Ron's Travel with Seas Away Travel

11/11/2024

To ALL that Served
Thank You

11/10/2024

A warning from the State Department has led to a lot of Royal Caribbean passengers being concerned when they see Labadee, Haiti on their cruise itinerary. The reality, however, is that Labadee is a fenced-in, guarded section of Haiti that's nowhere near a population center.

There are no excursions outside the protected area in Labadee, and if an angry mob did decide to head toward Royal Caribbean's private beach destination, the cruise line would have plenty of time to evacuate passengers and staff safely.

So, just because the State Department issues a warning about a destination, that does not mean you should not go there. It is, however, important to read exactly what the U.S. government agency is worried about so you can follow that advice.

11/08/2024

I was just notified that Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has a pre–Black Friday sale on the drink package today that is 40% off at $62.99 a day per person. It doesn't state how long it will last so if you are interested in this package you will need to go to Royal Caribbean website at Cruises – Amazing Cruises and Cruise Deals | Royal Caribbean Cruises and go to your reservation and add it to your reservation. Unfortunately, they do not allow me to add it for you so you will have to do it yourself. All of the other packages are also on sale.

10/31/2024

Fun facts about Halloween

Our spooky traditions have their roots in some of our favorite destinations

In this spooktacular season, we're carving out our Jack O'Lanterns and putting the final touches on our goblin costumes. But there's time to ponder the fascinating history and heritage of Halloween and remember how it has its roots in some of our favorite places!

1. Halloween comes from the old festival of Samhain, which was celebrated in Ireland and Scotland to mark the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. The boundary between the earthly world and the Otherworld was believed to be more porous at this time, so spirits roamed the earth.

2. The modern custom of "trick or treat" might be derived from the old custom of appeasing a household's ancestral ghosts with offerings of food placed by the fire. If the ghosts did not get their food, it was feared that bad luck would descend on the household - just as today costumed children ask for a treat, with the alternative being a trick, presumably a harmless prank today!

3. Trick-or-treaters have been going from house to house since at least the 1500s. In those days going from door-to-door in disguise was called "guising", and it was practiced throughout Ireland and Scotland.

4. In medieval England there was another custom called "souling", where poor people would call to the homes of the wealthy for a shortbread-like "soul cake". The recipient would in exchange promise to pray for all the souls of the homeowner's ancestors and beloved dead relatives.

5. We think today of pumpkin Jack O'Lanterns, which often look more cheery than scary with their plump, orange faces. The original Jack O'Lanterns were carved from root vegetables, which were usually plentiful after the harvest. Turnips were a popular pick, and the available samples that survive in the Museum of Country Life in County Mayo are rather gruesome and frightening.

6. The story of the Jack O'Lantern comes from an Irish folktale about Stingy Jack - a man who invited the devil for a drink. When the time came to pay, Jack didn't want to, so he convinced the devil to turn himself into a coin. When the devil did, Jack decided to pocket the money instead, and put him next to a silver cross that stopped the devil from changing back into himself. Jack then made a bargain with the devil: Jack would free him, on the condition that the devil wouldn't claim his soul. When Jack died, God didn't want him in heaven and the devil wouldn't take him in hell, so Jack set off wandering the earth, with a piece of coal in a carved-out turnip to light the way.

7. Derry is the scene of one of the world's top Halloween celebrations. Derry began celebrating the holiday in a big way back in the 1980s, and the festival has grown to possibly the biggest celebration on the planet, with days of festivities culminating in a parade and fireworks. The Boston Globe once visited and enthusiastically called it "a Renaissance Faire crossed with a nightmare - in the best possible sense of course". There's storytelling, street theater, live music, and plenty of spectacles. Often called the "Walled City" because of its magnificent city walls dating back to medieval times, Derry is also called the "City of Bones" because it has a seated skeleton on its coat of arms.

8. In England, Guy Fawkes Night on November 5 is a bigger evening of revelry, though it has a Halloween link. Guy Fawke's night commemorates the 1605 discovery of a plot to blow up the House of Lords and assassinate King James I. The King asked his supporters to celebrate the failure of the plot to kill him by moving their autumn bonfires from Halloween to November 5, the night of the plot. Today's fireworks and bonfires often feature the burning of effigies of Guy Fawkes, the first conspirator to be arrested.

