by Michael Laferriere

Norwegian Encore – Inaugural Cruise – 11/11/2019

By Colette

I had the pleasure of going to see Norwegian’s new Encore docked in NY for 3 days.

Amtrak, of course, was the easiest way to get to NY and it was seamless. Going in business class is the only way to go and you get to board first as well. Very comfortable as opposed to coach seating.

The ship was beautiful. She has 3998 passengers and 1735 crew members. I was fortunate to get a balcony cabin. First day we could sit outside it was so beautiful but not after that.

Arriving at 130pm we went right to our cabin and then off to lunch at the Garden Café (the buffet restaurant). Endless choices and the food was excellent. Walking around the different levels of the ship where everything is brand new was a little overwhelming. I didn’t want to miss seeing anything.

The two shows they showed were Kinky Boots and Choir of Man. Both shows were amazing. Unfortunately, there were 2500 agents and only one show per night so not all of us were able to see a show. Once she sails there will be more shows. They have a comedy club, Happy Hour Prohibition (but they will charge $35.98 ) to see this show because it includes drinks and dinner.

Decks 6, 7 and 8 are where all the action is.

They have 7 specialty restaurants, Cagney’s, Food Republic, Le Bistro, Los Lobos, Ocean Blue, Q Texas Smokehouse and Tappanyaki’s.

The complimentary restaurants are the Garden Café, Manhattan Room, Savor, Taste and the Local Bar and Grill.

They also have on the 18th deck Laser Tag and the Speedway. On Deck 17th they have the Galaxy Pavillion, which is all virtual reality equipment. I went on one that was a roller coaster and believe me it took me for a ride of a life time and I didn’t even move….Was Awesome.

The pool area had a slide that extended over the water. If it was a warm day I would have tried that too.

The Bars and Lounges were plentiful. They have 11 bars and one of my favorite was the Atrium Bar which had entertainment there as well. They also have a cigar lounge, a Maltings whiskey bar, and a cellars wine bar. There is no lack of things to do on this ship.

I checked out the Haven Suites and the room that you have in one of those suites are amazing. They have their own restaurant, lounges, pools and Haven Courtyards. I was able to look at a 2 bedroom haven suite and you could run circles around everyone. Big party in your room every night. They were beautiful

I also went to see the single studio rooms for one. They are big enough, with plenty of room for one. Great way to go as a single person and not pay the single supplement.

On deck 5 is the kids club of all ages and the guppies for the little ones. They also have a big arcade for the kids.

The Mandara Spa is on deck 16 and has all kinds of services. They have an aromatherapy section that you can purchase a day pass and they have 7 different things you can take advantage of. Also. a huge exercise area with the best equipment one could ask for. What more could you ask for exercise and look out at the ocean while doing it ……

Of course every day they leave a pamphlet on the bed with what’s going on for the next day.

I have some brochures and some pamphlets on the spa services with pricing if someone needs them.

For 2020 the Encore will be sailing from New York to Bermuda

If you want to know more about the ship let me know

thanks

Colette

in Cruises / Familiarization Reports 0 comments
 by Michael Laferriere

Fam Report – Matt – Peru

Here is my day by day itinerary for my trip to Peru.  It was a fantastic life changing experience.   The in country partner I used was Lima Tours.  I would highly recommend them.   All the drivers and guides where excellent.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1 | NEW YORK – LIMA – CUSCO – URUBAMBA

Friday August 09, 2019

06:05 NEW YORK / LIMA – LAN AIRLINES 531.

06:06 You will receive assistance at Jorge Chávez International Airport of Lima by an English speaking representative.

09:07 – 10:34 LIMA / CUZCO – LAN AIRLINES 2123.

10:35 A representative will meet and greet you at Cusco Airport and then transfer you to the selected hotel in the Sacred Valley.

 Accommodation Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness (www.aranwahotels.com)

CHECKIN12:00 CHECKOUT09:00hrs

Meals included: None

DAY 2 | URUBAMBA

Saturday August 10, 2019

09:00 During the morning, you are picked up from your hotel to visit the town of Chinchero, a traditional Cusco urban centre located at an elevated point with a beautiful view of the valley. The inhabitants of this area preserve the artisan traditions and the inherited knowledge of the Incas and display them in their clothes and customs. In Chinchero there are also archaeological remains and a beautiful seventeenth-century church, one of the first Catholic buildings in Peru. Then, you are transferred to the Living Museum of Yucay, a centre Andean traditions interpretations, where demonstrations of the elaboration of textile work, adobe, pottery and silverware are carried out in the same way in which they used to in antiquity; an original recreation of Inca traditions. Also, residents of the museum include llamas, sheep and alpacas, and they can be fed! Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo visit its town, inhabited uninterruptedly since Inca times, and climb the iconic fortress, built next to a mountain.

Lunch at Rancho Wayra.

After lunch, start your journey to the town of Ollantaytambo. Appreciate the Andean essence that is breathed in the place, strolling through its streets -which still maintain Inca urban planning and is inhabited since then- and climb the iconic fortress, built next to the mountain. After the walk, you will be transferred to your hotel.

-Your guide will be waiting for you at the hotel’s lobby.

-Full day tour lasts 8 hours approximately.

