Harry Potter: Orlando, FL

"Muggles, the time has come! On June 18, the most anticipated new theme park in years opened its gates to the public. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort has re-created much of the setting of the "Harry Potter" books and movies, including the town of Hogsmeade and the park’s central feature, Hogwarts Castle — site of Harry’s alma mater, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. If you’re one of the legions of fans who have longed to immerse yourself in the Harry Potter universe, grab your broomstick — or perhaps a flight — and head on down to Orlando."-Amy Swanson

"Inside Hogwarts Castle is the park’s signature attraction, a thrill ride called Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. The ride comes with its own storyline, in which visitors join Harry and his friends Ron and Hermione on an adventure that sends them flying on an enchanted bench around Hogwarts and into encounters with a dragon, the Whomping Willow and participants in a Quidditch match. The pre-ride safety reminder comes courtesy of the Sorting Hat."-Swanson

"One of the most innovative parts of the Forbidden Journey ride is that waiting in line is an integral part of the experience. While you follow the line through the castle toward the ride, you’ll travel through several areas that will be familiar to Potter fans, such as the Portrait Gallery (yes, the paintings talk), the Gryffindor common room, Professor Dumbledore’s office, and the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom."-Swanson

 

"Outside the castle, a stroll through the town of Hogsmeade will take you to Potter-esque establishments such as the Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head eateries, where you can quaff butterbeer and pumpkin juice (the recipes for both were approved by author J.K. Rowling); Honeydukes, offering Chocolate Frogs and other sweets; and Zonko’s joke shop. You’ll also find a few places that have been transplanted from Diagon Alley, including Ollivander’s wand shop and the Dervish and Banges wizarding-equipment store."

"Aimed at younger visitors, the Flight of the Hippogriff ride is a smaller-size roller coaster that imagines guests as wizarding students learning how to fly on hippogriffs — magical creatures that are part eagle, part horse. If you’re up for a more extreme roller coaster, the high-speed Dragon Challenge lets riders imagine they’re facing fierce dragons in the Triwizard Tournament."-Swanson

 

Nature's Light

"Kilauea on the Big Island of Hawaii has been dazzling spectators since 1983. Lava from this dome on the flank of 13,679-foot Mauna Loa flows to the Pacific Ocean, where molten rock sizzles into the water. The best view is from tour boats. You can also see the subtle subterranean glow of magma from various spots around the volcano’s rim."-Eric Lucas

"This phenomenon, triggered by solar wind in the Earth’s ionosphere, is available for viewing year-round in polar regions. You’ll have better luck during clear winter evenings above the Arctic Circle. For virtually guaranteed sightings of the aurora borealis, visit Bettles or Fairbanks, Alaska, or the diamond-boom hub of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. There, several wilderness resorts, such as Blachford Lake Lodge, offer special packages for northern-lights seekers, including the all-important extreme-cold clothing."-Lucas

"Just after the sun sets over an unobstructed horizon, a momentary arc of green light appears. Oceans and large lakes are the best places to watch for this. Even if you don’t see it (and it's notoriously difficult to capture on film), it’s entertaining to discover that the sun’s movement is detectable to the naked eye. That the best venue is sitting on a beach only adds to the spiritual value of this sight. Try the west-facing shores of Florida, California and Hawaii."-Lucas

 

All-Inclusive Resorts in Negril, Jamaica

Beaches Negril Resort & Spa

On Seven Mile Beach, fun means scuba diving, dipping into the seaweed bath at the Red Lane(R) Spa, making waves at the Pirates Island Water-park, and live entertainment. Rooms at this family resort open to balconies with ocean or garden views. Your vacation value includes exchange privileges at Beaches Sandy Bay.

Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa

This 5-Star Diamond Award winning hideaway is set on Negril's famous Seven Mile Beach. Combining a laid-back atmosphere with refined elegance, the resort provides the ultimate in personalized pampering from unique Swim-Up River Suites with Butler Service and 24-hour room service to the full-service Red Lane(R) Spa.

Couples Swept Away Resort

A lovely slice of sun-kissed Seven Mile Beach is home to this romantic, adults-only property. Draw the slatted hades in your dreamy, intimate guest room and escape for an afternoon. The 10-acre sports complex boasts an Olympic-size lap pool, 10 lighted tennis courts, and a dream fitness center, while the Oasis Spa refreshes body, mind, and spirit.

