And that's too bad, because as the line's first Seaside EVO-class cruise ship, the 4,540-passenger MSC Seashore deserves attention.

The design of the ship is contemporary, with a splashy New York theme, a flashy (literally, lights go on all the time) Atrium and MSC's signature Swarovski crystal stairs. The family-friendly quotient is high, with MSC's largest Doremi kids club, and a pirate-themed waterpark. And the Yacht Club on MSC Seashore is the line's largest so far, for those who want an upscale experience on a vessel with megaship amenities.

On MSC Seashore, gone are some issues that plagued other MSC ships in their early days of U.S. operation. On our sailing, there were no more lengthy waits in the dining rooms. The staff onboard couldn't be more cheerful, friendly or accommodating. The ship's activities were accessible for Americans, while still appealing to MSC's international passenger base (even in the U.S., you'll find multiple languages spoken onboard).

MSC Seashore will also be equipped with cutting-edge technology becoming the first cruise ship in the world to feature a new air sanitation system, ‘Safe Air’, which uses UV-C lamp technology to eliminate viruses and bacteria to guarantee clean and safe air for guests and crew.

MSC Seashore is one of the ships that sail to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC’s exclusive Bahamian destination.

Collage Travel Media Network 

Second on the Skyscanner report among Americans is London.  What makes this so popular is the history the culture architecture…and let’s not forget the Royal Family

 Now I didn’t go here in 2023…It was few years back…but coming in third place is Cancun.

Frontier Airlines is launching new nonstop service to Jamaica and routes between several airports in the U.S. in March and May 2024, with fares.

Delta Air Lines is Added Flights for College Football Playoffs 

Collage Travel Radio 

Since we started talking about luxury cruising in 2024…let’s talk more about luxury not just cruising but all-inclusive locations and perhaps even, what I call Glamping…in Africa.   Even Private Jet services

If you want a once in a lifetime experience…consider pampering yourself on any of these unbelievable journeys.

 2 1/2 cups sifted Flour.   1/8 tsp salt   1/2 lb. butter    2/3 cup sugar    1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla    

Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees

 Directions
Cream butter and add the sugar and egg mixing it thoroughly.  Now add the vanilla.  Then add the flour and salt.  I like to mix the salt when I sift the flour.  You should have a nice ball of dough if you mixed it correctly.  Now you get to roll out the dough onto a flat service with   a little flour sprinkled.  The dough ball is a little sticky. If you like you can put it in the fridge for a little while.  Roll with a rolling pin so the dough is about 1/4 inch thick.  Now, once rolled out you can start with your cookie cutters and place them on a cookie sheet.  Bake about 10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly brown.   

Feel free to decorate with color sprinkles.   They melt in your mouth…

Collage Travel Radio

What happening is that there have been a couple of security breaches…so TSA and Clear are looking into updating systems and procedures. This won’t happen overnight, but they are looking at possibly having to show physical ID as these kiosks.

 You do have to pay for this service, and you will be screened.  Its cost approximately $189.00 a year.

Amazing European Countries

Andorra is a microstate on the border of Spain and France.
Georgia was Europe Ruled at times by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Soviets, Georgia isn’t only a geographical crossroads between Europe and Asia
Greenland is one of nature’s true marvels.
Montenegro is often overlooked.
Wales is the smallest and is packed with historic castles, mountain-clad national parks, and a dramatic coastline.

Zee Michaelson Travel Podcast is Sponsored by:   Collage Travel Radio 

Vanuatu is one of the friendliest nations in the whole of the South Pacific and its many islands all have their own unique personality. 

Tiger's Nest, Bhutan  Bhutan’s most famous attraction, and despite it being an easy 20-minute journey from the nation’s capital Paro, the country’s policy of rationing tourism via a compulsory daily spend keeps numbers relatively low.

Kyrgyzstan. Kyrgyzstan's stunning alpine landscape, from the sparkling lake Song Kul to dramatic mountain passes.

Easter Island, Chile  This is the place with the enormous statue heads look out over the ocean .

Zee discovers several more unique place to visit. 

Zee Michaelson Travel Podcast is Sponsored by:   Collage Travel Radio

Scenic Eclipse II
In 2023, we will welcome Scenic Eclipse II to our fleet and take guests to more than 357 extraordinary ports in 54 remarkable countries, spanning over seven continents. This is the future of world-wide discovery yacht cruising.

Where do you start?

That’s the easy part…Where do you want go? Pick a destination.  Now when you pick a destination you should do some homework about the location. What you can expect.  Everything from weather to hotels to excursions even what shots you will need and if visas are required.  

Then you have to decide how long your vacation. I can’t tell you how many times I talked people into realizing how long they would need.  I had someone ask me if 5 days was good enough for Australia.  Mumm…no….It takes just about two days just to get there.  