-Important: Tonight, please pack an overnight bag for your journey to Machu Picchu. Due to luggage restrictions aboard the trains to/from Machu Picchu, passengers may only take 1 small bag weighing no more than 5 kg (11 lbs) – Tomorrow; the rest of your luggage will be stored at your hotel in Cusco city Novetel. You will retrieve your luggage on August 12th.

Accommodation Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel & Wellness (www.aranwahotels.com)

CHECKIN12:00 CHECKOUT09:00hrs

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch

DAY 3 | URUBAMBA – AGUAS CALIENTES

Sunday August 11, 2019

09:00 Then, you will visit the Pisac market, which has scores of stands that exhibit and sell local products. You can find textiles, carvings and replicas of ancient Inca objects. Then, you will have lunch at a previously selected restaurant.

Lunch at Chuncho Restaurant.

After lunch you will be transferred to the Ollantaytambo train station.

15:37 – 17:02 Ollantaytambo / Machu Picchu – VISTADOME 603

Once you arrive at Aguas Calientes a representative will assist you until your hotel.

Dinner at your hotel.

Accommodation Inkaterra Machu Picchu (www.inkaterra.com)

CHECKIN13:00CHECKOUT11:00

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

DAY 4 | MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Monday August 12, 2019

08:00 Go to the bus station on your own (located 5 minutes from your hotel) to take the bus up to Machu Picchu. Meet your guide at Machu Picchu’s gate.

Board a coach for a 25-minute ride to Machu Picchu. The ‘Lost City of the Incas’ is believed to have been built in the 1450s by Inca emperor Pachacuti as a holiday retreat, yet within a century the city would be abandoned following the Spanish conquest. The Spaniards never found it, so it was spared the destruction they brought on other Inca sites. Instead, it was slowly swallowed up by the jungle and hidden from harm. A guided tour explains the origins behind this awe-inspiring citadel and its most prominent landmarks such as the monumental Main Square, the Royal Quarters, and the Temple of the Three Windows, the Circular Towers, the Sacred Sun Dial and the Burial Grounds.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.

In the afternoon, transfer to the Aguas Calientes station to take the train back to the Ollanta station, from where you will be taken to your hotel in Cusco.

15:48 – 17:29 Machu Picchu / Ollantaytambo – VISTADOME 304

17:30 A transportation service with a guide will pick you up from the Ollantaytambo train station at the established time, and will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco City. The guide will assist you with your check-in.

-The Machu Picchu tour lasts 4 hours approximately (Guide tour 2 hours and a half, after that, you will have free time to explore the citadel)

-You must be at the train station 30 minutes before the departure time of your train.

Accommodation Hotel Novotel – Cusco (www.novotel.com)

CHECKIN11:00 CHECKOUT09:00

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch

DAY 5 | CUSCO

Tuesday August 13, 2019

09:00 Meet you guide at your hotel’s lobby. Enjoy a guided tour of this charming city, which was the capital of the Inca Empire. The tour starts with a visit to Santo Domingo Convent, a large Renaissance-baroque complex, which was built over the Inca Coricancha temple. It was one of the most important temples dedicated to worshipping of the sun, and its foundations are still prominent at the base of the convent. Ancient chronicles say the temple was covered in gold leaf and filled with golden representations of nature. Then, visit the Cathedral, the most imposing monument of the Main Square. Head to the hills above Cusco to visit the remains of the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, whose imposing ramparts offer a stunning panoramic view of Cusco, and the ruins of the temple and amphitheatre of Qenqo, where it is believed the Incas practised agricultural rituals. Admire Qenqo and then finally visit Puka Pukara (Red fortress in Quechua) an Inca military complex located on a prominent hill. Its dwellings squares, bathrooms, aqueducts, walls, and towers can still be appreciated. Afterwards, return to your hotel.

Afternoon free.

-Your guide will be waiting for you at the hotel’s lobby.

-Half day tour lasts 4 hours approximately.

Accommodation Hotel Novotel – Cusco (www.novotel.com)

CHECKIN11:00 CHECKOUT09:00

Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 6 | CUSCO – JULIACA

Wednesday August 14, 2019

10:42 Enjoy a pleasant transfer from the selected hotel to the airport. A representative will assist you along the way.

13:12 – 14:08 CUSCO / JULIACA – LAN AIRLINES 2121.

14:09 A transportation service with a guide will wait for your arrival at the airport and will transfer you to your hotel. The guide will inform you about the attractions and services that the city has to offer.

Accommodation Casa Andina Premium Puno (www.casa-andina.com)

CHECKIN12:00 CHECKOUT10:00

Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 7 | PUNO

Thursday August 15, 2019

07:30 You will be picked up from the port of Puno and taken to the floating islands of Uros. The Uros are an ancient culture that inhabits a series of artificial islands built on the basis of reeds growing in the lake itself. These are constructed by weaving reed in the areas where it grows thicker and thus forming a natural layer. They also build their houses over these. After an hour you will continue to the island of Taquile. In contrast to the other islands in the lake, where the people speak Aimara, here they speak Quechua. At arrival, you will be given a short description of the island and a tour round it before lunch. After lunch you will go to the harbour for the trip back to Puno.

-Full day tour lasts 8 hours approximately.