Sunset At The Palms Resort & Spa

Bask in the trendy hideaway setting of this all-inclusive resort locate on two miles of pristine white beaches. Indulge in a soak in the poolside Jacuzzi, cool off with a drink at the swim-up bar, and dine at three restaurants and bars. Work up a sweat at the fitness center, and cool off with a variety of watersports.

RIU Negril

On secluded Bloody Bay Beach, this easygoing resort is tailored for family fun. Relax with a massage at the Tropical Touch spa while the kids play in their own mini-club. Dine on casual buffets and gourmet Brazilian cuisine. Guest rooms open to breezy balconies or ground-floor terraces furnished with chairs and cocktail tables.

For more information please contact Unique Travel Concepts

619-464-6426 or 800-879-8635

http://www.uniquetravelconcepts.com/

10 Reasons why you should use a Travel Agent!

Many people ask us this and we have decided to answer, " the question."

1. We have probably been there and done that!!
2. At worst, we will have sent people there and can give you information.
3. We will make sure that you understand all the small print.
4. If "God forbids" happen, you have someone to advise you -WE WILL ALWAYS OFFER YOU INSURANCE WITH YOUR PURCHASE.
5. Your time is worth money and so is ours. We sometimes charge service fees, but in return you will ALWAYS get service.
6. Our prices often match, and sometimes even beat, those you find on the Web.
7. We deal with respected wholesalers who will be there for you if and when you need assistance.
8. Why guess what to do and see - we can tell you from experience!
9. We will record your preferences and requests, so that you don't have to tell us every time you book.
10. We know what we are doing and we've been doing it for a long time.

REMEMBER -
"WITHOUT A TRAVEL AGENT, YOU ARE ON YOUR OWN"

