Doodle & dine: Sketches dance on screens at Animator's Palate on the Disney Fantasy. Credit: Matt Stroshane.
By Tim Enstice
In advance of its first official cruise on March 31, yesterday the brand new Disney Fantasy embarked on an exclusive preview cruise to showcase all of the new features and amenities that families will experience throughout their vacation. From the AquaLab to the Disney Wishes stage show to the Bibbidi Boppidi Boutique, among many other additions, the Disney Fantasy is an entirely new vacation experience that builds upon the success of its sister ship, the Disney Dream. (more…)
Batter up to a budget vacation: Hit the diamonds in Arizona and Florida for spring break 2012.
By Jeanenne Tornatore
Families itching for a different kind of getaway are in luck. Check out these five spring break getaway ideas that will suit any lifestyle — from sports enthusiasts to the spontaneous traveler, with an affordability factor that appeals to everyone. (more…)
Mom, did the painting just move? LCDs spark to life with animated art aboard the new Disney Fantasy.
By Jill E. Cooper
Building upon the phenomenal popularity of the Midship Detective Agency game introduced onboard the Disney Dream during its inaugural sailing last year, the newest Disney Cruise Line beauty, the Disney Fantasy, will offer a similarly enchanting mystery game when it sets sail this March. Although the game is called the Midship Detective Agency on both ships, the storylines are completely different. In fact, on the Disney Fantasy, an extra dash of Muppet magic and mayhem has been added to the ‘Case of the Stolen Show’ mystery guests are asked to solve. (more…)
Happy sailing: The Queen Mary 2 is among the cruise ships that caters to meetings. Credit: KMJ.
By Mark Chesnut
For most travelers, cruises bring to mind things like a Caribbean vacation or family travel, not a business trip. But today’s increasingly high-tech cruise ships can be ideal settings for corporate and organizational meetings, conferences and private events. (more…)
The haunting skies above the Misty Fjords make a perfect day trip. Credit: controltheweb.
By Rich Mahoney
One of the best perks of cruising is the view as you sail into incredible destinations like Alaska, Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico and Bermuda. While the stunning scenery is great from the boat, shore excursions allow you to experience those unique and stunning locations first hand. From thrilling adventures like off-roading and zip-lining to wildlife tours and snorkeling, shore excursions help build the lasting memories and stories to pair with those million-dollar views. (more…)
Deck party: Fight the winter doldrums with the fam aboard the Disney Dream. Credit: Matt Stroshane.
By Deborah Bowen
Many people, especially at this chilly time of the year, crave the warm sun and golden sands of the world’s welcoming beaches. I appreciate these natural wonders, but as a Florida native and current resident, I sometimes like to appreciate them while wearing a sweater. (more…)
Must-see cruise ship port & pearl of the Adriatic: Dubrovnik, Croatia.
By Rich Mahoney
With so many activities and attractions available on cruises, it’s easy to lose sight of the other half: the destinations. Cruises travel all over the world and give passengers the opportunity to experience several unique places on one trip. From mountainous rainforest islands in the Caribbean to villages hidden in the Fjords of the North Atlantic, head to these five incredible port destinations. (more…)
One absolute truth about cruises: There’s something for just about everyone. This broad appeal also applies to the selection of staterooms. Cruise ships feature a wide range of stateroom categories, but the best one for you all depends on the type of cruise experience you’re after, whether it be excitement, relaxation or both. (more…)
Bowled over: The 200-foot drop on the Norwegian Epic's water slide.
By Rich Mahoney
Traveling by sea has come a long way. For many, the idea of being stuck on a boat for several days was far from appealing. The attractions and activities on today’s cruise lines, however, have turned ocean voyages into resort vacations in transit. Where ship passengers once passed the time playing cards in stuffy cabins, they now enjoy the excitement of table games and slots at onboard casinos. Taking in beautiful ocean views remains a favorite activity, but now you can do so from the top of a rock-climbing wall. From shopping and relaxation to thrills and Vegas-style entertainment, the range of activities on some cruise ships is borderline ridiculous. (more…)
Play Orbitz 50 Faves on Facebook for the chance to win one of 50 luxury vacations worth up to $15,000.
By Valerie Moloney
It’s time to play for a stay.
Today through Sept. 18, play Orbitz 50 Faves on Facebook for a chance to win one of 50 drool-worthy vacations to luxury resorts around the world worth up to $15,000. Like Orbitz on Facebook to enter the game, and invite your friends to play. The more friends you invite, the sweeter your chances. (more…)