Next you will have to look at booking flights, buses, car rentals, accommodations … etc. ....…based on where you are going

Are you tired yet…lots of planning even down to what to pack and because you need to know the weather

Collage Travel Radio is focused on the travel industry and bringing you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  

New to the station is the Carlos Solis Hr. 6 -6

Mari Van Dyke is helping listeners to Re-Discover America.

And even newer is DJ Dave at 4 pm with the Travel Tech hour with great tips when you are planning your travels. 

Today we are going to chat about:

We are going to talk about the 7 things you can do after dark on Oahu

So now many of these companies are now charging special pricing for solo travelers.  Which is a lot better than paying for two and there is only one.

Jay and Zee Cruise Sept 17 departing port Cape Canaveral, FL.  

• Small Group Discoveries:  Small-group departures are offered on all Europe and North America tours. These Small Group Discoveries trips average 20 to 24 travelers (compared to classic tour group average group size of 38). 
• Choice Touring:  Globus is the first escorted tour company to offer this sort of adaptive touring. On select stops on European and North American Choice Touring itineraries, guests can choose from three or four possible excursions (all included in the price). So, for example, while visiting Athens, you can choose a tour of the Acropolis Museum, a trip to the Temple of Poseidon, or a cruise to Aegina Island. Globus has 13 Choice Touring itineraries. 
• Undiscovered Tours:  With its deep-dive approach into lesser-known destinations, Globus’ Undiscovered Tours are ideal for repeat travelers to a destination and anyone looking for a slower, more in-depth experience. 
• Escapes by Globus: Off-season Escapes by Globus tours operate between November and March,
• Independence by Globus: New for 2023, Globus offers a selection of independent city stay vacation packages (in Europe) and independent tours (in farther-flung destinations). This option offers the ease of booking that travelers get on a tour with the flexibility that comes with independent travel.  
• Special Event Tours: 
• Faith-Based Travel:  

1. SPARE TIRE  Driving down the Alcan Highway there is no shortage of potholes that are sure to at your tire (or some may swallow your car whole). We suggest traveling with a full-size spare tire. It could easily be several hundred miles from the next town with an auto body shop.

2. GAS CAN  There are stretches along the Alcan Highway where there are no gas stations for 200+ miles. Make sure to have a full gas can for emergencies. We bought this 5-gallon gas can on Amazon and it fits perfectly in the middle of our spare tire.

3. ALASKA MILEPOST  Alaskans refer to the Milepost book as “the bible to Alaska”. This book has a ton of Alaska information and Alaska maps. It gives a mile by mile description of every highway including accommodation, camping, gas, restaurants, attractions, viewpoints, etc.

4. POWER INVERTER  Not all electronics can be charged off your car’s 12-volt outlet/cigarette lighter port. Having a power inverter is a must especially for charging computers and camera batteries.

5. BATTERY STARTER CAR JUMPER  If your car dies at home you more than likely will call a friend to come to jump you…well that isn’t an option on the Alcan Highway. You’ll want a battery starter that doesn’t rely on another car.

6. TIRE JACK  Most cars come with a tire jack, but before you start your drive to Alaska make sure yours is still there. Next, make sure it isn’t all rusty and actually works to raise your car high enough to change a tire.

7. SATELLITE PHONE  If you are driving to Alaska alone or have a loved one that is and you want some peace of mind you might want to consider getting a satellite phone. Satellite phones have been cheaper over the years and wouldn’t be a bad idea to have.

8. MULTIPLE USB CAR CHARGER  Drive days are long and passengers in the car are most likely going to be on some sort of electronic. Make sure to pick up a multi-port USB car charger so your multiple things can charge at once.

9. ROAD ATLAS MAP  A good map is a must. Don’t plan on having data on a majority of the Alcan Highway except in cities. We love our Rand McNally road atlas, it has great detailed maps and points out campgrounds which are great for finding a place to pull over for the night.

10. MUSIC  Make sure you have Sirus XM radio or a long playlist. No joke there were days where there wasn’t a single radio station available. Our 2006 Honda Odyssey wasn’t set up for Sirus XM so we had to buy this XM car kit. 

Or listen to Collage Travel Radio. 

11. SNACKS  I still remember the day I asked a shop owner where the nearest fast food place was and he told me 10 hours that way (pointing to Alaska) or 4 hours that way (where I just came from)…So yeah make sure you have plenty of snacks in the car. There are sit-down restaurants along the way but if you are like us and you want the drive to Alaska to be over then sitting down for an hour meal isn’t an option.

12. WATER  It’s always good to have a few gallons of water just in case your car breaks down. Very few of the designated campsites had water pumps and the ones that we did use we used for cooking & dishes but didn’t drink them.

13. TOILET PAPER/BABY WIPES  If there are no gas stations for 200+ miles that also means no bathrooms…so it’s best to have a roll of toilet paper or baby wipes in the car. There are plenty of areas to pull over and do what you go to do but DON’T litter. Make sure to bring your tissue with you and throw it away at the next available garbage can.