British Honduras

	Departing April 8-19, November 11-22,2011 and December 29 - January 11, 2012    *    12 Days from $1,995 pp Join us on a journey from downtown Chicago to the jungles of Central America by Classic Streamliner train and Norwegian liner! Our vintage Streamliner train 'The British West Indies Express' will convey our guests from the Windy City to New Orleans over the Illinois Central Railroad with a visit and overnight stay in historic Memphis on the way. Then an overnight in New Orleans before the centerpiece of our holiday, passage by ship to exotic Belize, formerly British Honduras, one of the most fascinating places on earth. With the second longest barrier reef in the world, lush jungles filled with jaguars, ocelots and wild monkeys, Belize is a place of stunning natural beauty, famed for its breathtaking Mayan ruins at Altun-Ha. During our port call in Belize City, there is time to tour these magnificent Mayan ruins, a 'must-see' sight for any traveler. Happily, Belize is not the only exotic port of call on our passage from New Orleans, we also visit Costa Maya in Mexico's Yucatan, popular Cozumel and a lovely port, seldom-visited, Santo Tomas de Castilla in Guatemala. At Santo Tomas, there is a fantastic shore excursion to Quirigua and its Mayan monuments. Of course, any good holiday should couple remarkable scenery with superb comfort and this holiday does this nicely. Our vintage Streamliner train offers a swank art deco round-end observation 'Club Car' with an open bar and what better way to begin a vacation than with complimentary cocktails at ninety miles per hour without the hassle of airport check-ins. In New Orleans, our guests enjoy an overnight First Class hotel stay with breakfast daily, a French Quarter sightseeing tour and, of course, a visit to famed Cafe du Monde for the best cafe au lait and beignets in the World. Our ship, the ms Norwegian Spirit features 11 restaurants, 11 bars & lounges, an excellent spa and fitness center, a casino and acres of open deck space. Because Norwegian Cruise Line operates 'Freestyle Cruising' you may dine when you like, where you like, with whom you like, there is no required dress code and a level of personal choice on how you enjoy your vacation is offered. The one serious flaw with this holiday; it will sell out quickly so prompt reservations are encouraged. Features: Classic Streamliner train travel aboard our own private train, the 'British West Indies Express' from Chicago to New Orleans and then from Memphis to Chicago after the cruise, an overnight journey over the storied Illinois Central Railroad in each direction. There is a club car to enjoy and all meals, wines & spirits while aboard are included. Guests enjoy reclining ‘Sleeperette' seating (similar to Business class on an international flight) and for those desiring even greater comfort, sleeping car accommodations are available at additional cost. Memphis sightseeing tour with the acclaimed 'Memphis Jones' and live musicial entertainment as we tour the home of the Blues. We also enjoy breakfast at the storied 'Arcade' Restaurant and have time to see the famous 'Duck March' at the Peabody Hotel during our time in Memphis. Overnight accommodations at the excellent Doubletree Hotel in Memphis along with welcome dinner at the famed Rendezvous Barbecue. Coach train travel from Memphis to New Orleans aboard the ‘City of New Orleans’, a short day-trip. An overnight stay in New Orleans with sightseeing tour and visit to Café du Monde before we sail. We have intentionally left large blocks of free time for you to enjoy ‘The Crescent City' . 7-night West Indies cruise round- trip from New Orleans aboard the Norwegian Spirit. Naturally, all meals & entertainment are included. Hosted by professional tour manager with special cocktail parties & events throughout. STATEROOMS AND FARES Suites $2,995 pp Balcony $2,495 pp Oceanview $2,195 pp Inside Twin $2,095 pp Economy Inside $1,995 pp Port tax is $210 pp. Single inside fares begin at $2,595 and single outside fares begin at $3,195. Guests booking by January 14 receive a complimentary one-category upgrade on the April Departure only! Condensed Daily Itinerary Departing April 8-19, November 11-22,2011 and December 29 - January 11, 2012 DAY PORT Day 1 Chicago Union Station R Guests are greeted at Union Station by our host and escorted to our special Streamliner, ‘THE BRITISH WEST INDIES EXPRESS’ where our champagne departure party awaits. Our train sails promptly at 8:00 pm. Day 2 New Orleans, Louisiana B L This afternoon we arrive in New Orleans, “The Crescent City”, and are transferred to the Hilton Riverwalk Hotel just a short walk to the famous French Quarter. This evening is free for you to explore this colorful and lively city. Day 3 Board the Norwegian Spirit R B D This morning our guest enjoy a walking tour of the French Quarter with a stop at the renowned ‘Cafe du Monde’, famous for their cafe au lait and fresh, warm beignets sprinkled with powdered sugar. It’s a delicious treat we never allow out guest to miss. Later this afternoon, our group boards the ms Norwegian Spirit to begin our adventure to the enigmatic land of the Maya. This evening is our ‘Welcome Aboard’ cocktail party. Day 4 At Sea B L D Today you have your entire day to do - as you wish. There is almost too much to choose from, but we suggest you first explore the Norwegian Spirit and discover its many splendors and treasures. Day 5 Costa Maya, Mexica B L D This unspoiled coastal paradise in the Yucatán sprawls off the beaten path, with brilliant butterflies, exotic tropical birds, deer, monkeys (MONKEYS! Oh-boy!) – even jaguars are said to roam the remote parts of this pristine jungle. Day 6 Belize City, Belize B L D Long before the 17th-century powers fought over Belizean sovereignty, a complex Mayan civilization flourished here. Today, many of the architectural treasures from that amazing lost culture remain for you to explore in virtually untouched verdant jungles. Day 7 Roatan B L D Beautiful and unspoiled, Roatan is a peaceful, eco-tourist's dream, just 30 miles off the coast of Honduras. Teeming with marine life and home to some of the best pillar coral in the Caribbean, the pristine Belizean Reef is a diver’s paradise. And the beauty of Tabyana Beach is always a sight to see. Day 8 Cozumel, Mexico B L D The island of Cozumel off the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula continues to be known for its fantastic fishing, snorkeling and diving opportunities. And despite the growth of tourism in recent years, the island and its only town, San Miguel, retains much of its original warmth and charm. Day 9 At Sea B L D All day is spent at sea Day 10 New Orleans, Louisiana B After breakfast we disembark the ship with plenty of free time today to return for some ‘lagniappe’ or just a little more fun and enjoyment in this charming city. Tonight we depart aboard ‘The City of New Orleans’, famous in story and song, headed for Memphis and our overnight stay at the Westin Memphis Beale Street. Day 11 Memphis, Tennessee B D This morning we have included breakfast at the storied ‘Arcade Restaurant’ before our city tour of Memphis with our great and good friend, Memphis Jones, who offers one of the most entertaining tours of Memphis you will ever have the opportunity to enjoy. Memphis Jones’ will enchant you with song and story, accompanied by his fabled guitar. We also make a special visit to the legendary ‘Peabody Hotel’ to see their famous Duck March. Tonight, we enjoy our Farewell Dinner at the famous ‘Rendezvous Barbecue Restaurant’ with its wonderful Memphis BBQ and savory Southern treats. Later we board our special train for overnight travel back to Chicago. Day 12 Chicago Union Station B This morning after breakfast we arrive in Chicago at 9 a.m. allowing for easy, same day, connections for all Midwest destination points. Welcome home! All Information disclosed herein is considered the sole property of Uncommon Journeys Inc; d.b.a., Train Holidays.  This information including marketing material, email address listings and all information known and unknown pertaining to this email is subject to all proprietary information and non-compete laws covering this matter (The Economic Espionage Act of 1996).  Unauthorized use of this material, email and its intended recipients may result in criminal prosecution as well as civil litigation to cover financial damages as well as costs due for electronic forensic investigation, attorney fees and court costs.

