2007 Record For Malta Cruise Industry

2007 Record For Malta Cruise Industry
By: Roger Munns

With the airline industry producing an increase in tourists for 2007, welcome figures have come from Malta's cruise industry too, with a record year of cruise ship passenger arrivals.

What makes the figures particularly impressive for the holiday island is that this year's record comes after a record year in 2006, while the number of tourists arriving by air had started from a low 2006 base.

Just three years ago in 2004 Malta attracted 270,000 cruise passengers, and took that over 300,000 for 2005. Last year the island did even better to produce a record year and for 2007 will produce an estimated 425,000 or more visitors by the end of the year.

A new feature for cruise passengers visiting Malta is an open top bus which will take them to places of interest on the island, including the historic capital Valletta and the Grand Harbour area, to showcase what Malta has to offer.

Commenting on the new facilities and impressive tourist numbers, a travel guide for Malta welcomes both, stating that cruise passengers might decide to visit Malta in the future as a solo holiday rather than as part of a multi destination trip if cruise passengers like what they see, and with increased cruise passenger numbers Malta has the opportunity to increase the number of holidays being taken annually on the Mediterranean island.

The combination of increased tourist numbers comes at a time when the number of passenegrs arriving by air has also seen quite an increase, and the two methods of arrival for Malta has helped transform the hotel and holidays industry fortunes for 2007 and next year.

The number of tourists choosing Malta rose by seven per cent in the first quarter of this year compared to last, and gives vindication to the Maltese hotels and holidays lobby who had urged the government to allow low cost airlines to fly to the island.

The first three months of the year are traditionally the quietest for the Malta holidays industry, and is thought to reflect the year as a whole so far, with perhaps even a close to ten per cent increase in tourism overall for 2007 compared to 2006.

The surprise among the statistics is where the tourists have come from. Many people in the Malta holidays industry expected a big increase in visitors from the UK, but visitor numbers have remained static, as they have from Germany and France. The increase in visitors came from Russia, Sweden, Belgium and Italy. Good news comes not only from the increase in tourist numbers, but also from the amount tourists spend while on the island - some ten per cent higher than 2006, with cruise passengers spending more per person while visiting Malta.

Another airline called Click Air has also joined the race for the flight to Malta market recently, putting pressure on the low cost airlines already operating to Malta to further reduce their prices to stay ahead of their competition, - all good news for consumers who have a choice of flying or taking a cruise which includes Malta as a port of call.

Regular travellers to Malta have never had it so good. Not only has their choice of airline and airports serving Malta widened considerably, but the perennial favourite of many business and holiday travellers, Air Malta, has fought back against the new low cost airlines with reduced fares and offers of their own and the number of cruise ships visiting Malta could follow a similar pattern.

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How To Truly Experience The Caribbean While On A Caribbean Cruise

How To Truly Experience The Caribbean While On A Caribbean Cruise - By: Joshua Poyoh

One of the most popular destinations to cruise in the world is the Caribbean. While you are having fun and adventure of a life time on board, lets look at what the Caribbean is.

The word Caribbean conjures up visions of many beautiful sandy beaches, vacation paradise and a lifestyle most people can only dream of. There are more than 200 island territories in the Caribbean; it is home to millions of people too.

It would be extremely advantageous to understand the geography, history, diversity, economy of the region and what it can offer to the average tourist. This can only add to your experience as a visitor.

The Caribbean is defined as the Bahamas and the Antilles. The Antilles are further divided into the Greater Antilles, consisting of Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola and Puerto Rico and the Lesser Antilles. Many of the Caribbean islands' original inhabitants were members of one or other of the two indigenous tribes, the Caribs and the Arawaks.

The Spaniards were the first to colonize the area, following the discovery of the West Indies by Christopher Columbus in 1492. The other Europeans namely the Portuguese, English, French, and Dutch follow suit. Power and control of the region changed hands in the various islands over the years, depending on the desirability of the particular location, and a given nation's ability to defend it.

As a visitor, if you're interested in the history of the region, your best bet would be the larger islands or territories; those whose history of European occupation is longest. A good example would be the Dominican Republic, where you can see where Columbus first landed on his maiden voyage to the New World in 1492.

If you can make it to Cuba, you will not be disappointed by the Spanish architecture in Old Havana. With the Cubans' understandable economic priorities and pressures, if the ravages of time allow the buildings to survive, this will be a treat for generations of visitors to come.

To be sure, each of the islands and territories has its own place in the history of the region, but simply with a greater or lesser story to tell. The really small islands offer great scenery, mostly great weather in the dry season, and a sheer brilliance in tropical color that is a welcome shock to the senses. And yes, great beaches for you to enjoy. This stuff is so commonplace in the region that local inhabitants take it for granted.

As for nightlife; any resort will necessarily have its fill. However, if you enjoy things 'closer to the edge', the Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago is hard to beat. This occurs officially on the Monday and Tuesday just prior to Ash Wednesday.

