! "Comedy Live" is the first dedicated comedy night club at sea. There are three "family oriented" shows each night and an "adults only" show close to midnight every night. You also find "Jazz on 4," which features a house jazz band doing several sets nightly. Across from these two show rooms is "Blaze" nightclub. The gorgeous Opal Theater, a state-of-the-art 1,350-seat show lounge, is where guests will see the "Las Vegas-style Production shows" on the ship. While it is not any larger than on any other Royal Caribbean ships, it is the most beautiful theater they have ever made. This is the lounge where they will show "Hairspray" (the fully licensed Broadway version) as well as the original acrobatic show "Come Fly with me." Across the promenade is "Boleros" which features Salsa music with a live band all night long. This became the favorite hangout for the Latino crowd onboard. Then there is Dazzles; a ballroom with a live orchestra and a commanding view overlooking Central Park which is stunning at night. On the Oasis, you will notice how every room seems to take on just the right number of passengers, no place was so crowded no one could get in, and no place was so quiet no one wanted to go there. The best spots for a fantastic sea view is the Viking Crown Lounge high atop deck 17.
The ship's elegant main restaurant, the Opus Dining Room is three decks tall and features a stunning crystal chandelier and a grand, three-deck staircase. For dinner, the bottom deck (3) is reserved for people who prefer old-style pre-assigned dining with the same table and waiters every night, first seating is at 6:00 pm and second seating is at 8:30. Decks 4 and 5 offer "anytime dining" where guests can arrive for dinner whenever they please during the hours it is open, generally from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm.
The vast Windjammer Lido deck restaurant is for casual buffet-style meals. It is surprisingly uncrowded most of the time, due to the large number of alternative options for coffee and pastry one can find all over the ship. Breakfast is probably the busiest meal, but the buffet is also open at dinnertime for those people who just want to pick up a fast, casual dinner. Nearby you will find the Izumi Japanese Restaurant, open only for dinner and with a la carte pricing. Also on the Sports Deck is the "Wipe Out Cafe" with freshly cooked hamburgers, hotdogs, fries, etc., all free.
Central Park is the home of the finest dining venues on the ship. Giovanni's Table, the alternative Italian restaurant, is a lovely intimately-lit venue with family-style servings for lunch ($10 per person) and dinner ($15 per person). Chop's is a staple Royal Caribbean grill for steaks, chops and large lavish desserts. Well worth the $25 service fee.
"150 Central Park" is the finest dining on the ship, headed up by executive chef KeriAnn Van Raesfeld who was named "best young chef" in the world in the world culinary congress in Dubai on 2008. The restaurants typically serves an 8-course tasting menu for $35, not including wine. Two different wine-pairing packages are available offering a drink along with each course. One is $55 and the other is $75 per person. The food is exquisitely delicious.
One of the best surprises, food-wise, on the Oasis is the no-charge "Park Cafe". One can go to this small deli-style cafe at any time and place an order for a freshly made sandwich. They hand you a number and allow you to select any seat. Of course, being daytime in Central Park there are many al fresco tables available. Your order will be made; meat sliced and cheese grilled on the spot, and brought to your table - no charge. You can even grab a bag of Lay's potato chips to go with it. Inside the Royal Promenade you find "Sorrento's Pizza" with ready-made slices, or even better, you can order a pie made to your specs on the spot, no charge! They have the ingredients for you to see; anchovies, mushrooms, onions, olives, pepperoni, etc.
Cafe Promenade has fingers sandwiches, pastry and hot tea or coffee; all free. Mondo Coffee Bar has pretty much the same offerings, also free, but more seating. The Cupcake Cupboard has a variety of cupcakes; huge and heavy on the frosting and with toppings like coconut, chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, etc., and the price is $2.50per cupcake.
On the Boardwalk you will find Johnny Rockets (service charge $4.95 per person) and the Seafood Shack (8.95 per person). At Johnny Rockets you get all the food you want including an ice cream sundae. But if you want a milkshake it costs an additional $5.00. The Ice Cream Parlor features a number of delicious sundaes like banana splits. The prices are about $5.50 for a special sundae. You can get a simple ice cream cone for $2.25. There is also free soft-serve ice cream available in three places on the ship. We have to say that we were remarkably surprised at the level of service for a ship this size. It is obvious that Royal Caribbean has decided to up the ante on service when it comes to Oasis. Room service is surprisingly efficient.
As far as the internet: bring your own laptop, you will be far happier. The connection is surprisingly good. There are a variety of packages available for purchase.