Accommodation Casa Andina Premium Puno (www.casa-andina.com)

CHECKIN12:00CHECKOUT10:00

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch

DAY 8 | PUNO – JULIACA – LIMA

Friday August 16, 2019

10:14 A transportation service will take you from the selected hotel to Puno airport, and a representative will assist you along the way.

13:14 – 14:48 JULIACA / LIMA – LAN AIRLINES 2096.

14:49 Arrive at Lima Airport. A transportation service and a guide will pick you up from the airport at the scheduled time to transfer you to your hotel in Lima. The Peruvian capital is a modern metropolis full of history, currently undergoing an exciting process of cultural and economic changes.

Accommodation Aloft Lima Miraflores (www.libertador.com.pe)

CHECKIN:15:00 CHECKOUT:12:00

Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 9 | LIMA

Saturday August 17, 2019

14:00 Explore Lima´s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with fascinating historic buildings. The route begins at the traditional Pueblo Libre district, where you visit the Larco Museum, located in a beautifully restored viceregal mansion built on a pre-Columbian pyramid from the seventh century. The museum boasts a complete pre-Hispanic collection of gold and silver objects, as well as pieces of erotic art. Then visit the Casa Aliaga, a colonial mansion granted by chief conquistador Francisco Pizarro to one of his captains, Jeronimo de Aliaga. This is the only house from that time, still belonging to the same family. Continue with a scenic tour through the colonial downtown. See the Main Square, where you can appreciate the grandiose architecture of the Spanish Empire. Admire Lima´s Cathedral, built during the 16th century. Finish the trip returning to your hotel.

20:45 Enjoy a pleasant transfer from the selected hotel to the Lima Airport. A representative will assist you along the way.

-Half day tour lasts 4 hours approximately.

-Check out time at the hotel at 12:00pm. You can leave your luggage at the hotel’s storage.

CHECKIN:15:00 CHECKOUT:12:00

Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 10 | LIMA

Sunday August 18, 2019

00:15 LIMA / NEW YORK – LAN AIRLINES 530.

in Familiarization Reports / Our Agents / Tours / Destinations 0 comments
 by Michael Laferriere

Fam Report: Symphony of the Seas, 11/15-11/17/2018

I recently was invited to a pre-inaugural event aboard the Symphony of the Seas.  The Symphony is the 25th ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet; she’s the largest passenger ship in the world and the most adventure-packed cruise ship ever built.  She is 228,021 gross tons with a guest capacity of 6680 and a 2200 person crew.  She will sail from the all-new PortMiami, cruising the Caribbean year-round.   There are more staterooms aboard her than her sister Harmony of the Seas.  Royal Caribbean introduced a slew of new onboard adventures, dining concepts, productions and activities for families, but has retained all of the favorites including, Zip Line, Rock Climbing Wall, Ice-Skating Rink.

Like the other ships in her class, she consists of seven neighborhoods – Boardwalk (with an original hand carved carousel), Central Park (with entertainment, shopping and alfresco dining, Entertainment Place (with casino, live music), Pool and Sports zone (with three waterslides, two Flowrider surf simulators), Royal Promenade (central gathering spot), Youth zone (Adventure Ocean youth program) and finally Vitality at Sea (their spa and fitness center).

The ship has 20+ restaurants and features “Hairspray”, the Broadway hit and Tony Award winner as well as another wonderful production entitled “Flight” which chronicles the history of aviation.

Several staterooms were open for inspection, including the Ultimate Family Suite, a 2-level suite with in-room slide, floor to ceiling lego wall and a balcony with table tennis and a full size whirlpool bath.  The Royal Loft Suite is also a two-story suite with floor to ceiling windows, two bedrooms, a separate living room (including a grand piano) and dining area.

Next summer, Symphony of the Seas will set sail to Perfect Day at CocoCay, a new destination which will include the Caribbean’s largest wave pool and the tallest waterslide. It will be home to the first overwater cabanas in the Bahamas and Splashaway Bay, the largest aqua park yet.

As Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean stated, “We set out to create a new level of vacation adventure and deliver the ultimate escape for families.  Symphony will introduce the most cutting edge, customizable and digitally enhanced experiences in the Royal Caribbean fleet”.

  Leslie Hackman, Travel Expert

in Cruises / Familiarization Reports / Uncategorized 0 comments
 by Michael Laferriere

Fam Report – Spain and Portugal – 10/4/2018 – 10/14/2018 – Matt Balsamo

FAM REPORT – SPAIN AND PORTUGAL – 10/4-10/14

DAY 1

Flew from Boston to Lisbon via Madrid on Iberia.  Everything went smoothly. Upon arrival in Lisbon was met by our guide Fernanda and our driver Sergio.  We made our way up to Fatima and visited the Tomb of the Visionaries and had a mass at the Chapel of the Apparitions. We checked into the Santa Maria Hotel in Fatima.  A 2 minute walk to the shrine and right in the town.

Day 2

Today we visited the Parish Chruch where the visionaries were baptized. We had a private mass at the Sanctuary of our Lady.  In the evening we participated in the evening Rosary and candlelight procession with thousands of pilgrims.

