Home-Away-From-Home for the Holidays

Cruising during holidays is one of the best times to take a cruise vacation! What makes them so great? Well, where do I start? We have been on several holiday-time cruises. I’m not just talking about Christmas; we have also been on cruise ships during Labor Day weekend, around the Fourth of July, and on Halloween. Each of these times has been a unique and fun experience.

Labor Day cruisers tend to be the people who really want to let their hair down, since two- to four-day cruises that sail over the weekends have a tendency to attract the “partiers.” Even though we are not into the party atmosphere, there are enough activities to keep us entertained and enjoying our vacation. We have learned to avoid the areas where the lounges are located so that we’re not overwhelmed by the wilder crowd. It’s funny to see that the intoxicated passengers are the ones walking straight when the ship is rocking from side to side, since they’re used to a spinning room—those of us who do not drink are the ones that end up bouncing off the walls as we walk!

We have taken one July cruise, and let me tell you: It was HOT! Another feature of summer cruises is that there tends to be a lot of families, since the kids are out of school. From that perspective, if you are not a fan of having children running all around, summer cruises are not the best choice for you. If you have kids and you are used to the commotion that they can cause, it’s a wonderful time to vacation. They’ll have a great time meeting others just like them! That’s one of the great things about a cruise vacation: There is something for everyone. All major cruise lines have areas dedicated for kids, and they have trained staff to keep the kids engaged and entertained. The cruise lines have it figured out. If the kids have a great time, the parents have a great time, and everybody’s happy, then a cruise vacation will be at the top of the list for next year.

Most of our holiday cruises have been over Halloween. If you take a Halloween cruise, be ready to laugh and laugh and laugh. Cruisers really use their imaginations when it comes to picking their costumes. Even the adults get dressed up and transform themselves back to when they were trick or treating, and this is a site to behold, so make sure you have your camera! There is usually a parade of costumes down the through the common areas, with stops along the route for dancing and showing off. We are going again this Halloween and, if I do say myself, we have really outdone ourselves with our costumes! Sorry I can't reveal our costumes at this time; they’re top secret! I’ll post pictures after we get back.

Our near-Christmas cruise was one of the best ones we have done. I was very surprised how much the ship’s decorations slanted towards a Christian theme. There were several banners hanging in the main atrium and traditional music piping through the sound systems, but the most striking to Shirley and me was a gingerbread city at the main entrance to the main show theater. This was a complex city with decorations and lighting, but one thing in particular got our attention: In the center of the city was a large church with a steeple rising high above the rest of the city, and written on it was “He was born to save the world.” We just couldn’t believe that, in this world of political correctness, this was on display. And it wasn’t in a place that no one would see it; everyone who went to the show theater passed right by it. We were impressed!

I have some clients who have decided they must be on a cruise ship on Christmas Day. They are a very sweet and kind retired couple, and this will be the fourth Christmas I have booked them. This year I asked decided to ask them: Why Christmas? Don’t they miss all the grandchildren coming over on Christmas Day? Annie answered, “That’s why we go on Christmas. We want our holiday to ourselves.”

There are a million reasons to spend the holidays at sea! Whether it’s a fun-filled summer trip, a shipwide Halloween party, a stress-free winter getaway, or a romantic Valentine’s escape, you’re guaranteed to find a cruise that lets you celebrate the way you want. It’s not too late to book your December cruise, and it’s not too early to start planning next year’s family vacation. Call Agape today!

Making Moments Count

Over the past couple of years the economy has been on a rollercoaster ride, to say the least. Things are not turning around as fast as those in the government have promised. But I'm not here to make a political statement; that's not my expertise. I'm a travel agent. Yeah, you're right: I make money by your traveling, so naturally I want you to travel, and I want your business. However, that is not the sole reason that I'm penning this article. I want you to consider how these times add pressure to your life and your family. Most companies are asking us to do more at work with fewer people and in the same amount of time, if you are an hourly employee. But if you are on salary, now you can easily find yourself putting in 60 or 70 hours per week when you used to do 40 or 45. Why? Because the work is there and the boss expects it done.

This is where I come it. Stephen R. Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, calls the seventh habit—and it might be the most important, the one we tend to neglect the most—"sharpening the saw." He discusses how we work very hard at our jobs weeks and weeks on end. As a result, we don't spend the proper time with our families. Our children grow up in the blink of an eye, and after time has passed, we can't get that back.

I know with both my children and stepdaughters, time has just flown by. I look back and wish I would have taken that afternoon with them to take a walk, play a board game, or just talk. Now all three of my girls have graduated from college and are starting lives of their own. My son is in high school, and before too long he will be in college. I say all of that to say this: Why? Why do we let these moments pass? Even as I am writing this blog, I wonder if there is something that I should be doing with my kids. And what about my wife, a lady who has dedicated her life to our kids and who has sacrificed more for us than I'll ever know?

Time. I'm talking about time. We only have so much of it in the bank. We really can't add to it, and each second we make a withdrawal. And it’s not like our checking accounts: We can't overdraw, and when the time bank is empty, we step into eternity. Where is your eternity? If you know Jesus as your savior, your designation is Heaven to reign with Him forever. If you don't know Him as your savior, your eternity is not very bright. If you don't know what I'm talking about, please check out the Plan of Salvation on my church's website.

So the point of today’s blog is this: Don't let this time pass. There are a lot of inexpensive travel deals out there, and I pride myself in being able to find something to fit almost anyone's budget. Anything you can do to get away with your loved ones will help you recharge and reconnect. September is fast approaching, and after Labor Day, the hotels around the beach areas offer great deals. I know the kids are back in school, but you know what? School is school, and it will be there until they are 18 years old and beyond. What would it hurt to pull them out of school for two or three days for a long weekend? We would take Tiffany and Courtney out for a week at a time on a cruise in September or October. Their teachers knew well in advance and would give them the assignments they‘d be missing. You tell me what’s more fun: doing schoolwork in a classroom, looking out the same old windows, or doing homework for a couple hours a day on a cruise ship sailing in the Caribbean?