Oasis does not skimp on balcony cabins. The ship has 37 cabin categories to choose from, many with views unique to Oasis of the Seas. These include the Royal Promenade cabins with picture windows, balcony cabins facing inwards (not to the sea) over the Boardwalk and Central Park, and of course several balcony cabins facing the sea. Most impressive, and expensive, are the Loft Suites with two decks of floor space, a living room downstairs with a staircase leading to the bedroom above. The best thing about these suites is two decks of floor-to-ceiling, double-height windows; solid glass for spectacular sea views no matter where in the suite you are.
There's lots of storage. Standard amenities include flat panel color TV with CNN and movies; a safe; controllable air conditioning and hair dryers. There are tubs only in the highest category staterooms; most have only showers.
Vitality at Sea Spa is on deck five. The ship's well-equipped gym draws serious fitness buffs with its full range of state-of-the-art machines. There is a jogging track that completely circumnavigates the ship on deck 5. At the stern are a number of deck chairs if you are looking for a really private hideaway. You can reach the jogging track from the fitness center, or through the glass doors in the Royal Promenade.
Not far away from the Sports Zone you will find one of the largest youth zones at sea - planned so the youngsters can enjoy the sports facilities without having to wander far from their dedicated facilities. Royal Caribbean has also made a number of improvements to youth and teen programming. One new program is Adventure Theater, developed by Camp Broadway in New York City to give kids an immersion into the performing arts. On each RCI sailing, teens and kids can learn acting fundamentals, vocalization, and dance techniques during a series of three 45-minute Adventure Theater sessions. Another innovative program is Scratch DJ101 classes, which are available to all ages. After their lessons, teens can showcase their music mixing knowledge in a graduation performance that friends and family can attend. RCI has added new activities for those three to five years old in conjunction with Fisher-Price. Some of the new themes include Chefs on Deck, which involves role playing for preschoolers; Dino Adventure; and Train-O-Mania. Oasis is the first Royal Caribbean ship to offer a nursery for infants and toddlers 6months to 3 years. So far, no charge for these services has been announced and this is a great amenity for young couples who want to enjoy their vacation without baby onboard once in awhile. The minimum age for bringing a child onboard is six months.
There are two formal nights per 7-night cruise. In truth, the definition of formal has changed over the last few years and even seeing a tux is pretty rare these days. While just a few years ago the introduction of Freedom of the Seas spurred many gentlemen to dress in tuxedos, we actually saw blue jeans in the dining room on this cruise, and no one seemed to be objecting. Suffice it to say that even on formal nights you can get away with slacks, a collared shirt and a jacket, you do not need to bring the ties or especially the cummerbund if you do not want to. Women still tend to dress more elegantly and almost anything is acceptable for the ladies.
This is an active ship, but even those who can't do all of what Oasis offers will enjoy watching those who can. The 40-foot-high rock-climbing walls are immense. There is an ice-skating rink for recreational skating as well as for Ice Capades-type shows and a mini-golf course. There's a three-story dining room and one of the biggest casinos at sea. There are excellent interactive computer screens on each floor that will tell you exactly how to find anything you want. You tell it where you want to go and it instantly displays a map on how to get there. Despite the massive size of the ship, the one thing you will notice is that Royal Caribbean spared no expense in designing the ship. It is a strikingly beautiful ship, not just in size but also in detail. The design of the ship is the best "work of art" on the ship.
Life is short! Book the Oasis!
The two new open air neighborhoods, Central Park and the Boardwalk, are what make the ship truly unique in design. Central Park is wrought with living trees and rambling vines - surrounded by cozy shops and cafés. The Boardwalk is a mini-Coney Island; a busy fun-zone with a real carousel, free donuts, a candy store, ice cream parlor and two restaurants... Johnny Rockets and The Seafood Shack. The free carousel is a lovely, authentic merry-go-round from the early 1900s; it has a classic menagerie of wooden animals to ride...frogs, zebras, ostriches, lions and bears. Towards the aft end of the Boardwalk is the ultra-impressive AquaTheater - the venue for the water-based shows featuring water acrobatics, (including extreme high dives), a trampoline and even synchronized swimming. There are two AquaTheater shows offered; the more highly choreographed and interpretational "Oasis of Dreams," and "Splish-Splash", a comedy diving show. They will also occasionally show "fountain shows" featuring several computer controlled fountains with colored lighting effects that are programmed to "dance" to various songs.
The two uppermost decks comprise the sports zone; with two flow-rider surfing machines, a complete kid's water park, a "beach-entrance" pool, a miniature golf course, ping pong and basketball, rock-climbing, two swimming pools and an adults-only serenity area with two hot tubs cantilevered over the sides of the ship. One of the most unique features is the zip-line with takes you for a 5-second ride over the boardwalk. This is a free activity, as are all sports activities on Oasis.
