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Author: Tabatha Tillman

Review: Alaska With Princess Cruises

By: Amalia Marin, Senior Travel Consultant (CTA)

I just took my very first cruise and chose to go to Alaska with Princess. Since it’s my first cruise, I don’t have anything to really compare it to, but all I can say is that it was a remarkable experience!  

The ship we sailed on was the Crown Princess. I loved all the different amenities, activities, entertainment and dining offered onboard. I think food is very important for most, so I’ll say that their food was really varied, fresh, and delicious. There is something for everybody and the seafood options were especially tasty. Main dining was so incredible that we didn’t even find it necessary to try the specialty dining…but, of course, we tried it anyway and that was a really great experience. 

On days we were at sea we always had something to see and do. There were broadway-style performances, comedians, dance classes, and more. There’s a gym, a spa, a casino, pools, and an area for golf and games.

Aside from the experience onboard the ship, the time we spent at the ports and enjoying Alaska was my favorite. The trip started in Vancouver and we visited Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Icy Strait Point. The towns were very nice but Alaska’s natural wonders are the true reason to visit. We were able to view Hubbard Glacier and we took a few optional excursions as well. We visited a salmon hatchery and enjoyed an outdoor salmon bake. We took a train ride with the most amazing views of mountains, creeks, and forests. We canoed on Lake Harriet Hunt and did a nature trail through the rainforest. 

I loved Alaska and would definitely recommend exploring this beautiful state with Princess cruises.

Review: Oceania Riviera Cruise

By: Autumn Cruse, Senior Travel Consultant (CTA)

Oceania Cruises is a force to be reckoned with! From the beautiful decor, the activities, and the cuisine, it’s truly a small ship luxury indeed. The passengers on the sailing make it all worthwhile. Eight different locations and only two sail days. I had the opportunity to reside in a verandah, but after a visit seeing all categories, there’s not an unfortunate cabin on the ship. Trivia was my favorite…won some great prizes on last day of the sailing. It was a long time away from home, but the favor granted to see and learn for myself what others love was life changing. I’m forever grateful!!! 

Review: Oceania Riviera Cruise

By: Alissa Ashley, Senior Travel Consultant (CTA)

I had a wonderful relaxing time on my Oceania Cruise aboard the Riviera. Unfortunately, the main port of the cruise was Bermuda and was canceled due to bad weather and 30 Ft waves. Oceania did their best to accommodate by adding a stop at Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas which was also canceled due to the currents being too dangerous to boat passengers from the ship over to the island.  Oceania then reported that the itinerary changed to 3 days at sea, 2 days in Jacksonville, FL, 2 days in Charleston, SC and 1 day Port Carnival As you can imagine there were some very upset passengers upon boarding and with the port replacement of Jacksonville. I was very impressed with how Oceania did their best to address the passengers, empathize and tried to add some additional activities. At the end of the day mother nature has a mind of her own and therefore out of Oceania’s control with the main priority being safety.

SOLO Travel:

I decided to travel alone which was a great experience.  For the first 3 nights they offered a single traveler gathering where passengers could get to know each other.  However, I had no problem making friends with passengers traveling together.  All of my shared tabled guests were inviting and fun to sit with.

Cabins:

The veranda cabin I was staying in felt like I was at a very high end hotel.  Rooms were very contemporary, lots of rooms with a sitting area, large bathrooms with a rain shower and the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in.  I’m actually thinking of ordering their beds. 

Ship Feel:

For only having 1150 passengers and 800 staff, I have to say that I saw more staff than passengers.  The boat never seemed crowded except for embarking and disembarking at the ports.  There was always plenty of seating around the ship and in dining areas.  The ship is decorated in art and paintings everywhere.  It actually felt like you were in a museum in certain areas. 

Service:

The Ship Crew and service was impeccable.  I never saw one crew member not in an upbeat mood or willing to assist a passenger with questions or needs. My 2 attendants Soe Soe and Jaun made me feel very welcomed and anything I needed they were able to assist.

Optional Excursions:

Most of the excursions I had paid for were in Bermuda but I did do the Full Day private Island with Lunch in the Bahamas and a city tour of Charleston. Charleston was a very charming town and I walked everywhere within the city admiring the houses, trees and architecture.   All were very organized and Oceania did a great job keeping all the passengers together.

