River cruising continues to grow!

There are 53 spectacular, brand-new river cruise ships that are now available for booking. Several of them debuted this spring, and the rest will launch later this year and in 2015.

Viking River Cruises launches two dozen Longships in 2014 and 2015; many of them were christened this March. The new Longships feature environmentally friendly hybrid engines, solar panels and an organic herb garden on the sundeck. The indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace at the bow of each 190-guest riverboat serves as a viewing area and a spot for casual, alfresco dining. Half the staterooms boast full-size balconies.

Got river cruising questions? Ask me! I’ve sailed on the rivers!

70th Anniverisary of D-Day in Ohio???

6 June 1944 is an important day in history. It marks the 70^th anniversary of the World War 2 allied invasion of Nazi held continental western Europe.

I’ve been fortunate to visit hallowed places like the Normandy beaches and Gettysburg. It’s a somber experience but makes one proud to be an American!  

Ohio also has its own D-Day invasion!  On Lake Erie’s northern shores this invasion is reenacted every year in Conneaut.  This year the invasion armada hits the beaches on August 22 and 23.

If you cannot make it to Normandy France then Ohio’s North Coast is a great alternative!

Just remember to thank a veteran! Their service and sacrifices paid for the freedoms and privileges we enjoy today.  Boots on the ground, in the air and on the seas accomplished this and hopefully will continue to guard our liberties. Political rhetoric and pacifism only demeans and weakens the cause.    

Fine dining in Las Vegas

Vegas continues to grow as a fine dining destination with the opening of a restaurant by Food Network personality and celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis. 

She has opened her first restaurant, GIADA, at Las Vegas' new The Cromwell boutique hotel!

Know Before You Go

Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones.

So here's some thoughts on getting ready to go:

Passports and Visas

It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel and a visa if required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has unstamped visa pages.

Safe travels!