We at Agape Travel will work with you, setting up payment plans with low deposits. When should you start planning? Now! I have prices for cruises through 2013. Also, know that Disney requires just a small deposit for their parks, and final payment isn’t due until about 90 days out. I will be more than happy to set up a layaway type of plan for you. You make the deposit and monthly or biweekly payments that fit your budget, and before you know it, your family vacation is paid for! Want to save more? Set up a group. A lot of hotels and resorts give comp rooms for as few as ten rooms booked. Cruise lines give one free cabin per fifteen cabins or one berth for every eight cabins.

So, if you need to sharpen the saw and you need some ideas to make it happen, let's talk. I'm sure we can find something for your family. Don’t waste another precious moment!

Happy Sailing,

Rick

Cruising for ARC: February 2012

I really love working with nonprofit groups, helping them raise the much-needed money to support their causes. There are some organizations out there that really need our help in this time of lean wallets. During the past few years I know the American Red Cross has really had to help people through a number of natural disasters, not to mention the daily assistance it gives families displaced by fires, emergency evacuations, or other accidents. I know here in Raleigh, we have had some apartment fires that have displaced dozens of families, not to mention widespread tornado damage. No matter what, it always seems like the American Red Cross is there.

Not only does the Red Cross assist in local emergencies and natural disasters, it helps save lives on a daily basis. Every pint of blood collected can save as many as three lives. So if you donate a gallon of blood over time—that’s eight pints—24 lives have been impacted through just one person. Wow! Taking 30 minutes of your time, undergoing a small bit of discomfort, can make a big difference someone you don’t even know. And how about CPR and first-aid training? Who knows how many lives these have saved over the years? I know that I personally used these skills countless times during my careers in the medical and law enforcement fields, and I know of at least three people who are alive today because I knew how to do CPR.

I feel it’s now time for us to give back. To do that, Agape Travel is sponsoring a fundraising cruise called “Cruising for ARC.” The cruise will be on the Carnival Ecstasy. We will sail from Port Canaveral on February 13 and visit three fabulous ports of call.

Nassau, Bahamas, is on Paradise Island, named such because it’s like being in paradise. The warm ocean breeze, crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, and world-class shopping make this port of call one of the most popular in cruising. The next day, we visit Freeport, Bahamas. Another beach-lovers’ destination, the golf, deep-sea fishing, and world-class resorts make Freeport another very popular stop for cruise ships. The next port of call is Key West, the southernmost point of the continental United States. This tropical destination is one that you will not soon forget. The ship docks right in the middle of downtown, which makes shopping easy and fun. There are also great museums, and let’s not forget Ernest Hemingway’s house and his famous six-toed cats.

What a great vacation, and what a great cause! For every cabin that is sold, Agape Travel will donate $100 to the Triangle Area Chapter of the American Red Cross. Each cabin will also receive a $100 shipboard credit to be used on the ship however you want. So let’s get on board and support our Triangle Area ARC. They do so much to help our community; I want to do something to help them. I want to give back, and I hope you will support this effort.

The cruise is $500 for an inside stateroom and $550 for an oceanview stateroom. We will have several private get-togethers, including a welcome aboard party. We are planning guest speakers and entertainment just for us. So, get on board! Normally on a five-day cruise like this, the deposit is $200 per person; but working with Carnival, we are able to offer a reduced deposit of $50 per person (fully refundable) that will hold your space. The reduced deposit is only available through September 4. Your next payment of $200 isn’t due until October 1, and final payment is due December 1, 2011.

This would be a great Christmas present for someone special. Give it to him or her on Christmas morning, and since the cruise is over the Valentine’s holiday, simultaneously give the love of your life an unforgettable Valentine’s Day. But most importantly, you are giving back to the organization that has given our community so much. Book today while there is room. We have a limited number of oceanview and inside staterooms which will go fast. If you would like to book a suite or take the kids along, give me a call, and I can make the arrangements to accommodate families.

If you have any questions or would like more information, just give me a call at 919-971-9836 or email rick@agapecruisetravel.com. Also follow us on Facebook! We are Agape Travel, and we want to be your travel agency for life.

To learn more about the Triangle Area Chapter of the American Red Cross, please visit www.triangleredcross.org.

Thanks,

Rick

Agape Travel visits the Holy Land, coming Dec. 05, 2012.

Just announced, Agape Travel in partnership with Educational Travel Services is taking the trip/tour of a lifetime. The Holy Land. Yes, the place where our Savor was born. We will depart on a 10 day tour from RDU, via JFK on this life changing experience. The Holy Land, the place where it all took place, every major Religion in the World has a part of this magical and sacred ground. Join us as we explore the land of Christ.

Your journey of a lifetime includes:

o Roundtrip Airfare from RDU
o Deluxe Motor Coaches
o Guided Sightseeing
o Entrance fees to sites visited
o Bible Study guide
o Superior 1st Class Hotels
o Buffett Breakfast and Dinner Daily.

All of this, including an evangelist (TBA) traveling with us for Biblical clarification and counseling.

The price, $3500. (Pastors are free for congregations/groups from their church of 10 or more people.) We have limited space. A deposit of $300 per person is required at time of booking. Final payment is not due until Aug. 01, 2012. Payment plans are available. This price includes all taxes, fuel charges, and fees.