Entertainment:

The offered a wide range of entertainment from comedy shows, listening to the string quartet, wildlife educational talks, yoga classes, karaoke and more.  My favorite activity was High Tea  with the string quartet at 4 pm daily.  It was a nice day to relax and view the ocean.

Dining:

I was able to try all 4 of the Specialty Restaurants, but my favorite was Jacques, the atmosphere made me feel like I was in France. The courses were beautifully presented, delicious and consistent across all courses. My morning ritual was the coffee bar, Barista’s, where I had lots of friendly conversations with other passengers and staff. The juice bar was also one of my regular stop bys to make sure I got my greens for the morning.  The Terrace which was the buffet always had a variety of choices for every kind of eater.  I did hear several past passengers say that they felt that the food was not as good as it was before COVID.

Best Learning Tip:

The biggest learning that came from the cruise was not only experiencing the ship itself but actually listening to the passengers talk about their prior experience with Oceania, the other itineraries they have taken and other competitor cruise lines that they enjoyed. 

I am so grateful for the opportunity to experience Oceania Cruise of the Riviera. Thank you so much for allowing me to go.  I definitely would like to take another cruise with them and actually experience the set itinerary of ports.

Review: Cosmos – Highlights of the Canyonlands

By: Lynette Ehlert, Senior Travel Consultant (CTA)

I had such an amazing adventure on my tour.  It started in Las Vegas and went on to the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Lake Powell, Antelope Slot Canyon, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park.

When we arrived at the Grand Canyon and walked out to the south rim the sheer beauty made me cry!  The following morning I took the excursion helicopter ride over the Canyon.  It was so amazing to see from different viewing levels.

Each park we went to I thought wow this is my favorite but in the end Zion National Park was my perfect match!  

I really enjoyed the educational information (history and Science) that the tour director informed us about as we drove from location to location.  I noticed everyone in our group really enjoyed her personality and when things didn’t go as planned she was very quick at finding a resolution.  

Taking this tour has helped me now understand this process from door to door.  Tours are really wonderful for people not looking for just a vacation but an immersive experience.

Travel in Style: Why CIE Tours is the Ultimate Choice for Your Next Adventure

Traveling is an experience that enriches the mind, body, and soul. It allows us to escape our
daily routines, immerse ourselves in new cultures, meet new people, and create lasting
memories. CIE Tours is a travel company that has been providing unforgettable experiences to
travelers for 90 years. With their comprehensive travel packages, luxury coaches, and expert
tour guides, CIE Tours offers an unparalleled travel experience that ensures you get the most
out of your journey.

The Power of Travel: Why Seeing the World is Essential

The world is vast, beautiful, and full of diverse cultures and traditions waiting to be explored.
Traveling allows us to break away from our daily routines and experience something new and
exciting. But beyond the thrill of adventure, travel provides many benefits that enrich our lives
and broaden our perspectives.

Travel Enriches Our Lives and Broadens Our Perspectives
Traveling is a transformative experience that can change our perspective and enrich our lives in
countless ways. It allows us to break out of our comfort zones, challenge our assumptions, and
develop empathy for people from different backgrounds. Exposure to new cultures, traditions,
and ways of life can open our minds to new ideas and help us appreciate the diversity of our
world.

Traveling to new destinations and experiencing different cultures can be a life-changing
experience. It allows us to step outside of our bubbles and experience the world from a different
perspective. Whether it’s tasting local cuisine, immersing ourselves in local customs, or
exploring famous landmarks, each experience has the potential to teach us something new
about the world and ourselves.

Traveling also helps us develop important life skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, and
communication. When traveling, we are forced to navigate unfamiliar environments,
communicate with locals, and adapt to different customs and traditions. These experiences help
us become more resilient, open-minded, and confident.

The benefits of travel are immeasurable. It allows us to explore new destinations, learn about
different cultures, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. So,
whether you are an experienced traveler or someone who has yet to embark on their first
adventure, we encourage you to make travel a priority in your life. With CIE Tours, you can trust
that your journey will be thoughtfully curated, expertly guided, and deeply enriching.

Why Choose CIE Tours?