Amawaterways…They are celebrating 20 years in the industry with award winning ships (longboats)…. And now they are doing something unbelievable…

7 River Journeys through Europe….and they are announce that the 2024 season is now accepting reservations…yes…2024. Amawaterways is once again making history with the longest continuous journeys on one award winning ship.  One sailing in the spring and one in summer….and filled with new ports as well as itinerary exclusives and amenities.

So, what Rivers what countries…So the seven rivers are:   

Scheldt   Maas   Waal   Moselle   Main   Danube   Rhine

49 nights…. WOW

And 15 Countries…I know I know what countries right

Well, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, France, Switzerland,

Austria, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, and this is new to the itinerary…. Moldova.

 And if this wasn’t enough…what about 130 plus unique excursions…. I can’t even begin to talk about all the unique excursions.  It is just a boatload…like that…boat load….   Of excursions…

Think about it….

Visit the awe-inspiring tulip gardens of Keukenhof, taste Alsatian delicacies in Strasbourg, glide past more than 40 castles in the Rhine Gorge and so much more. Plus, be pampered by the same wonderful Cruise Manager and crew throughout your seven-week sailing and experience several unique experiences exclusive to Seven River Journey guests! 

 |  | AmaWaterways has curated a diverse menu of shore excursions, with a variety of choices each day. Walking tours for gentle, regular and active guests as well as guided hikes and bike rides are operated in small groups of just 15-20 guests. also offer immersive culinary-themed Special Interest Tours such as cooking demonstrations and tastings. As AmaWaterways often docks just steps from the heart of the city, you may also explore many destinations on your own on foot or by bike. Now that I have your mouth watering about this once in a lifetime experience…I just want to give you a few reminders about sailing along Rivers, One is the ports sometimes get crowded and you may have to walk through one long boat to another to get to the dock. Two is if it is an extremely dry year, sometimes the river levels are low, and the boats can not go through with a full passenger load.  So, you may be bussed to the next port of call where you will reunite with your ship once again. There is so much being offered by Amawaterways you will need to talk to your travel agent about this and let them know just what you are interested in doing.  They of course have shorter river cruises if you cannot take all that time. So, there you have it…EPIC Journeys in 2024.

Zee Michaelson Travel Podcast is sponsored by
Collage Travel Radio 

1.    Why you should use a travel advisor

2.    Creating your budget for you trip…and I don’t like to call it budget

3.    All inclusive resorts…what is and isn’t included 

So first I am going to chat about travel advisors.  I run into so many people today that ask me how much do you charge?  My answer is always…nothing. People are amazed.  So, I now have a question for all of you.  Why then aren’t you using a travel advisor?  Sure, I hear well I can find it myself on the internet.  

But do you really want to spend that much time surfing the web.  Trying to find just the right vacation and vacation package and then if you are going with a family reunion… tracking down everyone and entering all their stats and taking payment and ….and…and… whew….  I know that when I am going on vacation, I don’t want to have to worry about anything I just want to pack my bag grab my passport and go.  

Do you know that most travel advisors are always learning.  They work with vendors to find out all about each one of them and what each one offers.  They get emails everyday with updates and specials and sometimes these offers are only offered through the travel advisor. 

  Travel advisors can sit down with you and find out just what you are looking for and then they go to work.  Matching you up with just the right vacation.
 What about if you want to go on a vacation and you don’t know where you want to go.  A travel advisor can do just that.  Advise you of the many opportunities that are out there that you would like.  And they do this all for free…. Now I am not going to lie to you.  

Some travel advisors do charge for their services…Why?  Well I will tell you.  There are few reasons…one is.  Clients will call get the TA to do all the foot work and then turn around and book it themselves.  That’s not very nice.  Also, if the TA goes above and beyond the call of duty…for instance…Visa research and paper follow up.  Something that should be handled by the traveler.  

Travel advisors also go on trips to research some of these places and sailings and hotels.  They can actually speak from experience.  I do the same things.  Like sailing on Virgin Voyages etc.  I love this adage “been there, done that” 

You here me all the time saying I know a TA that went there.  TA’s also talk with each other.  Yes we actually communicate with one another to find out information about certain places. This way we can give you first hand experience of the place you are planning on going to.  Sometimes and this is rare but sometimes.  If you call your Travel Advisor…and they know absolutely nothing about a certain vacation, they will call their TA friend who handles that, and they help.  Yes.  TA’s help each other.

Vendors work closely with TA’s because they want the TA’s selling their product.  So they to make sure it’s all good.

Now the next thing I want to bring up is Budget…. I don’t like the word budget.  I know everyone has one.  But its not really budget…its what is this trip worth to you.  Are you celebrating a special anniversary.  Or is it the first time you are doing a multi-generation trip.  It may be the last time great grandma gets to go along.  These things are priceless.  So here are a few things you should ask of yourself. 