Its time to stop saying, someday… today is that day, do not miss this opportunity to visit the Holy Land. Take it from me, I was there in 1981, it changed my life. Now when I read my Bible, I have been to many of the places, so it really comes alive for me. Pastors I know who have visited the Holy Land take their messages to a new level. You will never experience something like this in your life, as I have said; this is a life changing event.

Show your pastor how much you love him and his wife, for Pastor Appreciation Day, award them with this trip. Church with 10 couples attending, Your Pastor and his wife to attend with you for free.

Start planning now. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Make plans to attend. Contact,

Rick Trollinger
Agape Travel
(919) 971-9836

Halloween Cruise is set... jump on board and come with us.

Well judging by the heat during the day and not the calendar, summer is here. We still have a couple weeks until the official 1st day of summer, but I think Mother Nature is giving us a bit of a preview here in North Carolina.
I’m really excited about this up coming fall. As many of you know, that’s when my lovely wife and I take our annual cruise. This year we have selected a 5 day cruise from Jacksonville, Florida on the Carnival Fascination. We depart on October 29 and return on November 3. Yes, it’s a Halloween cruise. This will be our second one. We went during Halloween about three years ago on the Carnival Glory, and it was a blast. Some of the costumes were very imaginative and funny. Shirley and I went as Fred and Wilma Flintstone, while Tiffany and Courtney complemented my brother-in-law Gene and his wife Donna, dressing up like elves vacationing with Santa and Mrs. Claus on a vacation before the Christmas rush. As far as I was able to tell, they were the only Christmas group, while there were two or three other Fred-and-Wilmas. Not sure what it will be this year… but what ever we dress up as, I’m sure it will be fun.
The cost of this cruise is $385 for an inside stateroom. Not bad for a 5 day cruise. And what’s nice about going out of Jacksonville, we can drive there in about 6 hours. Normally we stop over night in Savannah, Ga. Last time we had dinner at the “Moon River Brewing Company.” There are so many restaurants to choose from, who knows what it will be this time.

A day at sea... what to do...

It has been so long since I have written; I really want to get better at writing more often. I can’t use time as an excuse, since we all have those issues. I would love to say it’s baseball season and I spend a lot of my time on a baseball field, but that’s not all that great of a reason. I really think it’s that I just don’t think about it except when I’m on a ship. Our family finds ourselves trying to pin down a cruise for this September. I have a group going on the Carnival Inspiration Labor Day weekend. It’s a great price for a holiday weekend: $360 for an inside and $390 for an oceanview. Just one port of call, Cozumel, Mexico, and two wonderful days at sea. Shirley and I really love the days at sea. There is so much going on all over the ship, we get a bit frustrated because we have to narrow the activities down so we can get the most out of our day. We love to play the different trivia games. We have about 15 of the coveted “24-carat gold plastic ships-on-a-stick.” People have been known to do some pretty strange things to get one. On one cruise our good friend, Ellie, corned one of the ship’s staff and talked him into giving her one. She wore it around her neck all day like a very large “bling.” But she was smiling from ear to ear. There are a lot of other activities. My sister-in-law Donna and her husband Gene spend a lot of time at the art auctions. If you are patient and have a keen eye, there are bargains to be had. Shirley likes the artist Jean Claude Picot; she has collected several of his prints. I have purchased some sports memorabilia. My two prize possessions from the Park West Art Auctions are a signed photo of the great third baseman Brooks Robinson and a Hall of Fame commemorative baseball signed by Oakland A’s pitching great, Rollie Fingers. (What a great baseball name for a pitcher.) We have a few other treasures we have brought home: a full uncut sheet of Charlie Brown/Peanuts trading cards that we got for Courtney, and Tiffany likes Anatole Krasnyansky. Not only can you get some good deals on paintings and prints from artists like Thomas Kinkade and Peter Max, the auctioneers go into the history of the artists and who or what influenced them. They also will offer a lecture on how to collect art and what the different media are. It’s actually very interesting. Another of our “sea day” things we like to do: putt-putt! Yes, many ships have a nine-hole putt-putt course. Sometimes there are a few kids running around the area, but most of the time, they’re having fun and don’t really get in the way. It looks easy, but with wind across the deck and a rolling ship, putting can be a challenge. Sometimes, missing a close putt can tempt one to throw a club into the ocean. Then you remember: The club is checked out to your room and if not returned … someone has to pay for it. One little secret: It’s okay to check out your putter and ball on the first day of the cruise and keep it for the entire cruise. Putt-putt at 1:00 a.m. in the dark can also be a challenge. I have never done it — I’m normally asleep by then — but it’s the thought that counts. Also, a sea day is a great time to do some shopping. The ship, depending on the size and age, has four or five shops selling everything from candy, T-shirts, Christmas ornaments, jewelry (watches, gold, silver, diamonds), purses, clothing, alcohol … it’s a real shopping experience. And believe it or not, the prices are not that bad and they’re tax-free. But be carful how much you spend, or US Customs will have something for you when you get back. Now if you are into that sort of thing, the casino is in full swing. Table games, slots, cards, and tournaments. The players tell me that the ships don’t pay as well as shore-based casinos, but I have seen some nice payouts. My sister, Lee, plays penny slots and will be there for several hours at a time, enjoying herself. If you don’t know how to play the different games, the ships offer gaming lessons. They also have the Ocean Players Club that rewards points and prizes; the last cruise we were on, there was a large group from the Ocean Players Club. Before you know it, the day is over and it’s time for dinner — like you really need a meal after snacking all day. Everywhere you walk on the Lido Deck, where most of the outside activities are, there is food. Grilling hamburgers and hotdogs, buffets, deli, fish and chips, ice cream, cookies, cakes, and did I mention ICE CREAM? Well, this is just a very brief discussion about a normal at-sea day. I had someone tell me the other day that he didn’t want to take a cruise because he didn’t want to be on a ship with nothing to do. That’s the beauty of a cruise: you can do everything or nothing. It’s up to you.

