Posted by David Porter on January 9, 2020 · 2 Comments
140 people gathered in N. Scottsdale to learn what’s new at Viking Cruises.
A Recap From Our Viking Ocean and River Cruises Event Held Last Night in Scottsdale, Arizona
Last night, Sandra Marshall (Viking Director, Business Development) flew in from California to share with 140+ people in our sold-out event about what’s new at Viking Ocean and River Cruises.
After noshing on hot appetizers and a glass of wine, here is a recap of what we learned:
Computer mockup of Viking’s future expedition ships.
What’s New at Viking Ocean and River Cruises
- The Viking river cruise fleet now stands at 70 ships in Europe, five ships in Russia, two ships in Asia, one ship in Ukraine, and three ships sailing the Nile River in Egypt.
- Viking’s ocean cruise fleet currently stands at six ships with another ship being delivered in 2020.
- Viking river cruise ships continue to be the world’s most award-winning with 22 years of experience.
- Viking ocean cruise ships began sailing in 2015, and a year later, Viking’s new ships began stacking up “World’s Best” awards.
- Viking will soon be announcing two new expedition ships that will be sailing in the polar regions beginning in 2022. Carol and I will be flying to California next week to meet with Viking executives for the official announcement. Stay tuned for more on that in the coming weeks.
- We are also beginning to hear rumblings about Viking soon sailing in the Galapagos Islands, the Mississippi River, and even the Great Lakes. We’ll be sure to keep you informed on these exciting announcements when they are available.
- Viking’s signature river cruise is the Grand European Tour. This 15-day river cruise sails both the Rhine and Danube rivers and sails from Amsterdam to Budapest. Viking is currently running a special offer on this sailing with significant discounts and free round-trip airfare. Call us for details.
- Viking signature ocean cruise is the Viking Homelands cruise. This 15-day ocean cruise sails Northern Europe and includes stops in Norway, Denmark, Germany, Poland, Estonia, Finland, and Russia. This is Viking’s back yard. They have deep roots in the area and dedicate three ships to this region every summer.
- Sandra shared with the group that there is no financial incentive to booking directly with Viking. In fact, she shared, there are often financial incentives to booking Viking cruises through a professional travel advisor. An example of these incentives is that Roaming Boomers Travel Services has a $200 shipboard credit to add to all Viking bookings made through our company through Jan 22nd. In addition, because we are the #2 booking agents for Viking Cruises in the world, we also bring you complimentary VIP booking services for your airline tickets on Viking Cruises. This means that you’ll be getting your airline seats 7-8 months before everyone else. This is a significant complimentary benefit that we bring to our clients.
How to Book a Viking Ocean or River Cruise
With so many ocean and river cruises offered by Viking, just trying to decide which cruise to take, what time of year is best to travel, and deciphering a myriad of other important factors can often lead to confusion. We’re here to help.
Now that you understand that there is no financial incentive to booking directly with Viking or any other cruise line and that we often have complimentary perks to share, simply give us a call.
We are one of the world’s leading experts regarding Viking Cruises, and we will take all of the stress out of the process. As we say, “We do the work. You have the fun”.
Special Offers from our event: CLICK HERE.
For more information or to book a fun Viking cruise, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request (click here) and we’ll reach out to you.
Links:
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Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an Independent Affiliate of Cadence, a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40
Posted by David Porter on December 20, 2019 · 2 Comments
American Queen Steamboat Sunset on the Mississippi River in Natchez, Mississippi.
I captured this beautiful sunset photo from the veranda of our suite on the American Queen Steamboat as we were pulling out of Natchez, Mississippi. Using the wide-angle lens and taking advantage of the iPhone 11 Pro’s 3-second setting. The phone did an admirable job.
My iPhone X would have struggled with this scene. I’m happy with the camera in the iPhone 11 Pro, and it appears that a great many more of the photographs that I shoot while traveling will be able to come from my new phone. The only exception? A long zoom.
Take a peek at this photograph I captured of a moonlit night on the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge.
American Queen Steamboat Moonlite on the Mississipi River in Baton Rouge, Mississippi.
Sailing down the Mighty Mississippi River with our new friends at the American Queen Steamboat Company was a magical experience. Every night, the steam calliope would echo across the river signaling that we were pulling away from the dock. And, the beautiful sights of creation nightly pulled on our heartstrings. Simply magnificent. 🙂
I will be writing a number of articles about our experience sailing the Mississippi River on the American Queen Steamboat. Stay tuned.
For more information click here or to book an American Queen Steamboat Company river cruise, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request (click here) and we’ll reach out to you.
You might also enjoy these travel articles:
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Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an Independent Affiliate of Cadence, a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40
Posted by David Porter on December 4, 2019 · 5 Comments
Virtuoso Reveals It’s Top 10 Travel Ideas for 2020
OK. You’re a luxury traveler, and you’re looking for travel ideas for 2020.
