Jetsettersblog

From £139 For A Car And 2 People

Say Bon Voyage to Stressful Holidays with DFDS Seaways

This summer make the most of your free time and enjoy your holiday with minimal travel stress. With cruise ferries travelling daily from Newcastle to Amsterdam, and three or four times a week from Harwich to Esbjerg, DFDS Seaways will do the travelling for you so that you can take your mind off the journey and set sail for Europe, carefree.

If you are setting off for your holidays from the North of England, the Midlands or Scotland, think about the time and energy saved by not having to drive to the south coast to enjoy Europe.

Don’t get stuck in motorway queues heading down to Dover, instead take miles off your journey and save pounds worth of fuel too by sailing with DFDS Seaways from Newcastle to Amsterdam. For example if you live in Newcastle and you want to get to Cologne in Germany, you will save 419 miles of driving if you take the DFDS Seaways’ ferry to Amsterdam and drive from there, compared to driving to Dover and then to Cologne from Calais.

Meanwhile, if you’re heading off to Denmark, Sweden, Norway, or northern Germany, DFDS Seaways provides the only ferry route to Scandinavia via its Harwich – Esbjerg route to Denmark.

Forget long check-in queues at airports, baggage restrictions and stressful waiting in departure lounges, as your holiday begins the moment you drive onboard. Simply pack up the car with everything you need, drive onboard and unwind. You can even travel with your tent, campervan or caravan and explore European or Scandinavian campsites and the great outdoors.

You can also easily bring your four legged furry friend with you on your trip thanks to DFDS Seaways’ DEFRA Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). Animals covered under DFDS Seaways’ DEFRA accreditation include dogs, cats and ferrets; however DFDS Seaways will allow you to travel with other pets including rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, mice, rats and tortoises. So you can take the whole family with you on holiday.

When you arrive in Holland or Denmark you have easy access to the rest of Europe. From the DFDS Seaways’ port in Holland you can get to Germany in 88 miles, Belgium in 85 miles, drive to France in 175 miles or travel beyond.

So after a relaxing crossing you can arrive refreshed, ready to enjoy a drive on the scenic roads of Northern Europe. Sail from Harwich to Esbjerg and from there it’s an easy drive through Denmark, 150 miles to northern Germany and 210 miles to Sweden. You can also travel onto Copenhagen and take the DFDS Seaways’ ferry to Oslo for access into Norway and central Sweden.

On a DFDS Seaways’ cruise ferry there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Check out the shops, various restaurants, bars, live entertainment and on routes from Newcastle a casino and cinemas. Perhaps go on-deck and embrace the sea air.

There is so much to see and do, if you are travelling as a family there are even activities and clubs for the children to keep them occupied.

Prices are from £139 for a car and two passengers or £169 for a car and 4 passengers travelling Newcastle to Holland, one way, and from £232 one way for 2 people plus car and £252 for 4 people travelling to Denmark.

DFDS Seaways also offers a wide range of holiday and short break options including activity holidays at Center Parcs Europe and Sunparks, breaks to a number of fantastic European cities and events, as well as cottage holidays, and much more.

For Jumana Brodersen and the creative team currently engaged in building and fabricating Klump Island at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, “don’t sweat the small stuff” is key to delivering a new children’s attraction consistent with the quality of Tivoli and ready to welcome guests for the 2010 spring season.

The Klump Island project now being realized in Denmark is a themed entertainment collaboration across continents. Brodersen, president of The J Co LLC of St. Louis, Mo., and former corporate director of creative development with Busch Entertainment Corp., was brought on in June 2009, after meeting in Copenhagen with Tivoli’s director of design Mikkel Sonne, vice president Finn Sture Madsen and CEO Lars Liebst, as well as Egmont creative developer Per Sanderhage of Egmont, which owns the Rasmus Klump character.

Returning to the US, Brodersen kicked off creative development with a design team chosen for their expertise in themed play attractions (Elaine Swanger, Sophie Binder and Scott Neale). Klump Island offers a new immersive play experience for children and their families, themed around the world of Rasmus Klump and his friends.