Contact your local travel specialist at UNIQUE TRAVEL CONCEPTS to book this "unique" itinerary
                     
                                                              619 464-6426
                                                    info@uniquetravelconcepts.com

Titanic Museums and Exhibits

"In Branson, Mo., and Pigeon Forge, Tenn., you’ll find sister exhibits called Titanic — World’s Largest Museum Attraction, where you’ll find a wealth of interactive experiences that may almost make you feel like you’re on the ship. Visitors can walk the grand staircase, built to the original architect’s specifications; send an SOS; climb aboard lifeboats; shovel coal into a furnace; listen to the captain’s commands on the bridge; and feel the pitch of the deck as it tilts to the steep angles the Titanic experienced before sinking."-Amy Swanson

"At Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, guests can see a wide array of objects and personal items recovered from the wreck of the Titanic as they move through a chronological display of the ship’s construction, voyage, sinking and rediscovery.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition is a permanent attraction at the Luxor Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas."-Swanson

"Longing to see the real thing? You can — even though the Titanic is at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. For a select and well-funded few, The Great Canadian Adventure Co. offers an expedition to the Titanic itself. Participants sail from Newfoundland aboard a Russian research ship before descending more than two miles underwater in high-tech submersible vehicles to the wreck site, getting a view of the Titanic seen by few other than scientists."-Swanson

"Remote and hauntingly beautiful, Cape Race, in the Canadian province of Newfoundland, was the closest point of land when the Titanic sank, and the cable station here broadcast the doomed ship’s SOS to the world. The original cable station is gone, but tourists can visit a replica, along with the lovely 1907 lighthouse."-Swanson

"Next to the Washington Channel in Washington, D.C., is a tall granite sculpture. This sculpture is the Titanic Memorial, erected in 1931 by the Women’s Titanic Memorial Association. The inscription at the base dedicates the memorial "to the brave men who perished … that women and children might be saved."-Swanson

"German theater company Theater Titanick takes its productions outside — a good thing when its signature performance is an "apocalyptic theatrical inferno," as the company says on its website. The "Titanic" show is a live-action, avant-garde interpretation of the sinking, involving thousands of gallons of water and impressive pyrotechnics. The performance can be seen in Germany and at selected tour sites."-Swanson

"If you’re in Orlando, a must-see is Titanic — the Experience, an interactive museum that features full-scale replicas of many areas of the ship, such as a first-class suite, the grand staircase, a promenade deck, the wireless room, the bridge and the boiler area. The facility also hosts regular four-course dinners that re-create a dinner party held on the Titanic to honor the ship’s captain, Edward John Smith."

Luxury Cruises

Regent

Seven Sea Cruises

The Most Inclusive Luxury Cruise Experience

"Regent Seven Seas Cruises provides discerning guests with the most inclusive luxury cruise experience by offering an incomparable array of complimentary features and services, including roundtrip air, unlimited shore excursions, wine and premium spirits and all gratuities.

Onboard these Culinary Collection voyages, you can watch celebrated chefs prepare signature dishes and learn secret cooking techniques. Sip and savor your way through some of the world's greatest wine regions and explore fine spirits.

As you navigate through exotic regions, dive into the wonders of the food of the area through these Culinary Collection cruises complete with guest culinary experts sharing techniques and knowledge through lectures and demonstrations.

25-Night Regional Food & Wine

Sydney to Beijing (Tianjin)

Seven Seas Voyager

February 23rd, 2011

Special Bonus: Enjoy $100 Onboard Credit per Suite

12-Night Mediterranean Cuisine

Istanbul to Athens (Piraeus)

Seven Seas Mariner

August 12th, 2011

Special Bonus: Enjoy $100 Onboard Credit per Suite

12-Night Northwest Food & Wine

Vancouver to San Francisco

Seven Seas Navigator

August 31st, 2011

Special Bonus: Enjoy the Services of a Concierge Host, an Exclusive Shore Event and a Private Cocktail Reception.