Most luxury baby boomers’ bucket lists would contain destinations like Italy, France, England, a Mediterranean cruise. Or perhaps the Northern Lights, Australia and New Zealand, Japan, Alaska, or maybe the Antarctic.
Not too long ago, Virtuoso surveyed the 20,000 travel advisors in their network and asked them: what are the top ten most unusual and exciting experiences for 2020?
Take a peek at their answers for a few 2020 travel ideas:
Travel INspiration for 2020
- Surf Sydney’s iconic Bondi beach, whether pro or first-timer. Bondi is just outside the city center and extremely popular with locals and visitors alike. Serious surfers hang out at the southern end of the beach, while novices occupy the northern stretch, where waves are often smaller.
- Head to Tokyo for the 2020 Olympics, taking place July 24 to August 9. Japan continues to trend in 2020, finding itself on two Luxe Report lists for global and emerging destinations. Beyond the Games, travelers will be enamored with Japan’s gorgeous scenery, dynamic cities, culinary delights, and cultural heritage.
- Witness the Great Migration in Tanzania and Kenya, where millions of zebras, wildebeest, and antelope traverse the landscape in search of food and water while attempting to elude predators such as lions and crocodiles.
- Live like a local for a month (or more) in Italy, the Luxe Report’s top global destination of 2020. As authenticity is one of the year’s top trends, travelers can immerse themselves in the lifestyle of this beloved country. Rent a villa. Find a favorite espresso or wine bar. Learn the language. Master the cuisine or just savor it.
- Support the Bahamas after the devastating impact of Hurricane Dorian, which severely damaged Grand Bahama and Abaco islands in September. Tourism comprises 60 percent of the nation’s economy and revenues from visitors boost recovery efforts. Virtuoso’s nine resorts escaped with little to no damage; they are open and receiving guests. I think this travel idea is the most easily accomplished. It’s been a long time since Carol and I have been in the Bahamas. Maybe it’s time for another visit.
- Fly around the world via private jet, touching down at legendary destinations such as Easter Island, Petra, Jordan, and the Taj Mahal. Country-hop in style on a specially outfitted jet while relaxing comfortably in a leather seat, with attentive onboard crew assisting with every need. Bypass commercial airports while avoiding jetlag … what could be better!
- Explore the pristine landscape of Antarctica. The continent was voted the top adventure destination in the 2020 Luxe Report, proving that cold-weather spots are hot. As travelers seek out destinations with unspoiled scenic beauty. Travelers can kayak with humpback whales, watch penguins in their natural habitat and even take a dip in the frigid waters.
- Sail through the Panama Canal, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This century-old engineering marvel is even more impressive up close on a full transit cruise, where the ship sails through the canal. It takes a day to traverse the 50 miles of locks as the ship makes its way from ocean to ocean.
- Enjoy the slow-down trend of the year: rail travel. The majesty of the Canadian Rockies unfolds before passengers with a train journey aboard the incomparable Rocky Mountaineer. Gaze at panoramic surroundings through the glass-dome coaches, savor local cuisine, and learn about natural and historic sites along the way through the stories of expert hosts. To view the article from our journey on Rocky Mountaineer, click here. We’ve done it twice! 🙂
- Venture to an uninhabited island in Tonga for the ultimate unplugged escape. This Polynesian kingdom is comprised of 140 islands without residents as well as a wonderfully temperate climate and tropical scenery. Guest can soak up on the sun on a private beach, snorkel in crystal-clear waters and explore jungles – all in blissful solitude.
Did you find any travel inspiration on this list?
Be sure to click on all of the orange-colored links.
I don’t imagine I could talk Carol into staying on an uninhabited island in Tonga, but there are a lot of destinations and experiences on this list that are on our bucket list.
If you didn’t find any travel ideas on this list, here are some other recent articles I’ve written to give you some inspiration:
For more information about these or any other travel experiences, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request (click here) and we’ll reach out to you.
About Virtuoso
Virtuoso® is the leading international travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 1,000 travel agency partners with 20,000 elite travel advisors in 50 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with over 1,800 of the world’s best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. More than (U.S.) $26.4 billion in annual travel sales makes Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry.
If you enjoyed this article, sign up for our travel newsletter to keep abreast of our best travel tips, on-location reviews, exclusive travel offers, group travel events, and much more.
Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an Independent Affiliate of Cadence, a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40
Posted by David Porter on November 27, 2019 · 2 Comments
CLICK HERE TO VIEW 75-PAGE TRAVEL CATALOG
Virtuoso Traveler’s Travel Magazine Reveals the Top Trends and Destinations for 2020
We’ve looked into the future – and like what we see. Our 2020 forecast calls for hitting honky-tonks in Nashville, seeing Tokyo’s Summer Games in style, getting wild in Rwanda, and exploring the far-flung Faroe Islands. Plan, too, on traveling sustainably, discovering antidotes to overtourism, and getting healthy doses of urban renewal – think digital detox and sleep coaching (yes, that’s a thing) during your next city stay. Learn what else topped our annual list of where, why, and how to travel in 2020, compiled with the help of Virtuoso advisors and other in-the-know experts. Also inside: next year’s hot new hotels, cruise ships, and museum openings; why we love Alaska in the winter (hint: heavenly light shows); and ten essential gifts for globe-trotters.