But if you truly want to experience the Caribbean and all it has to offer, the absolute best advice is to befriend one or more local families. That is when you will experience true Caribbean hospitality. And a better 'tour guide' you will never find.

One of the most popular destinations to cruise in the world is the Caribbean. It would be extremely advantageous to understand the geography, history, diversity, economy of the region and what it can offer to the average tourist.

To find out more information on great travel and vacation ideas and Caribbean
Cruise Ships Fun, please visit the Travel
And Vacation Information Guide

A Brief Guide to Bermuda Cruise

A Brief Guide to Bermuda Cruise
By: Lars Rohde

We all have heard of the mysteries of Bermuda triangles and the rich pink beaches of Bermuda islands. But most of the people are uninformed of its exact geographical location. While some are of the opinion that it might be located somewhere in the Caribbean's, the others speculate that it might be an Australian island.

The fact of the matter is Bermuda islands are located in the North Atlantic, and North Carolina is just 570 miles away from these islands. Bermuda is indeed an lump of 150 very small islands of volcanic origin totaling a land mass of 21 square miles. For the natives, all the minor islands are altogether referred to as Bermuda Island, while the largest amidst them, the real Bermuda Island is purely called "the island."

Since the time global tourism has unfurled, Bermuda has been the foremost option of the millions of tourists all across the world. And it is sanctified by the unparallel charms of this historical island. In the cultural side you will find an well-founded British influence with an African undercurrent and thus the Cricket and Gombey dancing go hand in hand uninterrupted. Along with the British architecture, British cutesy the postmeridian tea is also the normalcy of the island. The native Bermudans highly mark such traits in the tourists as manners and solid dressing sense.

As a paradise for tourists the island is filled with luxury resorts, small hotels, and cottages. But a land holiday in Bermuda may appear to be high priced for the average vacationers. So over the years the excursion freaks have come to work out the best way of enjoying a Bermuda vacation and that is by cruising.

No matter which part of the USA you belong, Cruises take off frequently from Boston, New York City, Philadelphia and Baltimore. In under two days you will be able to reach any of these Bermuda ports: The Hamilton, St. George Port, or King's Wharf or the Royal Naval Dockyard. While the initial two city ports are more tourists infested, the alternate is slightly unconnected, but you will get the shopping centers and pubs.

Normally the ships spend a couple days in either Hamilton or St. George, prior to shifting to the dockyard. To embrace the most out of it, what you have to do is, pick up a map in the cruise ship terminal and set out to explore this seductive island. One of the absolute best ways to explore this amazing island is by foot, you could do it all by yourself or join upon many of the walking tours that are arranged.

The best Bermuda cruising "season" stretches from April through October. As this is the same time as the Hurricane season. In unfortunate cases, your itinerary could be affected by one such beat. But generally, seafaring to and from any US ports gives you an overall smooth experience.

In reality today, Bermuda cruise vacations have become so widespread, so by today there is more people arriving by sea than air. The beneficial part of a cruise vacation is that it is devoid of any demanding travel planning like booking air ticket or accommodations in the hotels. Once on board, it's an all inclusive. You have to pay an all inclusive charges which embrace the costs of accommodation, meals, activities and entertainment.

The best way to get started is here on the internet, you should really consider booking your trip online and in good time before you expect to go.. This way you will be able to get huge discounts on brochure prices and lowest airfares to your selected departure port.

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A Few Tips For Planning Your Alaskan Cruise

A Few Tips For Planning Your Alaskan Cruise
By: Adrian Adams

About half a dozen different cruise lines offer Alaskan cruises. There are several things to consider when planning your Alaskan cruise. A very important component is the length of the cruise. You don't want to book a 7 day cruise if you only have a 5 day vacation. Also, check to make sure the departure date is compatible with when you can travel.

Price can be a big factor in choosing a cruise. Different rooms offer different prices ranging from around $500 to over $4,000. Make sure you book a room and a cruise that fits within your budget. Check around with different travel agents and booking services both online and offline to find the best rate. You might be surprised at the amount of money you can save to buy souvenirs.

Unlike Caribbean cruises, you probably won't be planning to pack only a swimsuit on your Alaskan cruise. So, what should you pack? Alaskan weather can be unpredictable to a certain extent. However, some factors are fairly common. For instance, rain is common between the months of May and September. This is also when the majority of Alaskan cruises take place. This would make an umbrella or raincoat a good idea to bring along.

Alaska can also surprise you with a cooler spell, so make sure to bring a sweater along, just in case. Most Alaskan cruises will have a Captain's Gala, which is a formal dinner. Pack one formal dress or suit for this occasion since you won't want to be the only one in casual dress.