During the day, the Solarium at the forward end of the ship offers health-conscious cuisine with no serving over 500 calories. At night, the same space becomes a health-conscious full-service specialty restaurant, charging $20 per person. It is fully possible to eat vegetarian or even vegan on Oasis of the Seas.
The Royal Promenade is longer, taller and wider than the Freedom and Voyager-class ships. Here you'll find the the Mondo Coffee Bar ($2.50 per cappuccino but plenty of free regular coffee plus delicious free pastry and sandwiches); Sorrentos for free pizza and pastries anytime; a champagne bar, and various gift shops. The English-style Globe and Atlas Pub for beer lovers features a live acoustic guitarist playing favorites, and the On Air Club which at times is a karaoke bar, a sports bar, and live music lounge. Up above the Royal Promenade is another level for strolling with additional shops and nooks. Here you will find the traditional Royal Caribbean Schooner Bar. The main feature of the Royal Promenade, however, is the Rising Tide Bar, a lounge that is also an elevator between the Royal Promenade and Central Park, two decks above it. It boards every 15 minutes and takes about five minutes to complete the ride to the other level.
Central Park, the other large outdoor area other than the Boardwalk, features the Parkside Art Gallery, the Vintage Wine Bar, specialty restaurants such as Giovanni's Table, Chops Grille and 150 Central Park. There are cozy walkways around the skylights for the Royal Promenade below with live trees and vines. Tiers of staterooms with verandahs line both sides of the Boardwalk and Central Park.
Entertainment options abound! "Comedy Live" is the first dedicated comedy night club at sea. There are three "family oriented" shows each night and an "adults only" show close to midnight every night. You also find "Jazz on 4," which features a house jazz band doing several sets nightly. Across from these two show rooms is "Blaze" nightclub. The gorgeous Opal Theater, a state-of-the-art 1,350-seat show lounge, is where guests will see the "Las Vegas-style Production shows" on the ship. While it is not any larger than on any other Royal Caribbean ships, it is the most beautiful theater they have ever made. This is the lounge where they will show "Hairspray" (the fully licensed Broadway version) as well as the original acrobatic show "Come Fly with me." Across the promenade is "Boleros" which features Salsa music with a live band all night long. This became the favorite hangout for the Latino crowd onboard. Then there is Dazzles; a ballroom with a live orchestra and a commanding view overlooking Central Park which is stunning at night. On the Oasis, you will notice how every room seems to take on just the right number of passengers, no place was so crowded no one could get in, and no place was so quiet no one wanted to go there. The best spots for a fantastic sea view is the Viking Crown Lounge high atop deck 17.
The ship's elegant main restaurant, the Opus Dining Room is three decks tall and features a stunning crystal chandelier and a grand, three-deck staircase. For dinner, the bottom deck (3) is reserved for people who prefer old-style pre-assigned dining with the same table and waiters every night, first seating is at 6:00 pm and second seating is at 8:30. Decks 4 and 5 offer "anytime dining" where guests can arrive for dinner whenever they please during the hours it is open, generally from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm.
The vast Windjammer Lido deck restaurant is for casual buffet-style meals. It is surprisingly uncrowded most of the time, due to the large number of alternative options for coffee and pastry one can find all over the ship. Breakfast is probably the busiest meal, but the buffet is also open at dinnertime for those people who just want to pick up a fast, casual dinner. Nearby you will find the Izumi Japanese Restaurant, open only for dinner and with a la carte pricing. Also on the Sports Deck is the "Wipe Out Cafe" with freshly cooked hamburgers, hotdogs, fries, etc., all free.
Central Park is the home of the finest dining venues on the ship. Giovanni's Table, the alternative Italian restaurant, is a lovely intimately-lit venue with family-style servings for lunch ($10 per person) and dinner ($15 per person). Chop's is a staple Royal Caribbean grill for steaks, chops and large lavish desserts. Well worth the $25 service fee.
"150 Central Park" is the finest dining on the ship, headed up by executive chef KeriAnn Van Raesfeld who was named "best young chef" in the world in the world culinary congress in Dubai on 2008. The restaurants typically serves an 8-course tasting menu for $35, not including wine. Two different wine-pairing packages are available offering a drink along with each course. One is $55 and the other is $75 per person. The food is exquisitely delicious.
One of the best surprises, food-wise, on the Oasis is the no-charge "Park Cafe". One can go to this small deli-style cafe at any time and place an order for a freshly made sandwich. They hand you a number and allow you to select any seat. Of course, being daytime in Central Park there are many al fresco tables available. Your order will be made; meat sliced and cheese grilled on the spot, and brought to your table - no charge. You can even grab a bag of Lay's potato chips to go with it. Inside the Royal Promenade you find "Sorrento's Pizza" with ready-made slices, or even better, you can order a pie made to your specs on the spot, no charge! They have the ingredients for you to see; anchovies, mushrooms, onions, olives, pepperoni, etc.