October 2019 l August 2019 l June 2019
About Virtuoso
Virtuoso® is the leading international travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 1,000 travel agency partners with 20,000 elite travel advisors in 50 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with over 1,800 of the world’s best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. More than (U.S.) $26.4 billion in annual travel sales makes Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry.
For more information about our services or to book your next fun adventure, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request (click here) and we’ll reach out to you.
If you enjoyed this article, sign up for our travel newsletter to keep abreast of our best travel tips, on-location reviews, exclusive travel offers, group travel events, and much more.
Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an Independent Affiliate of Cadence, a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40
Posted by David Porter on October 18, 2019 · Leave a Comment
Luxury Getaway: The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, Scottsdale
Carol enjoying our beautiful suite.
Luxury baby boomer travelers love long-weekend luxury getaways.
And, who doesn’t want a luxury getaway when those important birthdays or anniversary celebrations come around?
Now that Carol and I have two team members aboard in our company, we intend to get back out there and sample some of our country’s best luxury resorts on your behalf. I know, it a rough job. But somebody’s got to do it.
We thought to begin our Luxury Getaways series, we’d start in our own hometown of Scottsdale, Arizona.
Canyon Suites at The Phoenician Entrance
The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician is the only Forbes Five Star/AAA Five Diamond hotel in the greater Phoenix area. This resort within a resort is located on The Phoenician grounds.
The 60-room property offers a variety of enhanced, exclusive services, including a private infinity pool, and a daily, complimentary, artisan breakfast for guests. A personal Canyon Ambassador is also available to assist with any need or desire. Canyon Suites guests also have access to all Phoenician services and amenities.
Situated at the base of Camelback Mountain, The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician is just nine miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. It is also in close proximity to Scottsdale’s finest shopping and dining, and a short drive to downtown Phoenix, its historic district and attractions.
When you enjoy a luxurious stay at The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, you are just 10-minutes away from Scottsdale Fashion Square (one of the most renown shopping malls in America). You are also just minutes away from the art galleries, museums, shops, and dining found in Old Town Scottsdale. And, Sedona would make a wonderful day trip from your home base at The Canyon Suites.
The Canyon Suites Pool
Carol and I spent two nights at The Canyon Suites for our staycation and enjoyed world-class luxury amenities with a comfortable home-style feeling.
The grounds are stunning and we really enjoyed the intimate feel of the resort as there are only 60 suites on the property. Yet, we found all of the amenities of the much larger Phoenician resort just a short golf cart ride away.
Accommodations include 20 Canyon Guest Rooms at 600 sq.ft., 38 Canyon Suites with one, two, and three-bedroom configurations, and two fabulous Presidential Suites.
Sunset Views From J&G Restaurant
Charred Hangar Steak
The Culinary Options available at The Canyon Suites are varied and outstanding. This was the view from our table at the J&G Restaurant. Be sure to make a sunset reservation and don’t miss the Tuna Tartare and signature Warm Chocolate Cake.
On your second night, we highly recommend Mowry & Cotton. Under the leadership of Chef Tandy Peterson, the restaurant has been named Best New Resort Restaurant, Best New Restaurant in Phoenix, and more.
Here, you’ll find your palate exploring new destinations with a more casual vibe. Carol and I will definitely be back to sample the Grilled Pheasant. But we have very fond memories of the Buttermilk Buns, Lamb Tacos, fabulous Charred Brussels Sprouts, and the Charred Hangar Steak brought flavors not normally found in such a dish. YUM 🙂
The Phoenician Golf Course has just been completely renovated and the same is true of The Phoenician Spa.
In short, the Grand Canyon Suites at The Phoenician has absolutely everything you need for a fabulous luxury getaway. Plus, Old Town Scottsdale is five minutes away, and you should also consider a day trip to Sedona and/or the Grand Canyon.
We give The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician our highest recommendation.
Booking Information for The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician
Of course, you can call and book a suite directly with the resort, but if you would like to enjoy our complimentary VIP Virtuoso Perks, then let me recommend our 24/7 online booking engine.
When you book through Roaming Boomers Travel Services, you will enjoy the following complimentary amenities:
- Room view upgrade on arrival, subject to availability (not applicable towards Suites)
- Daily full breakfast, for up to two in-room guests in the restaurant or in-room dining (up to $65 credit)
- $100 USD Food & Beverage credit, (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full, applies to in-room dining, and resort restaurants excluding J&G Steakhouse.)
- Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
To book your luxury getaway at The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, CLICK HERE.
Have fun! Send us selfies from your stay and we’ll share them on our Facebook Page. 🙂
Travel Tip: What to do in Scottsdale, Arizona
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Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an Independent Affiliate of Cadence, a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40
The Roaming Boomers