Day 3

Today we traveled from Fatima to Madrid. Enroute we stopped in Salamanca for lunch and then Avila a walled city Unesco Site.  We did have a man in the group wander off in Avila and get lost.  Luckily after an hour he was found by the police.  Late arrival in Madrid. We stayed at the Melia Madrid Serrano a very modern and chic hotel in the heart of the city.

Day 4

Today we had a morning orientation tour of Madrid.  We saw all the various squares and statues of Spanish leaders and famous people including Don Quixote.  Then it was time to tour the famous Prado Museum with all its beautiful paintings.  The rest of that day was free and we chose to experience lunch at a traditional Tapas restaurant.  In the evening we found a restaurant specializing in just Paella.  It was fantastic.

Day 5

Today we traveled from Madrid to Burgos. Another walled city.  Upon arrival there we had a tour of the city and of the beautiful Gothic Cathedral.  We also had a private mass in the chapel dedicated to St Mary Major.  Our hotel for the 1 night stay was the Silken Gran Teatro.  A 5 minute walk to the center of the city with the restaurants and shops.

Day 6

Today we traveled from Burgos to Lourdes. On the way we had a scheduled stop at San Ignacio de Loyola. This is the birth place of St Ignasius.  We were able to tour his home and had mass in the Basilica.  We had an unfortunate incident when one of the ladies in the group missed a step outside the church and fell on her face.  She had to be taken to the hospital and was diagnosed with a broken nose. Luckily the delay didn’t cause us a big problem.  We were able to continue on the Lourdes and arrived there in the late afternoon.  Our hotel was the Grand Hotel Gallia & Londres. It is situated right in the heart of Lourdes and a 2 minute walk to the shrine.  That evening in Lourdes we participated in the evening rosary and candlelight procession.

Day 7

Today we had a walking tour that took us to the grotto to see where the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette.  We also saw her birth place and family home.  In the afternoon we had a private mass at Lourdes.  Then free time.  We chose to take a Funicular ride up to the top of one of Pyrenees Mountains that over looks Lourdes. It was spectacular.

Day 8

Today we left Lourdes to head back into Spain. On the way we stopped at Carcassonne , a walled city in France also a Unesco site.  Had free time there for lunch and shopping.  We arrived in Barcelona in the early evening.  Our hotel was the Catalonia Barcelona Plaza Hotel.  Very modern within walking distance to many landmarks and attractions in Barcelona.  That night 12 of us went to a Flamenco Dancing Dinner Show.  It was a wonderful experience.

Day 9

Today we had an orientation tour of Barcelona which included various plazas.  The highlight was the visit to Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia Church.  It is scheduled to be completed in 2026.  It is Magnificent. We also had a private mass in the crypt of the church.  An experience I will never forget. That afternoon we had free time before the farewell dinner.  I took 2 people with me to the Picasso Museum.  A wonderful tribute to his works at every stage of his life. That evening we had a wonderful farewell dinner at a restaurant on the waterfront in Barcelona.

Day 10

Flew back to Boston on Iberia via Madrid got back to Boston in the early afternoon.

in Tours / Destinations 0 comments
 by Michael Laferriere

Kris Levy – Cruise – August 2018 – Prague And Celebrity Reflection

PRAGUE- 5 NIGHTS
CELEBRITY REFLECTION- 6 NIGHTS
AUGUST 8-21, 2018

We arrived in Prague exhausted from our missed connection in Amsterdam leaving us there for another 6 hours. By the time we found the driver and checked in it was dinner time so we went across the street to have a bite of middle eastern food and some local beer. We were staying for five nights which allowed us a lot of time for sightseeing and sightseeing we did.

Our first stop in the morning was to go to the tourist office which was located in the main square which was only 7 minutes walking distance. The tourist office was located in the town hall and that is where we purchased a 3 day Prague Pass, which allowed us free entry to all the major sights. The cost was 90.00 per person and was well worth it.

We decided on our first day that we would visit the Astrological Clock which was located on the main square and we took an elevator to the top of the tower where we had fantastic views of the city. After that we decided to go to U Prince which has the oldest rooftop terrace in the world and rated one of the top 15 rooftop restaurants in the world. We enjoyed a couple of drinks and a wonderful cheese plate while taking in the wonderful views of the city.

After our drinks we ventured off to the Jewish Quarter and toured on our own. There are six different sites to visit so you should allow at least four hours to see it all. We visited 4 synagogues, ceremonial hall, and end the tour with a visit to the Old Jewish Cemetery. For anyone interested in religious history, Jewish or other, this tour is a must.

That evening we decided to have some traditional Czech cuisine for dinner…goulash and roasted port shoulder and it was delicious!

On our second day we ventured out to Prague Castle in New Town. We used our Prague Pass to get there by tram and we left at 8:30am to get there before they opened at 9:00AM because the lines get very long and we didn’t want to waste the day. When you go into the castle you can definitely feel the atmosphere of old times with the guards at the entrance, the golden lane with all the small houses and WOW, what a Cathedral with all of the most beautiful stained glass that I have ever seen. Please allow yourself at least five hours for the visit. At the end of the tour we walked down the hill and has some lunch before we made our way to the Charles Bridge, which is a must see. The bridge is filled with people and local artists. Again Czech cuisine for dinner…roasted pork knuckle!