CIE Tours is a well-established travel company that has been offering unforgettable guided
tours for over 90 years. With a reputation for excellence, CIE Tours is known for providing
immersive experiences that go beyond the standard tour. Their extensive knowledge and
experience in the travel industry allow them to create customized tours that cater to their guests’
unique needs and interests.

The benefits of traveling with a comprehensive travel package
One of the major advantages of traveling with CIE Tours is the comprehensive travel package
they offer. Their tours balance immersive and CIE-exclusive experiences with plenty of
downtime to let you explore and enjoy on your own. This ensures that you get the most out of
your trip while still having the freedom to explore at your own pace.

The convenience of having all entertainment and experiences included in the tour price
Another benefit of traveling with CIE Tours is that their tour prices cover all entertainment and
experiences, full breakfasts, and most dinners. There are no upselling or hidden fees, therefore, you
can travel with peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to worry about any unexpected
expenses.

The advantages of having a travel protection plan
CIE Tours also offers a comprehensive travel protection plan that allows you to cancel or
change your plans up to 24 hours before your trip for any reason. This means you can book
your trip confidently, knowing you are protected against unforeseen circumstances.

How CIE Tours offers more without spending more
One of the standout features of CIE Tours is that there are no optional extras. Everything you’ll
need is included in the price, so you won’t have to worry about any extra costs during your trip.
This also means that you can get more without spending more, making CIE Tours a great value
for travelers.

The luxury coaches and their state-of-the-art amenities
CIE Tours goes above and beyond the standard tour bus by offering state-of-the-art luxury
coaches. Their coaches feature panoramic windows that allow you to take in every breathtaking
view, comfortable reclining seats with plenty of legroom to stretch out, charging stations, and
free Wi-Fi to help you stay in touch and recharge during your travels.

The selection of the finest hotels for every tour, offering impeccable service and hospitality
CIE Tours’ travel experts hand-select the finest hotels for every tour, offering impeccable service
and hospitality, convenient locations, and the best value for their travelers. They use, at
minimum, three-star hotels, which offer comfortable rooms and facilities like on-site dining
rooms, lounges, and bars. Many tours feature four- and five-star accommodations, which
include luxurious amenities like spas, or more unique settings, like castle or manor stays.
Travelers can even live like royalty on select tours, which include overnight stays in grand
manors and castles.

CIE Tours Destinations

CIE Tours offers a wide range of destinations for travelers seeking to explore the world and
experience new cultures. From the rolling hills and historic castles of Ireland to the rugged
landscapes of Iceland, CIE Tours has something for everyone. In this section, we will explore
some of the highlights of the most popular destinations offered by CIE Tours.

Ireland: The Emerald Isle
Ireland is a country that has long captured the hearts and imaginations of travelers worldwide.
From the vibrant city of Dublin to the serene landscapes of Connemara, there is no shortage of
sights and experiences to be had in the Emerald Isle. Some of the must-see destinations on a
CIE Tours trip to Ireland include:

  • The Cliffs of Moher: These dramatic cliffs rise 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.
  • The Ring of Kerry: This scenic drive takes travelers through some of Ireland’s most picturesque landscapes, including the rugged coastline and rolling hills dotted with sheep.
  • Blarney Castle: Home to the famous Blarney Stone, this medieval castle is a popular destination for travelers looking to kiss the stone and receive the “gift of gab.”
  • The Guinness Storehouse: This iconic brewery in the heart of Dublin is a must-see for any beer lover, with interactive exhibits and a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city.

Scotland: The Land of Legends
Scotland is a country steeped in history and folklore, with a rugged landscape that has inspired
writers and artists for centuries. Some of the top destinations to explore on a CIE Tours trip to
Scotland include:

  • Edinburgh Castle: This iconic castle dominates the skyline of Edinburgh and offers stunning views of the city below.
  • Loch Ness: Legend has it that a monster lurks in the depths of this famous Scottish lake, but visitors can also enjoy scenic boat tours and hikes in the surrounding area.
  • The Isle of Skye: This remote island is home to some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery, including the Old Man of Storr rock formation and the Fairy Pools.
  • The Scottish Highlands: This rugged landscape is home to some of Scotland’s most famous natural landmarks, including Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in the British Isles) and the Glenfinnan Viaduct (made famous by the Harry Potter films).