During the summer, Alaska has a lot of daylight. This means that you will have a longer period of time to tan ' or burn. Bring sunscreen. Turning the color of a lobster is a surefire way to put a damper on an otherwise terrific cruise. Above all, don't forget your camera. An Alaskan cruise is something that you will want to remember, so bring your camera and use it.

Just because your in Alaska doesn't mean you should leave the swimsuit at home. Pack your swimsuit along with some cool summer outfits. Keep in mind that springtime in Alaska can be downright cold, though, so know what the weather is expected to be during your cruise.

Alaska is a hotspot for mosquitoes, so remember to pack your insect repellant. Unlike most cruises, an Alaskan cruise can be complicated to pack for. However, you will enjoy your cruise to the fullest if you are fully prepared.

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Hawaiian Cruise Time

Hawaiian Cruise Time - Ready To Imagine Your Dream Hawaiian Cruise Vacation?
By: Martin Haworth

Hawaiian cruises are quickly becoming one of the most interesting and exciting ways to see the islands of Hawaii. Regularly described as the ultimate "island-hopping" trip, simply taking you from one tropical Hawaiian island to another, in the most luxurious of circumstances.

And for many people, the opportunity to sample some of these cruise delights is easier than ever before, with more cruise ships; more cruise lines; and more itinerary options than you could shake a stick at. If there ever was a time, now it it!

Once aboard, it will be difficult to forget that you are experiencing the unique features of your cruise ship, giving you a truly magical vacation from start to finish. Beautiful weather (usually!), wonderful food and an amazing experience all round.

Whenever you go, Hawaiian cruise vacations provide great value and experience for travelers, certainly for families, where all ages can have fun in a variety of entertainment offerings.

You see, cruises offer the ultimate facilities for groups to travel together, where they can spend time as a group and still have their own space, whenever they want.

And with the Hawaiian islands, you have the added bonus of a variety of unique sights on a number of very different islands, from the comfort of one room and just once the effort of unpacking. What more could you ask?

If it's convenience you want, your travel can start from a convenient western seaboard port, where you can relax the night before embarking, in a luxury hotel, with easy transfer to your wonderful cruise ship during the next day.

Ready for that exciting departure, waving off those jealous onlookers as you sail off, sometimes into the sunset, for an even more dramatic escape!

Then it's time to settle in; find your way about onboard; get ready for your first dinner aboard too - what excitement!

Then it's a few days at sea, relaxation the aim, although on board many ships you will immediately be thrown into the many opportunities that the planned entertainment offers - lots to do!

Then, four or so days later imagine it - land ahead! The excitement of your first port of call on the amazing chain of 137 islands that make up your destination for the next few dreamy days. Watch as it grows on the horizon and experience sensations around the liner as everyone aboard realizes what can now be seen!

There are cruises of all shapes and sizes, even to the Hawaiian islands, with a range of themes, entertainment and itineraries. So, be it for a family, a group or just a smart way to enjoy the two of you, Hawaiian cruises are available for anyone.

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Nile River Cruises

Nile River Cruises - Experience Ancient Egypt The Way The Pharoahs Surveyed Their Country
By: Amar Mahallati

While today you can see egypt by air or by road, there is really no better way to see it than by boat! Nile river cruises are the hands-down best way to see this beautiful ancient land when you board a ship that will sail up the Nile, you will realize why many people refuse to see egypt any other way.

In terms of convenience, you can't beat a Nile cruise. With other tours, you'll be stopping every night at different hotels, some of which will vary greatly in space and quality. On the road, you'll be forced to pack and unpack every day and night and live on the tour schedules. With a Nile river cruise however, you travel with your hotel and if you're having a day where you just want to lounge on the deck, you can certainly do that as well. One of the main attractions of these tours is their highly flexible nature. If you feel like seeing everything an ancient city has to offer, you can explore to your heart's content, and if you'd rather spend the time on board the ship, you can watch one of the many quality performance shows.

There are accommodations that will suit any budget and any group of people. There are plenty of options for families who are traveling with children and also cruises meant for singles who are interested in more adventuresome fare. You will find that with a little bit of searching, you'll be able to find a Nile river cruise that suits you well.

There is really no better way to see Egypt than by boat. See why ancient pharoahs surveyed their country in this manner; whether you are planning a short trip from Luxor to Aswan or a seven day, Nile river cruise that will take you to the coast, there is something that will suit your tastes. In terms of seeing a wide variety of Egyptian countryside, from pyramids to small villages, this is one of the best ways to travel.

If you are less interested in history and more interested in luxury, the Nile river cruises are for you! You never have to go very far for entertainment as most cruises make it their responsibility to ensure that their guests never endure a dull moment. Whether you're interested in belly dancers, magicians or movies, there will be something to suit you aboard the Nile river cruise.

If you're only going to be in Egypt for a short amount of time, a Nile river cruise is an opportunity you won't want to miss out on.

Article Source: http://ezarticles.net