It's not too late to get a great deal on a fall/winter cruise vacation...

I was just checking some prices of cruise vacations and I have really seen some very good deals for a quick weekend get-a-way. Even our Western Caribbean cruise we have coming up Nov. 14 - 21 still has some outstanding prices. It's a seven day cruise for under $600 per person, with less than a month before sailing.

We are also working on several nice groups for next year. So if you are having a family reunion or your Sunday School class wants to do a weekend bible study. Let me know and we can get things rolling for you. Here are some of the groups that we are looking at for next year:

• Local Radio Station listener's appreciation cruise
• Christian Song Writers Cruise, featuring a well known southern gospel quartet
• Christian Singles cruise (Young Adult)
• Christian Singles cruise (35+)
• Bible Study at sea
• Labor Day Weekend Cruise
• Agape Travel Customer Appreciation Cruise
• Christian School Sr. Trip
• Baseball Umpires
• just to name a few

If you are interested in any of the above cruises, let me know. May of them are still available for $50.00 per person deposit. Or if you have an idea for a group cruise, let us know.

Christmas is coming up, a Cruise is a great Christmas gift. Guys, here is an idea... Get your wife a cruise for her birthday next year, give it too her for Christmas... you have just taken care of two gifts with one purchase.

By for now... and remember... "Do just live life, Experience it"

Rick

10 Reasons to take a Cruise

Top 10 Reasons to take a Cruise

1) Choose to cruise for VALUE. One price buys your cabin, dining, entertainment and more.

2) Choose to cruise for ROMANCE. Secluded beaches, en suite dining on a balcony overlooking the ocean and spa services for two are just some of the romantic pursuits available.

3) Choose to cruise for CUISINE. Tantalize your taste buds with gourmet fare that showcases exotic ingredients, old standbys like pizza and ice cream or spa cuisine for a healthy alternative. Depending on your mood, dine in a traditional ballroom setting, a small bistro or a casual eatery.

4) Choose to cruise for VARIETY. With over 200 distinctive ships, 3000 ports-of-call and an unbelievable array of places to see and things to do, there is a perfect cruise for you. For even more choice, consider a pre- or post-land tour.

5) Choose to cruise for ACTIVITIES. Fill your days with sightseeing, sports activities, cultural lectures, educational tours led by naturalists and historians or simply lounge by the pool and relax. At night, enjoy dance extravaganzas, musical revues, gaming or a quiet evening gazing at the stars.

6) Choose to cruise for SIMPLICITY. Don't come back from your vacation needing a vacation. Planning a cruise is simple; your CLIA-affiliated travel agency can handle all of the details. Once you're on board, nearly all expenses are pre-paid... talk about hassle-free.

7) Choose to cruise for NEW HORIZONS. Fall asleep in one destination and awake to a new horizon... and you only have to pack and unpack once!

8) Choose to cruise for FAMILY. Families love cruising. Children's programs, kid-friendly menus and tours of the ship will keep your children happy, while affording you some time alone.

9) Choose to cruise for PAMPERING. Regardless of your budget, all cruise lines pamper their guests with first-class service around the clock.

10) Choose to cruise for SATISFACTION. It's a fact that cruises have a higher percentage of satisfied customers than any other vacation experience.

© Cruise Lines International Association

Key West...

I tell you, I really mean to write on my blog while we are on our cruises, but I get so busy I just don’t have the time. That’s why I love to cruise: It keeps me busy. Only thing bad about staying so busy is that before you know it, the cruise is over.

Well, that Carnival Fascination is a good boat, and the greatest majority of the cruise was great. But, of my 15 or so cruises, I would have to rank this one near the bottom. The food was great, the activities were a lot of fun, and our cabin steward was “off the hook.” I think I was the only one in our area he knew; every time I stepped out of the cabin to go somewhere (most of the time it was to get something to eat) he would stick his head out of whatever room he was in and ask if “Mr. Bill” was having a good time and if was everything okay. Our only complaint really was our dining staff. There were several of our group that ordered food and didn’t get it. Most of it was a second appetizer; we might have not needed it anyway, so he may have been doing us a favor, but still. And it seemed to me that they were slow delivering our food. Now, in their defense, it was just the two of them were serving 24 people. This may seem a bit petty, but when you compare it to the service we received on other cruises, it would really bring the rating down.

Shirley and I spent a lot of time ashore in Key West. Tiffany and Courtney were with us for a bit, but after our snorkeling adventure (and it truly was an adventure) and our visit to Kermit’s Key Lime Shop they were ready to get back on the ship. I needed batteries for my camera, so Shirley and I went on a search for a drug store.

When Fascination docked in downtown Key West, the clouds followed us in. We used our shipboard credits and signed up to go snorkeling. This was our third time to Key West and we had never been in the water there. We choose the “Catamaran & Snorkel” excursion. We were met on the pier by our excursion staff and lead to the 60’ catamaran tied up to the same pier. The clouds were gray and gloomy. It was announced that if we didn’t to go, they would refund our money, but we really wanted to get into the water so we stuck it out.

The ride to the snorkel site took about 45 minutes. As we motored out, Shirley pointed out a waterspout about 10 miles on the horizon. I took some video of it; it was truly a spectacular sight to say the least. We had not seen any lightning on the way to the site, but the waves were building and building from 1-2 foot swells to 3-5 foot swells by the time we reached the reef. Shirley and I donned our snorkel gear and jumped off the catamaran into the choppy sea. It was about a 4 or 5 foot drop into the water. I was a bit worried about Shirley stepping off the boat and being able to hold her mask in place, but she did it — that’s my girl.

