The Rio de Janeiro Carnival and the Venice Carnival are the biggest celebrations in their cities and have much in common including lots of eating and drinking; masquerade balls, and parades. Like the French celebration of Mardi Gras they end right before Lent–the time when Roman Catholics practice self-denial and give up certain pleasures. Although they are alike in many ways, they each have their own distinctive flavor which reflects the culture of these two beautiful cities.

Many countries hold festivals during this time, but the Rio de Janeiro Carnival is without a doubt one of the most famous of its kind, and like many of the others goes way back to ancient days when the spring festival was celebrated in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine. It eventually evolved into what it is today…a week of wild celebration and indulgences right before giving it all up for lent. Rio had its first masquerade ball to celebrate this event in 1840 followed by the addition of street parades, with colorful floats, ten years later. In 1917 the Samba (a mixture of African, Angolan, European and Cuban dances) became a big part of the carnival. Today the carnival is actually organized by “samba schools” which are neighborhood associations that work all year to prepare for carnival. Contests are held to determine the best costume, theme, and musical performance. The four days during the carnival is a very popular time for people all over the world to visit Rio. For those who are thinking about celebrating carnival “Rio de Janeiro-style”, the events will take place from February 9th through 12th in 2013.

During the 11th century, the Venice carnival was a major celebration consisting of a party that lasted two months, but by the 18th century it was beginning to fall into decline. In the late 1970′s it once again became a popular event and today it is the most important festival in the city with nearly 30,000 visitors coming to Venice every day during the carnival. Masks and costumes are the central theme of this ten day party which, like the Rio carnival, leads right up to Ash Wednesday. Each year there is a different theme, and all kinds of exciting events such as theater and musical performances in public and private venues; costume parades; and dances. This year the party ended with a silent water parade on the Grand Canal with gondolas lit only by candles. In 2013, the carnival will take place from February 2nd to the 13th and who knows what exciting events might take place.

For those who enjoy food, drink and lots and lots of partying; deciding between Rio de Janeiro, the carnival capitol of the world with its samba celebrations and colorful parades; or the beautiful city of Venice and all the people in elaborate masks and costumes may be a tough choice. Either way, each city is unique and offers a never-to-be-forgotten celebration.

Rio vs Venice Carnival is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

Photography is all about the light, and photographers know that finding the best light is key to taking amazing pictures. Most of the time, they are talking about sunrise and sunset. But occasionally, there will be a combination of subject, weather and light that only come together once in a great while. One of those subjects is Horsetail Falls in Yosemite National Park.

The Firefall, as it is known was made famous by landscape photographer Galen Rowell. Many photographers have tried to emulate his work, but few have succeeded. It takes a combination of weather, location and angle of the sun for everything to come together. At the right time of day on a few weeks of the year, the setting sun strikes the falls in such a way as to make them glow red.

The first and most important factor is that Horsetail Falls has to be flowing. This only happens when the snow above El Capitan is melting from late January through March. Also, there needs to have been enough snow and it melting quickly enough to get a flow of water through the falls.

Next, the sun has to be in the right position, which occurs in a narrow window from January through February. The light is at its best in the last week of February.  Just before sunset, the sun’s rays provide that reddish golden glow. Of course, you also need fairly clear skies so the sun can reach the falls, and no low clouds or fog blocking the view.

The most popular location from which to view and shoot the falls is the El Capitan picnic area which is located between Yosemite Lodge and El Capitan. The picnic area is accessible from Northside Drive, which is one way going west from Yosemite Lodge toward El Capitan. There is a small clearing close by that gives a view of the falls. Just follow the crowd of photographers. You will want to arrive at least two hours before sunset to find a parking spot. There is not another location with a view of the falls that also offers parking. This is also a shot where a tripod is highly recommended as you want to continue shooting as the light begins to fail.

A glowing red shot of Horsetail Falls in Yosemite National Park is one of those once in a lifetime shots that photographers everywhere dream of.