9. Food has always been a very important part of Halloween celebrations, and there were many fortune-telling traditions associated with various treats. Barmbrack, a sweet bread with fruit, was a big favorite. Charms would be baked into the breads and would tell the future of the finder for the next year: A coin for wealth, a ring for marriage; a thimble for staying single. Colcannon was another favorite, made with potatoes and cabbage.

10. We owe so many of our Halloween celebrations as we celebrate them in North America to the immigrants who arrived from Ireland and brought them with them and adapted them as they needed. One of our favorite places to explore Ireland's heritage is at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.

10/16/2024

Where would like to go!
Ready to escape but not sure where to go? Whether you crave a cruise, sun-soaked beaches, cultural deep-dives, or serene resort getaways, we've got the perfect vacation tailored just for you.
Contact me

Send a message to learn more

10/13/2024

BREAKING NEWS
Cancun Airport Eliminates the Fee Associated With Multiple Electronics - What Travelers Need to Know
Cancun International Airport has eliminated the fee for tourists bringing multiple larger electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, thanks to the advocacy of travel advisors and officials.

Send a message to learn more

10/05/2024

National Plan a Cruise Month is Underway

Now is the perfect time for you to book your end-of-year 2024 getaways and take advantage of generous offers still available.

Plan that Ocean Cruise you always wanted, that European River Cruise, or Transatlantic Cruise. Bookings available now for you to make.

Contact Ron Hoedebeck
Seas Away Travel
[email protected]
813-610-7254
FST

10/03/2024

Please be aware that the government of Mexico has placed restrictions on the number of
electronic devices and other equipment
when entering the country.
ONE portable computer, laptop, tablet or similar
computing device (e.g. an iPad) can be imported per passenger without incurring any import fee.
However, there are restrictions on multiple devices.
Additional devices are considered separate items
and may result in an import fee.
Other limitations include:
3 cell phones
2 cameras
1 pair of binoculars
1 dedicated GPS device
4 fishing poles
Additional items exceeding these restrictions and limitations may result in customs duties, which begin at 19% of the items’ value. Reports have been made about duties imposed that exceed
the items’ original value. Please be aware when advising travelers
to Mexico of these limitations and restrictions.

10/02/2024

Longshoremen's strike won't affect cruise ships
By Andrea Zelinski |Oct 01, 2024|

The International Longshoremen's Association went on strike Oct. 1, impacting U.S. port operations from Maine to Texas. However, the union said cruise operations will not be affected. ILA workers will continue working passenger cruise ships at all ILA ports in an effort to not inconvenience the tens of thousands of Americans who have booked trips in advance, said Harold Daggett, ILA president.

"We understand that many families plan and pay for cruise vacations on passenger ships more than a year out, and we don't want them to be disappointed or inconvenienced in any way."

The workers, who are using the strike to leverage for higher wages and protest automation, will also continue to service U.S. military cargo. However, all other cargo ships docking at 36 ports along the Atlantic and the Gulf Coast will go unloaded, which could lead to a shortage of goods on grocery store shelves and fewer car deliveries if the strike stretches for more than a few weeks.

A Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings spokesman said the company appreciates ILA's commitment to support cruise passengers. Asked how cruise lines will be affected if the strike is drawn out, the spokesman said, "Regarding potential impact to provisions, the cruise industry has the flexibility to source through various suppliers and locations."

09/30/2024

We have received some important information from VisitBritain for all 2025 travelers to share with you. Please pay close attention to the announcement below:

The UK government has announced the next phase of the rollout of electronic travel authorization (ETA). An ETA gives visitors permission to travel to the UK. By April 2025, all visitors who do not need a visa will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the UK.

An ETA for American visitors will be required to enter the UK starting January 8th, 2025. Americans can apply in advance starting November 27, 2024.

The ETA will be linked to the traveler's passport and will last for two years or until the traveler's passport expires – whichever comes first.

Dates and Requirements:
- Eligible non-Europeans can apply in advance from November 27, 2024, and will need an ETA to travel from 8 January 2025.
- Eligible Europeans can apply from March 5, 2025,8 and will need an ETA to travel from 2 April 2025.