10-Night Wine & Champagne

Barcelona to Rome (Civitavecchia)

Seven Seas Mariner

September 3rd, 2011

Special Bonus: Enjoy the Services of a Concierge Host, an Exclusive Shore Event and a Private Cocktail Reception.

For more information or to book your next culinary cruise please contact Unique Travel Concepts

619-464-6426 or 800-879-8635

http://www.uniquetravelconcepts.com/

The Bahama's (Caicos to Nassau)

Bahama Beachlovers: Caicos to Nassau

11 nights, 12 days Starting at $3,779

Grande Mariner

Day 1

Begin your cruise in Turks and Caicos surrounded by inviting blue waters and lush green islands.

Day 2

The paradise of Mayaguana in the Bahamas, boasts stunning waters that change their shade from azure to turquoise to crystal-clear. Fantastic fishing and snorkeling abounds in a setting of beautiful coral reefs and historic shipwrecks.

Day 3

Enjoy the unspoiled beaches of Plana Cays, which some say was the first landfall of Christopher Columbus in the New World. Uninhabited, the Cays are wrapped with sugary white sand and long desolate stretches of shore. Later, visit Acklins Island for more water sports.

Day 4

Your port of call today is quaint Clarence Town on picturesque Long Island.

Day 5

Swim and snorkel in the warm waters of Calabash Bay or simply relax on board, admiring the lush tropical scenery.

Day 6

In Georgetown, browse for handmade crafts at outdoor straw markets. Ride our glass bottom boat and discover this beautiful deep-water harbor that in the 17th century attracted aristocrats and pirates alike.

Day 7

Get your snorkeling gear and explore spectacular Galliot Cay! With soft sand beneath your feet and blue water on the horizon, you'll feel you've truly gotten "away from it all".

Day 8

A popular spot among divers and snorkelers, Thunderball Grotto is a dramatic marine cave featured in two James Bond films. Weather conditions permitting, you can venture inside this magical atmosphere created by craggy rocks and green water. Enjoy Staniel Cay, a famed yachter's paradise, where nurse sharks and sting rays swim under piers of the yacht club docks. Tonight, a Caribbean cocktail party is complete with conch fritters, a local delight.

Day 9

Bow land on beautiful and secluded Hawksbill Cay located in the northern part of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, the first marine "replenishment nursery" in the world. At the Park, renowned for its pristine beauty and breathtaking marine environment, you can swim, snorkel or just lounge on the white sand beach.

Day 10

The most famous of the Exuma islands, Norman's Cay has a legendary history and stunning natural beauty. Just offshore lies the wreckage of a small plane where nurse sharks, stingrays, and rainbow-colored fish congregate. Swim, snorkel or take a walk to explore this mysterious island.

Day 11

Today you'll cruise to Shroud Cay, an inhabited archipelago surrounding a shallow mangrove salt marsh. Swim or snorkel to look for conch, lobster and starfish that make their home in these waters. Later, port in Nassau, and enjoy live music on top deck.

Day 12

Disembark today in Nassau, which claims a unique blend of British, Spanish, and West African culture.

Ports Visited: Providenciales, TCI-Mayaguana-Plana Cays-Acklins Island-Clarence Town-Calabash Bay-George Town-Galloit Cay-Staniel Cay-Hawksbill Cay-Norman's Cay-Shroud Cay-Nassau.

Weddings and Honeymoons Blog

Visit our 2nd Blog: www.dwandh.blogspot.com

Learn Italian (Language and Culture)

Learn the Culture and Language of Italy

Morning Classes

Beginner (Italian 1)-Thursday 10:30am-12:00noon

Italian for Travelers-Wednesday 10:30am-12:00noon

Intermediate (Advanced Conversation)-Friday 10:30am-12:00noon

Evening Classes

Beginner (Italian 1)- Tuesday 6:00pm-7:30pm

OR

Beginner (Italian 2)-Wednesday 6:00pm-7:30pm

Learn Italian with Marina

-Native Italian Teacher

-Interactive Teaching Method

-Small Groups of Students

-Central Location

Feel free to contact Marina.

At 619-269-1072 or

E-mail Her

Tell Marina you found her services on our blog and then when you are ready, give us a call and we can create a trip where you can practice your Italian in Italy!