Brodersen’s design ushers in a dramatic sense of arrival. Featuring three adventure zones for three age groups, Brodersen’s design provides a whole new look within Tivoli Gardens, blending Rasmus sculptural styles, textures and colors into the fabric of Tivoli. Complementing the play areas are a Rasmus-themed ride, and a restaurant specializing in pancakes, Rasmus’s comfort food of choice.

www.tivoli.dk

Tivoli CEO Lars Liebst said, “In 2009 we opened the year’s wildest ride, Vertigo, for the daredevils.

In 2010 the focus will be on children with a play world, the size and quality of which have never been seen before in Denmark, with free entry for our visitors.

We believe that Petzi [Rasmus Klump] and Tivoli fit together well: both brands are internationally recognized, and both have entertained Danish children for many generations.”

For more information, visit

Auto Europe is offering several ways to save money on European car rentals this spring.

They include a free guaranteed one-car class upgrade, free GPS rentals and savings up to 15 percent off prestige car services.

Book early and receive a free one-car class upgrade in Italy, Germany, Ireland and Israel.

For example, reserve a compact class and receive a complimentary upgrade to an intermediate class. Additional upgrade categories are available.

In addition, for reservations through March 31, travelers will receive a free GPS rental with a minimum five-day rental of compact class or larger in select European countries.

The portable GPS units are the latest Garmin Nuvi 270s. The GPS units come with a dash mount but can be removed and taken into a villa or hotel room to plan the next day’s trip or to find a particular restaurant or museum. They also come loaded with mapping for all of Western Europe and most of Eastern Europe.

For the upscale traveler, Auto Europe is offering 15 percent off any weekly Mercedes Benz or Luxury car rental.

Upgrade offer varies based upon rental country.

GPS rental is available only for U.S. citizens residing in the United States and is valid for reservations paid for by March 31, for travel through May 31, 2010, and excludes delivery charges of $40 per rental..

AMA Waterways is installing a new complimentary information and entertainment experience on its ships on the Danube, Rhine, Main and Mosel rivers in Europe. The new infotainment system includes enhanced Internet connectivity via newly installed 3G high-speed service.

The new system will result in fewer interruptions due to location, bridges and weather. Internet service is available via 3G signal, and will include convenient Wi-Fi access throughout the ship.

The system will feature a complimentary video-on-demand system featuring movies from Disney, Warner Bros., Universal, Paramount and Sony in staterooms.

A regularly changing selection of classic films will also be available as will television travel programs from Rick Steves and Samantha Brown, chosen to coincide with the cruise itinerary.

The new system will offer more broadcast television options, special interest channels, and music in different styles and genres.

In addition, the TV screen can be turned into a computer screen using a remote control, allowing passengers to surf the Internet via Microsoft Internet Explorer, send emails, post blogs, and create documents using word processing or spreadsheet programs. Passengers also will be able to view their bills through the system.

Guests will be able to print boarding passes on a dedicated guest laser printer in the Aft Lounge.

Also, a broadcasted Google map will trace the route of the ship. However, the company said not all features are currently available on every ship.

“Today’s travelers expect a full array of Internet and entertainment options and do not want to pay extra for them,” said AMA Waterways President Rudi Schreiner.

For more information, call 800-626-0126 or visit www.amawaterways.com

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises opened 2011 Europe itineraries for both group and individual bookings. For agents booking groups, Uniworld is offering

Guests can save up to $1,000 per person by paying in full at time of booking by Sept. 30.

Early-booking savings of up to $300 per person are available to those who deposit by Nov. 30.

Both Pay-In-Full and early-booking savings are combinable with the group savings.

The Pay-in-Full and early-booking savings are also available to individuals.

One of the most popular resorts in Lithuania – Palanga has been listed in the ‘Hot List” by the Sunday Times Travel. The list reveals Europe’s 20 best beaches for sun and sea holidays this summer.

Palanga is portrayed as “a cracking little resort town with a white, sandy beach, pine forests, sand dunes and fizzing nightlife” – perfect description of Lithuania’s most popular holiday destination.

The article mentions the relative low prices in the country, which should be a major selling point for visitors in the current economic climate. “A terrific amber museum” which houses one of the largest amber pieces in Europe “Sun Stone” and Botanical Gardens are highlighted as the most popular cultural activities in the resort. Jewel in the crown – Curonian Spit listed in UNESCO World Heritage List also mentioned as a short drive from Palanga.

Augusta Jaudegyte, UK director of the Lithuanian National Tourism Office said: „

Lithuanian seaside is a perfect choice for a beach holiday, which is sometimes overlooked by British tourists.