Day four was a rather slow day. We visited St. Agnes’s convents, Tyn Church, and did a 2 hour bus tour through the city which was included in our Prague Pass. DON”T WASTE YOUR TIME ON THE BUS TOUR! The audio machines didn’t work and we saw the sights much better by walking.

For our last full day we decided to take a 6 hour tour outside of the city to the Terazin Memorial. This sight included 2 fortresses. During WWII the big fortress was used as a transit concentration camp – the Beverly Hills of all concentration camps, and yet the crematorium was indeed there, but nowadays it’s a regular provincial town. The small fortress was a political prison and now it’s a museum. Well worth the visit and very moving.

The second half of the trip was a six night cruise aboard the Celebrity Reflection. This was a very busy cruise visiting 5 ports of call without any sea days. The ports of call that we visited were Cinque Terre, Nice, Corsica, Sardinia, and Naples.

In Cinque Terra we decided to buy an excursion from the ship which included a bus transfer to Porto Venere, with ½ hour of free time to explore, shop, and eat. It was such a quaint seaside town where sunbathers bathed on rocks. We then were transferred by ferry to a town called Monteroso which was a much larger town and the streets were packed with people and vendors. They allowed us 2 hours there so we could shop and grab a gelato. It was too much time in my mind. We were then transferred again by train this time to meet the bus to go back to the ship. If you do this leg, be aware of pick pockets.

The next day we were in Nice and decided to get a cab to Eze for 50.00 euro each way. Eze is an old walled city on top of a hill. At the very top they had the most beautiful botanical garden which you can visit for 4 euros per person and is worth every penny. The next stop was the perfume factory of Fargonard which is located at the bottom of the hill. They sold perfume, soaps, and candles which smelled lovely.

The next stop was Corsica. The weather was incredibly hot so we decided to make a quick visit into port. They had the most wonderful open air market that I have ever seen. The market sold cheese, olives, homemade honey, meats, and fresh vegetables. I would be incredibly fat if I lived there!!!

We visited Napoleons birthplace and a cathedral, shopped a little bit and headed back to the ship to have Rose all day and play UNO.

The fourth port of call was Sardinia and I bought a map for 2 euro and designed our own walking tour. We also got another couple to join us on the tour because they almost got pickpocketed and they asked us if they could come with us. We visited cathedrals, main squares, a botanical garden and an amphitheater which took us all the way to the top of the hill which was a long, long walk!

Naples was our last stop and the best way to end it was to hire your own personal driver/guide which is exactly what we did. I have been working with Mariano for years and he took us to Sorrento, Positano, Priano, and Ravello, with 2 hours of free time in Sorrento and Positano to allow us shop, eat and explore. Mariano was a wealth of knowledge and a very humble man. It was so great to see him!

I want to end my report with a review of the ship itself. The ship is everything that you could want including nightly entertainment, 4 specialty restaurants, gym, spa, 3 swimming pools, a shopping area and a lot of bars throughout. We stayed in a Concierge class cabin with private verandah, which I will do again. This gives you upgraded amenities in your cabin, an extensive room service menu and a very large balcony. They also served us fruits and snacks in the afternoon which was a great touch. We purchased a 5 night dining package with allowed us to go to the specialty restaurants for dinner. I’m not saying that the main dining isn’t good but the whole dining experience at the specialty restaurants is much better. We also upgraded our drink package to the premium package because it gave us access to martini’s and better wines to choose from. I have to say that the staff and service was remarkable and everything was so clean and fresh.

So I will say this once again, I can’t wait to go on anther Celebrity Cruise!!! And Prague is OUT OF BOUNDS!

Kris Levy, East Greenwich

in Cruises 0 comments
 by Michael Laferriere

Val Thorens, France with Club Med by Dave Hodgkinson (December 2017)

FAM REPORT

CLUB MED FAM TO VAL THORENS SENSATIONS

VAL THORENS, FRANCE

DECEMBER 10-15, 2017

 

 

This FAM allowed me to take a guest so I traveled with a skier friend, Terry.

We left Boston on Saturday, December 9 on an Aer Lingus flight to Dublin that was scheduled to depart at 9:30 pm but was delayed 3 hours because of a snowstorm. The delay caused us to miss our connecting flight from Dublin to Geneva the next day. Europe flights were delayed everywhere because of snow. We changed our flight to a connection through London to Geneva which ended up being cancelled. At that point we asked for our luggage to be removed from the plane and returned to us. While I changed our tickets for a flight the next day, Terry waited for our bags but mine never showed up!

Aer Lingus transferred us to a hotel outside of Dublin for the night and we returned to the airport the next day, flew to Geneva and transferred to Club Med Val Thorens.

 

My bag did not get delivered to Val Thorens that day. I checked out the skis and equipment provided by Club Med and spent the afternoon trying to track my luggage. Finally I decided I should buy some clothes and equipment for skiing so that I could ski the rest of the week. I purchased the necessary equipment: helmet, goggles, pants, ski socks, thermals, shirt, gloves as well as some toiletries.