What do I expect from this vacation

What do I want to experience

Who will be coming along

Are we celebrating anything…. (any milestone…college graduation/high school graduation/made it through Chemo…50th wedding anniversary)

What do I want to do on this trip.  Sky diving/kayaking/see penguins or polar bears/

it’s called the Prima….and this ship is a beauty and unique design…they even have a new fuel system called Liquified Natural Gas…now this is starting to become more popular with other cruise lines as well and as more cruise line build and release more ships…yes, I said more ships…LNG as they call it is a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel.

But enough about the how the ship is powered.

Jay…I am so jealous…I wasn’t invited to the inaugural sailing.  Katy Perry was there as she is the Godmother of this ship.  The inaugural wasn’t too long ago. It sailed out of Iceland.   Iceland by the way is extremely popular…. However, I did have Travel Advisors friends that did get on board….and I have to say WOW…where do I begin?

This ship is for the trailblazer…the tastemaker…the Explorer of the splendid and has the most outdoor deck space on the water.  It has the capacity to hold 3100 passengers with 1600 staterooms…they have 18…. count them 18 dining venues…with 17 bars and lounges….

Food…. Glorious Food…. My TA buddies have been posting pictures…and the first shot was a food spread of Shrimp/Crab/Lobster and more ….

 The unique design of this ship makes it a perfect place to play as well as eat…Jay I know you are into racing… what about jumping in a go cart on a tri level race course….and yes…you are suited up with a helmet…etc.…The kids will love the galaxy pavilion…you know I am a chicken when it comes to these water slides at sea…so the Prima has one of the fastest water slides at sea.

I am more into the entertainment on board and again the Prima does not disappoint.  They have a 3-story transformation theater…. That I have to see!

So, you are probably saying okay where does it sail to…Well right now it’s in Northern Europe…remember I said the inaugural was out of Iceland then went to the northern area.  They are going to have a transatlantic shortly and they are going to Bermuda…. they will have Caribbean cruises as well.  They will have several ports they call home for a while and should find her home in Port Canaveral for a little while.

By the way you can listen to Jay and myself on Collage Travel Radio. that’s Collage Travel Radio dot com its absolutely free and you can just groove to the tunes…and dream about some the places you will want to visit.

Going to Africa on Safari has something for everyone.  What a way to experience the beauty of the country and learn more and make if fun for the kids…. a Family Safari…they have many different kids to accommodate for the ages of the children.  Check with Zee Michaelson Travel.

Zee Michaelson Travel Podcast is Sponsored by: Collage Travel Radio may be focused on the travel industry, but it brings you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  Not elevator music…the great music from the 60’s to today’s hits.   The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors and just anyone that loves music and travel … All you got to do is click and listen to Collage Travel Radio dot COM!

So…. Dream and Dream big…. reach for the stars and if you only get to the moon…at least you enjoyed the trip.

Don't just cruise, plan an adventure. If you're ready to take paths you never thought to adventure, you've come to the right place. We've spent the last 25 years creating daily multi-activity small boat adventures to experience some of the most remote places in the world .

Collage Travel Radio may be focused on the travel industry, but it brings you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  Not elevator music…the great music from the 60’s to today’s hits. The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors and just anyone that loves music and travel … All you got to do is click and listen to Collage Travel Radio.com.

Let me tell you a bit more about Viking first.  Their River Cruises go to Europe/Asia/Egypt and the Mighty Mississippi.  Yes…the Mississippi!

Then you have their Ocean Liner…going to the Scandinavian and Northern Europe area.  American and Caribbean region/The Mediterranean and Quiet Mediterranean Seasons.  Asia and Australia…and then blow the horns strike up the band…. the Grand Voyage.  I don’t want to say it’s around the world…but dang close to it.

Collage Travel Radio may be focused on the travel industry, but it brings you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  Not elevator music…the great music from the 60’s to today’s hits.   The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors and just anyone that loves music and travel … All you got to do is click and listen to Collage Travel Radio.com.

Something that I hate when I travel is to be nickeled and dimed.  I don’t want to keep taking out my charge card.  So Scenic offers you a truly inclusive offer…from transfers to tips. Your Exclusive Enrich, Free choice and Tailormade excursions.  They think of everything.  Like your minibar you won’t have to worry about money at all…Even bottled water when you are onshore. They really do mean all inclusive…. like unforgettable excursions, fine dining complimentary beverages.

Collage Travel Radio may be focused on the travel industry, but it brings you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  Not elevator music…the great music from the 60’s to today’s hits.   The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors and just anyone that loves music and travel … All you got to do is click and listen to Collage Travel Radio.

 seen this the other day.  I was wow…why didn’t I think of this I would have been a millionaire.  Many times, I have walked from one end of the airport to the other to catch my next flight and I always grab my cup of tea and I am balancing my cup and my phone and sometimes another small item.  When I finally get to sit down and wait for my plane now where am I going to put my cup while I am dealing with text messages and the like.  …. I see this simple thing that you can put on your suitcase handle…  It’s called Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder Free Hand Drink Caddy - Holds Two Coffee Mugs - Fits Roll on Suitcase Handles…it’s Amazing such a simple thing.  Again, I have seen it on Amazon…take a look at it for yourself.  