England and Wales: A Tale of Two Countries
England and Wales have a rich history and diverse cultural offerings. Some of the top
destinations to explore on a CIE Tours trip to England and Wales include:

  • Stonehenge: This mysterious prehistoric monument is a must-see for any traveler interested in ancient history and folklore.
  • The Cotswolds: This picturesque region of rolling hills and quaint villages is quintessentially English, with charming tea rooms and historic manor houses.
  • Cardiff Castle: This medieval castle in the heart of Wales has been used as a residence for over 2,000 years and offers a fascinating glimpse into Welsh history and culture.
  • The Lake District: This stunning region of mountains and lakes inspired some of England’s most famous writers, including William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.

Iceland: A Land of Fire and Ice
Iceland is a unique destination that offers a landscape like no other. Visitors to Iceland can
witness the raw power of nature, from erupting geysers and hot springs to massive glaciers and
towering waterfalls. Some of the popular landmarks you can visit during a CIE Tours trip to
Iceland are:

  • Gullfoss Waterfall: Marvel at the power and beauty of this massive waterfall on the Hvítá river.
  • Thingvellir National Park: Discover the site of the world’s oldest parliament and the rift valley between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
  • Reykjavik: Explore the capital city and its colorful houses, street art, and culture.
  • Geysir Geothermal Area: Watch the famous Strokkur geyser shoot boiling water up to 30 meters in the air.
  • Blue Lagoon: Soak in the healing geothermal waters of this world-famous spa.

Italy: A Feast for the Senses
Italy is a country that is rich in history, culture, and, of course, delicious cuisine. A CIE Tours trip
to Italy will take you to some of the country’s most iconic destinations, including Rome,
Florence, and Venice. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, admire world-renowned art, and
indulge in some of the best food and wine in the world. Some of the popular landmarks you can
visit during a CIE Tours trip to Italy are:

  • Colosseum: Walk in the footsteps of ancient gladiators in this iconic amphitheater.
  • Vatican Museums: Admire the masterpieces of Michelangelo, Raphael, and other Italian artists in one of the world’s greatest art collections.
  • Duomo: Climb to the top of the dome of Florence’s cathedral and enjoy panoramic city views.
  • Venice Canals: Take a gondola ride through the charming canals of Venice and admire the city’s unique architecture.
  • Piazza del Campo: Visit this stunning square in Siena, known for its famous horse race, the Palio.

Spain and Portugal: A Journey through Time
Spain and Portugal are countries that are steeped in history and tradition. A CIE Tours trip to
these countries will take you on a journey through time, from the ancient cities of Toledo and
Avila in Spain to the medieval castle towns of Portugal. Some of the popular landmarks you can
visit during a CIE Tours trip to Spain and Portugal are:

  • Alhambra: Explore the stunning Moorish palace and fortress in Granada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Royal Palace: Visit the official residence of the Spanish royal family in Madrid and admire its grandeur and beauty.
  • Salamanca: Discover the historic city known for its stunning architecture and famous university, one of the oldest in Europe.
  • Lisbon’s Belem Tower: Visit this iconic tower built in the 16th century as a defense system.
  • Port Wine Cellars: Taste the world-renowned wine in Porto and visit its famous cellars along the Douro River.

Discover the World with CIE Tours

CIE Tours offers travelers a unique and enriching way to experience some of the world’s most
beautiful and fascinating destinations. With over 90 years of experience, they have perfected
the art of providing immersive and comprehensive travel packages that are both convenient and
affordable. By choosing CIE Tours, you’ll have access to luxury coaches, the finest hotels, and
experienced local tour guides that will ensure your trip is nothing short of amazing.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the lush landscapes of Ireland, the rugged terrain of
Scotland, the rich history of England and Wales, or the stunning natural wonders of Iceland, CIE
Tours has something for everyone. Their itineraries are carefully crafted to offer a balance of
immersive experiences and plenty of downtime to explore on your own.

Travel is an important part of life, and with CIE Tours, you can discover the world in an enriching
and unforgettable way. So why wait? Book your next adventure with CIE Tours today and
experience the world like never before.