Costs:
An ETA costs £10 and permits multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time over two years or until the holder’s passport expires.

09/28/2024

Save on Alaska Adventures Now!
Book now until October 8th, 2024
Cruise Tour on the Radiance of the Seas
From $1950 per person

Contact me for more information
Ron Hoedebeck / Seas Away Travel
[email protected]
813-610-7254

09/27/2024

This just in from Southwest Airlines

We recently announced changes that will enhance your flying experience with us and hinted at more news to come. Today, we’re sharing details about our transformational journey to becoming an Even Better Southwest®.

While there are a lot of changes ahead, our 53-year-old core values of flexibility, transparency, and Hospitality are stronger than ever. In that spirit, I’m happy to announce what’s changing and what’s not.

Bags fly free®1 is here to stay.

You love Bags fly free,1 and we’re keeping our industry-leading policy. Every ticket with us comes with two free checked bags.

NEW: Assigned seats for an elevated cabin experience.

For your comfort, we’re introducing seat assignments with different options based on the experience you prefer. Our lowest fare offer will still come with two free checked bags, no change2 or cancel fees,3 travel credits that never expire, and a seat will be assigned to you prior to your day of travel. If you prefer to select your seat when you book your flight, including seats with extra legroom, you will have a few options to purchase these benefits.

Our boarding process will be similar to what it is today–we will board in order, preserving our fast boarding process to get you on your way as quickly as possible. We will begin selling flights with seat assignments in the second half of 2025 for travel in the first half of 2026.

More, more, more rewards.

Rapid Rewards® Members will continue to enjoy our industry–leading loyalty program. All Members will earn and redeem points at the same rate they do today, and we will continue to offer no blackout dates, uncapped reward seat availability, and points that don’t expire. To see how Tier benefits will evolve with assigned seating, click here.

New A–List Preferred Members will be able to select all available seats at the time of booking, including extra legroom, at no additional cost.
New A–List Members will be able to select all standard legroom seats at the time of booking with the opportunity to choose an extra legroom seat within 48 hours of departure, if available, at no additional cost.
All Tier Members will continue to enjoy priority boarding,4 free same-day change,5 and same-day standby.5
All Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers will receive details in early 2025 on how their card benefits will be enhanced with our new changes. Until then, Cardmembers will continue to take advantage of the benefits they currently have on their card.
NEW: Vacay the Southwest way.

We’re introducing Getaways by Southwest™ in 2025. This is an entirely new vacation package offering that only Southwest can deliver–with the unmatched flexible policies you know and love. So, if plans change and you have to cancel your vacation, it’s a–okay on this vacay.

NEW: More horizons on the horizon.

We’re launching our first international partnership with Icelandair® in 2025. Customers will be allowed to book Southwest flights through Icelandair. We expect to add at least one additional partner in the next year, and this is just the beginning!

As you can see, we’re focused and excited about the future. We can’t wait for you to experience these new enhancements as they roll out. In the meantime, we promise to continue connecting you to the people and places you love the most.

From the bottom of my Heart, thank you for taking this journey with us. And thank you for flying Southwest Airlines®.

Sincerely,

Bob Jordan
President, CEO, & Vice Chairman of the Board

For more details, please visit Southwest.com/experience.

09/27/2024

Happy ! 📷📷 Level up your next adventure with these 4 quick travel tips. Where are you headed next?

Contact: Ron Hoedebeck
[email protected]
813-610-7254
FST

09/23/2024

Happy ! 📷 There’s no better way to bond than by creating memories on a family vacation. Where's your dream family vacation? 📷📷

Contact: Ron Hoedebeck
[email protected]
813-610-7254
FST

09/16/2024

Have you ever thought what it would be like to sail on the largest cruise ship in the world? Now you can, onboard Icon of the Seas! From adrenaline-pumping heights above the ocean to the ultimate chill in 7 unique pools, prepare for non-stop thrills and relaxation. 🏄‍♂️⛱️


Contact: Ron Hoedebeck
[email protected]
813-610-7254
FST

09/13/2024

5 Reasons You Might Choose an All-Inclusive

Choosing a vacation destination can be a delightful yet daunting task, especially with the myriad of options available. Not only do you have to decide what you’d like to do while on vacation, but you also need to choose a beautiful location. That can be hard when you have a bucket list of dream destinations you’ve been wanting to visit and explore.