I know what everyone is saying right now.  Sure sure…I would like this that and the other thing but what is it going to cost me.  I battle with this for a very long time.  Hard to make your travel dream come true if you are blinded by dollars signs and you try to nickel and dime yourself.  Consequently, I did some research…and you know what I found out.  Luxury travel is not such a hard to reach dream…and when it comes right down to it you can actually save by looking at a few different things…Like All Inclusive…or Luxury Ships.

In my future podcasts I will be doing a deeper dive in which cruise lines and which all-inclusive and I will do some comparisons for you to see…you have your travel dream.

So, what you want to do is first look at what Luxury means to you.  My perception of luxury is having everything handed to me when I am traveling.  I don’t want to break my charge card out for anything.

So here is what I would like everyone to do today…Make a travel dream list.  Write down everything and anything that you would like to do.  Remember it’s your dream…not ours.  Ask yourselves those questions…Why/Who/What…I don’t want you to say how much yet. 

Collage Travel Radio may be focused on the travel industry, but it brings you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  Not elevator music…the great music from the 60’s to today’s hits.   The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors and just anyone that loves music and travel … All you got to do is click and listen to Collage Travel Radio.

Or what about the Land of Frozen Fire…you will pass through the lava fields. This is simply remarkable.  

Honolulu, Oahu   You will board here…but you will see the Stunning Koolau mountains.  Honolulu is Hawaii’s largest city…but you can still clime to the top of Diamond Head.  Or stroll along Waikiki beach…or if you are into history, you can visit Pearl Harbor and the National Memorial Cemetery….

 Kahului, Maui  Hawaii's second most popular island. Explore the fascinating history of the town of Lahaina. Or just go to the pristine beach, or if you are into golf…there are a few of the world’s most beautiful golf courses

 Kona, Hawaii   Kona offers the quintessential Hawaii experience. Sunny, warm weather and crystal blue waters you can partake in a variety of surfside fun. Snorkel amongst a kaleidoscope of tropical marine life. Take a surfing lesson, a kayaking trip or head out to deeper waters for some deep-sea fishing. Oh yeah   (wait for it) .... Kona Coffee

 Nawawi, Kauai  Named after the Weiwei trees, which once lined its picturesque harbor, this lovely port of Kauai is your gateway to what many believe to be Hawaii's most beautiful island. On "The Garden Island," nature is truly the star, from the dramatic mountains of Kokee to the cool rainforests of Heena. And the tradition of the luau adds lively entertainment unique to Hawaii. 

Promote your business now on Collage Travel Radio… email Zimmermanpromotions@msn.com  and say …I want to advertise on Collage Travel Radio and someone will get back to you and let you know how.  No obligation to find out how…all quotes are free….

Follow and like me on Facebook.  

Do you have a favorite location…or an interesting travel tip…? let me know at zee@zeemichaelsontravel.com  and you may just hear your name and tip talked about over the air.

1.   LONG BEACH

2.   LOS ANGELES

3.   SAN DIEGO 

4.   SANFRANSICO

Long Beach:
Carnival Miracle, Inspiration and Imagination destinations are Baja Mexico 3 & 4 day, Mexican Caribbean
(Cabo) 6 days and Hawaiian Islands 15 days
Carnival Cruises, Carnival Miracle
Carnival Miracle Cruise Ship 15 Days Hawaii from Los Angeles, CA
15 Days - Starting in Long Beach with stops in Hilo, Kahului, Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Kona, Ensenada

Los Angeles:
Princess Cruises--Star, Island, Celebrity, Coral, Crown and Sapphire Princesses cruises last 4 days, 15 days Mexico, coastal Santa
Barbara, Panama, Hawaii, Osaka Japan, Vancouver BC, Panama, Ft. Lauderdale, Cape Horn, Santiago Chile
Seabourn, Seabourn Sojourn world voyages up to 94 days or segments
Silversea, Silver Whisper lasts up to 113 nights to China, Barcelona or 20 nights to Auckland, New Zealand
Carnival Imagination, Inspiration, Miracle and Legend Baja sampler 4 days, Tahiti & Fiji 23 days
Costa Cruises, Costa Deliziosa up to 72 days
Celebrity Century to Santa Barbara 8 nights
Holland America up to 71 days to Great Barrier Reef
Azamara Club Cruises, Azamara Quest to Sea of Cortez, Copper Canyon
 
