Contiki’s Vacation Package Gift Registry

Contiki VacationsContiki Vacations offers packages to exciting destinations throughout the world that are geared for travelers between the ages of 18 and 35, and at a very thrifty price.

They have come up with a great idea to help young travelers pay for their trips.  They’ve created a Gift Registry which can be set up for any occasion, such as graduation, birthday, wedding, or Christmas.  Just let all well-wishers know that if they want to give you a gift, they can donate some money to your Contiki Gift Registry!  There are no set-up fees; the registry simply acts as a trip-fund savings account.

For more information . . .

Call – 1-866-CONTIKI (1-866-266-8454).

Write — Contiki Vacations; 801 E. Katella Ave.; Anaheim, CA 92805.

Website – http://www.contiki.com

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European Wine-Travel Cruises

Food & Wine Trails is known for their wine-focused cruises.  Throughout 2009 they have delicious itineraries planned, many of which include free airfare.  Their deluxe cruises include, in addition to the expected amenities, private wine seminars, tastings, and a wine-makers dinner, all hosted by nationally-recognized wine personalities.  In addition, at many of the ship’s ports-of-call, optional wine tours and lunches at top wine estates are available.  They offer cruise-tours worldwide.

Call:  1-800-367-5348.

E-mail:  info@foodandwinetrails.com

http://www.foodandwinetrails.com

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Cruising Basics, Part 2: Who is in Charge of What?

Not only do ships have “titles,” so does the cruise ship staff.  The saying goes “you can’t tell the players without a program” — so here is your own personal “Cruise Ship Program.”

CAPTAIN:  Oversees (and is responsible for) the entire operation and safety of the ship.  You will recognize him by all the gold stripes on his shoulder epaulet: 4 same-size bars or 1 wide bar and 3 smaller bars; plus a diamond or loop shape.

STAFF CAPTAIN, FIRST MATE, or FIRST OFFICER:  This person is second in command, and is qualified to take over for the Captain in case of an emergency.

SECOND OFFICER:  Third in command.

HELMSMAN:  The person who steers the ship.

NAVIGATOR:  The person who charts the course for the helmsman to follow.

ENGINEERS:  They are in charge of the engine room.

CHIEF PURSER:  The ship’s accountant, who oversees everything relating to money on the ship, and is responsible for safe-deposit boxes, check cashing, and money changing.

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