Capturing the FireFall in Yosemite National Park is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

In his famous anthem, This Land is Your Land, Woody Guthrie simply and eloquently sang of America’s magnificent natural heritage from coast to coast. The “endless skyways, redwood forests, golden valleys, and Gulf Stream waters” today still inspire all who roam them.

Tucked neatly behind modern architecture and thriving cities are the buildings, parks, and battlegrounds that formed this country. Explore New York, a city that is known as much for its rich history as for its non-stop energy. Discover the bustling center of America’s capital in Washington, D.C.  Take a relaxing river cruise through the California Wine Country.   Or journey through Alaska, “the last frontier”.

Here’s is our list of the best of the U.S.

New York City:  From the classic to the cutting edge, wide-open parks to forests of skyscrapers, nowhere on earth matches the unique thrill of New York City. It’s the “City That Never Sleeps” and a town that invites you and your family to experience what makes it so vibrant and exhilarating. Experience the newest shows, the most unique tours, the best restaurants and world-class museums.

Las Vegas:  When it comes to spectacular city lights, there’s no place like Las Vagas! But, there is more to Las Vegas than just the casinos; you can also enjoy golfing, shopping, dining and trips to the spa. Plus, Las Vegas offers fabulous musicals and shows to help round out your trip. Experience all of the excitement and round-the-clock fun that Las Vegas has to offer.

San Francisco:  San Francisco is easy to navigate –a great walking city with cable cars thrown in for extra fun. With over 1,000 acres of activities, Golden Gate Park is packed with days of busy amusement. Rent pedal boats on Stow Lake, ogle the fishes and reptiles at Steinhart Aquarium, hitch a ride on one of 62 menagerie animals on the historic carousel, or see the real things, at the San Francisco Zoo, just south of the Park. For some indoor fun, try out your science skills at the Exploratorium, one of the best science museums in the world. Every exhibit is hands-on and teaches science through fun and interactive displays.

Alaska:  Alaska’s known as “the last frontier,” a phrase that conjures an image of a bygone era of untouched expanses and wide-eyed exploration of a land frozen in time. It is in the heartland of the state that you will find lush forests, meadows brimming with wildflowers, rugged, snowcapped mountains flanked by miles of open tundra, and an abundance of wildlife that can only be found in the world’s untamed places. Explore the best of Alaska’s dramatic coastline and wild interior, we recommend Alaska by land, by sea and by air. Alaska cruise tours offer the perfect opportunity to go into Denalia National Park and spend time inland.

New England:  New England conjures up so many idyllic images: winding back roads that lead to quaint villages; vast rolling hills covered in orchards; rocky, jagged seashores; bustling, energetic cities and unparalleled historic significance. New England is truly one of our country’s greatest treasures, and no matter what season you choose to explore this incredible region, it always has an abundance of beauty and intrigue to share.  The fall is a great time to visit this area to enjoy the changing of the leaves.

Washington D.C.:  With its inspiring sites, famous hotels and innovative restaurants, Washington, D.C. draws millions of visitors from all over the world each year for a taste of the American experience. Visitors to Washington, DC enjoy access to some of the most famous and most interesting attractions in the world, most of which are free of charge. The fourteen museums that make up the Smithsonian Institution allow visitors to sample history, science and art. Away from the National Mall, Washington, DC is also home to a number of art galleries, small museums, historic homes and private gardens. Thanks to the safe, efficient Metrorail system, Washington, DC’s attractions are easily accessible from all points in the city.

USA River Cruising: The great waterways of the United States have defined the development of the country. Expeditions from rivers to oceans fostered the discovery of unknown lands and laid the groundwork for our most fascinating cities. There’s a reason so many legends have centered around our rivers and lakes, and there is no better way to explore our country’s heritage and unique beauty than a cruise down these storied waterways.