San Diego:
Holland America up to 45 days to Panama, Incan Empires, Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, Tahiti and Marquesas, Vancouver BC, Coastal
Celebrity Cruises - Century, Infinity to Panama Canal Cruise 15 days
Royal Caribbean (RCL), RCL Legend of the Seas 15 Night Eastbound Panama Canal Cruise, Fort Lauderdale
Disney Wonder 14 day to Vancouver, Port Canaveral Florida, coastal California
 
San Francisco:
Cunard Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria world cruises up to 91 nights
Princess Grand, Star Princesses - Panama, Mexico, Coastal California, Hawaii
Oceania Cruises, Oceania Regatta 18 days trips goes to Alaska, New York
Regent Seven Seas Navigator 31 Nights to Montreal, Vancouver Canada, New York
Celebrity Century up to 23 nights to Sydney, Alaska
Holland America 17 night Panama Canal
Crystal Cruises Serenity 102 nights Grand Pacific Panorama

Let’s start with the home port that is closest to us…. Port Canaveral voted the Best Cruise Homeport in the United States of 2021 and comes out over other nearby Florida ports.  The Florida cruise port is the second busiest in the world, with multi-day embarkations and catering to some of the largest cruise ships from the largest cruise lines in the world. The port has already welcomed the new Terminal 3 to cater to Carnival’s new LNG-powered mega-ships, resulting in increased capacity.  LNG is the Natural Gas type…more echo friendly…

Port Tampa Bay

There has never been a better time to cruise from Port Tampa Bay. Port Tampa Bay works closely with cruise line partners, service providers and government agencies to establish protocols to ensure a safe and healthy environment for the return of cruising to Tampa. It cannot be denied that Port Tampa Bay is a consistent source of vacation travelers seeking exotic locations. Excellent terminal facilities; close proximity to numerous Caribbean destinations; proximity to one of the country’s top-rated airports; and a host of popular tourist attractions are some of the reasons Port Tampa Bay is a favorite point of departure for cruise vacationers. Not to mention, passengers can also enjoy an exceptional experience on the front or back end of their cruise vacations—with Tampa Bay’s vibrant nightlife, white sand beaches, outdoor activities, museums, restaurants, and proximity to six of the top ten theme parks in the nation, there is no shortage of things to see and do. However, at the moment you will not find the mega ships leaving Tampa.  Due to some of the heights of the ships cannot get in and out of the port due to Tampa Bay bridge.  

 Port of Miami

Known as the “Cruise Capital of the World”, Miami cruise port is the largest and busiest in the world and is part of Port Miami’s 518-acre site. It makes sense to know which cruise terminal your cruise will depart from, and what amenities are available.  Port Miami cruise terminals are among the best and most modern in the world. They have to be, as they need to accommodate over 6.8 million cruise passengers and their luggage in a speedy, secure and efficient manner! The port deals with 55 different cruise ships from 22 different cruise lines each year.
Every Miami cruise terminal has parking, special facilities for disabled travelers, lounges, check-in desks, security checks, and must be able to deal with thousands of taxis, shuttle buses, and other vehicles delivering excited cruisers to the correct ship.

Port Everglades… (Fort Lauderdale)

Port Everglades, located in Greater Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood, Florida, is ranked third among cruise ports worldwide and has more homeported cruise ships than any other port.  And yes, I have sailed out of Fort Lauderdale.  I have to say it was a little easier than Miami.

 Jaxport in Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) and the Port of Fernandina, the area’s two deep-water ports, continue to set records with recent highlights and activity to remain globally competitive. Even though you can catch a cruise ship from here.  JAXPORT is Florida’s No. 1 container port complex by volume, offering worldwide cargo service aboard the world’s major shipping alliances with direct service to Asia, Europe, Africa, South America, the Caribbean and other key markets.  

Port of Palm Beach.  Now I have to say I have not heard of this Port

Golden Gate Bridge…there is a great park…. now this is in Northern California.  If you are traveling to San Francisco…there is a recreation area teeming with outdoor recreation opportunities. While enjoying the great outdoors, you can also learn about California’s Indigenous cultures and their histories here. The park also includes Alcatraz Island, the famous prison off the coast of San Francisco. If you have a dog (or dogs), this is also known as one of the most dog-friendly national parks. Finally, it’s also the most visited national park unit in the country and of all the national parks in California.

Joshua Tree National Park is best known for its ancient, scraggly trees and world-class bouldering and rock climbing. Additionally, the park offers incredible hikes across desert landscapes, insanely beautiful night skies, and rich history. Unless you grew up in this area, chances are you’ve never seen anything like this place. Discover the unique ecosystem and environment by hiking, taking short strolls, or enjoying a few scenic drives.  I lived in this part of the desert.  Those Joshua Trees look crazy…and are very sharp…. but going there you think you are on another planet….

Everyone has heard of this one…Redwood National Park it is home to some of the world’s tallest trees.  This was one place I never got to when I lived in California…. I still want to visit…the Redwood trees are ginormous.  

Whiskeytown National recreational Area…preserves incredible recreational opportunities in northern California. The lakes are crystal clear and of course they are surrounded by mountain peaks.  There are miles of hiking trails…that you can see many waterfalls and of course…California…you can learn more about the Gold Rush. 

Lincoln Home National Historic Site…our 16th President

This site offers guided tours of the Lincoln Home, giving visitors a look into the Lincoln family during the seventeen years they lived in the house on the corner of Eighth and Jackson Streets. Visitors will get a glimpse into Lincoln’s life as a family man, as well as explore his rise as a successful lawyer and politician through the context of the Lincoln Home….

Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail… Explore the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail across five states to see the 1,300-mile route traveled by Mormons who fled Nauvoo, Illinois, to the Great Salt Lake Valley in 1846-1847. Some brief history… Mormons settled along a bend of the Mississippi River in Illinois. There they established a community they called Nauvoo, a Hebrew word meaning “beautiful place.” It was at Nauvoo that Smith cautiously began introducing the Old Testament practice of “plural marriage,” or polygamy, among select church leaders.

Thousands of converts flocked to Nauvoo, soon making it the largest town in Illinois. Neighbors initially welcomed the orderly, industrious settlers despite their religious differences. But relations gradually soured, with complaints centering on Mormons’ 

Pullman National Monument Pullman National Monument was designated by President Barack Obama on February 19, 2015, making it the first National Park Service unit in Chicago. The park tells the story of one of the first planned industrial communities in the United States, the sleeping car magnate who helped create it, and the workers who lived there. The district is significant for its influence on urban planning and design, as well as its role in American labor history, including the 1894 Pullman Strike and Boycott.
 
Located in what is now the Pullman neighborhood of Chicago, the historic district includes the site of the former Pullman Palace Car Works shops and administration building, the Hotel Florence (named after George Pullman's eldest child), Arcade Park. and the Greenstone Church (currently the Greenstone United Methodist Church). Also within the district is the A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum, named for the prominent leader A. Philip Randolph, which recognizes and explores African American labor history

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail Remember and commemorate the survival of the Cherokee people, forcefully removed from their homelands in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee to live in Indian Territory, now Oklahoma. They traveled by foot, horse, wagon, or steamboat in 1838-1839.

 Zee Michaelson Travel Podcast is Sponsored by:   Collage Travel Radio/Collage Travel Radio is focused on the travel industry and bring you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors … Just click and listen to Collage Travel Radio

Weekly Tip: 

ADVANCED TICKETS FOR TOURIST LOCATIONS

We all try to fit in as much fun into our vacations as humanly possible.  So, you don’t want to wait in line all day at some of your top tourist picks.  In Europe…places like the Eiffel Tower or the Vatican Museum.  Even here in the U.S. we have places that you would want to get advanced tickets that guarantee admission at a certain time or day.  Many of these have mobile ticketing so you can have everything right on your mobile device. Some of these tickets also may have some other spiffs with it.  Like a tour around the city on city transportation.  Do a little homework and you won’t have to be waiting in long lines.  Or call your Travel Advisor and they can do all this homework for you and get your ready for your trip.

Topic of the Week…. National Parks…. which while we are recording this segment, we are right in the middle of National Parks Week April 16 to April 24…. 

So…. New York has 24 national parks Everything from to splendid natural spots like the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and Fire Island National Seashore, to famous historic monuments.

African Burial Ground…

it is A Sacred Space right in the heart of Manhattan

I was always running around Manhattan but never knew about this.  Could be because the excavation started in 1991 and I had already moved out of the state and like many other historical excavations it started as a building site when they came across this.  The location is at 290 Broadway….

African Burial Ground is the oldest and largest known excavated burial ground in North America for both free and enslaved Africans. It protects the historic role slavery played in building New York archeological research excavation found intact human skeletal remains located 30 feet below the city’s street level on Broadway. During survey work, the largest and most important archeological discovery was made unearthing the "Negroes Burial Ground"- a 6-acre burial ground holding upwards of 15,000 intact skeletal remains of enslaved and free Africans who lived and worked in colonial New York. The burial ground’s rediscovery altered the understanding surrounding enslavement and its contribution to constructing New York City. The Burial Ground dates from the middle 1630s to 1795. Currently, the burial ground is the nation’s earliest and largest African burial ground rediscovered in the United States.

 Ellis Island…. many of us probably had ancestors come thru here.  12 million immigrants passed through this now empty and quiet building from 1892 to 1954. When people arrived at Ellis Island, they felt that their American Dream was coming true.  You can visit Ellis Island and hear their stories and see pictures of what it looked like back then. 

Now part of Ellis Island is the Infamous

STATUE OF LIBERTY

The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World" was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States and is recognized as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886. It was designated as a National Monument in 1924. Emplo

Wandering around offers both a step back to the very beginnings of Georgia's colonial history  this area magical — the river, the marsh, the tides, the uncompromising beauty of St. Simons Island.    While the fort played a pivotal role in Georgia's history — the 1742 victory of its British troops over Spanish soldiers ensured her future as a British colony — what remains is largely underground.   … track down a ranger to get a real appreciation of the garrison and a sense of what makes this site special. 