The vibrant towns surrounded by shifting dunes and pine forests have lots to offer from beautiful beaches to vibrant towns and unique culture.”

Palanga resort is easy accessible with Air Baltic via Riga which flies twice a day (more information www.airbaltic.com ) or SAS (www.flysas.com ) offer daily flights via Copenhagen.

The Yachts of Seabourn is offering two-for-one, cruise-only fares on more than 80 voyages in Europe and Asia, plus reduced roundtrip airfare from $499 for economy class and $1,999 for business class from 40 North American gateways.

The cruises depart from May to November and are seven to 15 days long.

To get the deal, cruises must be booked by April 30.

Among the eligible departures are the Seabourn Spirit’s Adriatic and Dalmatian voyages, the Seabourn Legend’s French and Italian Riviera cruises, and the Seabourn Odyssey’s sailings in the Greek Isles, Turkey and the Black Sea.

In June, the new Seabourn Sojourn will begin its maiden season in Northern Europe, cruising Scandinavia, Russia, Scotland and Norway.

In Asia, Seabourn Pride offers voyages visiting Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand and China, including pre- and post-cruise extensions to Beijing on some departures.

All-inclusive cruise-only fares start at $3,550 per person, based on double occupancy of an ocean-view suite.

Danish Capital Copenhagen To Be Served With Four Flights A Week

Spanish Operations Double With Launch Of Daily Services To Barcelona

Qatar Airways has revealed that Copenhagen and Barcelona will join the airline’s ever-expanding route network during the airline’s summer schedule which begins at the end of March 2010.

The announcement follows months of industry speculation over the Doha-based carrier’s plans to launch two new unnamed European destinations.

Commencement of four weekly flights to Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark, will see the airline significantly increase its Scandinavian presence. Qatar Airways currently serves the neighbouring Swedish capital Stockholm non-stop from Doha, a route launched two years ago.

The airline recently announced that it will boost capacity on its Stockholm route with frequency increasing to daily from March next year. With Copenhagen being added, Qatar Airways will further strengthen its operations in Scandinavia, cementing its place in the market as the only GCC carrier to serve the region.

Copenhagen as Denmark’s largest city, is a major regional centre of culture, business, media and science. With the largest airport in Scandinavia,

Copenhagen ranks as a popular hub for regional headquarters of large international companies. Last year, Copenhagen was singled out as the Most Liveable City in the World by leading international lifestyle magazine, Monocle, and is also considered one of the world’s most environmentally friendly cities.

Barcelona will become Qatar Airways’ second city served in Spain, after Madrid, when daily services commence to the popular Mediterranean port city. The new route underscores a growing commitment by the airline to the Spanish market following earlier capacity increases to the country’s capital city of Madrid.

As Spain’s second largest city, Barcelona is a popular tourist centre on the Mediterranean coastline. It is home to one of Europe’s main ports and has a thriving economic base due largely to its importance in finance, commerce, media, entertainment, arts and international trade.

News of the two route announcements comes soon after Qatar Airways unveiled plans to launch flights to Bengaluru (Bangalore) in southern India, the Turkish capital Ankara and Japan’s capital city of Tokyo over an eight-week period starting in February 2010. The airline also plans to launch flights to Sydney, its second Australian destination, during 2010.

With six new routes on the horizon, Qatar Airways will increase its global portfolio from 85 to 91 diverse business and leisure cities across Europe, Middle East, Africa, South Asia, Far East, North America and Australasia. The carrier currently operates a modern fleet of 76 aircraft.

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said: “The addition of the European cities of Copenhagen and Barcelona, along with Ankara which we announced a few days ago, follows the airline’s strategy to expand its operations to diverse and underserved cities from the Gulf.

“By adding these three cities to our route network, we are demonstrating our commitment to expanding our presence in Europe and introduce new travellers to our award-winning Five-star services, as well as provide our existing passengers with even more destinations and convenient travel options.

“The airline’s business model continues to prove successful and Qatar Airways is looking forward to yet another eventful year, with 2010 shaping up to being one of our busiest,” he added.

From Harwich – From £208pp

Great for families and the eco-interested travellers discover the wildlife and beautiful landscapes of the island of Fanø on this superb fully guided break, with 3 nights onboard, including one night in port and a day and a half on the Danish island of Fanø.