California Wine Country:  Indulge yourself in the wonderful world of California wine and experience the famed Napa and Sonoma wine valleys. Enjoy exploring Sausalito and beautiful San Francisco Bay. Both wine novices and connoisseurs will enjoy tastings and interactive discussions about the history, mystery and delicacies of wine. Surround yourself in the oasis of the Wine Country as you sample different varieties of wine, and tour some of the Napa, Sonoma and Carneros wine districts’ favored wineries.

The Parks of the West:  Journey through Grand Canyon National Park, a natural wonder of the world, where adventurers of all ages can marvel at the majesty of one of the most stunning landscapes on earth. Explore Yellowstone National Park, where majestic mountain ranges, rolling rivers, herds of bison and gushing geysers dot the landscape of nature’s most awe-inspiring playground for adventurers of all ages. Or visit Grand Teton National Park, nestled at the foot of towering mountains and surrounded by fishing lakes, horse trails and miles of wilderness waiting to be discovered.

Hawaii: In Hawaii’s world of endless summer, there are hundreds of wonders to be enjoyed. Hiking through Hawaii’s lush rainforests… Lounging on a secluded beach… Cruising down a volcano on a mountain bike at top speed.  Whether by land, air or sea, Hawaii is one exhilarating activity after another with endless opportunities for fun and excitement.

Our Favorite Destinations in the U.S. is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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These train journeys offer some of the most amazing views in the world.

The Blue Train
South Africa
South Africa’s Blue Train presents itself as a five-star hotel on wheels, and it’s certainly not a misnomer. Individualized service and exquisite meals are combined with uniquely South African touches—including the country’s internationally famous wines.

But what makes this trip truly spectacular is South Africa’s peerless scenery. From Cape Town to Johannesburg and on to Pretoria, the country’s many facets can be examined from the comfort of a well-appointed compartment, as well as the train’s glass observation deck. You’ll witness snow-capped mountains, sun-kissed vineyards and charming colonial towns; sweeping grasslands, rocky gorges, and fields dotted with Baobab trees—not to mention South Africa’s majestic wildlife in its natural habitat.

Plus, included in every Blue Train itinerary is a stopover with a guided tour. For example, on the southbound trip, you can visit the Diamond Rush town of Kimberley, and tour the working diamond mine—with a chance to win a diamond to take home!

The Rocky Mountaineer
Canada
For majestic mountain scenery, it’s hard to beat the Canadian Rockies. But how do you take in all this beauty if you’re not an avid hiker?The Rocky Mountaineer train traverses British Columbia and Alberta, connecting the city of Vancouver, BC, with either Jasper or Banff, Alberta. Along the way, the Mountaineer wends through some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Jagged, snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and dense evergreen forests present a dazzling, unparalleled experience. In fact, The Rocky Mountaineer has won multiple awards over the years for being the world’s best train journey.

The Mountaineer’s wide windows and skylights provide sweeping views, with all meals served in your seat so that you don’t miss a single moment. Onboard attendants also give commentary, ensuring that you get the most of your journey.

The Ghan
Australia
Named after the Afghan camel trains that used to traverse this same route, The Ghan traverses the very heart of Australia, from Adelaide on the southern coast to Darwin in the tropical “Top End” of the continent. The extension to Darwin is a relatively new addition, and The Ghan is celebrating by adding a new Platinum level of service. With spacious, double-size cabins including 24-hour room service, The Ghan is a stylish way to explore this vast continent.

The variety of scenery showcased aboard The Ghan is truly spectacular. Journeying north from Adelaide, The Ghan passes through fertile landscape into Australia’s expansive, red-hued desert interior—the famous Outback. From Alice Springs, the train travels through sweeping grasslands and gorgeous river scenery, to the quaint gold mining town of Katherine, before closing in on the tropical Top End and its capital city, Darwin. Darwin’s history and aboriginal influence, as well as World Heritage Kakadu National Park, make the region a worthy destination. The Ghan is quite simply the perfect way to take in the majestic heart of Australia, all in comfort and style.

The Royal Scotsman
Scotland
Scotland is a country out of a fairy tale—filled with legends and folklore. While even the remotest Highlands are dotted with a town here and there, Scotland is truly Britain’s backyard, its rugged open spaces largely unspoiled.