Collage Travel Radio is focused on the travel industry and bring you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors … Just click and listen to Collage Travel Radio.

Follow and like me on facebook.    Do you have a favorite location…or an interesting travel tip…. let me know at zee@zeemichaelsontravel.com
and you may just hear your name and tip talked about over the air.

 Haleakala National Park is on the Hawaii island of Maui.  10,023-foot dormant volcano offers spectacular sunrise views & glimpses of local endangered birds. Hawaiian Geese to be precise.  The Leleiwi and Kalahaku overlooks on the steep crater road…to views are breath taking of the Mountains.  There are rugged trails in the Summit.  The coastal area of Kipahulu are the Pools of Ohe’o, freshwater pools are waterfalls are among the bamboo forest.

 Iao Valley State Monument This park will be great for those who like to hike.  There is a lush 4,000 acre valley offering hiking and sightseeing.  They even have a nature center and views of the Iao Needle.

 Waiʻānapanapa State Park I know that I probably mutilated that name.  This state park is a 122 acres in Hana on Maui.  You have heard of the black sand beaches…well this is the place.  You do need to make reservations if you are not a resident of Hawaii.  Some of the trails can be a bit rocky…but the views are unbelievable.

On  the Big Island of Hawaii

 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park When you think of Hawaii you think Volcanoes.  This National Park is on the Big Island and at its heart are the two most well-known volcanoes.  Kilauea and Mauna Loa both are active.  Kind of scary.  Now at the Crater Rim Drive passes steam vents and the Jaggar Museum features volcanology…. There are trails and the crisscross the park….

Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park  is a United States National Park located in the Kona District on the Big island of Hawaii in the U.S. state of Hawaii? It includes the National Historic Landmarked archaeological site known as the Honokōhau Settlement

 Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park  Archaeological park featuring burial grounds offers self-guided tours of reconstructed villages.

One more of the Islands I will chat about and that’s Oahu  and Diamond Head State Monument I don’t know if anybody that hasn’t at least heard of Diamond Head.  This is situated on the Island of Oahu…A trail leads visitors to the summit of this volcanic tuff cone & former fort with panoramic views.  Diamond Head State Monument over 475 acres, This broad, saucer-shaped crater was formed about 300,000 years ago during a single, explosive eruption that sent ash and fine particles in the air.

So much traveling to do and so little time…so stay tuned to the end to find out what we will be talking about next week.  By the way have you been listening to Jay and myself on Collage Travel Radio. Want to promote your business on Collage Travel Radio…contact Belinda Zimmerman at email Zimmermanpromotions@msn.com  

Please follow me and like me on Facebook…Do you have a favorite location…or an interesting travel tip…. let me know at zee@zeemichaelsontravel.com
and you may just hear your name and tip talked about over the air.

KEEP AN OPEN MIND:  Remember you are not only a guest in the country you are visiting but some of the customs from that country may be different from yours.  Learning about different cultures and customs can be fun and interesting and educational. Maybe you will want to try something different for a Holiday you experienced while in a certain country.  How much fun can that be?  So, if you see the differences, be respectful and don’t judge.  Just enjoy the differences that make us one World. 

Scenic
Emerald
AmaWaterways

Zee Michaelson Travel Podcast is Sponsored by: Collage Travel Radio. Collage Travel Radio is focused on the travel industry and bring you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors … Just click and listen to Collage Travel Radio.

While there are many tour companies out there, I am only going to mention a few.  I would need a week straight to discuss each tour company.  Not all tour companies are alike.  So here is a list of my go to’s when I am looking for travel accommodations for my clients. 

You have Globus and it includes Avalon (river longboats) Cosmos division…lower price points and then Monograms…almost like your own tour.  Then you have Trafalger and CIE Tours also there is Brendan Vacation…if you haven’t guessed by the name, you are looking at Ireland and the British Isles on that one.  You also have Collette and that is only a few.  When choosing a tour company remember to make list of your wants and discuss it with you your travel advisor. This will help them get the very best tour for your wish list and price point.

Zee Michaelson Travel Podcast is Sponsored by: Collage Travel Radio. Collage Travel Radio is focused on the travel industry and bring you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors … Just click and listen to Collage Travel Radio.

 Topic of the Week….Packing/what to pack / how to pack?

A.    Undergarments

B.   Easy Dress Attire

C.   Shoes/Shoes/Shoes

D.   Climate Dictates

Zee Michaelson Travel Podcast is Sponsored by: Collage Travel Radio. Collage Travel Radio is focused on the travel industry and bring you great light and bright music streaming on the internet 24/7 and is absolutely free.  The station is for the independent traveler and for travel advisors … Just click and listen to Collage Travel Radio.