If you live on the East Coast or in the Midwest you normally cruise from Florida, the convenience factor and local attractions are good for passengers who now have an even more BIG reason to head out of Fort Lauderdale as its port is the home of the newest and largest cruise ship… Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Sea; standing at 20 stories high it is unmistakable against the skyline when one enters the port area or happens to be sitting in view of it when your plane is landing at Hollywood Airport says, Travel Genie Ken. A sight of awe and wonder that brings many to stand still along the bridges, roads and even alleyways that provide a small glimpse of the ship.
Have you ever felt small in a crowd? Have you ever felt as small as Tom Thumb or Thumbelina in their fairy tales? Have you ever felt like everything around you is ‘gi-normous’ that you don’t know how you’ll ever see all there is in life to enjoy… Well, that’s the feeling many will get when they get on board Royal Caribbean’s newest vessel; it’s four times the size of the Titanic and it offers as much in variety with activities… something essential for a great vacation.
With seven neighborhoods to explore and we explored them all… the Oasis of the Sea offers entertaining for long overdue vacationers, families and groups with an eye for adventure and calm. With babysitting available if needed; hands-on activities for tots like singing, dancing, storytelling; theme parties and arts & crafts as well as fun rides on the colorful musical carousel for kids. Older children can learn or improve their computer skills at stations provided for them or choose from four swimming pools for appropriate ages to enjoy a cool splash; while teens can enjoy less structured activities in their own lounge and youth gym with parties and movie nights.
The adventurous can choose rock climbing with Geckos that align the two walls available; wave riding, and a zip line that rides high above for a great view of the Promenade and Central Park neighborhoods. Miniature golf, physical fitness, yoga, Tai Chi or swimming at any of the 10 gyms and Spas onboard lends to great relaxation and revitalization.
Head for the solarium and gaze out on the skyline as you sit seemingly right over the sea waters below or get lost in the cabanas for a snooze, cuddling or just some me time. Joggers can take a run 2.4 times around the ship for a one mile work out or cycle the pounds away in the gym. We rang the bell on the rock wall, zipped across the zip line, and birdied hole #7 on the miniature golf course; next time… we’re going surfing!
Night life is abundant with many restaurants and bars to choose from but reservations must be made for any in the Central Park neighborhood where jackets are required. Have a drink in the Rising Tide Bar and choose which floor to get off as it’s an elevator bar going up for three floors and shooting a falling water cascade beneath its rising lift. Step into the casino if you’re with Lady Luck or enjoy a family gathering with the ice show. Take in entertainment by top celebrities like Rihanna who made history as the first to perform for the Oasis of the Sea inauguration. Feel like dancing check out the clubs or settle in for a night at the theatre which features a moving stage for glimpses of the beautiful sea below.
Cabins feature a view… if you’re not on the ocean view side of the ship, not to worry inside cabins overlook the promenade or Central Park or the Boardwalk… there’s always something to see from your porthole or balcony on the Oasis of the Sea. Want to get married at sea, this ship features a non-denominational chapel; facilities for a reception and even loft style cabins for your private gatherings are available too.
Early risers can treat themselves to freshly baked cupcakes at the Cupcake Cupboard or enjoy a leisurely stroll in Central Park, or along the Boardwalk… you won’t get lost… there directional touch screens beside the elevators to help you navigate around this floating city. Shopping is always a great pastime and there are many stores to browse and find something for even the most discerning tastes… speaking of tastes, if you enjoy wetting your palette… the Wine Bar is a must… There is something for everyone and everywhere on the ship… about the only thing you may complain about is not having enough time to see it all.
The Oasis of the Sea set off on its maiden voyage last week on December 12, you can be on the next one... this Travel Genie will make your cruising dreams come true; contact me to book your vacation that will be no mirage indeed.
Travel Genie Kenneth Smith
Dreams Come True Travel
http://www.traveldreams.tv/
973 206-9338
dctken@comcast.net
Planning to celebrate… it's just the place; intimate and with a nice flair. Renowned Jamaican National Derek Williams, one of the Dance Theatre of Harlem’s founding members (seen at left)… enjoyed the venue at such an event. Williams, who is currently running the Dance Program at Germany’s Janusphere Dance Company was pleased to note that the food and ambience were a wonderful compliment to the service and evening he enjoyed there. Williams is planning to return to the U.S. once his commitment in Germany concludes.
Friday, Dec. 4, 2009 - Queens, NY: Imagine you’re the head of an organization to benefit Cancer Patients providing them education and information, free care and surgeries and nutrition... then suddenly finding out that you are stricken by the very disease you work so hard to help others survive… Carol Bagot, founding member of the Organization for Social and Health Advancement in Guyana & the Caribbean (OSHAG-C) found herself facing just this challenge shortly after the New Year 2009 began. OSHAG-C provides educational, medical and nutritional care information, and support to Cancer patients and more in the areas stated in their name. They have been responsible for sponsoring groups of doctors, nurses and volunteers who take the time to provide free care, surgeries and health seminars in the developing Diaspora; most of whom don’t often get the care to combat thier illnesses as readily.