Luckily, Scotland’s far-off beauty is made easily accessible by The Royal Scotsman trains, which leave from Edinburgh along five routes. From short three-day journeys that traverse the rugged Highlands or the historic west, to eight-day grand tours that criss-cross between quaint cities and the sweeping, rocky, deep-green landscapes, The Royal Scotsman is the best way to see all of Scotland.

In terms of comfort, The Royal Scotsman lives up to its name. Old-fashioned Edwardian sophistication mixes with traditional plaids to make everything feel authentically Scottish. Dining experiences are elegant, cuisine is gourmet, and sleeping quarters are luxurious. But the train’s best feature is the observation cars with open-air verandas where passengers can take in the gorgeous spectacle, a perfect way to capture the magic of this storied country.

Orient-Express
Europe and Peru
When it comes to rail journeys, the iconic Orient-Express always comes to mind. You’ll take a step back in time to the days when railway travel was the height of elegance and sophistication. All meals aboard are prepared from a variety of culinary genres by trained chefs. All compartments are designed and outfitted with comfort in mind. And of course, the service is impeccable. The Venice Simplon Orient-Express literally crisscrosses Europe, with popular destinations such as Rome and Paris linked to some of Europe’s most historic cities like Krakow, Budapest, and as far east as Istanbul.

For an entirely different—but no less elegant—experience, the Orient-Express’s Hiram Bingham line in Peru traverses some of the world’s most stunning natural scenery. You’ll travel through gorgeous river canyons and lush green mountains en route to the archaeological treasures of Machu Picchu. Live entertainment and a four-course dinner make the journey back a memorable way to unwind after a day of fascinating sights.

Capture the Romance on the World’s Greatest Rail Journeys is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

Are you looking for a relaxing and fun getaway?  We recommend a six-, seven-, eight- or nine-night cruise to Bermuda with Royal Caribbean cruises! Plus, if you reserve your cruise February 14 to 28, 2012 for travel April 1 to December 31, 2012, you’ll enjoy special onboard benefits! Reserve an outside stateroom and receive a $50 Onboard Credit. Or reserve a balcony or suite and enjoy a $100 Onboard Credit and a Complimentary Spa Treatment!*

Explorer of the Seas® 7-night Bermuda Cruise  Itinerary: Cape Liberty Cruise Port (NY Harbor), King’s Wharf (Bermuda, two nights), Cape Liberty Cruise Port (NY Harbor) Prices start from $499 per person 9-night Bermuda & Caribbean Cruise Itinerary: Cape Liberty Cruise Port (NY Harbor), King’s Wharf (Bermuda), St. Maarten, San Juan (Puerto Rico), Labadee (Haiti), Cape Liberty Cruise Port (NY Harbor) Prices start from $889 per person Enchantment of the Seas® 6-night Bermuda Cruise  Itinerary: Baltimore, King’s Wharf (Bermuda, two nights), Baltimore Prices start from $579 per person 8-night Bermuda & Northeast Cruise  Itinerary: Baltimore, King’s Wharf (Bermuda, overnight), Boston, Newport, Baltimore Prices start from $629 per person Why We Recommend Bermuda: Just 600 nautical miles off the coast of North Carolina (if you don’t know what a nautical mile is, your captain will be happy to explain it to you), this enchanting island is celebrated for its pastel painted houses, brilliantly colorful gardens, cricket matches and charming shorts. In addition to pink-sand beaches and excellent shopping, Bermuda’s proximity to the U.S. makes it an ideal destination for a getaway cruise vacation. What you have to look forward to when you visit King’s Wharf: This cultural center built at the remarkable Royal Naval Dockyard boasts shopping, restaurants, art galleries, craft markets and eight wonderful museums. For water-lovers, it also offers a snorkel park and an extensive watersports facility, making it an excellent destination for the whole family.