All-inclusive resorts are a popular choice for travelers looking to maximize their vacation experience without the hassle of detailed planning. Instead of having to map out every detail of your vacation on your own, you can visit a resort that offers plenty of exciting adventures.

If you’re on the fence about making the commitment, here are five compelling reasons why you might opt for an all-inclusive resort on your next getaway.

1. Low-Stress Planning

One of the main appeals of an all-inclusive resort is the ease of planning. After all, it can feel overwhelming trying to work out the finer details of a vacation, such as where to do and what to eat. When you book an all-inclusive package, most of the logistics are taken care of for you. From meals and drinks to activities and entertainment, everything is included in one upfront cost.

This means you can avoid the stress of coordinating multiple bookings and budgeting for every aspect of your trip. All-inclusive resorts allow you to relax and enjoy your vacation without the constant worry of additional expenses. Instead, you allow yourself to kick back and have a good time.

2. Looking to Unwind

If your goal is to truly relax and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, an all-inclusive resort is an excellent choice. These resorts are designed to provide a serene and stress-free environment, often featuring luxurious spas, private beaches, and tranquil pools. They really have it all!

You can spend your days lounging by the water, indulging in spa treatments, or simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings. With everything you need at your fingertips, you can focus on unwinding and recharging. That’s relaxation at its finest! Just be sure to find a peaceful resort with all the amenities.

3. Family-Friendly Convenience

Traveling with family, especially with young children, can be challenging. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families by offering a wide range of amenities and activities for all ages. There is something for everyone, from kids’ clubs and water parks to family-friendly entertainment and dining options. The convenience of having everything in one place means parents can relax while their children are entertained and cared for in a safe environment.

Plus, many all-inclusive resorts offer deals where children under a certain age can stay and eat for free when they’re with a paying adult. This is beneficial for anyone who is looking to get away without breaking the bank. Always check with the resort beforehand to see how they can accommodate kids.

4. Seeking Adventure and Activities

All-inclusive resorts are not just for relaxation. They also offer a variety of activities and excursions for those seeking excitement and adventure. Many resorts provide opportunities for water sports, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving, as well as land-based activities like hiking, biking, and guided tours. It’s up to you to decide how you’d like to spend your vacation and choose the best resort.

With the activities already included in your package, you can try new experiences without worrying about extra costs. This makes it easy to stay active and explore the natural beauty of your destination. Plus, you’ll have plenty of stories and photos to share with friends and family when you return home.

5. Gourmet Dining Without the Hassle

Foodies will appreciate the diverse and high-quality dining options available at all-inclusive resorts. These resorts often feature multiple restaurants, each offering different cuisines and dining experiences. This gives you the opportunity to try some new dishes you might not have chosen otherwise. It’s the perfect way to be a little adventurous and expand your palate.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual beachside snack or a gourmet five-course meal, you can find it all within the resort. The best part is that you don’t have to worry about making reservations or paying for each meal separately. These easily available dining options allow you to savor a variety of culinary delights without any of the usual dining stress. So, you get to enjoy a delicious meal and a refreshing beverage no matter the time of day.

All-inclusive resorts provide a convenient and enjoyable vacation option for a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re looking to relax, enjoy family time, seek adventure, or indulge in gourmet dining, you can focus on making the most of your vacation and creating long-lasting memories with loved ones.

Contact: Ron Hoedebeck
[email protected]
813-610-0641
FST

09/11/2024

Take the Polar Plunge with Silversea! A quintessential Antarctic tradition, this invigorating leap into glacial waters is a bucket-list activity for many explorers to the White Continent. Silversea's all-inclusive voyages take you there in ultra-luxury, with a fleet of three expedition ships, butler service in every suite, superlative dining options, and world-class expedition teams.

Contact: Ron Hoedebeck
[email protected]
813-610-7254
FST

09/09/2024

Dreaming of the perfect getaway? Norwegian Cruise Line has the savings to help get you there with Up To $1,000 Off All Cruises*. And as summer winds down, there's no better time to book your escape. Book Now until Sept 17th, 2024

Contact: Ron Hoedebeck
[email protected]
813-610-7254
FST