 

I joined the resort tour for our group at 4 pm. The tour included several rooms, the dining facilities, bars, disco, ski room, spa. Club Med is a vast resort with access to a ski trail that takes skiers directly to a lift that services the entire area as well as connecting lifts to other resorts such as Courcheval and Meribel. Guests can ski directly to the resort from a variety of lifts and the resort is close to the famous “La Folie Douce”, a dance party and outdoor concert for skiers featuring musicians, DJ, and entertainers. It is also found in Val D’Isere and is known throughout Europe and popular with the “Jet Set”.

 

Club Med Val Thorens features:

*A truly all-inclusive concept with options for more upscale food and beverage choices for an up charge

*A welcome desk in the first level with drive up access to the front doors and easy access to the elevators

*A main dining facility “Yurts” featuring various creative chef stations and a large comfortable dining room with great views

*A relaxed dining area and bar “Epicurious” featuring chef stations and a casual rustic “modern” atmosphere

*A bright and ultra chic bar and entertainment venue “Oxygen Bar” featuring comfortable lounge chairs, an outdoor terrace and Jacuzzi, with great music and entertainment nightly

*A skiwear and casual wear shop on the 4th level

*Modern, nicely appointed rooms, each with a terrace and class doors to enjoy the views of the mountains and ski runs

*A spa facility for massages and spa treatments

*A fitness room with assorted machines, weights, mats and workout area

*A large steam room and dressing rooms and showers

*A large “Rock climbing wall”, staffed by trainers, in the main 3-story lobby

*Comfortable seating areas throughout the hotel for individuals or small groups to relax

*A large ski room for gearing up and an equipment center for rentals and repairs

*Hot chocolate and non-alcoholic drink stations in the main lobby areas.

*Hot wine and hors d’oeuvres daily in the ski meeting area for access to the lifts

 

The resort was modern, clean and bright with colored lights and accents. The staff was helpful and engaging and I enjoyed many conversations with staff members throughout my stay. The waiters, bartenders, and facilitators were also the entertainers in the party venues at night. They held lively stage shows and musical entertainment every evening. The evening started with pre-dinner cocktails, followed by dinner and ended in the Oxygen Bar. The resort was geared towards an adult clientele and any children that I observed at the resort were teens or young adults and I never observed them in any bars or clubs.

 

On Wednesday evening, Dec 13 we were treated to a special dinner and wine tasting at Epicurious Lounge. The chefs prepared special dishes and wine selections in conjunction with the sommelier. The food was exceptional this particular evening. It should be noted that the food at every meal was delicious and wonderfully served.

 

The town of Val Thorens is a mixture of modern and rustic alpine architecture. There were numerous restaurants, shops, and markets spread over a large area, accessible by one mountain access road and numerous smaller streets and walkways. Most of the shops featured ski apparel and ski equipment and gear associated with all-season mountain sports. Most items in the stores I visited were extremely expensive. For example, I needed some tape for a small injury and a roll of adhesive tape cost the equivalent of $12 USD. The resort is at a high altitude so many visitors experience altitude sickness and difficulty in walking and climbing stairs accompanied by shortness of breath. After a few days, visitors acclimate somewhat to the altitude and it becomes more comfortable.

 

During the days our agenda included breakfast between 8-9 am followed by ski departures when the lifts opened about 9 am. I was able to ski for 3 days, Dec. 11-13 and enjoyed one sun-filled day and 2 days of continuous snow. Val Thorens area constitutes an extensive ski area connecting multiple villages and resorts such as Courcheval, Meribel and Les Menuires as well as others and making it one of the largest ski resort areas in the world. We were able to ski from Val Thorens to Meribel on the sunny day since trails were clearly visible but on the remaining days we stayed in the Val Thorens area due to poor visibility and the danger of avalanches. Snow levels were high and Val Thorens had trucks throughout the day hauling away the piles of snow blocking the streets and sidewalks. The snow was continuing when we left the resort.

 

It is worth noting that my missing duffle bag was delivered to the Club Med front desk at 11:30 pm on Thursday, Dec 14 and I left on Friday morning at 5:30 am for my return flight to Boston. I never opened my bag!

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 by Michael Laferriere

Cancun/Playa Mujeres by Mickey Scalera (January 2018)

Cancun/Playa Mujeres Fam –

 

I spent 3 nights at Secrets The Vine, 4nts at Secrets Playa Mujeres and toured several other resorts in each area.

 

Cancun –Secrets The Vine – is a very attractive resort on a beautiful stretch of beach; we had a great view of the sea from our balcony. Unfortunately the Sea is not swimmable most of the time. The resort’s 3 pools are situated beachside, so you have a great view of the water from all of them.

 

Our only disappointment at the Vine, besides the beach, was the food; it really left a lot to be desired. We might have just caught if at an off time as I’ve had clients stay there who thought the food was fine.

 

Service at the resort was most efficient; they work hard to please.

 

Hyatt Ziva – Great  resort; excellent location on a peninsula;  beautiful sea views surround the resort.. There are two swimmable beaches; one has some surf, the other as calm as a bath tub.   They offer all kinds of water sports, water aerobics,

floating climbable rafts, water park for children, etc. This resort has something for everyone.

 

This is a family resort, but does have a new adult only beachfront tower (Turquoise) w/sea view rooms, it’s own VIP check-in, private airport transfers, private lounge, private roof top infinity pool, etc.

 

The resort has 8 restaurants, 7 bars/lounges, coffee shop, pastry/candy shop, etc .

The aromas and fresh scents everywhere in the resort are amazing!

 

You would never guess this resort is right in Cancun’s Hotel Zone; it’s a beautiful oasis surrounded by water, where everyone is having a fun. I can’t say enough good things about the Ziva!

 

We also saw the adult-only Hyatt Zilara , formerly The Royal Cancun. It’s a nice resort; with some renovating (upcoming) I think it will be very nice. You definitely know you’re in the city though!

 

Playa Mujeres – New upcoming resort area north of Cancun. There aren’t a lot of hotels there just yet, no shopping areas, restaurants, etc. Quite a few resorts are scheduled to open in the next year or so. The swimmable white sand beaches are very nice, the sea color not as spectacular as Cancun and the Riviera Maya though.  It’s a quiet, attractive area, almost seems like it was carved out of the jungle. All of the resorts are set way back from the road.

 

Secrets Playa Mujeres – We really liked this adult-only resort; food was very good; service excellent, grounds were  very nice and immaculately clean. They had daily entertainment by the pool which was fun and everyone seemed to enjoy.

 

You can use the facilities at their sister family resort, Dreams, located next door; I say next door, but it is a bit of a hike. Continuous transportation between the two resorts is offered via golf carts. Adults staying at Dreams can use the facilities at Secrets.

 

Dreams is a really nice resort; the grounds are lovely! Rooms are very spacious here also. There are a lot of activities offered for adults and children. Explorer’s Club for kids 3 to 12 is open 10am to 10pm; the Core Zone Teen’s Club is open 9am to 1am.

 

The Delphinus Dolphin Habitat at Dreams features an interactive program allowing guests to observe dolphins up close in their natural habitat; there is a fee for this.

 

We were able to see the play Rock of Ages at the resort, which we really enjoyed. It is playing there until at least the end of January; that is an add’l charge also.

 

Guests at Secrets and Dreams have special privileges at the Playa Mujeres Golf Course, an 18 hole Greg Norman course.

Transportation is included, golf rates are reduced, concierge service is available to make reservations for you, etc. Quite often the resorts will offer a few rounds of complimentary golf.

 

I also took a quick tour of Beloved, Excellence, and Finest Resorts in Playa Mujeres. Beloved is a 5star boutique resort, very low key. I really liked it; only negative to me is their narrow beach. Excellence is also quite nice, only negative to me was the toilet area with see thru glass in some of the Junior Suites. Beloved and Excellence are adults-only resorts.

 

Finest, their family resort, was too contemporary for me; thought it was stark. On the upside, they had a great clubs and play areas for kids of all ages.

 

 

All in all I really liked the Playa Mujeres area; just hope it doesn’t get too big or busy. There’s a lot of construction going on, but somehow the noise is kept to a minimum.

 

 

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 by Michael Laferriere

Nashville Gaylord Opryland by Kim Sgambato (October 2017)

Nashville TN

 

This was my first time to Nashville and can’t wait to go back!  4 nights was not enough with all there is to see and do.

 

I flew out of Boston to get non stop flights.  $120 round trip – Jet Blue going and Southwest home.

 

I stayed at the Gaylord Opry Land Resort with Marriott Famtastic certificates. The hotel was $111 a night, plus a resort fee of $20 and then self parking of $29 per day.  They do offer valet parking, which is $36 a day.

 

This resort has just under 3000 rooms separated into 3 different wings. Each wing has a center area that opens up to water and lots of plants, trees, and decorations.  We go there in the morning so as we walked into the atriums it was beautiful.  Then at night all is lit up with lights handing from the glass ceilings or spot lights in the water.  I thought it was impressive during the day but the night was spectacular!  The resort is a destination in itself!

 

They were getting ready for their Christmas spectacular which starts on November 11 through January 3rd so they had started to decorate.  Next time I want to go back to see this!!!

 

They offer rooms that face the atrium and then standard rooms that face the parking lots or Opry Mills. We had a standard king bedded room that was definitely over sized!  The bathroom has a huge walk in shower, and a second sink outside the bathroom.

 

The resort has live music in the lobby every night from 4pm – 6pm.

 

The concierge can get tickets to shows that are sold out. We got tickets to a show at the Ryman Auditorium 5 rows from the stage less than 24 hours before the show!!!

 

Check in can be delayed so I would advise people of this. This is a big conference hotel as well and even though check in time is 4pm we did not get into our room until after 5pm.  We checked in at 11am.  Not a big deal for us because we did rent a car so we just went downtown.

 

The resort is about 10 minutes from the airport and about 15 – 20 from downtown Nashville.

 

The hotel does offer a 3 day shuttle pass to down town for $40 per person. The shuttle runs every 90 minutes from the hotel and then from 2 designated spots downtown.  We did not use the shuttle because we had a car.  They offer a free shuttle to Opry Mills and the Grand Ole Opry.  The transfer from the airport to the hotel is $19 per person.  I’m sure you can take Uber or Lyft for less.

 

In the fall of 2018 the resort will be opening a new wing with a BIG water park. It will be called Soundwaves.  It will have a slide tower, a double flowrider, a wave pool, a rapid and lazy river, they will have private cabanas to rent, an adults only section and lounge, and new restaurants.  They have started construction and we could see parts of it in the works.

 

When staying at the Opry if you show your room key you can get into Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in the Opry Mills Mall for free.  This was a nice perk – cost is $20 per person to get in.

 

There were a few little museums near the hotel. The first one was a Dukes of Hazard museum which is free to tour.  It was really well done.  There have the General Lee, the tow truck, the jeep, and the police car from the show there also.  They do charge you to take pictures in each of the vehicles.  $5 each but you can take as many as you like with your own camera.  Next to that is the Willie Nelson museum which is $7.50 per person to get into.  The line was too long so we didn’t wait to go in.

 

Parking can be expensive in downtown if you want to park right near Broadway – which is the main strip for the attractions. If you park 2 – 3 blocks off of Broadway you can get a day pass for $20 – $30.  We discover this on our 2nd to last day!

 

We purchased a Total Access pass which was $75 per person. We were able to pick from 4 attractions from a list of 32.  This also gave us free admission to the Parthenon which is well worth the trip!  The 4 we picked were, The Country Music Hall of Fame – you can go in and out all day until they close at 5pm, Ryman Auditorium tour, the Hop on and Hop off bus which was good for 2 days and made 15 stops, and the last thing we picked was the boat ride through our resort.  Some of the options I would suggest making reservations for.  We wanted to tour the Grand Ole Opry but buy the time we got there all the tours were sold out.

 

One of the stops on the hop on and off is at the Marathon Motor Works. This is the furthest point on the tour and outside the city.  You can spend a few hours here.  There is a vineyard, a brewery, a whiskey distillery, an antique shop owned by American pickers, some history of older cars, shops, and a candy store.  Well worth getting off!  There were a few other stops on the route that are free to visit but we just didn’t have time to get off at but will definitely will next time.

 

Broadway is the main strip in downtown; this is where 95% of the restaurants, bars and shops are. There is live entertainment morning, noon, and night.  I have to tell you some of these bands and singers are so good I have no idea why they aren’t making records.  50% of these restaurants/bars are 2 – 3 indoor floors with a different singer or band on each floor and the there is a roof top bar with another set of entertainers.  AMAZING view at night from the top floor of these bars!!!

We wanted to tour the Jack Daniels Distillery which is about an hour and 15 minutes from the downtown area. You can take this tour with a whiskey tasting or just the tour itself so it’s good for all ages.  We drove all the way there to have the tours sold out also.  The tour is an hour and ½ so call ahead before you make the drive or go first thing in the morning before all the crowds get there.  Also be sure there isn’t an event going on.  There was an international BBQ event going on which of course made getting in and out of there even worse.

 

Nashville was a wonderful trip but like I mentioned we didn’t have enough time.  This destination can be for couples, families, or groups.  I would suggest at least 5 – 6 nights or a shorter stay if your clients plan to go back.

 

Keep in mind when booking clients there is a LOT of walking on a trip like this.  We love to walk so it wasn’t a big deal for us.

 

If you have any questions or need any tips let me know. I also have TON of pictures of the resort, downtown, and the attractions we visited.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 by Michael Laferriere

Avignon to Lyon with Viking by Matthew Balsamo (August 2017)

FAM REPORT..Aug 22-30 2017. Viking River Cruises..Trip Avignon to Lyon

 

Some notes. Had a standard category E window cabin. Very small would not recommend that for clients. Food was excellent. Ship was beautiful. Very sleek and clean.  Staff very friendly mainly from Eastern Europe/Ukraine/Russia.   Touring and logistics of everything is very well organized.  No issues at all.   Weather was a bit warm..average of 92 degrees everyday.

 

 

Aug 22- Departed out of Boston on Delta via Amsterdam to Marseilles. Arrived on the 23rd approximately at 11am.  Was met by Viking representatives in baggage claim and escorted to beautiful Mercedes coaches for the 1 hour ride to Avignon.  Boarded the Viking Longshop Delling.

 

Aug 24- Participated in the Viking included tour which was a walking tour of Arles. Guide was excellent.

 

Aug 25-Participated in a full day optional walking tour in Avignon that included tasting various culinary specialties.  Cheese, Olives, Biscuits.  Then participated in a cooking class in a private residence. There were only 10 people it was fantastic

 

Aug 26- Vivers. Participated in a full day optional tour going to a Lavender Farm, the Ardeche Gorge (which is known as the grand canyon of france) and a castle. Guide was excellent.

 

Aug 27- Tounon. Particpated in the the included walking tour of the town and then the included steam train ride in the mountains. Very enjoyable.

 

Aug 28- Lyon.  Included wine country tour to the Beaujolais region. Had a tasting at a local small vineyard. The vineyard was a family owned business passed down from generations.  4 hour excursion

 

Aug 29- Lyon. Walking tour of Lyon included excursion.  This included the Basilica and walking around the old town. 3 hour excursion

 

Aug 30- Departed Lyon for home.  Air France Lyon to Paris and then Paris to Boston. Would highly recommend at least a 2 hour layover in Paris. The connection would have been difficult with less than that amount of time.

 

 

 

 

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