Royal Caribbean Bermuda Cruise Deals: Onboard Credit and More is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

A soak in the geothermal waters of The Blue Lagoon is a sure cure for jetlag. Iceland’s Blue Lagoon will delight even veteran spa enthusiasts.  The setting is ethereal.  The entrance is flanked by black lava that looks like over-baked brownies, and mist rises from the enormous aquamarine lagoon framed by volcanic mountains in the distance.

The 100 degree Fahrenheit water is said to have healing powers, particularly for psoriasis.  The lagoon holds six million liters of geothermal seawater, all of which is renewed every 40 hours.  How often can you say you are bathing in two continents, where the Euro-Asian and American tectonic plates meet?

From the colorful auras of the northern lights to the bowl-shaped calderas, lava fields and bubbling mud pots, the landscapes of Iceland are truly unearthly.  Iceland is gaining fame as an adventure travel destination, with options including snowmobiling, horseback riding, jeep tours, hiking and world-class scuba diving, including the Silfa rift, the crack between the American and Eurasian continents which offers unrivalled visibility from the lava-filtered glacial water.

You can get a great overview of Iceland with Insight tours, Natural Wonders of Iceland 9 day vacation which visits the Icelandic equivalent to Niagara Falls as well as Lake Jokulsarlon, the dramatic setting for the James Bond movie, Die Another Day, and Godafass, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods.” There is an option to travel to the Blue Lagoon while in Reykjavik. On the 9 day Collette Tours Wonders of Iceland, a trip to the Blue Lagoon is included, as well as the Golden Circle, where many natural scenic wonders are located, including the Thingvellir National Park, a Unesco World Heritage site.

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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In 2012, the TSA intends to expand its PreCheck airport security screening program to 28 more airports, bringing the total number of participating airports to 35. This program allows eligible US citizens who fly often to pass through security checkpoints without removing clothing, laptops or approved liquids from their bags. This policy will make flying easier for a significant number of people, but it doesn’t increase the effectiveness of existing security procedures or lighten the burden of “security theater” on passengers who don’t make the cut.

Airplane passengers who want to participate in the PreCheck program need to apply via the US government’s Global Entry website. The program only works for frequent flyers on Delta Airlines, American Airlines and US citizens who are already part of the US Customs and Border Protection’s Trusted Traveler programs. According to the TSA, it intends to expand the program to include additional airlines. People who don’t fly often or use an approved airline are ineligible.

Enrollees must register for an account on the CBP Global Online Enrollment System and enroll in TSA PreCheck, NEXUS, SENTRI or FLUX. The passenger must provide extensive personal information to allow what is essentially a background check. When booking travel, approved members must provide a PASS ID number associated with their accounts to make a PreCheck reservation.

If approved, a passenger does not have to remove shoes, belt or a light jacket or coat before passing through security. PreCheck passengers can also leave liquids in their bags, but still have to conform to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule. Laptops may also be kept in their bags, but must still pass through screening. Passengers must use special checkpoints to enter the terminal; not all checkpoints are certified for PreCheck.

The TSA does not reveal the process it uses to determine whether a passenger is qualified for PreCheck, only that it uses “an intelligence-driven risk assessment.” Passengers don’t even know that they are cleared for expedited screening in advance; they must find out via their boarding passes. The TSA still uses random, unpredictable screening measures on all passengers, so PreCheck may not significantly reduce the inconvenience and loss of privacy associated with flying.

Expanding PreCheck essentially creates a special “protected class” of flyers who receive slightly less security screening, but doesn’t improve the process of flying for people outside that class. It also encourages flyers to give personal information, including travel plans, to this government agency in exchange for reduced inconvenience.

PreCheck favors specific airlines, directing consumers toward them if they want to avoid dealing with security annoyance, and leaves travelers who don’t fly as often or who use other airlines stuck in a difficult system that produces far more false positives than it does results.

TSA Fast Lane for Security at Airports is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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It was early afternoon in mid-April, but the weather was hot and humid and we were glad for the shade, as we walked the dusty one kilometer chasm (siq) leading us to the ancient rose-colored region of Jordon called Petra. I had wanted to visit this ancient site, dating from the late 7^th century B.C., for years…perhaps remembering it as the dramatic setting for Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade!

