The blog for you to GETAWAY FROM YOUR EVERYDAY!!!!!

We’ll feature up to 3 destinations every two weeks. If you don’t want to do a package deal then have no fear because we can do most independently for you or what used to be call an ON YOUR OWN package.

 

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It's never been easier to sail from SO Cal for Autumn of this year.  Many cruise lines with many itineraries and many lengths to choose from. Come on pick a cruise and contact us to GETAWAY FROM YOUR EVERYDAY.

GREAT GETAWAYS

Mexican Riviera Cruise Starting At:$1,049 + $147.24 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Solstice   More Details

Mexican Riviera Cruise Starting At:$899 + $142.29 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Solstice   More Details

Mexican Riviera Cruise Starting At:$899 + $142.29 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Solstice   More Details

Mexican Riviera Cruise Starting At:$1,109 + $147.24 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Solstice   More Details

Ensenada Cruise Starting At:$177 + $107.21 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

5-Day West Coast Getaway with San Francisco Starting At:$369 + $160.00 taxes/fees Ship: Diamond Princess   More Details

16-Day Hawaiian Islands Starting At:$999 + $185.00 taxes/fees Ship: Diamond Princess   More Details

7-Day Classic California Coast Starting At:$569 + $200.00 taxes/fees Ship: Diamond Princess   More Details

7-Day Classic California Coast Starting At:$539 + $215.00 taxes/fees Ship: Diamond Princess   More Details

5-Day Cabo San Lucas Getaway Starting At:$299 + $95.00 taxes/fees Ship: Diamond Princess   More Details

5-Day West Coast Getaway with San Francisco Starting At:$369 + $165.00 taxes/fees Ship: Diamond Princess   More Details

7-Day Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez Starting At:$449 + $110.00 taxes/fees Ship: Diamond Princess   More Details

7-Day Love Boat Themed Cruise to Mexico Starting At:$599 + $145.00 taxes/fees Ship: Discovery Princess   More Details

15-Day Hawaiian Islands Starting At:$1,179 + $225.00 taxes/fees Ship: Sapphire Princess   More Details

15-Day Hawaiian Islands Starting At:$1,149 + $225.00 taxes/fees Ship: Sapphire Princess   More Details

10-Day Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez Starting At:$699 + $160.00 taxes/fees Ship: Sapphire Princess   More Details

15-Day Hawaiian Islands Starting At:$1,199 + $185.00 taxes/fees Ship: Crown Princess   More Details

Ensenada Cruise Starting At:$188 + $108.44 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

Cabo Overnight Cruise Starting At:$398 + $122.95 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

5-day Cruise to Mexican Riviera: Cabo & Ensenada from Los Angeles, California on Norwegian Bliss Starting At:$285.35 + $159.32 taxes/fees Ship: Norwegian Bliss Enjoy five days of fun in the sun as you cruise the Mexican Riviera aboard one of our newest ships, Norwegian Bliss. Marvel at El Arco, the dramatic rock formation that is Cabo San Lucas’s signature landmark and a popular gathering spot for sea lions. Take a tour of Baja California’s oldest winery in Ensenada and stop at the market to pick up some local crafts. Then it’s back to Los Angeles, where mammoths roam the La Brea Tar Pits and celebrities stroll Rodeo Drive. More Details

Ensenada Cruise Starting At:$177 + $107.25 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

Catalina & Ensenada Cruise Starting At:$198 + $119.53 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

15-Day Hawaiian Islands Starting At:$1,399 + $195.00 taxes/fees Ship: Sapphire Princess   More Details

4-Day West Coast Getaway with San Diego Starting At:$329 + $153.01 taxes/fees Ship: Discovery Princess   More Details

7-Day Mexican Riviera Starting At:$799 + $120.00 taxes/fees Ship: Koningsdam   More Details

5-Day Mexican Riviera Starting At:$399 + $110.00 taxes/fees Ship: Koningsdam   More Details

7-Day Classic California Coast Starting At:$999 + $210.00 taxes/fees Ship: Koningsdam   More Details

Mexican Riviera Starting At:$699 + $145.00 taxes/fees Ship: Discovery Princess   More Details

Classic California Coast Starting At:$579 + $228.01 taxes/fees Ship: Discovery Princess   More Details

Mexican Riviera Starting At:$549 + $145.00 taxes/fees Ship: Discovery Princess   More Details

Cabo San Lucas Getaway Starting At:$369 + $125.00 taxes/fees Ship: Discovery Princess   More Details

Cabo, Vallarta & Mazatlan Cruise Starting At:$499 + $132.47 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

Cabo Overnight Cruise Starting At:$448 + $118.38 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

Cabo, Vallarta & Mazatlan Cruise Starting At:$529 + $133.73 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

Catalina & Ensenada Cruise Starting At:$158 + $120.43 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

Cabo & Ensenada Cruise Starting At:$498 + $131.81 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

Ensenada Cruise Starting At:$249 + $106.39 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

Ensenada Cruise Starting At:$158 + $107.21 taxes/fees Ship: Navigator of the Seas   More Details

5-day Cruise to Mexican Riviera: Cabo & Ensenada from Los Angeles, California on Norwegian Bliss Starting At:$389.35 + $159.32 taxes/fees Ship: Norwegian Bliss Enjoy five days of fun in the sun as you cruise the Mexican Riviera aboard one of our newest ships, Norwegian Bliss. Marvel at El Arco, the dramatic rock formation that is Cabo San Lucas’s signature landmark and a popular gathering spot for sea lions. Take a tour of Baja California’s oldest winery in Ensenada and stop at the market to pick up some local crafts. Then it’s back to Los Angeles, where mammoths roam the La Brea Tar Pits and celebrities stroll Rodeo Drive. More Details

7-day Cruise to Mexican Riviera: Cabo & Puerto Vallarta from Los Angeles, California on Norwegian Bliss Starting At:$844.35 + $179.60 taxes/fees Ship: Norwegian Bliss Spice up your vacation with margaritas, guacamole, and authentic Mexican tacos as you cruise through the Pacific Ocean aboard Norwegian Bliss, one of our newest and most incredible ships. Galivant along Lover’s Beach or dare to run through Divorce Beach near Land’s End in Cabo, the choice is yours! Visit the capital of Mariachi Music in Puerto Vallarta and get to know Mazatlán, one of the most unique destinations in Mexico, with plenty of opportunities to island-hop. More Details

 

 

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AUTUMN ADVENTURES

Celebrity Cruises returns to California this fall from Los Angeles.

Mexican Riviera Cruise Starting At:$1,049 + $147.24 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Solstice   More Details

Mexican Riviera Cruise Starting At:$899 + $142.29 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Solstice   More Details

Mexican Riviera Holiday Cruise Starting At:$1,199 + $137.42 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Solstice   More Details

Mexican Riviera Holiday Cruise Starting At:$1,199 + $142.60 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Solstice   More Details

Mexican Riviera Cruise Starting At:$899 + $142.29 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Solstice   More Details

 

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Can You Hear the "Sound of Music"?

Austria

Landlocked in the heart of Europe, Austria runs from the Alps in the west down to Vienna and the Danube in the east. For six centuries it was the heart of the mighty Hapsburg Empire, which at its peak included what is now Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, along with much of Romania, Bulgaria, and the Balkans. The country's imperial inheritance is particularly striking in the grand buildings and cultural institutions of the Baroque-flavored capital, Vienna, resplendent with palaces and captivating churches, cozy coffeehouses and inns, and grand ballrooms where Strauss waltzes still draw dancers onto the floor. Another great Austrian composer was Mozart. He was born in Salzburg, a beautiful historic city where stunning Baroque churches rise up against the backdrop of the Austrian Alps. The Alps stretch west to Switzerland and, in winter, skiers come from all over the world to carve the slopes and experience the charm of the alpine villages and their welcoming inhabitants. The appeal of Austria may lie in its preservation of a romantic classical past, but this does not mean modern Austria has stood back from development. Behind the stunning scenery and antique architecture, a vibrant industrial and commercial society goes about its business in the cities and towns. Austrians work hard, but they also know how to party. Austrian hospitality and cuisine are legendary. Whether taking a cruise on the magnificent Danube River, cycling through the Alpine meadows, or enjoying a breathtaking day's sightseeing in busy Vienna, visitors to Austria find it impossible to fit in a dull moment.

 

Key Facts

Language: The official language in Austria is German.

Passport/Visa: The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. For most nationalities, passports are required to be valid for three months beyond period of travel. We always recommend that passports be valid for six months from the departure date.

Currency: The unit of currency is the Euro (EUR). Currency can be exchanged at banks and bureau de change available in all towns, but it may be easier to use the ATMs. Banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, but bureau de change at airports and major city rail terminals are open seven days a week. Most credit and debit cards are widely accepted though some small hotels and restaurants may only accept cash.

Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts; 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are standard.

 

Travel to Austria

Austria is perfect for sightseeing, with an assortment of wonderful tourist attractions. Just the mention of this scenic, multicultural country brings to mind images of skiing in the Alps, exploring Vienna's impressive Baroque architecture, and sampling the warm, rich cuisine of the alpine villages and their friendly inhabitants. Austria is the birthplace of many famous figures, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Sigmund Freud, not to mention Arnold Schwarzenegger. Austria is also home to Swarovski crystals, Lipizzaner stallions, and the 11th-century Hohensalzburg Fortress, as well as one of the largest youth parties in Europe, the Danube Island Festival. Austria is a year-round destination, with snowy winters perfect for mountaineering, skiing, and snowboarding, and mild summers ideal for sightseeing. The many sights and attractions are made accessible by the national railway system, the U-Bahn, extensive motorways, and various ports and harbors. With all these magnificent highlights so easily within grasp, taking a trip to this beautiful country in the warm heart of Europe is guaranteed to be a fulfilling, memorable experience for anyone.

Climate in Austria

Austria enjoys a temperate Central European climate with four distinct seasons. Summers, between June and August, are hot with cool nights. In Vienna and other low-lying cities, temperatures during the day can get uncomfortably hot over July and August. Winters are cold and below freezing in January and February. The ski season in the Alps runs from December to April but the mountains are also popular with hikers and climbers over the summer when the weather is usually warm and bright.

Health Notes

No vaccinations are necessary for business visits or general tourism in Austria. There is, however, a risk of tick-borne encephalitis for long-term visitors who expect to be visiting rural or forested areas in spring or summer. These travelers should consider vaccination and ensure they take precautions against tick infestation. Water and food are safe. Medical facilities are excellent. Medical insurance is advised unless from the UK - citizens of EU countries can get free emergency medical treatment at public hospitals in Austria on production of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Safety Notes

Travel to Austria is generally trouble-free. However, visitors are advised to take sensible safety precautions, particularly in larger cities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hungary

Hungary's location in the centre of Europe makes it one of the best starting points for an Eastern European journey. It's both typically European and distinctly Hungarian, incorporating a mixture of historical and present-day pleasures. The country proudly upholds its traditions, culture, and arts, while staying attentive to what is new and fashionable in the wider world. A small landlocked country sharing its borders with seven neighboring countries, travelers to Hungary should note that it was originally inhabited by the Magyars, an equestrian nomadic tribe. They were eventually converted to Christianity and in the year 1000 their Prince Stephen was crowned the nation's first ruler. Since then, Hungary has seen numerous dynastic changes, from Turkish occupation to the era of Communism. Today, quaint little towns, cities, and ruins in the countryside attest to this turbulent history with a rich mosaic of architectural styles and fortified hilltop castles. The Hungarian people, neither Slavic nor Germanic, are formal, reserved, and intensely proud of their ancient nation and its cosmopolitan capital, Budapest. Budapest is situated on a lovely stretch of the Danube, a river that gives the city a good deal of its romance and beauty. It is a city of culture and of astounding beauty and grace, enchanting visitors. Outside the capital, the plains, rolling hills, rivers, lakes and, vineyards hold much to amuse the visitor. The Baroque town of Eger attracts many with its fine wines. There is a surfeit of charming and historic riverside villages along the Danube Bend, not to mention commanding fortresses, castles, and palaces. The resort-lined Lake Balaton and the thermal spas and volcanically heated lake at Hévíz are just some of the country's many highlights awaiting discovery.

 

Key Facts

Language: Hungarian (Magyar) is the official language, but German is widely spoken, especially in the areas close to the Austrian border. English is spoken in tourist areas and most hotels.

Passport/Visa: The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. All visitors to Hungary, other than EEA members, should ensure that their passports are valid for at least six months beyond the expiry date of their visa. Foreign passengers must be in possession of a return/onward ticket (or sufficient funds to buy one), and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Additionally, visitors must hold the equivalent of HUF 1,000 per day of stay, in hard currency, although the following documents are also accepted: a major credit card, a letter of invitation, proof of accommodation (reserved and paid for), or a document authorizing the visitor to withdraw cash from a bank in Hungary. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Currency: Although Hungary is part of the EU it does not use the Euro; the official currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). It is divided into 100 filler. Most international credit cards are accepted, and these can be used to withdraw cash from banks and ATMs, and to pay bills in hotels, restaurants and most shops. Banks usually open between 8am and 3pm on weekdays and some are open on Saturdays. ATMs and currency exchange machines are available in towns and cities throughout the country. It is advisable to retain exchange receipts for proof of legal currency exchange.

Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are standard.

Travel to Hungary

 As one of Europe's most fascinating countries, Hungary offers a wealth of sightseeing attractions. Visitors to beautiful Budapest will marvel at its architecture, enjoy its opera, and take in its musical events. There's also the romance of the Danube River and Budapest's famed spa baths. Budapest has many celebrated tourist attractions and is a useful transport hub for exploring the rest of the country. Visit Hévíz and soak in the world's second largest thermal lake, Gyógytó. Momento Park is one of the world's most bizarre attractions, where hundreds of giant statues were banished at the end of the communist era. Take a trip to Szentendre for a spot of shopping and visit the old university town of Keszthely to enjoy the quaint streets lined with trees, trendy cafés, and busy markets. The best season to visit Hungary is in the summer, between April and September, when the days are long and the weather warm. Most towns and cities in Hungary have reliable and affordable public transport but the best way to see the country is to hire a car and experience it all for yourself as it is not difficult to drive and navigate in the country.

Climate in Hungary

Hungary has a continental climate with distinct seasons, and a great variation between winter and summer conditions. During winter (December to February) the weather is bitterly cold, with snow blanketing the ground for weeks and the mighty Danube River freezing over. Most people would say that the best time to visit Hungary is over the summer period (June to August) when the weather is warmer and the attractions are all open. The weather in spring and autumn can be very pleasant too, but temperatures do drop to around 20°F (9°C). Over winter, temperatures approach freezing. Some rain can be expected throughout the year and rainfall is largely dependent on the region as there are variations in weather in Hungary according to location. The west of Hungary, including Budapest, starts warming up after a cold winter in April. The weather in this part of Hungary is hot and humid throughout the summer months, which are the most popular time to visit. Eastern and central Hungary experience hot and dry summers and cold and wet winters. The wind is often strong on the plains and adds to the chill factor. In the south of Hungary, there is a slightly warmer climate and summers are long and hot while winters are shorter and less severe, with temperatures seldom dropping below freezing. In the south, the rainy season is summer.

Health Notes

No vaccinations are required for travel to Hungary and standards of public health are good, but vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B are recommended for all travelers. Tap water is safe to drink and food poisoning is not considered a high risk, although visitors are recommended to vaccinate against typhoid if they are spending a lot of time in rural areas and planning to eat outside of hotels and restaurants. Travelers intending on visiting forested, grassy, lakeside or rural areas in spring and summer should also consider a tick-borne encephalitis vaccine but this is usually only necessary for those staying long term. A reciprocal health agreement with countries in the EU provides nationals with free emergency health care on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). All big towns have pharmacies, but anyone requiring specific medication should bring a supply with them as most medicines are of Eastern European origin and may be unfamiliar. Make sure that if you are travelling with prescribed medications you bring along a letter from your doctor stating your condition and the prescribed medication to smooth your way through customs. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended.

Safety Notes

Most visits to Hungary are trouble-free, but normal precautions against petty crime should be taken. Pick pocketing and bag snatching is a risk on crowded public transport and other places frequented by tourists. Minimize your chance of being targeted by making use of hotel safes to store valuables and not displaying conspicuous wealth. It is also always a good idea to carry copies of important documents like your passport. Some bars, clubs and restaurants in Budapest charge outrageous prices by means of scams that target foreigners in particular. Be cautious of invitations off the street to dine in certain establishments or of recommendations by taxi drivers who are often in on the scam. Some taxi drivers can also overcharge or take passengers on a circuitous route. Any political demonstrations should be avoided, as they have led to violence in the past.