Have a go spotting and identifying the birds, whales, dolphins, porpoises and seals present on this route with the help of an expert (field guides are provided, but please bring your own binoculars).

With time to relax in your ensuite cabin and enjoy the onboard entertainment to include the interactive wildlife presentations in the Columbus Lounge and gastronomic restaurants.

Upon arrival next day, Fanø is just ten minutes by ferry from Esbjerg. The island is internationally important for migrating and feeding birds, as well as being famous for its beautiful beaches, dunes and sweeping landscapes.

Here, you will discover why birds have a passion for travel, as you watch migration in action with thousands of birds making fuel stops en route between their wintering and breeding grounds. In 2009 passangers watched 50,000 birds of nearly 100 species in a single day – incredible!

Denmark’s largest colony of Common and Grey Seals will also be on the agenda, and you will have time to explore some of the beautiful old Scandinavian villages, making this a great short break for anyone with a passion for nature and culture!

3 nights from £208pp including meals, departing 2nd May 2010 (£140pp excluding meals)

What’s Included

• 3 nights on board ship in a 2-berth sea-view cabin (including 1 night in Esbjerg port)

• 1½ days guided bird and wildlife watching on the island of Fanø, including Fanø Island ferry crossing and local transport

• Breakfast and evening meals at sea (optional)

• Presentations and fun activities throughout the trip.

For more information on the full range of DFDS Seaways’ Mini Cruise breaks go to www.dfds.co.uk/cruisebreaks  or call 0871 882 0885 (10p per minute plus network rates)

DFDS Seaways has recently been awarded Europe’s Leading Long Sea Ferry Operator 2009 at the World Travel Awards, the industry’s “Oscars”. This is the third successive year that the cruise ferry operator has received this recognition

CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. compiled a list of the Top Five Romantic Cruise Adventures for 2010.

They are as follows.

Most Innovative Gift Registry Program: Carnival Cruise Lines. Couples planning their wedding, honeymoon or vow renewal onboard a Carnival cruise can visit www.carnival.honeymoonwishes.com   to set up a free gift registry.

Friends and family can make purchases on all major credit cards and can create a printable card announcing their gift to the couple.

The Carnival Registry also gives couples access to a free wedding website, free wedding journal, wedding announcements, save-the-date cards, shower ideas and an online photo album.

Most Unique, All-Encompassing Wedding Offerings at Sea:

Celebrity Cruises. The travel retailers recommend a wedding ceremony performed seaside by the ship’s captain at the Lawn Club on the Solstice-class ships.

Celebrity also offers a variety of Nautical Nuptials packages that include wedding planning, save-the-date packages and thank-you gifts delivered to your guests onboard.

CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. also recommend that women book the Bridesmaid Tea Party and men book the Cognac & Cigars Package.

Most Intimate Couples Spa Treatment:

Costa Cruises. Costa offers a Tantric ceremony in the Samsara Spa onboard Costa Serena, Concordia, Luminosa, Pacifica and Deliziosa.

The ceremony takes place in a private, lavish Couples Spa Suite and includes a Shanti Foot Cleaning Ritual, the choice of one couple’s spa treatment and a bathing ritual.

Couples can add champagne and strawberries for the completion of the ceremony. Pricing is $506 per couple.

Most Decadent Romance Package:

Norwegian Cruise Line. The line’s Deluxe Romance Package, priced at $329, includes sparkling wine and strawberries upon arrival, the choice of an exotic spa treatment in Mandara Spa, two 25-minute massages, afternoon tea service, breakfast in bed, a keepsake formal portrait and dinner for two in Le Bistro with a bottle of wine.

Most Romantic Itinerary:

Uniworld. Starting at $1,999 per person, Uniworld’s “Paris & European River Romance” sailing is an 11-day Paris-to-Nuremberg tour that combines seven nights on the river and two nights at a Paris hotel.

The cruise sails on three rivers — the Moselle, the Rhine and the Main. Stops include tours of winemaking villages, medieval towns and a visit to the Romantic Road.

This itinerary is part of Uniworld’s Epicurean Adventure program, which includes private tastings and cooking demonstrations.

All Uniworld sailings include evening al fresco dining, river-view staterooms, Egyptian cotton linens, European-style bedding, L’Occitane bath products, complimentary wine during dinner, complimentary bicycles to enhance sightseeing and more.