The gorge in the rugged mountains, opened by a great earthquake eons ago, obscures the breathtaking site which is revealed as we exit the canyon and enter a vast open area dominated by the monumental, intricately carved Treasury…and intricately carved is an understatement! These amazing settlers, the Nabataeans, carved elaborate columns, cornices, equestrian figures, deities and mythical characters…directly into the “living” sandstone.  This magnificence bursts into view after the darkness of the siq, and dazzles us with its beautiful rose-colored tones, lit by a brilliant sun.  And, although this façade and the hundreds of others, have stood for millennia, they are majestic and imposing; the lines clean-cut, the surfaces show absolutely no sign of stain or weathering.

Who were the Nabataeans?  A nomadic Arab group, settled here more than 2700 years ago, probably having wandered with their herds and found good water and protection from other wanderers, herdsmen and gatherers.  They settled in this area of about ten square kilometers and left the nomadic life. They engineered water works, channeling rainfall into cisterns and conduits; they cultivated what is now desert and grew olives, grapes and grain and raised livestock as well.  As in today’s world, this naturally defensible area embodied “location, location, location” as it became an important junction of the ancient trade routes:  caravans laden with silk, incense and spices from China and India, stopped here and paid duty and taxes…the Nabataeans became wealthy and built their city.  But they did not build by quarrying stone and erecting buildings, they built by carving their edifices directly into the sandstone mountain sides!

And this is what we travel here to see in the 21^st century…a land that once housed, at its height, perhaps 30,000 people; theaters, temples, granaries, tombs, royal residences; lavishly decorated, beautifully preserved.  A delight and wonderment to the modern eye.

As you walk around, you begin to wonder how and why does this antiquity even exist, when so much of man’s presence has been obliterated by the harsh elements of desert and time.  The answer is probably due to the fact that time had obscured the memory of man and the mountains have hidden his works, since the 16^thcentury this was “lost” territory, known to roaming nomads, but forgotten by “modern” men.   This treasure was discovered in 1812, by Johann Burckhardt, a Swiss explorer and orientalist who had heard of a “wondrous ancient city”, and disguised as a Muslim, traveled into what is now Jordan to investigate and write of this wonder.

Today’s travelers come from Amman, about 265 kms away.  Also, trips are available from Israel and overland from cruise ships, plying the Indian Ocean and Red Sea.  There are five star hotels and fine restaurants near the entrance to the siq.  The entrance fees may run about $30.00 for a day trip and must be paid in Jordanian dinars.  Horse carriages to and from the site are available, as are camel and donkey mounts for further exploration.  I’m glad I walked, despite the heat and dust, because the experience brought me such extraordinary views and an up-close experience (and the poor horses looked more tired, more hungry and more dusty than I.)

In summation, if you’re in the neighborhood, it’s worth visiting.  One of the best value’s to Petra this year is Insight Vacations 6 day Jordan Experience from just $1,299 pp with first class hotels, buffet breakfast daily, 3 dinners and some sightseeing including. You can also add on a couple of nights with their Dead Sea extension.  If you have more time, you can combine Egypt or Israel with Jordan in 12 to 14 days.

Petra awaits and will stay with you forever.

Picture Perfect Petra is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

Royal Princess– Coming June 2013!

Joining the fleet in June 2013, the new Royal Princess® is sure to delight its 3,600 passengers with exciting new innovations and signature features. It will be the largest ship for Princess Cruise Line.