The water was refreshing and warm despite the cool rain that was falling. Tiffany and Courtney elected to go down the stairway. It was a difficult pathway; the boat was rockin’ pretty hard and walking down the metal steps was tricky. They made it and spent sometime in the water, but the chop made it very difficult to enjoy the limited sea life below the boat, and swimming to the reef about 30 yards away against the current and the choppy waves kept it very challenging to keep the snorkel from filling with water.

I swam to the reef and took a look at the sea life. Around the reef the sea life was very plentiful. Fish of every size, color, and shape were all over the place. But unlike other places we had been in the Caribbean, this reef was 8 to 12 feet deep. Some of the reef was in less than one foot of water, but because of the choppy seas, getting close was a chore and not getting thrown into the reef would have been an almost impossible task.

After a few minutes and a couple deep dives to look at the sea life, I elected to swim back to find Shirley and see how she was doing. Part of the equipment they give you on these snorkel excursions is a vest that you can blow air into and just float. We had about 50 people on this excursion so finding Shirley among all the floaters was harder than I thought it would be. But I finally located her about 30 yards from me. She was with Tiffany and Courtney, who had had about enough of fighting the chop.

I swam over to them as they were working their way back to the boat. Both of them were able to maneuver their way back onto the boat with little difficulty. Shirley had a bit more of an adventure. As she was working her way up the metal stairs, the told up to sit on the stairs and pull yourself up step by step holding onto the ropes. Well, Shirley got all the way to the top when a very large wave came through. It lifted the catamaran up about 6 feet, then as quickly as it lifted it, the wave was gone and the boat dropped. Well, that left Shirley suspended in midair; unfortunately, life is not like the old Bugs Bunny cartoons where the character just hangs suspended in the air and moves fast enough to get back on the cliff or whatever has left them suspended. Well, the boat went down and so did Shirley, bouncing her bottom on each of the six metal steps on her way back into the sea.

I was close enough to grab her and a suspension rope at the same time and hold her from falling back into the gulf. She was able to grip my arm and, with a little (the operative word here is “little”) help from the staff, was able to get back on the steps and work her way up to the boat. She did have a few bruises and sore spots on her lower back, but it didn’t seem to affect her the rest of the trip.

After about an hour, we loaded back on to the catamaran and started our journey back to the Fascination. On the way back I could see some very ominous storm clouds starting to build that produced some lightning. The wind was still whipping up the seas to give us a bumpy ride back to Key West. I only saw one guest succumb to the choppy seas by getting sick, while the rest of the guests were enjoying the free drinks.

Once we got back to the dock, we headed to the public library. Courtney had to do some work for The Garner Citizen, and so we took advantage of the computers at the library. After about 30 minutes there, we headed to our — or at least mine — main goal at Key West: Kermit’s Key Lime Shop. Kermit takes credit for coming up with the recipe for Key Lime Pie. I really don’t care who created this true blessing from God, but Key Lime Pie will be at the Great Feast in Heaven, I know it!

At Kermit’s, I couldn’t keep my hands out of the free samples. I wanted some of everything they had. We ended up buying a couple of Key Lime Pie slices that they dip in milk chocolate, put on a popsicle stick and freeze; some sugar-free Key Lime saltwater taffy; and a couple of Key Lime-flavored stick candies for the show on the ship later.

Shirley and I strolled around Key West a little, looking at some of the building and shops. There was one homeless guy who asked Shirley to marry him, but she told him she was busy that day and could not marry him. Lucky for me I kept her busy! We went into this little mall and I had a conversation with a rather large white parrot. I think he understood me and I understood him; he said, “Hello.” This mall had a free movie about Key West and the waters around the area. I think next time we’ll take advantage of this and sit through it. We were running out of time; we had to get back to the ship before she sailed.

Well, Key West was a good port. Most of the people in my group said they would like to go there again. I think they liked the fact that there was not a lot of haggling by the locals. When you get off the ship in Nassau, you’re bombarded with merchants trying to sell you trinkets, people trying to braid your hair, or very assertive cab drivers trying to offer you a tour of the island or a trip to Atlantis. I’ll write more about Nassau later in the next blog text. As far as Key West goes, it’s a nice place to visit for a few hours, but … it’s back to the ship.

Cruise-Day 2

We left port on time Monday, beautiful sunset as we sailed up the St. Johns River. Some dolphins swam along side the boat as we approached Mayport Navel Station, I was wondering if they were those dolphins that were trained to plant bombs under boats? Be even if they were, they were just enjoying the swim.

Dinner 1st night on the ship was very good, I had some St. Louis Style Baby Back Ribs, and oh course for Dinner, Warm Chocolate Melting Cake. The welcome aboard show was the same one we had seen many times, but it was still entertaining. They had a comedian on also, he was funny. I went for a brief time to his "Adult" show, left after about 3 minutes, he got down in the gutter very quick.

Our at sea day was a lot of fun. Sun was shinning, nice breeze across the deck, not too hot. Courtney had won two Carnival Trophies before noon. One on a Movie Trivia game and the other a general trivia. Looks like I have my work cut out for me if I'm going to win one. Dinner was formal night. I put on my best tux. (Actually it's my only tux) and we enjoyed lobster and shrimp with a green looking stuff that I don't care for (Broccoli) and I gladly let Shirley eat mine. After all it's only fair, I had to eat three of her shrimp. For desert I had Cherries Jubilee and Warm Chocolate Meting Cake.

Today in Key West, so far we did some snorkeling off a 60" sail boat. Water was very choppy, 3 - 4 foot seas, but very very clear. While we were there, we were surrounded by thunderstorms, and go a pretty good view of a water spout. I had never see one before, it was kind of need.