Cafe Promenade has fingers sandwiches, pastry and hot tea or coffee; all free. Mondo Coffee Bar has pretty much the same offerings, also free, but more seating. The Cupcake Cupboard has a variety of cupcakes; huge and heavy on the frosting and with toppings like coconut, chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, etc., and the price is $2.50per cupcake.
On the Boardwalk you will find Johnny Rockets (service charge $4.95 per person) and the Seafood Shack (8.95 per person). At Johnny Rockets you get all the food you want including an ice cream sundae. But if you want a milkshake it costs an additional $5.00. The Ice Cream Parlor features a number of delicious sundaes like banana splits. The prices are about $5.50 for a special sundae. You can get a simple ice cream cone for $2.25. There is also free soft-serve ice cream available in three places on the ship. We have to say that we were remarkably surprised at the level of service for a ship this size. It is obvious that Royal Caribbean has decided to up the ante on service when it comes to Oasis. Room service is surprisingly efficient.
As far as the internet: bring your own laptop, you will be far happier. The connection is surprisingly good. There are a variety of packages available for purchase.
Oasis does not skimp on balcony cabins. The ship has 37 cabin categories to choose from, many with views unique to Oasis of the Seas. These include the Royal Promenade cabins with picture windows, balcony cabins facing inwards (not to the sea) over the Boardwalk and Central Park, and of course several balcony cabins facing the sea. Most impressive, and expensive, are the Loft Suites with two decks of floor space, a living room downstairs with a staircase leading to the bedroom above. The best thing about these suites is two decks of floor-to-ceiling, double-height windows; solid glass for spectacular sea views no matter where in the suite you are.
There's lots of storage. Standard amenities include flat panel color TV with CNN and movies; a safe; controllable air conditioning and hair dryers. There are tubs only in the highest category staterooms; most have only showers.
Vitality at Sea Spa is on deck five. The ship's well-equipped gym draws serious fitness buffs with its full range of state-of-the-art machines. There is a jogging track that completely circumnavigates the ship on deck 5. At the stern are a number of deck chairs if you are looking for a really private hideaway. You can reach the jogging track from the fitness center, or through the glass doors in the Royal Promenade.
Not far away from the Sports Zone you will find one of the largest youth zones at sea - planned so the youngsters can enjoy the sports facilities without having to wander far from their dedicated facilities. Royal Caribbean has also made a number of improvements to youth and teen programming. One new program is Adventure Theater, developed by Camp Broadway in New York City to give kids an immersion into the performing arts. On each RCI sailing, teens and kids can learn acting fundamentals, vocalization, and dance techniques during a series of three 45-minute Adventure Theater sessions. Another innovative program is Scratch DJ101 classes, which are available to all ages. After their lessons, teens can showcase their music mixing knowledge in a graduation performance that friends and family can attend. RCI has added new activities for those three to five years old in conjunction with Fisher-Price. Some of the new themes include Chefs on Deck, which involves role playing for preschoolers; Dino Adventure; and Train-O-Mania. Oasis is the first Royal Caribbean ship to offer a nursery for infants and toddlers 6months to 3 years. So far, no charge for these services has been announced and this is a great amenity for young couples who want to enjoy their vacation without baby onboard once in awhile. The minimum age for bringing a child onboard is six months.
There are two formal nights per 7-night cruise. In truth, the definition of formal has changed over the last few years and even seeing a tux is pretty rare these days. While just a few years ago the introduction of Freedom of the Seas spurred many gentlemen to dress in tuxedos, we actually saw blue jeans in the dining room on this cruise, and no one seemed to be objecting. Suffice it to say that even on formal nights you can get away with slacks, a collared shirt and a jacket, you do not need to bring the ties or especially the cummerbund if you do not want to. Women still tend to dress more elegantly and almost anything is acceptable for the ladies.
This is an active ship, but even those who can't do all of what Oasis offers will enjoy watching those who can. The 40-foot-high rock-climbing walls are immense. There is an ice-skating rink for recreational skating as well as for Ice Capades-type shows and a mini-golf course. There's a three-story dining room and one of the biggest casinos at sea. There are excellent interactive computer screens on each floor that will tell you exactly how to find anything you want. You tell it where you want to go and it instantly displays a map on how to get there. Despite the massive size of the ship, the one thing you will notice is that Royal Caribbean spared no expense in designing the ship. It is a strikingly beautiful ship, not just in size but also in detail. The design of the ship is the best "work of art" on the ship.
Life is short! Book the Oasis!
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Excellence Playa Mujeres, Mexico-February 2014