Among her highlights, the new Royal Princess Cruise Ship will offer:

• An even larger and expanded atrium with additional entertainment and casual dining options.  The space will be 50% larger and will debut Bellini’s Italian cocktail bar and Celebrations, a new gift shop for those celebrating specials occasions on board. You will find premium chocolates, flowers and other gift items.
• New SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed enclosed walkway on the ship’s starboard side extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel, and the similarly-unique cantilevered SeaView bar, featuring cocktails with unbeatable vistas.
• New Ocean Terrace Seafood bar will offer pearls of the ocean, fresh from the sea. Seafood lovers can indulge in an array of treats, including sushi, sashimi, ceviche and caviar in a space that seems to be floating over the atrium levels below
• A new upper-deck pool exclusively for adults, featuring plush private cabanas
• Two deep pools with floating islands that host an evening water and light show — a dazzling evening water and light show
• An enhanced Movies Under the Stars® screen – largest yet!
• Balconies on all outside staterooms

In addition you will find Princess’ hallmark features such as the Lotus Spa, Piazza and the Sanctuary. The Crooners bar will be improved with the addition of a dueling piano bar. The Bar Piazza will offer over 300 tea and infusion combinations.

We will release more details about the Royal Princess as soon as they become available.

Royal Princess’ European Debut
Best of all, you can start planning your next cruise on Royal Princess as she embarks on her maiden season with the destination experts!

Sailing our popular Grand Mediterranean itinerary from June through October 2013, Royal Princess will call in the most incredible ports in the region.

Royal Princess’ maiden season goes on sale March 15, so check back or call for details.

7-Day Maiden Iberia Voyage	Southampton, Vigo (for Santiago de Compostela), Lisbon, Gibraltar, Málaga (for Granada) Barcelona Jun 16
Maiden Grand Mediterranean Season (12 Days)	Barcelona, Toulon (for Provence), Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples (for Capri and Pompeii), Mykonos, Istanbul, Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Athens (Piraeus), Venice (overnight) Jun 23; Jul 5, 17, 29; Aug 10, 22; Sep 3, 15, 27
18-Day Maiden Venetian Passage	Venice (overnight), Sicily (Messina), Naples (for Capri & Pompeii), Rome (Civitavecchia), Cannes (for Monte Carlo), Barcelona, Madeira Island (Funchal), Ft. Lauderdale Oct 9
3-day Advance Preview Sailings departing June 10 and another 3 day cruise June 13, 2013 These cruises will sail roundtrip from Southampton with a call at St. Peter Port on the Island of Guernsey in the English Channel. The preview sailings will open for booking at a later date when the inaugural celebrations for the ship are in place. Interested passengers please call for details.

New Royal Princess Cruise Ship 2013 is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

Each year, the world’s most accomplished winemakers, celebrity chefs, and culinary luminaries come together in one breathtaking setting. In June 2012, the famed FOOD&WINE Classic in Aspen will celebrate its 30th year as the premier culinary event in America. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the pinnacle of good taste, mingle with stars, and enjoy a pleasure-packed weekend at the base of spectacular Aspen Mountain June 15-17th, 2012.

Celebrity chefs include: Mario Batali, Rick Bayless, John Besh, Michael Chiarello, Giada DeLaurentiis, Bobby Flay, Emeril Lagasse, Tom Colicchio, Danny Meyer, Jacques Pépin, Michael Symon, Marcus Samuelsson, Andrew Zimmern, Jim Meehan, and more.  There are more than 80 cooking seminars and demonstrations, so it’s important to schedule your itinerary ahead of time, particularly if you have a favorite chef you don’t want to miss.  In addition, over 300 wines and luxury lifestyle brands gather together in the Grand Tasting Pavilion, the epicenter of the event, to feature and sample their newest products.

Tickets are $1,125 per person, and the event does sell out each year with approximately 5,000 in attendance.  Prices go up to $1,225 pp after March 15th.  Two percent of the net proceeds are donated to Grow for Good, supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture.  There are also a limited number of Green Passes sold, in which $1,000 out of the $3,500 pass is donated to Grow for Good.  These ticket holders would also receive VIP access to seminars and Grand Tastings, a listing under the donors in the event program and tickets to exclusive events including the Food & Wine 30th anniversary party and concert on June 16th.

Food and Wine Classic Celebrates 30 Years in Aspen is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours