Two Days - Were they enough?

I had the good fortune to sail aboard Carnival Cruises new Carnival Splendor a week ago. Two days of "fun" sailing from San Francisco to the open seas and back to San Francisco. Best part - NO FLYING!

If you are a fan of the color PINK, this ship is for you. Am told that when she was delivered, more pink was designed, then a vote was taking and some of the pink was scaled back. Trust me, I like pink, but with limits!

Carnival Spleandor will be sailing the Mexican Riviera. For the fist time, the west coast get a crack at having a NEW ship to sell. Carnival delivers the service, prepares the food and has the entertainment to make you forget all the PINK!

Don't be one of those who remember Carnival as a PARTY BOAT - It is far from that, one of the most well designed ships afloat. Don't take my word for it - try it!

This is no April Fools' joke!

Bookings for Allure of the Seas will open April 2 for Diamond and Diamond Plus members of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society and April 8 for all Crown & Anchor Society members.

Allure of the Seas will sail on weekly itineraries alternating to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, starting on Dec. 2, 2010. The Sunday departures are from Port Everglades.

General bookings will open April 13.

"The Butler did it!"

Silversea Cruises plans to provide butlers for all accommodations on all their ships, including aboard expedition ship Prince Albert II. The service will be phased in over the next few months.

Silversea’s butlers come from ‘some of the world’s finest hotels and grandest homes, already trained in the art of recognizing guest preferences and anticipating their needs.

Each butler, assisted by a suite attendant, is empowered to solve problems and available to provide special touches like unpacking or preparing a scented Jacuzzi bath.

Currently butler service is available in the top-category accommodations -- Royal, Grand and Owner's Suites. In the coming months, it will be rolled out to Silver and Medallion Suites then, starting in the autumn, to all accommodations.