Well, time to head to Kermit's Key Lime Shop to pick up a large bottle of Key Lime juice for Beth, a slice of key lime pie, dipped in milk chocolate, then frozen... some kind'a good! The back to the ship for the "Return Cruisers Party" the another great dinner, topped off by a slice of peperoni pizza.


Happy Sailing.....


Rick

Savannah....

Well we made it to Savannah. We left Raleigh at 9:00 and got here at 3:00, with three stops. Once for a McDs McGriddle, at the South Carolina Visitor Center, and some little town for some Burger King. We are staying at the Sheraton Four Points in the Historic District. Nice hotel, my 1st time here. Staff was very nice upon check in. We are getting ready to walk down to the River Walk and check out the shops. Dinner tonight will be at the "Moon River Restaurant." We ate there the last time we were here and it was very good. Shirley got a coupon!!!! She is the coupon Queen!.. Okay, well I'll write more later..... Peace.

Rick

I'm excited about our cruise on Monday, but Remembering today.

All I have been thinking about for the last few days is getting ready for our cruise on Monday. Packing, planning, getting the car serviced, and talking about the cruise has really be in the forefront of my thoughts, but today I want to think about something else.

As you are aware, 9 years ago today a group of Muslim extremist murdered over 3000 Americans who's only crime was, being Americans. These men, women, and children got up like they normally do and went to work. I wonder how many of them had a disagreement with someone on their way to work, who got cut off in traffic and flipped a finger at someone, or had a disagreement with their spouse over some minor issues. Who left their home and forgot to tell someone that they loved them or was in too big of a hurry to kiss someone good bye. Even the night before thought about making a phone call just to say, "hi" and put if off until the next day.

Those people, each and everyone went to work as they did almost everyday. Even the dedicated policeman, fireman, and EMS personnel went to work that morning, who deal with emergency situations everyday, never considered what would await them that morning.

Why, why us? What would cause someone to attack us in such a cowardly way? I think most of us would understand if some of our military personnel were attacked. If someone planted a bomb on a base. But these people murdered that morning, they were non-military. Some of them we conservatives, some were liberals, some were Christians, some were Jewish, some were Catholic, and some many have even been Muslim. Why, why them, why us? It just doesn't' make any sense. What did we do to them? Well I'm sure if you asked those who want to see the USA destroyed, they would tell you their radical reasons. We would strongly disagree with them, citing our reasons of how this country is good and how we make world a better place.

There is one thing that sticks in my mind about the days after 9/11. There were a lot of people in this country re-evaluating their lives. There were a lot of people who said, "I'm not going to take life for granted any more, I'm ready to get my life in order." Churches all over the country started opening their doors just for people to come in a pray. They held memorial services, the next Sunday people who hadn't been in church for years walked through the doors.

For a brief time, just a few days, we were united. It didn't matter your political affiliation or the color of your skin. We became The UNITED States of America. What happened? Here's what I believe. We have taken God and put Him out of our lives. We no longer look to God for guidance. We don't read the Bible looking for answers to life's questions. We look to the world, that's how we are brought up. Looking back, the Supreme Court ruling, Engel v. Vitale (1962). This Supreme Court case took school lead prayer out of public schools. Now we have generations of children and young adults that have never darkened the door of a church. They have been searching this world for answers to the questions of life. When I was in school, smoking in the restroom or chewing gum in class was the major offenses. Now, elementary students bring guns to school. Teachers are seducing students. Teachers and school administrators spend a great deal of their time keeping order, dealing with students who have no discipline at home, so they don't in the school. Teachers should be teaching, reading, writing, and math. Not worrying about if a child has a gun in his back pack.

We have lost God in our society. We have lost sight of the Cross. We have lost sight of the Blood that God's Son, Jesus gave up for us. As we remember 9/11 today and we think about those who died in those buildings, on the planes, and on the battle fields to protect the freedoms that we have. Think about the one's who died, unsaved. Who said, "I'll get saved next Sunday."

I pray for the days of old, but not so far in the past. The days when Americans were on our knees, families had dinner together, and attending church on Sunday was the thing that was done. Stores were closed until after church out of respect and because all their employees were at church. How can we get back to those days? It's simple. We have to look to the Cross, we have to see the blood, we have to recognise the sacrifice that Christ made for us on that Old Rugged Cross. He died and bled for our sins. He paid the price that we could never pay. If we want to remember those who died on 9/11, we have to do the things that they didn't have time to because their lives were taken away. Unexpectedly. When they went to work or got on one of those planes that morning, they didn't know it would be their last. They were unable to apologize for that argument, they didn't get a chance to say, "I love you" one last time. I hope that they were ready to step into entirety that day, are you?

Everyday, I make sure that Shirley knows that I love her. We are not guaranteed another day. We think we have time, but do we? The victims of 9/11 thought they had other days.

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that none should parish. But have everlasting life." (John 3:16) If you don't know Christ as your savor, seek Him. Call a pastor or another Christian and ask them how you can have everlasting life through Jesus. And if you don't know who to call and you want to talk, Call me. 919-971-9836

God Bless You on this Day. Pray for the families of those who died on this day.

In Christ our Savor,


Rick

1st, let me apologize for not posting in a long time. My goal was to post everyday that I was on my last cruise, but I was having so much fun, Shirley and I were so busy, I just couldn't work it into my schedule. I will try to do better this time.

We leave Sunday, Sept. 12 traveling to Savannah, Ga. We will spend the night at the Sheraton in the historic district. I love Savannah. The river walk is a lot of fun, neat shops. I really love the antique shop on the north end of the boardwalk. I don't know the name of it, but it's several floors, consignment type of a deal, many vendor with so much stuff. I love to look for old fishing equipment and musical instruments. Always looking for that one item that I pay $10.00 for, I take it to Antiques Road Show and find out it's worth much more than I paid for it. With my luck, I'll pay $10.00 and find out it's worth, $9.00.

Our cruise this time is from Jacksonville, Florida on the Carnival Fascination. We have sailed on this ship before and we have done this itinerary. The ship leaves Monday. We have a "Fun Day @ Sea" on Tuesday. Wednesday we are in Key West- Look out Kermit's Key Lime Shop, I'm on my way!!!! They have a frozen slice of key lime pie, that they dip in milk chocolate and freeze it on a stick. So, good, would make a puppy pull a fraught train. We also plan on doing some snorkeling and sailing on a 60' catamaran. Just one of the many shore excursions offered through the ship.

We will find our self in Nassau on Thursday. Yes, Nassau again. We are going to do the same thing we did last time. Take the city bus to the Sheraton and spend the day enjoying their facilities. We are in Nassau from about 12:00 PM until 10:00 PM, this will be a great opportunity to take some night photos with my new camera I got last father's day. Friday will be another "Fun Day @ Sea" and back to Jacksonville Saturday.

This is our second cruise as Carnival Platinum Guest. This is really a great program. Every day they deliver something special to your room. They have a personalized stationary in your stateroom, but the best of all... they will do our laundry, FOR FREE! So we don't bring home 87 suitcases of dirty cloths that Shirley will have to do.

This cruise will be very special, we are taking Tiffany and Courtney with us. It's been a long time since both of them have cruised with us. We took Courtney a couple cruises ago, I don't remember why Tiffany didn't go, college classes I think. I am excited about spending some time with them it will not be too long when they will be moving out, on their own and it will be just me and Shirley.

I have blocked space for several cruises in 2011. I have several private groups going and two sailing that are for Agape Travel. I have space Feb. 10 (Valentines Weekend), May 15 weekend cruise to Cozumel, Mexico on the Carnival Inspiration (Last chance for this ship, Carnival is moving her to the west coast- Great Ship), Labor Day Weekend - Fantastic deal for a HOLIDAY weekend- prices starting at $300 per person, from Pt Canaveral-Freeport and OVERNIGHT in Nassau, and Oct. 30- 7 day southern Caribbean from San Juan.


Sunday, October 30, 2011 San Juan, Puerto Rico
Monday, October 31, 2011 St. Thomas, U.s. Virgin Islands
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 Dominica, Caribbean
Wednesday, November 2, 2011 Bridgetown, Barbados
Thursday, November 3, 2011 St. Lucia, Caribbean
Friday, November 4, 2011 St. Kitts
Saturday, November 5, 2011 St. Maarten
Sunday, November 6, 2011 San Juan, Puerto Rico

Prices starting at under $500 per person for an inside stateroom.

You can hold your reservation on any of these cruises for $50.00 per person.

Well, I will write more as the cruise approaches. If you have any questions about travel or you want to book a cruise or any vacation call me (919) 971-9836.


Rick

1st day in Nassau

We had a great day at sea yesterday... The ship is just like we remember.  Met our table mates at dinner, they are from Elizabeth City, NC and it's their 1st cruise, so I had fun sharing my knowledge of cruising whether they wanted to hear it or not!  But they are very nice people and we are looking forward to seeing them each night for dinner.

Yesterday I won my 1st "24 karet gold plasic ship on a stick" with a close sports trivia game.  Thanks to Shirley, and her knowing that in Olympic Wrestling you are not allowed to pull or twist you opponent's toes.  We also got to meet the Captain of the Glory and had our photo taken with him... he still has not agreed to let me drive, but I'm working on him.

Last night at dinner Shirley and I both had the loster... uuummm some kind'a good!  Then Shirley had a slice of pizza just before bed.  We enjoyed the welcome aboard show. We have seen it before, but it's a nice way to get the vacation started.

There are 4 other ships in Nassau with us, three of them are Carnival ships and one Disney ship. We could see the big deck screen above the pool on the Disney ship, they were playing the movie Aladin.  Even from our ship we could see the screen clearly and hear the high deff. sound.

Well, I guess that's all for now.  Tomorrow we will visit the Sheraton and go para-sailing.

We

We arrived in Norfolk yesterday afternoon and checked into our hotel, Sheraton Norfolk, Waterside. This is a very nice hotel. We got upgraded to a "Club Level" room on the 10th floor. This room was on the corner and has two spectacular views. One of the beautiful City of Norfolk and the other, the Elizabeth River. When we got into our room yesterday, we could see Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas. She was just pushing away from the dock with a load of happy cruisers on their way to Bermuda. We have never been there, but it's on our list of places to visit. I hear the golfing there is out of this world.

After we checked in we headed to the Greenbrier Mall area for dinner with Shirley's sister, Paulette and the House Family. We meet at Smokie Bones BBQ. This was my 1st experience there. It was very good... love them St. Louis style ribs! After some great conversation and reliving some past memories, me, Shirley and Paulette headed to the mall for a new hair cut for Shirley and some sunglasses for me.

We parked our car at Portside in Portsmouth to leave it there while we were on our cruise. Shirley and I took the Elizabeth River Ferry from Portside to Waterside in Norfolk. The ferry dropped us right next door to our hotel. The ride was very romantic and fun. Just looking at the lights of downtown Norfolk and the nice cool breeze made the ride very relaxing and pleasant.

I feel a little guilty about this cruise... it's just Shirley and I. We left Tiffany and Courtney at home to care for the cats. I will miss the girls on the cruise. I'm guessing that will last only two or three times through the buffet line, then they will be a distant memory. But, I think since they both worked so hard getting through college, we'll take them with us in September on our five day cruise on the Carnival Fascination.

Sometime today we will board the Carnival Glory. I'm very excited. We have sailed on her once before. It's almost like coming home to an old friend. But this time, we are VIP. This will be my 10th sailing on Carnival, so we get some extra perks. The main thing Shirley is looking forward too is the complimentary laundry service. I'm looking forward to checking in at the VIP Lounge and skipping the long lines. I'll write more about our cruise our 1st day in port when we get to Nassau.

One of the neat things about this trip is we are in Norfolk for Memorial Day weekend. This being a military town, it reminds me of why we have a Memorial Day. It is to honor those who have served and given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and our Country. Thank you, thank you to all those family's who have lost loved ones, thank you for their sacrifice. Let us not forget them, ever!

12 days... Glory Glory Glory... Here we come!

Well it’s only 12 days before we leave for Norfolk to go on our cruise. Shirley and I are going up the day before and staying at the Sheraton Waterside, just a few steps from the ship. I want to wake up on the 30th floor and look out my window and see the Carnival Glory, my six day escape from the real world of daily stresses. This will be our 2nd time on the Glory and our 100th time (not really, just seems like it) in Nassau. But with just a short drive to Norfolk and great cruise prices, it’s worth it.

Nassau is not a bad port. The Atlantis is a must see. Every time we go there I enjoy viewing the lobby aquarium. The short walk from the cruise ship docks and ride on the water taxi is enjoyable. There is a local narrator who gives a tour as you travel. I don’t know how much of what he says is true, but we have heard it about 20,000 times and it’s the same thing over and over…“this movie was shot at that beach, this house is owned by this Hollywood Star, and I work for tips only.” This trip Shirley and I are going to do “duel parasailing.” I have parasailed before, but this will be Shirley’s first time. She likes to fly okay, accept for the take off (my arm sill have nail marks in it from when we flew to Ft. Lauderdale for a cruise two years ago). I think she’ll do wonderful parasailing. It is very peaceful - 300 feet above the ocean, just you and the sail. (Having one or two sharks below isn’t very scary, as long as the sail stays open.)

But we need this trip. We both have been stressed due to college graduation celebrations and work. We are looking forward to our 6-day cruise. This will be my 10th cruise with Carnival so I am at “Platinum Level” which gives a few extra privileges. We get to check in at the VIP Lounge, we get go jump line for tender ports (there are none on this sailing, but it will come in handy in November when we go to the Grand Caymans!) But the one that I think Shirley is looking forward to the most, FREE LAUNDRY SERVICE! We can have the ship wash our cloths before we get home, so there will be little for us to do when we get back but unpack.

Thanks for reading my Blog. I will try to write more often to keep my readers abreast of what’s going on in the world of cruising or vacation travel. I should let you know that the State Department has issued travel warnings to some parts of China and northern Mexico because of violence, but there are plenty of other places to go… So remember Agape Travel’s motto… “Don’t just live… Travel!”

Cruise Time... Great Deals out there

I know it's been a while since I posted. There are some really great cruise deals still out there for the late summer and fall months. I have several group spaced blocked for some upcoming cruise vacations.

Sept. 13 4 Days on the Monarch of the Seas, prices starting @475 per person

Oct. 11 4 Days on the Majesty of the Seas, starting at $340 per per son

Nov. 14 7 days, Carnival Valor, Western Caribbean, 7 days, starting $460 per person.

You can book any of these cruise vacations for $100 deposit per cabin... Also Agape Travel is going to Hawaii in Sept. 2011, we have the balconies booked, $50.00 deposit holds you space.

We are also looking into a trip to the Holy Land in 2011... keep checking back for more information.


Rick

Well another WAVE month in the cruise industry. January and February are called WAVE months. The cruise industry used these months to try to fill up their ships for the summer cruise season and start filling the ships for 2010. As an independent travel agent, I feel it’s my job to help them in any way I can. If your family has a family reunion annually or bi-annually, now is the time to set it up on a cruise. Just think about it, everyone together sailing to an exciting port… spending time catching up and remembering the “good ol’ days” when life was simple and less complicated. A family reunion on a cruise ship is just that. Relaxing and fun all at the same time, But what I think is the best thing about a family reunion at sea… no one has to cook or clean up after anyone. It’s all done for you at very affordable prices. Remember the MasterCard commercials… Cruise Ticket, $500.00…. Tee Shirt, $12.00… Spending time with the one’s you love, PRICELESS!

Do you need a Pass Port?

Yes and no. According to Carnival, you do not need a pass port as long as you are leaving on a cruise ship from and returning to that same USA port. Now, pass ports are highly recommended, but not required. The only draw back to not having a pass port is, if you needed to cut your cruise short and fly back to the USA from a non-USA state or territory, you would have to have a pass port to enter the USA.

Christmas Shopping

It's hard to find that special gift for each member of your family. Color, Size, styles.... it goes on and on. My wife is tought to buy for. She never buys for herself, so if she gets a "gift card" she will used it buy items for our daughters. She doesn't wear make up or jewelry, she is challenging to buy for. The best gift that I have ever given her was a Cruise Vacation. It was our first and we have never looked back. We just celebrated our 11th anniversary, guess what she got? A cruise on the Carnival Celebration, Dec. 10. She was very happy!

So what I'm trying to say... Christmas time is right around the corner... the best gift for your family might be a cruise vacation. It's inexpensive, you will spend hours talking about it and planning for it as the date draws closer... then, when your family gets on the ship, it's 7 days of fun and food... time together.. no interruptions... just you and special time with your family. Get to know each other again... spend a week at sea.

Email me if you want more information: rick.smallworldtravel@hotmail.com