Wow -- I started putting together the April "e-newsletter" and took up a whole page of notes just writing down the topics!  I think what I'll have to do, and I already do it to some extent, is publish articles on all of my formats (this blog, the travel forum blog, facebook, linked-in) and cross-link so you can peruse the information at leisure without one big long piece of material to wade through. So what's going on anyway? * We're getting an "early-bird" start on Europe 2011!       Avalon is already offering a savings of up to $2,000 per couple on s...

Hi!  Steve and I hosted "card night" tonight and we all enjoyed some great snacks and drinks -- so here are some recipes you can use for your next party: #1.  Beef & Bean dip for Nachos: In a crock pot put: 1 can diced tomatoes, an 8-ounce jar of picante sauce,  a can of refried beans, and a packet of burrito seasoning.  Brown 2 pounds of ground beef, drain and add to crock pot.  Dice 1/2 an onion and a small green pepper and saute with a tablespoon of minced garlic in 3-4 tablespoons of oil.  When tender, add to crock pot.  When hot, add enough wate...

Sorry for the delay in getting the Princess "Top 10" specials up today -- just got back from sunny Phoenix, Arizona.  Hope everyone is having a great week. Update on booking availability for 2011 Europe cruises: Holland America -- now Carnival -- now Princess and Cunard -- March 25th Oceania -- now Regent -- now Silversea -- now I'll be blocking space and locking in the low introductory rates, so just let me know what you're interested in and I'll hold space for you, too.  Let's talk and find the perfect European itinerary you've been dreaming of...    &nbs...

One thing I always do for my clients is proper research!  Read on to discover how I could have saved someone $500...

Oceania!!!!  This is the one we most look forward to every year because the sailings sell out so quickly!  Get in on the best rates and cabins for Europe 2011 on March 10! Celebrity:        Europe 2011 -- open for bookings week of March 15      Alaska 2011 -- open week of March 22      Caribbean 2011 -- open week of April 5  

1. Carnival "Early Saver" rates -- available on most sailings booked more than 4 months in advance.  In exchange for the guaranteed lowest rate, you place a non-refundable deposit.  Other rules:  changes made to an Early Saver booking result in a $50 per person change fee, and name changes are not allowed. If you are confident of your sailing date and who is going, then taking advantage of the Early Saver offer is the best way to get the best price on a Carnival cruise. 2.  Princess has extended their "Past-Guest" (Captain's Circle) discounts through March 31st! 3.&nb...